The Trouble with TQ (2014)

A character-driven film about the late Reverend Thomas J. Quinlan ("TQ"), "The Trouble with TQ" unfolds with the newly ordained TQ attacking apathy and spiritual complacency at his first parish with the renewal and reform of the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II). Using the Principle of Adaptation, TQ sets out to change the way Catholics celebrate the mass, making The Church relevant to Catholics and Catholics relevant to the world. Over 40+ years as a priest in numerous parishes in Virginia, TQ refined his use of the Principle of Adaptation through symbolism, pop culture and history, giving parishes the tools to lead change in the community. Even as efforts to blunt Vatican II reforms grew, TQ compelled parishes to take responsibility for their spiritual development and challenge clerical patriarchy. "The Trouble with TQ" features TQ interviews from 2008 until 2011. Historical photographs, animation, and archival documents put interviews into perspective to tell the story of a priest determined to wake up the congregation and put the teachings of Christ into action.