Craig T. Nelson, the beloved actor known for his roles in “Coach,” “Parenthood,” and “The Incredibles,” is making waves once again—not just on screen but in the realm of faith. His latest film, “Green and Gold,” is a heartfelt exploration of faith, resilience, and the quest for meaning, themes that resonate deeply with Nelson’s own life journey.
In a recent interview, Nelson opened up about his faith, stating, "My faith is everything. It’s all about running away and then being brought back in." He reflects on his personal struggles, acknowledging that he sought fulfillment outside of faith, only to find a void that needed to be filled. "When that was not satisfying — when there was still that donut in my soul — I realized that there was something I needed, a relationship I needed to form."
“Green and Gold,” set to hit theaters on January 31, features Nelson as Buck, a Wisconsin dairy farmer facing foreclosure. Buck’s story is not just about the challenges of farming; it’s about the deeper emotional and spiritual battles that many face when everything seems to be falling apart. With his family’s legacy at stake, Buck makes a bold bet on the Green Bay Packers winning the championship, a decision that mirrors Nelson’s own experiences of faith and surrender.
The film, directed by brothers Anders and Davin Lindwall, showcases a stellar cast, including Brandon Sklenar, Madison Lawlor, Annabel Armour, and Charlie Berens. For Nelson, portraying Buck was a deeply personal experience. "Buck had a relationship, fragmentally, with God," he explained. "He became so dependent on his own resiliency. Then he found that empty. He had to, out of despair, draw closer to God."
Throughout his illustrious career, Nelson has often chosen roles that reflect his values and beliefs. "It’s a question I ask myself all the time: Is this worthy of Him?" he said, emphasizing the importance of prayer and understanding God’s sovereignty in his life and work. His characters often grapple with themes of faith, which he finds essential in storytelling.
In “Green and Gold,” Buck’s journey toward faith offers a resolution that many viewers can relate to. Unlike his previous role as Zeek Braverman in “Parenthood,” where the spiritual search remained unresolved, Buck’s character finds a path to deeper faith and reliance on God. The film captures not only the struggles of rural America but also the hope and resilience that characterize farming communities.
Nelson’s connection to farming is personal; his family has farmed in South Dakota for generations. He shared, "That farm has been there since that time and is still going. My wife’s family also farmed in South Dakota. It’s part of my legacy." This background enriches his portrayal of Buck, allowing him to authentically represent the grit and spirit of farmers.
Even at 80 years old, Nelson continues to grow in his faith. He believes that the journey of self-discovery and reliance on God leads to an unparalleled serenity and peace. "The promise of that journey, for those struggling with who they are and what is the meaning, is that you will find a serenity and peace that you have never experienced before," he shared. "You just go after it. No gray area."
“Green and Gold” is not just a film; it’s a celebration of faith, family, and the enduring spirit of those who work the land. As audiences prepare to see the film, Nelson’s story serves as a reminder of the power of faith in overcoming life’s challenges.
For more information about the film and to watch the trailer, visit the official site Green and Gold Movie.
With its rich themes and relatable characters, “Green and Gold” promises to inspire viewers and spark conversations about faith and resilience in today’s world. Don’t miss this heartfelt story when it hits theaters on January 31!