I’ll admit it: it got me.
I went in with low expectations. Faith-based movies often feel formulaic, and I hadn’t seen the first I Can Only Imagine. I know the MercyMe song and the band, but that’s it. To my surprise, I really enjoyed this film.
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Quick recap for context: the original song was a massive Christian hit, born from the lead singer’s painful relationship with his dad. This sequel picks up ten years later. The band’s sales are down, and they desperately need a new hit. The singer’s now struggling with his own teenage son, who joins them on tour. They also have a new opening act—a rookie dealing with serious health and family issues.
Milo Ventimiglia (from TV’s This Is Us) opens and instantly elevates the whole film—his performance is strong and heartfelt. On the other hand, the lead singer (the same actor from the first) is a total sad sack and can be tough to watch at times.
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The movie packs plenty of emotion—maybe one storyline too many—but they feel genuine. I actually cared about the characters; it never felt like cheap manipulation.
Look, you probably already know if this is your kind of movie. But to those who think they have no interest, lower your guard, let it play, and you might be pleasantly surprised, too.
Grade: B
There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of I Can Only Imagine 2.
| Rated: | (PG) Some Language | Thematic Material |
| Genres: | Drama, Musical |
| USA release date: | 2026-02-19 |
| Movie length: | |
| Starring: | |
| Director: | Brent McCorkle |
| Writer(s): | Brent McCorkle |
| Language: | en |
| Country: | US |
Plot
After the breakout success of the song “I Can Only Imagine,” MercyMe’s Bart Millard is living the dream—sold-out arenas, a devoted fan base, and a thriving career. But behind the spotlight, Bart’s past threatens the family he’s built, especially the fragile bond with his son, Sam. When hopeful newcomer Tim Timmons joins the band for their biggest tour yet, he unknowingly brings a renewed gratitude to Bart’s life through their unlikely friendship. Bart soon discovers that Tim carries hardships—and secrets—of his own, forcing him to face his past and repair his relationships with Sam and his wife, Shannon, before fame costs him what matters most.