Watch Pastor Shirley

Pastor Shirley is a 2013 independent film directed by Alfonso Losa that explores the personal journey of a young woman named Shirley. The film stars Tiara Ashleigh as Shirley and Andre Boyer as her love interest, David, with supporting roles by Jerome Ro Brooks and others. Shirley is a preacher's daughter who has grown up in a strict and sheltered household. She has always followed the rules and done what her parents and church expect of her. However, as she grows older, Shirley begins to question the strict beliefs and practices of her church and the ways they have been imposed upon her.

The film opens with Shirley delivering a sermon at her church, where she is revealed to be a talented preacher with a gift for inspiring others. However, when Shirley begins to ask questions about some of the church's teachings, she finds herself at odds with her father and the other church leaders.

Shirley's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment as she begins to carve out her own path in the world. Along the way, she falls in love with David, a man who supports her in her journey and encourages her to pursue her dreams.

The film also explores some of the challenges Shirley faces as a woman in a male-dominated society. She faces criticism and skepticism from the men in her church who believe that women should not be pastors, and she must navigate the complexities of balancing her faith with her own desires and ambitions.

One of the strengths of the film is the nuanced portrayal of the characters. Shirley is not simply a rebellious preacher's daughter but a complex individual with her own doubts and fears. Her father, played by Jerome Ro Brooks, is not portrayed as a one-dimensional villain but as a man who genuinely believes he is doing the right thing.

The film also addresses important themes such as mental health, forgiveness, and the importance of finding one's own voice. It asks viewers to consider the role of religion in shaping personal beliefs and how to reconcile those beliefs with the modern world.

The cinematography in the film is understated yet effective, adding to the intimate and introspective tone of the story. The music is also a standout feature, with a soundtrack that includes soulful gospel and blues tunes that provide a powerful emotional backdrop to the story.

Overall, Pastor Shirley is a well-crafted and thought-provoking film that provides a nuanced depiction of one woman's journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. The performances by the cast are excellent, and the film's exploration of important themes will resonate with viewers long after the credits roll.

Pastor Shirley is a 2016 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.