A well-made and powerful film inspired by real events, exploring family relationships with a particular focus on the father-son bond. Bart Milard had a troubled relationship with his alcoholic father in the past, and this continues to affect him today; although he tries very hard, he struggles to know how to interact with his son, Sam.

Bart’s song “I Can Only Imagine” becomes the most-played song in the history of Christian radio, and in 2002, Bart wins the Dove Award for Song of the Year. He has a wife, Shannon, and five children. However, their oldest son, Sam, has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

Ten years later, Sam is a teenager; he’s learning to play the guitar, and he and his father, Bart, are constantly bickering over monitoring Sam’s blood sugar levels. At the same time, Bart is suffering from a creative slump, haunted by childhood traumas, and the tension with his son Sam is mounting.

Then Tim Timmomns joins the band as the new opening act on their ongoing major tour. His personality influences the entire band and even affects Bart’s relationship with his son.

The film is spiced with pleasant, understated humor.

Drama

USA, 2026, 110 min

Directed by: Andrew Erwin, Brent McCorkle;

Starring: Dennis Quaid, Milo Ventimiglia, Arielle Kebbel, John Michael Finley, Sophie Skelton, Trace Adkins, Anjelah Johnson-Reyes, Joshua Bassett, Jason Burkey;

Parent Guide:
Memories of the past, including conflicts with his father.

It is worthwhile to support fine art by purchasing it. Supporting good cinema not only helps in the creation of high-quality films, but is also an expression of integrity and respect toward the filmmakers.