The Hill (2023)

Cast & Crew

Jeff Celentano

Director

Colin Ford

Rickey Hill

Dennis Quaid

James Hill

Joelle Carter

Helen Hill

Scott Glenn

Red Murff

Siena Bjornerud

Gracie Shanz

Videos

The Hill (2023)

The Hill (2023): Video 1

00:30

THE HILL | Inspire :30 | In Theaters Starting August 25

00:15

THE HILL | Inspire :15 | In Theaters Starting August 25

10:05

The Hill (Dennis Quaid) | Home Sweet Home | Extended Preview

Photos

The Hill (2023)

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Content Rating Guide

The Hill (2023)

The film is deeply rooted in the Baptist tradition of the mid-20th century, treating the Bible and the pulpit with immense reverence. The central theological conflict mirrors the biblical tension between legalism and the freedom found in Christ. Pastor James Hill (Dennis Quaid) operates from a place of protective fear, viewing his son’s physical “thorn in the flesh” as a sign that Rickey should avoid the world and focus solely on the Word. This provides a rich opportunity for viewers to discuss the “theology of vocation”—the idea that every legitimate “calling,” whether it be in the dugout or the sanctuary, can be an act of worship if done for the glory of God.
Rickey’s journey reflects a profound sense of stewardship over his God-given talents. Despite his father’s warnings that he is chasing “idols,” Rickey’s persistence feels less like rebellion and more like an act of faith, trusting that God did not give him a gift he wasn’t meant to use. The film frequently utilizes Scripture, with Rickey often quoting David and Goliath to frame his struggles. For the adult viewer, the movie offers a moving look at sanctification through suffering, showing how Rickey’s physical pain and his father’s eventual humility are used by God to refine their characters and strengthen their bond.
The central theological conflict mirrors the biblical tension between legalism and the freedom found in Christ.

While the film is overwhelmingly pro-faith, it does occasionally lean into the “follow your heart” trope common in American sports cinema. This humanistic sentiment—the idea that the human spirit is the ultimate arbiter of destiny—sometimes sits in tension with the film’s more overt messages of divine providence. However, because Rickey consistently attributes his strength to God, this secular “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality is largely subsumed under a framework of Christian perseverance.
There is also a subtle portrayal of the “American Dream” as a parallel narrative to the Gospel. The film portrays the pursuit of professional success as a noble end in itself, which could be interpreted as a slight tilt toward moralistic therapeutic deism if not for the heavy emphasis on Rickey’s prayer life. Overall, the film avoids any active deconstruction of faith, choosing instead to critique the delivery of the message (the father’s legalism) rather than the message of the Gospel itself.
This humanistic sentiment—the idea that the human spirit is the ultimate arbiter of destiny—sometimes sits in tension with the film’s more overt messages of divine providence.

Sexual and Romantic ContentNone

The violence in the film is primarily grounded in the harsh reality of Rickey’s physical condition and the cruelty of his peers. Early scenes depict Rickey being bullied by neighborhood children who throw stones at him and mock his leg braces. These moments are emotionally resonant and serve to highlight the protagonist’s resilience, but they are not excessively graphic.
The most visceral “violence” is internal and medical. The film does not shy away from the “crunch” of Rickey’s braces or the visible agony he experiences when his spine is under duress. There are scenes of intense physical exertion where Rickey’s body begins to fail him, which may be difficult for some viewers to watch. However, there is no gore or gratuitous blood; the focus remains on the sacrificial nature of his pursuit.
Early scenes depict Rickey being bullied by neighborhood children who throw stones at him and mock his leg braces.

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Audience Reviews

Commentable Scenes

THE HILL | Inspire :30 | In Theaters Starting August 25

THE HILL | Inspire :15 | In Theaters Starting August 25

The Hill (Dennis Quaid) | Home Sweet Home | Extended Preview

Rating Distribution

Cast & Crew

Videos

The Hill (2023): Video 1

THE HILL | Inspire :30 | In Theaters Starting August 25

THE HILL | Inspire :15 | In Theaters Starting August 25

The Hill (Dennis Quaid) | Home Sweet Home | Extended Preview

Photos

If you liked The Hill (2023), you might also like...

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