2 1/2 stars = Average
Ratings explained

Caleb Holt (Kirk Cameron) is a self-centered firefighter who would rather hang out with his buddies or sit in front of a computer than spend time with wife Catherine (Erin Bethea). Their conversations inevitably slip into disputes over bills, chores, priorities. After seven years of marriage, both are ready to hang it up.

But Caleb's father (Harris Malcolm) sends Caleb a book with a 40-day program aimed at rebuilding relationships. Slowly Caleb's feelings begin to be turned around by his actions.

Catherine, on the other hand, is savoring the attention she's getting from a young doctor and isn't noticing Caleb's efforts.

If "Fireproof" is a bit hokey, it's also very real. The filmmakers are two Baptist pastors, Stephen and Alex Kendrick, who draw on the marital horror stories heard while counseling couples.

Cameron, the former "Growing Pains" child star who now devotes himself to Christian films, is the only experienced actor here. The supporting cast's lack of experience shows through, sometimes glaringly, but it never detracts from the main focus.

"Fireproof" is a drama with an overtly Christian message delivered with the boldness of a Dr. Phil-meets-Billy Graham tag team. It may not play in Hollywood, but it should touch a lot of hearts across America.

-- By David Yonke, Toledo Blade