Keeping The Faith Movie
Storyline
TAGLINES
If you have to believe in something, you might as well believe in love.
A love triangle between three friends. Rabbi Jake Schram and Father Brian Finn, two friends, are out to update their religions and draw in more worshipers. With the arrival of Anna Reilly, an old childhood friend of the two, the men's lives are thrown a curve ball. Anna has become a stunning beauty with a lot of spunk and ambition, and both of them want her. A major road block to Anna for both men is their religion. Jake is up for a head position at his synagogue and taking on a non-Jewish partner is frowned upon, besides the fact that his mother disowned his brother for marrying a non-Jewish woman. Brian has given a vow of celibacy to become a priest.
| Ben Stiller | Rabbi Jake Schram |
| Edward Norton | Father Brian Finn |
| Jenna Elfman | Anna Riley |
| Anne Bancroft | Ruth Schram |
| Eli Wallach | Rabbi Ben Lewis |
| Ron Rifkin | Larry Friedman |
| Milos Forman | Father Havel |
| Holland Taylor | Bonnie Rose |
| Lisa Edelstein | Ali Decker |
| Rena Sofer | Rachel Rose |
| Ken Leung | Don |
| Brian George | Paulie Chopra |
| Catherine Lloyd Burns | Debbie |
| Susie Essman | Ellen Friedman |
| Stuart Blumberg | Len |
| Edward Norton |
6.60 out of 10 (17502 votes)
Visitor Reviews
Altogether a good movie
posted on 25 Jul 2009This movie really appealed to me. It had a really great cast, and they all had their own quirks that made the movie interesting. Two men(stiller and Norton) and a woman(Elfman) are childhood friends, and meet up in later life, only for the guys to fall in love with her. The problem is that they are a rabbi and a priest. The movie toils on a bit as they head towards an ending, but in the end it ties up nicely and it was a job well done.
8 on a scale of 10
posted on 21 Jul 2009I liked this movie, but then I always like movies about romance - though I, myself am not all that romantic. I'm not really sure why that is. None of my male friends like these kinds of movies, but guess I'm just a sensitive kind of guy. What can I say?Because of that, I rate it an 8 - probably a little high, but I liked the characters.A Priest and a Rabbi battle it out for a girl. Have you heard that one? That is, essentially, the story - and the punch line of the movie. It only works because of the 3 main characters. All are likeable.I have to say that all three of them, likeable as they were, were a little hard to believe. I just couldn't quite buy the acting. I thought Stiller did the best job, and Elfman was ok. I thought Norton was just a tad over the top. I couldn't quite buy his pain. He has been brilliant before, so it isn't that he isn't capable. It was just that this role didn't suit him - in my opinion. But, that is VERY subjective.Any movie that I rate an 8 is a movie that I feel my time was not wasted. Most 8's I don't plan to see again, but if the situation arose years from now and I had a sleepy Sunday afternoon and I was looking for a nostalgic moment and this movie just happened to come on, I might watch it again.
rather losing the faith
posted on 03 Jul 2009It's a common belief that Edward Norton is at the moment one of the finest actors around, and even if there's no doubt about that, it leaves me puzzled why such a talented guy wastes his time with such a flick! It's even getting worse seeing that Norton also is the director of this bland comedy that balances between the ordinary comedy and the usual trash you can find Ben Stiller in. Just reminds us that Ben Stiller is here as well! Stiller plays a rabbi Jake Schramm while Norton is a catholic priest Brian Finn. Despite religious differences they both share a timeless friendship which get disturbed (since childhood as well) by the appearance of Anna (Jenna Elfmann). Both the rabbit and the priest are in desperate need of finding a woman for the future and they both seek their hope in Anna. Who's winning? What will be the consequences if Schramm's family finds out Anna isn't Jewish at all? You name a cliché and you'll find it here, that along with a very boring movie in where nothing funny ever happens and for the 100th time you're facing the overacting from Stiller. Regarding it all Stiller only was good in "Duplex", "Along came Polly" and "Meet the parents" but for the rest...
