Movie Reviews

I do not consider Hollywood a friend of the family and most of the time they would be considered anti-family, anti-church and anti-Christ. Recent award nominations show their fixation with the homosexual lifestyle. Numerous films made them more money but did not fit into their "criteria."

There are times that Hollywood produces things that are good and wholesome.  Here are some films that I  would consider OK for a family to see.

New Titles in Red

While in the hospital, the Abbate family made the difficult decision to permit the doctors to utilize Like's organs in a nationwide organ transplant program. Five recipients were almost immediately identified, including a young mother who was suffering with serious heart disease. Sharing an uncommon blood type, Luke's heart was flown to the young woman's hospital location across the country, resulting in a successful heart transplant, and saving her life.

Following his brother's death, Jon considered giving up his football career 0 but knew that doing so would not properly honor the younger brother who loved and idolized him. Upon his return to Wake Forest, Jon was given the approval of head coach Jim Grobe to change his number from his long-standing 40, to his brother's number 5. And, in so doing, dedicated the new season to the memory of his brother. The Abbate family founded the Luke Abbate 5th Quarter Foundation for the purposes of educating young people nationwide to the dangers and life-altering consequences of irresponsible driving.

A tradition began to evolve during the following Wake Forest games. In paying homage to Luke, Jon would signal his family sitting in the stands (Section 5) by holding up his hand with all 5 fingers outstretched. He did this at the end of the third quarter. Gradually, the rest of his team started to do the same. Within a couple of games, players from both teams, the fans in the stands, and those watching the games on television, would begin the final quarter by raising their hands on television, would begin the final quarter by raising their hands with all 5 fingers outstretched in honor of Luke's memory. The final quarter became known as Luke's Quarter, the 5th Quarter, and this humble signal crystallized the entire team. And, although having lost their starting quarterback, starting running back, and starting defensive end to injuries at the beginning of the season, Wake Forest went on to complete their most successful season in school history, winning 11 games against 2 losses. Coach Grobe was selected the ACC's Coach-Of-The-Year, and Jon performed brilliantly in the ACC Championship Game with fifteen solo tackles against powerhouse Georgia Tech. this is a movie to watch with your family.

Welcome To Inspiration has a loving message of Faith, Family, and Fun. It speaks to planting seeds, discipleship, self-study, and hopes to spark a moving experience through cinema in the hearts of it's audience!

Movie Synopsis

Set in the mall fictional American southern town of Mountain Brook, the Movie 'INSPIRATION POP 2929' follows a diverse cast of characters as they struggle in their lives. A young musician wishes to share his gift with a larger audience; a widow copes with the death of her soldier daughter; a small business owner sacrifices her freedom for the safety of a young runaway; a mechanic finds a family by finding his faith; and a man and woman strengthen their marriage by seeking the Lord's wisdom. One main theme explored in 'INSPIRATION POP 2929' is that you too can live a life of Irrefutable Success if you learn and act upon the things that God has revealed to you!

We have to ask ourselves daily......Am I truly listening?

In moments of providence, our characters meet mysterious teacher like THE STREET SWEEPER, who openly share the Seven Revelations of Irrefutable Success at just the right moment. The revelations are Bible-based principles that point toward a life that is increasingly more spiritually fulfilling. True Success is not so much about material gain as it is about finding true meaning in life. We've heard them before "is is more blessed to five than receive, knock and the door will open", but have we really explored them? As our characters struggle to find their way, they transform their lives by looking to the Lord for their path.

This 'inspirational' journey will be projected over an original Country Gospel and Contemporary Christian soundtrack, with artists including Grammy Award winners Jason Crabb and Larry Gatlin, and Christy Sutherland, Terry Sharp, Andrew Greer, Andrea Thomas, Paul Reter, Rob Rainwater, the Lee University Campus Choir and many more. The movie was made in Wayne County and much of it was shot right here in Clifton, TN. Many local personalities including members from our own church were in the movie. It is family friendly.

2014 Film

Present-day college freshman and devout Christian, Josh Wheaton, finds his faith challenged on his first day of Philosophy class by the dogmatic and argumentative Professor Radisson. Radisson begins class by informing students that they will need to disavow, in writing, the existence of God on that first day, or face a failing grade. As other students in the class begin scribbling the words "God Is Dead" on pieces of paper as instructed, Josh finds himself a at crossroads, having to choose between his faith and his future. Josh offers a nervous refusal, provoking an irate reaction from his smug professor. Radisson assigns him a daunting task: if Josh will not admit that "God Is Dead", he must prove God's existence by presenting well-researched, intellectual arguments and evidence over the course of the semester, and engage Radisson in a head-to-head debate in front of the class. If Josh fails to convince his classmates of God's existence, he will fail the course and hinder his lofty academic goals. With almost no one in his corner, Josh wonders if he can really fight for what he believes. Can he actually prove the existence of God?

This major motion picture event is an experience created to be shared among families and communities across the U.S. It brings the story of Jesus' life to audiences through compelling cinematic storytelling that is both powerful and inspirational. Told with the scope and scale of an action epic, the film features powerful performances, exotic locales, dazzling visual effects and a rich orchestral score. The firm spans from Jesus' humble birth through his teachings, crucifixion and ultimate resurrection

Best buddies Dustin (Jansen Panettiere), Albert and Mark are twelve year old boys looking forward to a summer of fun in 1970. When Dustin mows the lawn of seventy-five year old Jonathan Sperry (Gavin MacLeod), a man he has seen at church, a unique friendship develops. What happens the rest of this summer is something Dustin and his friends will never forget!

