A movie like G.I. Jesus runs the danger of slipping into broad, easy proselytizing. It could lose its way, but it doesn't. Some of Jesus' hallucinations have more clutter than clarity, and on occasion the film seems on the verge of faltering, but director/co-writer Colpaert knows where he is going.
Colpaert has a deft human touch. He is an able filmmaker who knows what film can do, how it can mix time and space. He has some jolting montages; mixing in actual war footage gives authenticity to fantasy.
His cast serves him well. Arquette is vulnerable and convincing as the disturbed soldier. Mota is first-rate as the loving and fearful wife. Farhad humanizes the otherworldly spirit, Mohammed. And Lynum steals scenes as the young daughter, Marina, who is the voice of sweet reason.
There are scenes that don't work. Some of the symbols are a little forced. But the conclusion—Jesus' moment of truth, his decision and its relevance—is stirring.