A funny but inconsequential movie
posted on 29 Jun 2009"Keeping the Faith" is the kind of movie you watch when you have nothing better to do for two hours. It was funny, featured good performances from the leads, and for the price I paid, I feel I got more than my money's worth. Jenna Elfman ("Dharma and Greg") plays Anna Riley, a high powered executive who returns to visit her high school friends, Rabbi Jake Schram (Ben Stiller) and Father Brian Finn (Edward Norton). Of course, Anna is no longer the gawky girl the two men remember from their teenage years, but an attractive and confident young woman. Her return causes Father Finn to question his commitment to celibacy. Similarly Rabbi Schram finds himself hard put to restrict the group of women he dates to those belonging to the Jewish religion. Jenna Elfman seems to have shed off her image as Dharma. A sure sign of this is that I actually liked her in this movie, whereas I would only watch "Dharma and Greg" if someone pointed a gun at my head. Both Stiller and Norton are good in their roles, though nothing in this movie calls for Norton's considerable acting skills. For the most part, the jokes work and are inoffensive. Judging from the reaction of the rest of the audience, I get the feeling that most other people would think so as well. The only problem I had was with the ending, which I do not want to reveal because it might be considered a spoiler.I think this is a good date movie. I give it a 7/10, but it is quite likely that I'll forget about in in a few weeks' time.
Outstanding!
posted on 25 Jun 2009I haven't been moved by a film like this for a long time. Edward Norton has certainly come up with the goods on this film marking himself as a talented director as well as actor. This was also the first time I have seen Jenna Elfman on the screen and she was well suited for the role.I gave this a 9/10
Have ya heard this one? A priest and a rabbi...
posted on 30 May 2009Okay, here's how it goes, a priest and a rabbi are friends, and they are both in love with their mutual childhood friend, Jenna Elfman (looking rather fetching). Edward Norton, in his directorial debut, and Ben Stiller play the two holy men respectively. Each of them thinks that he is the one that Elfman likes and both are forced to question their faith and religious traditions because of it. The film is overlong and uneven, but has enough truly funny moments dispersed throughout the first hour that the film is entertaining. The comedy is toned down at that point and most of the remaining attempts at humor towards the end are cliched ones that are already worn thin in other films. The cast is charming though, and the movie is certainly pleasant enough.
A priest, a rabbi, and a career girl.....
posted on 16 May 2009Edward Norton has shown the film industry and world his outstanding acting talent in most of his recent films. FIGHT CLUB, AMERICAN HISTORY X, PEOPLE VS. LARRY FLYNT, EVERYONE SAYS I LOVE YOU, and PRIMAL FEAR have been a showcase of awe and amazement for this young actor. Now he takes a different approach, not only as a star, but also as a director in his new film, KEEPING THE FAITH.
Norton plays Father Brian Finn, who is a priest at the local Catholic Church in New York City. His best friend since grade school is Rabbi Jacob Schram (Ben Stiller) who is the rabbi at the local Jewish Temple. They get along great, play basketball together, go to each other's services, they even have plans for a new business of a mixture of Catholic and Jewish night spot for elderly couples. Everything is going great for these two, until someone from the past comes back into their lives, Anna Reilley (Jenna Elfman). Anna was friends with both Brian and Jacob back when they were twelve. Anna moved to California, and became a career girl in helping failing businesses. She is coming back to New York City, and would like to see her two old friends. When Brain and Jacob see her, they are amazed on how much Anna has grown up, and shapely. Now comes the trouble, Brain and Jacob who both devoted their lives to God, now have fallen for Anna. And this leads to even more problems, Brain for breaking his vows on love, and Jacob for dating a non-Jewish woman. I guess one can say that a woman can tear things apart (not to be sexist).
KEEPING THE FAITH is a pleasurable film for first time director Norton.
There are some really funny parts in the film, and there are also some very emotional and sensitive moments of romance. But all and all, FAITH does manage to work, however, the film does have it's flaws.
One flaw is it's length, I'm not one to complain of length, I love a lengthy film (i.e. INSIDER, GREEN MILE, CASINO, HEAT) but FAITH is a film that if it was cut by 20 mins. or so, it would have been better. But the story is complicated, so Norton does a good job on balancing the film's characters. The other flaw is the conclusion. I'm not going to say what happens, but I personally felt that the conclusion could have been worked out a little more.
Now the strengths, the acting! All three leads, Norton, Stiller, and Elfman are great! Norton is doing his usual character routine that he exhibits in PEOPLE VS. LARRY FLYNT. It's funny, compassion, and touching the way he acts out his character of a man who has fallen in love for the first time. Stiller does a great job also as the man who is "forced" to date so many different women from the temple, only to discover that his long time friend, is really his true love. And Elfman is good as well as the career girl who is torn apart by the two men in both friendship and emotions. There is also great support from veteran actors, Anne Bancroft, Eli Wallach, Ron Rifkin, and FLYNT director Milos Forman. Forman has a excellent little scene where he tells Norton the first time he fell in love.
