Robert Duvall's film The Apostle initially raised the eyebrows of those concerned with how popular film might portray religious topics. However, suspicions that this film would be another exposé attempting to cash in on the public's fascination with the well-known trials and tribulations of evangelists were soon laid to rest. Rather, Duvall has produced a sensitive and honest portrayal of an American cultural and religious phenomenon—the southern Holiness tradition. The Apostlenot only entertains but also provides insight into the cultural and religious richness of the South as well as the complexities of human frailty and grace.