As a Christian pastor, I was apprehensive about this movie, as I am about all movies that purport to represent my faith to the world. Many people these days have little connection to church or to faith other than what is shown in movies and on TV, and sometimes what is shown in those venues is not what I believe or representative of my faith. So I was nervous about the theology that would be portrayed in this film. Luckily, my worry was for naught, as I actually think that part of the movie was fairly well done.
The story at the heart of this movie is how the song "I Can Only Imagine" - an incredible breakaway and crossover hit by MercyMe was written. We learn about Bart Millard, the leader singer of the band, and all the struggles in his past that led to his inspiration for the lyrics. Mostly we get to see his relationship with his father - expertly played by Dennis Quaid. Dennis Quaid's acting and J. Michael Finley's singing were definitely the best things about the movie. The story is one of forgiveness and redemption, and it was beautiful.
If I was rating this movie based solely on the story told and the heart with which is was portrayed, I would have rated it higher. If I was rating this movie solely based on "movie" aspects such as the casting, directing, and production choices, I would have rated it lower. So I went somewhere in the middle. Much like 15:17 to Paris, another movie based on a true story, the story told deserved better than it got. However, if you are a fan of the song, or of heartwarming stories, I think you will enjoy this one nonetheless.