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The movie “Swimming Upstream” is a powerful true story about Tony Fingleton who became Australian Swimming champion against all odds. He was part of a family where his dad did not want to see him win but trained his brother to beat him. Still, through the trials and tribulations at home, he does not give up but keeps going, being encouraged by his loving mother who endures through the abuse and alcoholism of his dad.

Content Review:

This movie is an excellent movie to watch with your family! It addresses family issues such as acceptance, endurance, alcoholism, domestic abuse, honor and love.

Scriptural Implications:

In the movie we see the dad treating Tony very badly but Tony still loves his dad and honors him. That is amazing! This reminds me of biblical scripture that addresses children and parents.

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise— "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth."Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:1-4, NIV)

In the movie, we see the dad drunk and the aftermath that follows. This reminds me of what the Bible states about getting drunk.

“Who are the people who are always crying the blues? Who do you know who reeks of self-pity? Who keeps getting beat up for no reason at all? Whose eyes are bleary and bloodshot? It's those who spend the night with a bottle, for whom drinking is serious business. Don't judge wine by its label, or its bouquet, or its full-bodied flavor. Judge it rather by the hangover it leaves you with-- the splitting headache, the queasy stomach. Do you really prefer seeing double, with your speech all slurred, Reeling and seasick, drunk as a sailor? "They hit me," you'll say, "but it didn't hurt; they beat on me, but I didn't feel a thing. When I'm sober enough to manage it, bring me another drink!" (Proverbs 23:29-35, The Message)

Questions to Ponder:

1. What is the best way to deal with those that are getting drunk?

2. If you know you are always looked down upon, what is the best strategy to overcome that?

3. What did Tony’s reaction to his dad’s actions do to him and for him?

4. How was Tony able to get through his childhood?

5. What can we learn from the life Tony lived?