C.H. Spurgeon: The People's Preacher

Many pastors in Victorian England spoke in lofty terms to the intelligentsia, but Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834–92), whose gift for speaking from the heart trumped his lack of formal training, skyrocketed to fame as the “people's preacher”—at one point addressing a crowd of 24,000 at London's Crystal Palace and for 30 years presiding over the city's 6,000-seat Metropolitan Tabernacle. Interspersing commentary with dramatic re-enactments, this excellent documentary from the Christian Television Association traces Spurgeon's life from his boyhood in the Fens region of eastern England through the Baptist ministry that fueled his rise to a position of power and influence (Christopher Hawes and Stephen Daltry portray the younger and older Spurgeon). Despite his phenomenal success in both the pulpit and as a published author—as well as having a loving relationship with his wife, Susannah (played by Sarah Mardel)—Spurgeon faced assorted challenges, including media attacks, denominational rifts, and depression and other illnesses. When he died at age 57, his death made headlines and his funeral was a national event. Although less well known today, Spurgeon's legacy endures through the orphan homes, missions, and centers for social action he founded (which still exist), along with his Pastors College (now called Spurgeon's College) in London. Solidly researched, well acted, and featuring beautiful scenes of the English countryside and other locations in England, Scotland, France, and Germany, this is an engrossing portrait. DVD extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette and a short titled “Spurgeon: A Closer Look.” Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)