Tracker Christian Review
Take a look at “Tracker,” the new series on CBS, starring Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw, who travels in an RV across the country to solve mysteries and find missing persons. That has that classic CBS crime drama feel but with a bit of heartfelt storytelling.
Depth of Character, Morality Issues
The first thing that brings applause with regard to “Tracker” is how they did the character design for Colter Shaw. He’s not just some crime-solving guy; he’s a human being with a past, a history that has built him up. For the Christian viewer, this really speaks because it can mean so much in representing the legacy of the human experience and the journey of redemption. Quite obviously, throughout the series, one could see Colter operate within the bounds of the law, protecting the dignity of every human being whom he comes across. It’s refreshing to have a protagonist character Orm whose value structures are more on honesty and compassion, elicit closer approximations of Christian virtue.
Family and Relationships
It also focuses on family and relationship matters, which lie really at the heart of most Christian beliefs. In the way that the character of Colter interacts with his team, particularly Velma and Teddi, one feels an attachment that goes beyond purely business, having grown to be something like family. This understanding of supportive relationships brings to the surface what is near to Christians’ hearts: community and concern for one another.
Entertainment Value and Moral Reflection
“Tracker” is a good balance of suspense and drama, without really trying to assault its audience with too much violence or goriness. It thereby accommodates a broad viewership, suitable even for family viewing. Even though action scenes, at times, lack the kind of intensity expected by more hardcore action moviegoers, the character-driven plot and emphasis on ethics balance out its thinness.
Underlying Messages and Secular Themes
Needless to say, secular themes that do not exactly coincide with Christianity have been added in “Tracker,” common to most mainstream dramas. The film, however, also presents these themes very neutrally, thus allowing the viewers to make a critical and discerning judgment of it. As Christians, it’s essential that whenever we see media, we learn to make a difference by appreciating the good and, at the same time, be on our guard regarding those issues where values conflict.
Conclusion
Altogether, “Tracker” is a compelling series that is full of mystery and drama with moral consideration. Justin Hartley plays the lead role as Colter Shaw, putting great depth and authenticity into the character. For the Christian audience, though, it gives them engaging storytelling filled with redemptive, never-give-up themes and the pursuit of truth. For those viewers looking for action, it may not be action-packed. For the family or solo audience willing to engage in something cerebral, though, it sure will fit the bill.
