Here's one that is worth your money. Keeping the Faith is one of those rare films that not only keeps the promise of its trailer, but delivers even more.

The picture revolves around two friends. They've known each other since junior high. One grew up to be a Rabbi, the other a Priest. But there was a third friend back in junior high, a girl. She moved to California in the seventh grade, never to be seen again - until now.

Keeping the Faith is a very funny love triangle. The girl from junior high comes back and falls in love with the Rabbi. While these two are secretly swapping spit, the Priest falls in love with the girl. For him this becomes a test of his faith.

This film works on so many levels. First there are the two men of the cloth. These guys feel very genuine. A lot of research has gone into these characters. Together they walk through the neighborhood as the "God Squad", entrenching themselves into the lives of their flock. Even at the most tragic times, these two friends are very connected.

The humor really works here as well. The characters are not doing a Groucho on the audience. These characters are just going about their lives, living very funny situations. The writing really shines.

Finally, the cast makes the piece work. Ben Stiller as the Rabbi, Edward Norton as the Priest, and Jenna Elfman as their mutual love interest. These three along with Anne Bancroft as Stiller's mother make you care about their characters.

Keeping the Faith is that film of superior writing, acting, and situation that we all want to see, but rarely find in on a Marquee.

No Suction!

Film Facts

Cast
• Ben Stiller
• Edward Norton
• Jenna Elfman
• Anne Bancroft
• Eli Wallach
• Ron Rifkin
• Milos Forman
• Holland Taylor
• Lisa Edelstein
• Rena Sofer
• Ken Leung
• Brian George
• Kryss Anderson
• Dagmara Dominczyk
• Bodhi Elfman
• David Wain
• Brian Anthony Wilson

Directed by Edward Norton

Released in 2000

MPAA Rating: PG-13

Reviewed by Mongo