Exemplary Manhood in Film Series

I love movies.

The first "adult" movie I remember watching was Errol Flynn's The Adventures of Robin Hood, which I watched when I was about 9 years old. I instantly fell in love with Errol Flynn and remained that way for about four years - I can still quote The Sea Hawk, Captain Blood, They Died With Their Boots On, and Robin Hood almost entirely from memory.

I love good movies in the same way that I love good books - not only do they allow me to escape to another world and rest my mind for a little while, but frequently, while I'm there, I find new ways to think about things and themes in my life.

One theme that I have searched for in movies and books ever since I was a young girl is the theme of exemplary manhood - which is a philosophical way of saying that I look for male characters who exemplify qualities that I will be looking for in my future husband, and that I want to nurture in my future sons. Men who are courageous, honorable, upright, chivalrous, loyal, and committed to doing what is right.

Just like in real life, these good examples are not easy to find. Movies are full of slimy villains - but even worse, they are also full of "heroes" who are devious, liars, selfish, or immoral. That is why I've decided to do a short blog post series honoring my favorite characters who are truly and indisputably good - not perfect, and certainly not flawless; but men who do what's right (when possible, men who love and follow the Lord), who love and protect their families and friends, and who live intentionally for what they believe.

The characters I will be honoring are:

Luke Skywalker

(Star Wars)

 

Captain America

(Captain America: The First Avenger and The Avengers)

Gilbert Blythe

(Anne of Green Gables book/TV series)

 

Father Barry

(On The Waterfront)

Colonel Brandon

(Sense and Sensibility)

 

Colonel Joshua Chamberlain

(Gettysburg)

This list is certainly not comprehensive - I know there are many more heroes out there who are just as thoroughly good as these, but this will get us started, and if I think of more as I go along, I'll add them in too. And of course, suggestions are welcome - just keep in mind that I'm not as well-versed in movies as many of you are.  ;-)

I hope this will prove to be an enjoyable and thought-provoking series!

Hugs,
Vicki