Altar Egos
Well-intended faith-based comedy falls short on laughs.
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Altar Egos
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Altar Egos is a faith-based story set during Christmastime, but isn't really about Christmas itself. The content is fine for even the youngest to see, but the story of a pastor who disguises himself as an elderly man isn't likely to hold their interest. The only violence involves a high school bully who uses verbal hostility and punches someone in the face; he's eventually subdued by an adult who's bigger and stronger than he is. Occasional mild flirting is the only sexual content. Messages are positive: about putting aside your own pride and dealing with others, even those you don't like, with love, kindness, and understanding. Pastor John's family are all good role models for loving support and family unity.
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What's the Story?
In ALTAR EGOS, Pastor John (Robert Amaya) disguises himself as an old man with new ideas so he can convince his congregation's board of directors to accept the changes he has in mind for their church. Led by stubborn Mary Margaret (Sallie Wanchisn), the board is convinced that everything is fine just the way it is, and that keeping everything the same is the best way to keep traditions and honor the past. Right before the Christmas pageant, the choir goes on strike, and the board starts moving to replace Pastor John altogether. Can John and Mary Margaret find a compromise in time for the Christmas pageant?
Is It Any Good?
This faith-based family comedy's heart is in the right place, with lessons about being guided by love instead of by pride, but at its best it only musters a light chuckle here and there. Although Altar Ego's content is fine for the whole family, appeal for kids younger than tween age is probably limited. The main plot is about a grown man's struggle with his role as pastor and how best to lead. Tween and teen appeal is a little stronger thanks to a subplot involving teen son Jack, ably played by Max Morgan, and his constantly thwarted attempts to date Holly.
Most of the humor comes from clichés about the elderly revealed when Pastor John and Jack don their disguises. Director/writer Sean Morgan attempts to mine bingo, square dancing, and water aerobics for laughs, and the results are as weak and bland as you'd imagine. Still, overall messages about strong family unity, and the rewards that come from opening your heart to others, make it an OK choice for a family movie night.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Altar Egos shows Pastor John trying to solve his conflict with Mary Margaret. Did it seem realistic? How about the way they solved the conflict? How have you tried to end conflicts and disagreements? What works, and what doesn't?
Have you ever seen someone being bullied? What did you do, or what should you have done?
What other faith-based movies and TV shows have you seen? Which are your favorites? How does this one compare?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: September 5, 2017
- Cast: Robert Amaya, Erin Bethea, Max Morgan
- Director: Sean Morgan
- Studio: Bridgestone Multimedia Group
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: High School, Holidays
- Run time: 86 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: March 25, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
-
The Heart of Christmas
Intense faith-based tearjerker based on a true story.
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The Preacher's Wife
Denzel's Christmas angel meets Whitney's voice.
-
Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger
Adorable misfits on zany Xmas adventure; some potty humor.
For kids who love faith-based tales
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