The film The Forge by the Kendrick Brothers follows the story of 19-year-old Isaiah Wright. Isaiah is a young man with no clear plans for the future who spends his time playing basketball and video games. After graduating from high school, his mother, Cynthia, gives him an ultimatum—either he finds a job or he has to move out.

Isaiah starts working at Moore Fitness, where he meets the company’s CEO, Joshua Moore. Joshua becomes his mentor and spiritual guide. He helps Isaiah find meaning in life, learn responsibility, forgive, and trust in God.

Isaiah undergoes an inner transformation—he begins reading the Bible, is baptized, and becomes part of the *Test of Adulthood* community. The film highlights the challenges faced by Moore Fitness and emphasizes the importance of Christian principles in both personal and professional life.

*The Test of Adulthood* is a story of mentorship, personal growth, and the power of forgiveness, emphasizing Christian values and life transformation through faith and community.

The sometimes overly dramatic prayers of spirited Black women—as well as those of Isaiah himself—and the more extensive sermons may come across as a bit contrived to the viewer.

Drama

USA, 2024, 123 min

Cast: Alex Kendrick;

Crew: Karen Abercrombie, Priscilla C. Shirer, T.C. Stallings, Tommy Woodard, Cameron Arnett, Ben VanderMey, Brad Worch II, Justin Sterner, Ken Bevel;

Parents’ Guide:

A boy once talks about how he wanted to hit his father, who was cheating on his mother. A boy killing time playing a video game. A boy refusing to honor God by attending church on Sundays.

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