A Man Called Peter Parent Guide
Parent Movie Review
Just like A Man Called Peter, who lived in Galilee a long time ago, left his fish net to answer a higher call, so did Peter Marshall (played by Richard Todd). Originally, he too hoped to earn his living at sea, but an epiphany one foggy night during the 1920s changed the course of his life.
Miraculously saved from a potentially fatal accident, the young Scotsman concludes God has a plan and purpose for him. With that vision clearly in mind, Peter scrimps and saves until he has enough money to go to America, attend a theologian seminary, and become a Presbyterian minister. All along the way, he continues to converse with the Lord, finding the guidance and direction he needs as he labors in the Master’s vineyard.
Based on a true story (and a book by the same name), the film follows the amazing career of this impoverished immigrant, from his ministry to a humble small-town congregation, to his position as the pastor of the prestigious New York Avenue Church of the Presidents in Washington DC, and his later appointment as Chaplain to the United States Senate. Blessed with a talent for oration, the charismatic clergyman finds himself preaching to standing-room-only crowds, thanks to his ability to talk about his friend Jesus in a way appealing to rich and poor, young and old, Presbyterian and other denominations alike. The movie also focuses on the woman who stood by his side, his beloved wife Catherine Wood (Jean Peters), their romance, their trials and their triumphs.
The script uses excerpts from many of his famous sermons, including those on such topics as the reality of God, the nature of marriage, and the role of women in an increasingly liberated society. His speech on death, presented to the young soldiers at the Annapolis Naval Academy, is particularly touching—because it took place just moments prior to the announcement of Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor.
Those with a taste for some “old time religion” are sure to enjoy the inspirational feast served up by A Man Called Peter. However, viewers with less of an appetite for traditional Christianity may find it has a preachy flavor. Regardless of one’s pallet preference, his words do offer a few morsels worthy of being chewed over.
Starring Richard Todd, Jean Peters. Running time: 119 minutes. Theatrical release April 1, 1955. Updated February 13, 2012
A Man Called Peter
Rating & Content Info
Why is A Man Called Peter rated Not Rated? A Man Called Peter is rated Not Rated by the MPAA
This film, based on the biography of Peter Marshall that was written by his wife Catherine Marshall, expounds traditional Christian values throughout and may not appeal to those with strongly different religious views. Some comments from an angry mob, a character who smokes and a misunderstanding about a couple caught necking are the only other content issues.
Page last updated February 13, 2012
A Man Called Peter Parents' Guide
The movie quotes from a prayer Dr. Peter Marshall addressed to the Senate in the late 1940s: “Give us a clear vision that we may know where to stand and what to stand for—because unless we stand for something we shall fall for anything.” Do you feel these words hold any wisdom for today? How have society’s philosophies changed over the years since he gave these sermons?
Audio transcripts of some of Dr. Marshall’s sermons are available at a website hosted by his son Peter John Marshall, who followed in his father’s career footsteps. You can listen to them here: http://www.petermarshallministries.com/
Home Video
The most recent home video release of A Man Called Peter movie is September 5, 2005. Here are some details…
DVD Release Date: 6 September 2005
20th Century Fox’s DVD release of A Man Called Peter provides an opportunity to hear the real Dr. Peter Marshall speak, by presenting an Easter sermon given by the influential preacher. This audio recording is presented with archival still photos as well as pictures taken of the actors on the movie’s set. A Fox Movietone News trailer of the film is also included. Subtitles are available in English and Spanish.
Related home video titles:
A man of the cloth tries to rid his community of mob influences in the fictional story, On the Waterfront. The biography of the famous German reformer is vividly brought to life in the film Luther.