THE PLOT THUS FAR
Irreplaceable follows host Tim Sisarich (former Executive Director of Focus on the Family New Zealand) as he consults with experts around the globe to determine whether the concept of the traditional family is meaningful, or in fact outmoded. In the documentary, renowned experts and commentators speak on a range of topics, including not only marriage, but also the rise of ‘anything goes’ sexuality, the dramatic increase in fatherlessness, the decline in the perceived value of having children, and the importance of male and female. Contributors to Irreplaceable include Michael Medved, Eric Metaxas, Dr. Roger Scruton, Dr. Anne Moir, Helen Alvaré, Jonathan Last and Carey Casey, among others.
WHAT WE THOUGHT
“Irreplaceable” is a documentary that wants to pretend that it’s about finding out whether the family unit can survive. The rules and structure it uses to define what makes up a family is narrow, as the filmmakers’ agenda is so strong that it smacks of propaganda. While I know that there are quite a few readers out there that will agree with Tim Sisarich, I’m not one of them. That being said, a far more temperate host could’ve done far more with the findings of this program.
Focus on the Family continues to irk the living hell out of me. The folks that Sisarich uses to make his point border on discreditable for anyone of reasonable standing. However, there is a minute amount of truth to what Sisarich wants to say. While he doesn’t get to define family, there is a need for concrete structure at home. If kids don’t have something to observe and respect, there’s no reason for them to follow anything.
The DVD comes with a panel discussion and featurettes as the special features. The A/V Quality is on par for a documentary. The transfer is strong for a quiet film. The same goes for the Dolby audio track. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase to the curious.
RELEASE DATE: 02/24/2015