This is a enjoyable film, but it's not the best romantic film that I've seen. Yet, it is funny, it is enjoyable, andit is romantic. I guess that you can say that it is a good date film. But, you're just going to have to make sure that the date won't mind sitting down for two hours and nineteen minutes. **** (out of five)
Witty, enjoyable movie
posted on 22 Apr 2009This movie was very funny, smoothly done, a great debut by director Edward Norton. There are no great surprises, it is fairly predictable as far as story lines go, which usually turns me off to a movie. But this script is strong enough to carry this "fault"; weak movies usually resort to some big dramatic twist, which is not needed here. At the end my first comment was, "No film critic could find one thing wrong to say about this movie". (However, not being familiar with Jewish customs, I did not get a couple of the jokes) On the whole, I definitely recommend it, Jenna Elfman is a very charming and talented actress, moving effortlessly to the big screen. Ben Stiller and Edward Norton interact very well together. This movie is a definite must-see.
One of my top 5 favorite movies.
posted on 19 Feb 2009I can't believe how emotional this movie was than it was funny. I was expecting a hilarious film, but instead it was a lot more romantic and emotional. Its a must see. I can't believe how emotional this movie was than it was funny. I was expecting a hilarious film, but instead it was a lot more romantic and emotional. Its a must see.
I Lost My Faith In This Movie In About 10 Minutes
posted on 11 Feb 2009*MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS*When I first saw commercials for this movie it looked funny and I wanted to see it. So about a week after it came out I decided to check it out since I like comedies. Unfortunately I was wrong. This movie was boring, predictable, stupid, and unfunny.(Aren't comedies suppose to be funny) The plot was just dumb! My sister agreed with me, but my friend liked it."Keeping the Faith" is the kind of movie that I should have known would be stupid. I don't know why I spent my time seeing it. I advise everyone to stay away from it and watch something else. I give this movie 4/10 stars.
Painfully bad
posted on 05 Feb 2009Someone must have owed Ed Norton a huge favor to let him make this movie. This is such a promising cast but this film is the quintessential vanity project ... probably only interesting for Norton and about a dozen of his buddies. I normally love Norton's films and I'm also a pretty big fan of Stiller and Paltrow so I was actually quite excited to see this film. Maybe my expectations were too high, maybe I shouldn't have gone into the theater expecting to see something good.Basically, this is an excuse for Norton to celebrate how much he loves New York City. I have no problem with extolling the virtues of a particular city. In fact, I rather like movies that serve as cinematic post-cards but there are good and smart ways to do that (think MANHATTAN for NYC, Diner for Baltimore, Singles for Seattle, etc.). This film, on the other hand, is little more than self-indulgent navel gazing wrapped up in a weak and useless plot. A movie like Diner or Manhattan gives us insight into a city through characters that are "indigenous" to that city's particular culture. KEEPING THE FAITH, unfortunately, uses its plot so that characters have an excuse for walking around the city. I'm sure NYC's tourist and visitor's bureau have something just as exciting.
The God Squad is Excellent!
posted on 05 Feb 2009Ed Norton is incredible. The God Squad is Excellent! Ed is a great actor and now a great Director. He handled this movie so well. From the childhood scenes through into their adult lives, this movie keeps your attention because you never know what will be said or done next. Script, pace, Characters, emotions, reactions and both religions all done so well. Funny and controversial but nothing untasteful.Ben Stiller and Jenna Elfman had great chemistry and very believable characters. The dating scenes were a riot. You felt their pain and their joy.We still don't know the story of who the film was dedicated too. We assume a relative but would like to know more.Almost a 10! Would never hesitate to see it again.
It's a cute romantic comedy
posted on 08 Jan 2009You name it, I've seen quit a few romantic comedies. Some of them are fun to watch, some of them are not so good. I'm not really into chick flicks. But I do enjoy Ben Stiller and Edward Norton. They are both wonderful actors. And I figured to give the movie a chance. I thought it was really cute. The story is original and fun. Some of it was a little bit too lovey dovey for my tastes. But that's OK. I would recommend the film. Mainly if you like Ed or Ben. They both give a nice comedic performance. I was a little disappointed with the ending. But you'll have to see it to know what I'm talking about. If you look at, it is actually just another romantic comedy. But you might want to give it a chance.7/10
Boring with a capital B
posted on 25 Dec 2008I went to see this film expecting a funny comedy. Boy was I wrong. The movie was so boring I left half way through. The jokes where not even close to being funny and it took forever for the plot to move. This movie may do well only in the bible belt. I didn't get it!
