The recently released film “Average Joe” dives into the inspiring story of Joe Kennedy, a Marine veteran and high school football coach who passionately fought for his right to pray on the field after games. For nearly ten years, Kennedy’s post-game ritual of kneeling on the 50-yard line, thanking God for the safety of his players, garnered attention and eventually became a point of contention when, in 2015, the Bremerton School District ordered him to cease the practice.
Starring Eric Close, known for his roles in “Without a Trace” and “Nashville,” the film, which hit theaters on October 11, draws heavily from Kennedy’s own memoir, also titled Average Joe. It chronicles his challenging upbringing in foster care, his dedication to the Marines, and the arduous legal battle that ensued as he sought to reclaim his right to express his faith publicly. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately ruled in his favor in 2022, affirming his constitutional rights.
In preparing for the role, Close not only studied Kennedy’s memoir but also reflected on his own family’s history of overcoming oppression. He shared, “Joe had been fighting his whole life… The only thing Joe did was surrender his life to God,” highlighting Kennedy’s resilience forged through personal struggles.
The film does not shy away from portraying the complexities of Kennedy’s journey, including the effect on his marriage and the social backlash he faced during his fight for religious freedom. As Close explained, Kennedy’s determination was driven by his faith, illustrating a man who stood firm against adversity, inspiring those around him.
A Relevant Cinematic Message
In a time when discussions about religious liberties are increasingly critical, “Average Joe” serves as a potent reminder of the delicate nature of such freedoms. Kennedy himself has expressed concerns about the long-term implications for religious expression in America, recalling how he was surprised by the extent of power held by judicial branches after enduring a series of setbacks in court before finally achieving victory.
Reflecting on the film’s broader themes, Close remarked on the importance of safeguarding freedoms, saying, “We must not take our freedom in this country for granted.” He expressed hope that the film not only shines a light on the fight for prayer rights but also opens discussions on significant issues such as foster care, emphasizing the need for loving homes for children.
A Film for Everyone
“Average Joe” has resonated well with audiences who value faith-based narratives but Close emphasizes that its message is universal. He believes the film can evoke a wide range of emotions, making viewers laugh and cry as they connect with the struggle for purpose and conviction. “It’s an underdog tale that will have audiences standing and cheering in the end,” he said excitedly.
Close hopes viewers will find motivation in Kennedy’s enduring spirit, encouraging them to realize their unique significance, regardless of how ordinary they may feel. His aspiration is that people walk away with a renewed appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy and a recognition of the sacrifices made to protect those rights. As the film continues its run in theaters, it aims to inspire and ignite conversations across the nation about faith, freedom, and perseverance.
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