Before I begin my review, I'd like to acknowledge the fact that there are many people who are not open to the type of self-empowerment philosophy demonstrated in this film. Worse, there are some who are downright hostile* towards it. But, of course, that's okay. If either of those is the case with you, simply let the movie and my review of it pass by you into your past.

For those interested in Peaceful Warrior and it's story of a way of life -- well you're in luck -- it's a great movie! Extremely well told tale of a young man finding his path through the mentoring of an older man. The philosophy is delivered au naturel by Nick Nolte (figuratively speaking, thank goodness) and wrestled with by Scott Mechlowicz portraying real life gymnast and subsequent author Dan Millman.

I can honestly imagine the truths stated in the movie sounding like Chicken Soup platitudes to the uninitiated (such as Bradley 1.0), but it actually displays hidden depths to those willing to listen.

And if that isn't enough to put 90% of readers of this thread off seeing the film - how about this... It'd make a tremendous double bill with this year's other superb gymnastic philosophy movie - Stick It!

Let the corporate media critics negative reviews float past you in the great river of movie viewing, and give yourself the chance to choose whether to follow this stream...

7 out of 5.

(*For example, any of you who have a fierce hate on for What the #$*! Do We (K)now!? --> I highly recommend that you stay away from this film! And treat yourselves to some anger management counselling, if at all possible... )

I'm dying to see this one. The trailer was fantastic and really effective. I really wish it would come to my area

It's theatrical run is taking a beating from the reviews - it only played one week in our medium sized artsy theatre and then dropped down to the small hard to get to one.

Few want to hear this kinda message these days. As I mentioned in my review, some are angry that this kind of movie is taking up a single screen from showing "Destroyer Warrior".