User reviews

This documentary is an incredible and inspirational true story of an amazing man. Fr. Flanagan was a man of God who had done so much for others. As a high school teacher, I am in contact with kids all day long. They come with all sorts of challenges and struggles. Seeing Fr. Flanagan´s commitment to caring for the youth, I felt overwhelmed by his generosity, love and compassion for them. The documentary inspires me to become the best version of myself. We all need to focus more on people in need and fight for the weak ones. Fr. Flanagan is an example of calling people to be a saint. Well done!

I grew up knowing about Fr. Flanigan and Boys Town. I saw the movie Boys Town on TV when I was about 4. But this was no dry documentary telling us things we already knew. This piece was lovingly created by people who took the time to find out who he truly was. To go to the town where he was born. To interview people who knew him or had connections to him. The creators wove and blended his story with words and pictures that left me feeling that I knew him. This man and all he stood for. This is how I was raised to be a good American. I would like every American to see this. To remind us of who we were, who we are, and who we can be. I did not know what to expect seeing this film, but I did not expect this.

I had heard of Father Flanagan and knew a little bit about the work he did. After watching Heart of a Servant I came to know Fr. Flanagan even better and learned things I never knew about him. This movie did an incredible job of sharing the real story of Fr. Flanagan and shared beautiful details of his life that many didn't know before watching this movie. The filmmakers truly dug into his life and created a beautiful movie honoring this incredible man of God. I was left inspired after watching this film and I felt like I got to know him better through those who knew him. Fr. Flanagan, pray for us.

What an inspiring witness for all people who have it in their heart to serve others. Father Flanagan's life is a great example of what the Christian life is all about.

This is a compelling story of a man who glorifies God through self sacrificing service to others, which is the true definition of love.

This is a top notch documentary film that all people should see. Extremely well made!

This is a great film to ask your parish to do a screening of. Father Flanagan's story will help all people to acknowledge that there is a much deeper meaning to our lives. That to know love and serve God is our highest calling!

Joe Pacillo The Frontline with Joe and Joe.

I don't typically watch documentaries, but I live near Boys Town and was curious what I didn't know about Fr. Flanagan's life. Turns out there was a lot I didn't know!

This film wove together the various stages of his life in such a beautiful and compelling way. From his childhood to his call to the priesthood to illness and a life of service, you could truly understand what motivated him and how much he had to overcome to accomplish the mission he set before himself.

The film and his life were both inspiring, and I highly recommend it. It certainly is worth it to watch alone, but I can imagine it as an incredible tool for families or parish small groups to watch and discuss.

This film is incredibly produced and does a fantastic job at highlighting the incredible legacy of Fr. Flanagan. When faith is lived out in action, mountains are moved. In our day and age that is so focused on appearing to be virtuous instead of actually practicing virtue, this film is a wonderful reminder that our lives can become instruments of grace. Fr. Flanagan saw the image of God in all his neighbors, regardless of race or creed, and shared genuine love and concern for them. Hollywood needs to hear more stories of people who make a positive impact on society. I highly recommend this documentary.

The life of Father Flanagan is nothing short of incredible, and I cannot believe just how unknown his story is. If you're familiar with Boys Town then you likely know his story, but for those of us outside of Nebraska, it's shockingly easy to have never heard of the amazing man or his impactful works.

A true gentleman ahead of his time, Fr. Flanagan was cutting edge in his beliefs that no boys are bad; all boys deserve to be loved and cared for; and that it doesn't matter what your race or religion is--you should be cared for. He faced a lot of adversity for choosing to take care of these boys, but God provided all he needed and more to make Boys Town a reality. When you see the lasting positive effect he had on all boys associated with Boys Town; how Marvel and Hollywood took interest in him; and how even POTUS trusted him, you will be in awe.

This film is beautifully made, a joy to watch, and (at times) a tear jerker. I was so impressed by the depth and breadth of the coverage this movie had, how much I learned, and--of course--listening to Jonathan Roumie narrating was a very nice touch.

A few years ago, during a work meeting, I first heard about Father Flanagan's incredible story. I was sitting down with a donor who mentioned that they were passionate supporters of Boys Town and deeply admired the transformative work Father Flanagan had done. Their enthusiasm sparked my curiosity, but it wasn't until years later that I truly revisited his story.

That opportunity came when I interviewed Rob, the director of Heart of a Servant, a film dedicated to Father Flanagan's life and mission. As we spoke, I was captivated by Rob's passion and the depth of his understanding of Father Flanagan's legacy. His words inspired me to watch the film, and I'm so glad I did.

Rob and his team have done an outstanding job bringing Father Flanagan's story to life. The film not only highlights the remarkable work he did but also beautifully conveys the message that holiness is undeniably attractive. It reminds us that every man and woman deserves to be seen with dignity and treated with respect, regardless of their circumstances.