Finally a smart comedy
posted on 25 Dec 2008I was very satisfied with this film. It was intelligent and didn't stoop to crude jokes to make it funny. It also kept my interest as it explored several issues including faith, religion, friendship, and trust. The actors are superb in their respective roles. Definitely a film I would recommend; funny, romantic, and interesting.
A Divine Comedy
posted on 23 Nov 2008There have been so many romantic comedies produced that it is difficult for a film to break out due to the depth and breadth of the competition. This is one that does. This wonderfully funny romantic comedy takes a fresh approach, portraying a romance involving not one, but two men of the cloth.
They are not even of the same cloth as one is a Catholic priest and the other a Jewish rabbi. The girl of their dreams is also the girl of their youth as the three were best friends in grammar school. Now, after many years of separation, Anna (Jenna Elfman) returns and both men fall immediately and madly in love with her.The film is chock full of religious humor and sharp-witted dialogue that keeps you grinning between guffaws. The romance is syrupy sweet and the actors have such great chemistry that it is easy to believe they have been friends all their lives. Edward Norton produced, directed and starred in this gem and he shows himself to be adept at spinning a magical yarn with very few flaws. This was Norton's first directorial effort and it bodes well for his future on the other side of the lens. His work with the actors was marvelous, and his pacing of the film was excellent. The film flowed very pleasantly from scene to scene and kept the viewer amused and immersed.The entire cast is terrific. Norton plays Father Brian Finn and is funny and affable in the role. Rabbi Jacob Schram is played by Ben Stiller, whose comedic star is on the rise. In this film, he outdoes his wonderful performance in `There's Something About Mary' with a character that is just as amusing but more complete, with greater range. Anne Bancroft is also fantastic as the rabbi's mother. She has the New York Jewish mother routine down pat, right down to the accent. A dynamite performance. The real news in this film though, is Jenna Elfman. She lights up the screen with her enthusiasm and her charming girl-next-door beauty. She is dynamic, hilarious, sensitive, sexy and lovable and pretty much steals the show. After her terrific performance in `Edtv, she proves once again that she is a talented actor and comedian. One can only hope that the popularity of this film gives her access to more and better parts.This fabulous romantic comedy is highly entertaining and enchanting. I rated it a 9/10. It is especially funny if you happen to be Catholic or Jewish. I highly recommend it.
Pretty Good
posted on 04 Oct 2008All in all, good, though it runs a little long. Edward Norton is especially endearing as is Stiller (although, I don't currently know any leather-clad jacket Rabbi's). As for Elfmann she looks really coated and glowing in this film. I am not sure if that is just her or the makeup choice. Oh well, it is a good romantic comedy overall.
See the DVD - the Cut Scenes are the Best.
posted on 02 Oct 2008Good acting and plot, but the movie is not funny enough for acomedy and not deep enough for a drama. The main problem withKeeping the Faith is that it is too soapy and long. Good part ofit could be cut. Ironically the scenes that were actually cutfrom the movie but included on DVD in the "From the EditingFloor " section looked very good and would actually help themovie; particularly the scenes in the museum and the ingeniouscell phone "abuse".
A fresh and funny fiasco of friends
posted on 24 Aug 2009Keeping the Faith: A priest and a rabbi have been best friends since boyhood… No, it's not a joke, rather the story of two hip young religious leaders referred to as "The God Squad" who are intent on opening a multi-faith center where anyone can join them in worship. Their friendship and faiths are put to the test when a vivacious and dynamic old friend from the past re-enters their lives.I have never liked Ben Stiller. I'm not sure why, but whenever he's onscreen ("Black and White" being the most recent example) I normally spend my time shuffling uncomfortably waiting for him to leave. Which brings me to this film - I don't know if it was the writing, the subject matter or his interactions with the other leads, but I actually found him funny and enjoyed his performance. Maybe it was meant as an epiphany… Norton meanwhile does double duty as actor/director proving that he isn't a one trick pony limited to playing the serious straight guy. His understated portrayal of a priest in love (and hence crisis - the two going hand in hand) feels genuine and is simultaneously funny and tragic. I like him even more than before.Finally, Elfman does a passable job as the workaholic-businesswoman-love-interest (in a role that could not possibly be more different than her TV character, which makes it all the more enjoyable). A novel romantic comedy that makes for a good night out.