TIFF Review: Good Joe Bell

In true festival season fashion, we follow stories based in real life with lessons and emotion that jump off the screen. This incarnation comes in the form of Mark Wahlberg portraying a father named Joe Bell. A simple man in Oregon being a father and husband to his family, living his own American dream. That is, until a change must occur.

This change for him, comes with the understanding that his beloved son is being bullied and harassed, just for being himself. Not quite understanding, but still a loving father, Joe tries to cross the divide to connect with his son. Expressing emotions for this Oregonian is not easy, but he knows what is right in his heart.

To raise awareness about the effects of bullying, he embarks on a mission to walk across the country to New York. Stopping to talk with schools and groups that will listen any chance he gets, in hopes that a message of love and understanding will reach them. Along this lonely road, you soon realize that this mission is also for Joe himself. Reflection on his choices and words sting his soul as he tries to release the flood of emotions for his LGBTQ son and the rest of his family.

Good Joe Bell paints a real portrait of a man that is in pain. Bringing this all to light is the actor himself with this easily being one of Mark Wahlberg’s most endearing roles. You feel every mile and the echo of the loneliness as his every step hits the asphalt. To those with an open mind, you’ll find Good Joe Bell to be the kind of film that empties your heart, while it fills your soul.

Powerful and poignant, this story brings a firm message to love and cherish those that are close, when and while you can.