Mr. Church Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A cook gets paid to work for a dying woman, but then the dying woman doesn’t die, so he just sticks around forever and becomes a dad figure, and nobody questions it.

🍿 Mr. Church: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Initial Arrangement

In 1971 Los Angeles, ten-year-old Charlie discovers Henry Joseph Church, a talented cook, in her kitchen. He’s been hired to care for her mother, Marie, who is terminally ill with cancer and given only six months to live. The arrangement is courtesy of Marie’s deceased ex-lover, who stipulated in his will that Church provide his services.

A Lasting Bond

As the years pass, Marie defies the initial prognosis, and Mr. Church becomes an indispensable part of their lives. He provides stability, delicious meals, and quiet companionship. Charlie grows to see him as a father figure, and a deep, unconventional family bond forms between the three.

Secrets and Changes

Mr. Church maintains a private life separate from the Brodys, visiting a jazz club twice a week and remaining secretive about his past. Charlie grows into a young woman, eventually leaving for college. However, life throws her unexpected challenges, leading her to rely on Mr. Church’s unwavering support once again.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Henry Church (Eddie Murphy): A talented and enigmatic cook who forms a deep, lasting bond with a mother and daughter after being hired to cook for them.
• Charlie (Britt Robertson): The daughter who initially resists Mr. Church’s presence but eventually develops a profound, lifelong friendship with him.
• Marie (Natascha McElhone): A single mother battling cancer who hires Mr. Church as a cook, leading to an unexpected and enduring family connection.
• Owen (Xavier Samuel): Charlie’s love interest who provides her with emotional support during difficult times.
• Poppy (Lucy Fry): Charlie’s close friend who remains supportive throughout her life’s journey.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Marie: “And then there are those who say nothing at all. Because they don’t have to.” – Marie says this while reflecting on Mr. Church’s quiet and observant nature.
• Mr. Church: “I was your cook. That’s all you need to know.” – Mr. Church says this, highlighting his selflessness and simple role in Charlie’s life.
• Charlie: “He was like the moon – cool, calm, and always there.” – Narrator Charlie describes Mr. Church’s constant and reliable presence in her life.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $8,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $685,780
• Worldwide Gross: $685,780

💥 Mr. Church Reviews

Personal Review

I really enjoyed ‘Mr. Church’! Eddie Murphy was incredible in a role so different from what I’m used to seeing him in. The scenes between him and Britt Robertson were so touching, especially when she’s struggling with her own life. I loved how the movie showed the development of their unique family. It made me cry a few times. I’d definitely recommend this one if you’re in the mood for something heartwarming and a little sad.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of heartwarming dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in stories about unconventional families”
  • “Eddie Murphy fans looking for a different type of role”
  • “Those who enjoy character-driven narratives”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Depiction of terminal illness and death”
  • “Mild language”
  • “Teen pregnancy”
  • “Themes of loss and grief”

Professional Reviews

• New York Times: “While Murphy delivers a nuanced performance, the film relies too heavily on sentimentality and predictable tropes, undermining its potential emotional impact. The story feels contrived, and its exploration of race relations is superficial at best.
• RogerEbert.com: “Despite a commendable performance from Eddie Murphy, ‘Mr. Church’ ultimately feels hollow. The script lacks depth, failing to fully explore the complexities of the characters and their relationships. The film’s predictability and reliance on clichés detract from its emotional resonance.
• Variety: “Eddie Murphy gives a surprisingly touching performance as Mr. Church. ‘Mr. Church’ is a heartfelt story about friendship and family, offering a refreshing change of pace for Murphy, showcasing his dramatic talent and nuanced delivery.

Audience Reactions

Eddie Murphy’s performance was surprisingly heartfelt and moving.: Viewers loved the emotional depth and the unexpected chemistry between the lead actors.

The movie’s positive message about family resonated with many viewers.: Many felt the film offered a refreshing take on non-traditional family dynamics.

Overall Consensus: Overall, ‘Mr. Church’ is a sentimental drama that benefits from Eddie Murphy’s strong performance, though some find the plot predictable and overly saccharine.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Eddie Murphy replaced Samuel L. Jackson, who was originally cast as Mr. Church.”
• “The movie is based on a true story from the screenwriter Susan McMartin’s life, inspired by her own unique friendship.”
• “Despite the film’s setting in Los Angeles, filming primarily took place in Boston, Massachusetts.”

🖥️ How to Watch Mr. Church?

As of October 2024, “Mr. Church” is available for purchase or rental on various platforms including Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for streaming options, as availability may vary by region. You can also find the DVD or Blu-ray for purchase at major retailers and online marketplaces.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Mr. Church, you might like these similar films:

• Driving Miss Daisy (1989): Similar theme of an unlikely friendship developing between a Black employee and their white employer.
• The Help (2011): Explores themes of race and friendship in the American South during the Civil Rights Movement.
• Good Will Hunting (1997): Highlights the important impact that a positive role model can make in a young person’s life and character development

🛒 Mr. Church Related Products

• Mr. Church – DVD: Own the heartwarming story of ‘Mr. Church’ on DVD and relive the unforgettable moments between Charlie and Henry. Includes bonus features like behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast.
• The Jazz Piano Book: A Definitive Study of Jazz Piano: Learn to play jazz piano like Mr. Church with this comprehensive guide. Includes transcriptions, analysis, and insights into the styles of jazz legends. It is perfect for those who want to learn jazz piano and understand the complexity of the songs.
• Eddie Murphy Collection [Blu-ray]: Own a collection of classic Eddie Murphy movies in stunning Blu-ray quality. Relive his iconic performances from Beverly Hills Cop to Trading Places. This includes his best comedic performances from back in the day.
• 1970s Retro Kitchen Decor Set: Bring the charm of the 1970s kitchen from ‘Mr. Church’ into your own home with vintage-inspired decor. Includes classic kitchenware and retro appliances reminiscent of the film’s setting. Create the same type of enviroment as they are having in the movie with the same type of decorations.

🎧 Soundtrack

Mr. Church features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Skrouk” – performed by Coleman Hawkins
• “I’ll Be Seeing You” – performed by Billie Holiday

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Mr. Church – Movie Review

Thinking about watching Mr. Church? Chris Stuckmann gives a pretty thorough review, and honestly, he makes some great points that I didn’t even consider. Give it a watch before you decide!

Writer Susan McMartin on basing ‘Mr. Church’ on her own life story

Did you know ‘Mr. Church’ is based on a true story? Hearing Susan McMartin, the writer, talk about her life and how it shaped the movie is seriously fascinating! It makes you see the film in a whole new light.

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