War Room

The Kendrick Brothers struck gold with this one. War Room grossed over $73 million on a $3 million budget — numbers that would make any Hollywood studio jealous. Karen Abercrombie steals every scene she's in as Miss Clara, the elderly prayer warrior who becomes a mentor. She brings a warmth and humor that keeps the film from becoming a lecture. The central message — that prayer is active combat, not passive wishing — is presented in a way that resonates whether you're deeply devout or just curious. Priscilla Shirer is solid in her first major acting role, though some of her early scenes feel a bit stiff. The marriage conflict at the film's center is handled with more nuance than you might expect. The husband isn't just a villain; he's a flawed man losing his way. If you can get past a couple of on-the-nose moments, there's a genuinely affecting story here about fighting for the people you love.