I would highly recommend seeing this powerful movie. It's more than just a film-it's an invitation to reflect on our own call to holiness and to recognize the inherent worth of every person. I also encourage you to learn more about Father Flanagan and consider asking for his intercession. His life continues to inspire and challenge us to love and serve as he did.

This film reveals an amazing history of the man who founded Boys Town in Nebraska. More than that it provides long-unknown facts about the context and the culture that he engaged to save abandoned, abused and troubled youth. What emerges from this film is someone who actually had a global impact and served the needs of children well beyond Boys Town, throughout the world. People that have seen this film universally respond, "I had no idea" of the many challenges and social justice and civil rights successes this man endured. This film challenges everyone to listen to their better angels and serve the needs of others.

This was a wonderful film! I only knew a little about Father Flanagan and this documentary revealed so many things that I never knew.

What an amazing man and an amazing film that tells more about his remarkable life!

The details, directing, and filmography were impeccable. With a focus on his entire life, the film wove an interesting narrative that focused on Father Flanagan's mission. The interviews were also done very well and gave insights into the man who was Father to all in Boys Town and "America's number one dad."

After seeing this film, Boys Town is on my list of places to visit. Well done film and everyone (even if documentaries aren't normally your thing!) should watch it!

Let me start this out with the truth - I had no knowledge of Father Flanagan before watching "Heart of A Servant." I watched the film once. I watched it a second time. And a third. And fourth! I was blown away by 1) his heart. He came from chronic illness and less than ideal life circumstances. Yet he served Christ in others; most notably others whom society rejected, snubbed, and disregarded. 2) his passion. Here is a man who wouldn't take defeat for an answer. You've gotta watch this film to get what I mean. 3) his legacy. I'm a woman of faith and one who is striving to work and serve and love so that those who come after me in my true beauty enterprise will savor the first fruits of my legacy. Father Flanagan's story and his legacy far outlived his existence. THIS, dear brethren, is what we need in the world today. Positive role models who will point us Godward. Point us in the relentless pursuit of good. Point us to true sanctity. Point us to the Sacred Heart of God. Watch "Heart of A Servant: The Father Flanagan Story" and share it with everyone you know. Viva Padre Flanagan!!!

Father Edward J. Flanagan is perhaps best known as the founder of Boys Town and for being portrayed by Spencer Tracy in the 1938 Oscar-winning Boys Town film.

The Heart of a Servant: The Story of Father Flanagan brought to life once again by Rob Kaczmark, the President & CEO at Spirit Juice Studios is a must see...They do the story and the legacy of the man justice!....America needs heroes and Father Flanagan was just that, a hero

Also worth noting, keep an eye on Spirit Juice Studio.. They are putting out high quality content...America has gotten too used to "cheesy" Christian productions..... Spirit Juice breaks the mold......First-Class all the way!

Joe Reciniello The Frontline with Joe & Joe Veritas Catholic Network.

It was extremely inspiring to see how Fr. Flanigan stepped out in faith and made such a change in the lives of so many youths!

There is a very moving scene where a man shares how "Boy's Town" affected his life and how he bonded with others there because of their mutual experience of prior suffering. What a great way to show how God brings good out of everything-even our deepest pains!

This film also explores the power of praying together as they were out of food and petitioned the Lord and witnessed His miracles. It's a great reminder of how we are called to participate in God's plan which brings Him glory!

Fr. Flanigan didn't believe in bad boys, he believed in boys who needed love and a good example. He shows us how we should all see each other through the eyes of God and welcome all!

I can't recommend this film enough!

I had no idea that Fr. Edward J. Flanagan traveled internationally to assist and advise presidents regarding orphan care!

I was very moved by his intentional way of living and giving his entire life to care for children who needed a father. May we all learn from his unwavering example of love and service.

I enjoyed learning more about his entire life as well as the impact he made on many children. I was especially moved by his work with the internment camps during World War II. His passion for treating all people with dignity is an inspiration.

I highly recommend this biography of an American hero.

When I decided to watch Heart of a Servant - The Father Flanagan Story, I never imagined it would have such a profound impact on my life. The film was not only well-crafted and captivating, but when approached with an open heart, it had the power to inspire a deeper commitment to helping the less fortunate.

Father Flanagan was such an extraordinary man that if I hadn't seen the film I probably would not have believed that one individual could possess such strength and courage to face and overcome the many challenges that stood so heavily against him.

Father Flanagan not only had a heart of a Servant but he had a Heart of a Father. He was the type of father most dreamed of having. He cared for those children as if they were his own. He stood up for them when no one else would.

This film has the power to change your heart and your life. It will inspire you to do more for those in need and leave you feeling awed, encouraged, hopeful, and grateful that someone like Father Flanagan once walked among us-a man who humbly allowed himself to be used by God in such a meaningful way.

After watching this film, I can only hope and pray that I, too, can fulfill God's purpose for my life with the same humility and grace that Father Flanagan exemplified.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to watch this film-you won't be disappointed.