Sent: The Life and Music of Father Stan Fortuna

"Sent: The Life and Music of Father Stan Fortuna" is a captivating documentary film that chronicles the fascinating life journey of a unique individual who marries spirituality, faith, and music into a harmonious blend. The subject matter is Father Stan Fortuna, a Catholic priest from New York and a gifted musician, whose unique combination of traditional religious values with contemporary music engages audiences of various backgrounds. This film is a striking exposition of Father Stan's extraordinary way of life that uses the transformative power of music to communicate and express spiritual teachings.

The film is a profound glimpse into the life of Father Stan which begins in his youth. A music lover from an early age, Father Stan's early life was heavily influenced and shaped by the compelling world of jazz, inspiring a love affair with music that would go on to define his life. Despite initially setting out for a career as a professional jazz musician, Father Stan's path took an unexpected turn after an encounter with God. This spiritual reckoning made him commit to his religious calling, leading him to become a priest under the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal movement. His previous passion for music did not go to waste; instead, it got imbued with his newfound faith, forming an unusual amalgamation that would make Father Stan standout.

Furthermore, the film paints a vivid picture of New York in the late 20th-century, a period marred by social upheaval, violence, and poverty. It was against this background that Father Stan chose to commit to his calling, dedicating his life to serve the needy, distressed, and marginalized. The film takes you through his extensive community work – from homeless shelters to impoverished neighbourhoods, from classrooms to concert halls, echoing Father Stan's spiritual teachings of peace, compassion, and divine love.

In a departure from the image of a stereotype Catholic priest, Father Stan emerges as a figure who is deeply compassionate and inherently cool, his dark shades, casual attire, and an electric bass in hand, offering a fresh perspective on conveying faith and spirituality. Throughout the movie, as the layers of Father Stan's personality are peeled back, the audience receives a multi-faceted view of his life, witnessing the man behind the religious vestments.

What is particularly remarkable about "Sent: The Life and Music of Father Stan Fortuna" is the manner in which his music is incorporated throughout the film. As his instrument of choice, Father Stan's bass guitar provides a rhythmic undercurrent to the storyline. His unique genre of 'rap-scat' and fusion of Gospel, Jazz, and Hip-hop, all play instrumental roles in presenting his teachings in a language that resonates with both the new generation and older believers. The film features several of his performances, which provide viewers with a palpable sense of his abilities as a musician and a charismatic performer.

The film also features interviews with those who have been influenced by his teachings, including academics, fellow friars, congregation members, and even famous musicians who share their experiences and insights about Father Stan. These interactions further illuminate the impact of his work.

"Sent: The Life and Music of Father Stan Fortuna" is not just a tribute but a powerful journey that allows viewers to explore deeper realities of faith, devotion, and service, all through the eyes of a man whose commitment to his beliefs is unyielding. Director Ed Roy manages to paint a picture that is as entertaining as it is enlightening, offering viewers a multi-dimensional exploration of a their faith, spirituality and human interaction.

Equipped with a powerful narrative, intriguing subject matter, and skillful execution, "Sent: The Life and Music of Father Stan Fortuna" is a film that stays with you, challenging one's perception of religion and reminding us of the universal language of music that bridges divides and unites hearts. Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, a musician or a layman, this moving narrative has something for everyone – it not only informs and entertains but also inspires and enlightens. This documentary is truly a heart-tugging symphony between the spiritual and the musical worlds, making it a must-watch for all true documentary lovers.