David, a showbiz artist, performing in nightclubs in Los Angeles, learns that his father who is pastor of an evangelical church in Atlanta is sick, and decides to go home.[2] He learns that Frank has become the second of his father, and that he is married to Charlene.[3] Fred announces to his son that he has a prostate cancer. David gradually abandons his old life and begins to occupy an important position in the church, which will attract Frank's jealousy.[4]
Produced on a budget of US$4 million, The Gospel grossed $15.8 million at the North American box office, including $7.5 million from 969 theaters in its opening weekend.[5]
Critical reception
According to the critic review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, The Gospel has an approval rating of 32% based on 37 reviews by film critics. The website's critics consensus reads, "While it features outstanding musical numbers, The Gospel reduces a series of worthy themes -- faith, family, forgiveness -- to soapy, banal clichés."[6]
Accolades
The film received three nominations in the Black Reel Awards of 2006: Idris Elba was nominated for Best Actor, Nona Gaye was nominated for Best Actress, and Rob Hardy was nominated for Best Screenplay, Original or Adapted.