Originally released in theaters, an inspiring film for all ages. DVD. 95 minutes.

Not Evil Just Wrong is the film Al Gore and Hollywood don't want you to see. it reveals the true human cost of Global Warming hysteria.

Not Evil Just Wrong shows how Global Warming alarmism and the tax increases that go along with it are going to increase costs for working families during one of the worst recessions in living memory.

Al Gore and his allies want to ban fossil fuels in the developed world. This would devastate the American economy and drive jobs to India and China.

Be part of the resistance. With your help we can bypass the barriers to distribution that Hollywood and the mainstream media put up to stop your from hearing the truth.

Be part of the cinematic tea party movement and tell Al Gore and the elites that you are fed up with taxes and restrictions that threaten jobs across the country.

The DVD is filled with extras like commentary from Directors/Producers Ann McElhinney and Phelim McAleer on the issues around the film; The 'making of' (still photographs); Contributors to eh film; and the trailer to Not Evil Just Wrong. The film is in English with optional Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Polish, Russian, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional) subtitles and English subtitles for hearing impaired. 85 minutes.

Ruth Zeller's family has kept the secret for centuries. Greedy men, disasters, persecution, even the Nazis could not remove the treasure entrusted to them by God. Humbly and quietly the servants of Jehovah continued their work, always on guard.

From the first moment Grace Harrington enters the bakery she encounters locked doors, odd rumors, and an insistent art dealer. Can Ruth entrust Grace with her family's history? Will Grace have the faith to accept the truth? Or will the gift, kept save for a thousand generation, be forever lost? DVD. 80 minutes.

The year is 1890 and Bible Professor Russell Carlisle has written a new manuscript. His book is about to receive an unanimous endorsement from the board members at Grace Bible Seminary until his colleague, Dr. Norris Anderson, has a "difficulty with something." Dr. Anderson believes what Carlisle has written could greatly affect future generation. Using a secret time machine, Anderson sends Carlisle over 100 years into the future, offering him a glimpse of where his beliefs will lead. DVD. 99 minutes.

Ben Stein may not look like a typical school rebel - but when he learned that educators and scientists were being ridiculed, denied tenure, and even fired for the "crime" of discussing evidence of "design" in nature, he'd had enough! Join him as he travels the world, questioning academia's doctrine of random evolution and championing intellectual freedom!. DVD. 90 minutes.

This documentary refutes the prevailing feminist worldview. From a consistently Christian perspective, it shows how feminism has had a devastating impact on the church, state, and family. This film calls women back to a life filled with joy found by following God's Word. Content is mature and handled with sobriety. DVD. 54 minutes.

During a family road trip, the Moore's break down outside a bed and breakfast, where they choose to spend the night. Before long, Gator's curiosity and sleuthing abilities find him right in the middle of a secret treasure hung, trying to unlock a family mystery. The adventure and comedy make this a fun family film. DVD. 54 minutes.

A despondent American journalist is sent to Austria in the fall of 1956 to cover the story of the refugee flight from Communist Hungary. While investigating, he witnesses an unparalleled act of love that changes his perspective on the current events and his own neglect of his family. A powerful short-film. DVD. 16 minutes.

This film is a gripping, romantic allegory about two families in Post-Napoleonic France bound by a ring and a promise. A drama full of surprising twists and intrigues. Bequeathed with a secret trust, the hero soon discovers his oath demands much more than he had thought and is faced with a startling decision. DVD. 54 minutes.

A judge in north Iran condemned a Christian convert from Islam to death. His crime - apostasy. Haik Hovsepian, the leader of Evangelical Christians in Iran, chose to speak out. On January 19, 1994, he disappeared - a martyr for Christ. This is the untold story of the sacrifice and courage of Iranian Christians. Mature and accurate.. DVD. 54 minutes.

Step into the exotic world of the Persian court, where one courageous woman dares to speak truth on behalf of her people! Based on Tommy Tenney's blockbuster novel, One Night with the King tells the story of how beautiful Esther rises from peasant to princess, captures the king's heart, defies his malevolent prime minister, and thwarts horrific plans for genocide. Stars Peter O'Toole and Omar Sharif.  (PG) 117 minutes.

Based on the bestseller by Francine Rivers! An Appalachian burial tradition in the 1850s fascinates 10-year-old Cadi, who is consumed with guilt over her little sister's death. Can the mysterious Last Sin Eater really "absolve" her wrongdoing by breaking bread and drinking wine - especially when her family's dark secret is exposed and threatens to split the community?  (PG-13) 117 minutes.

He was college basketball's highest scorer - but there was more to hardwood hero Pete Maravich than his dazzling Hall of Fame career! The Pistol, Inspirational Edition explores the faith that fueled his character on and off the court, during his last years on earth. Special features include Pete's personal testimony, discussion questions for coaches and youth leaders, and English and Spanish language tracks. (G) 104 minutes.

In this film adaptation of the heart-tugging novel by Jerry Jenkins, Though None Go with Me, Cheryl Ladd stars as Elizabeth Leroy Bishop, a woman whose faith and strength remain constant, whatever sorrows and tragedies befall her. Set in the small town of Three Rivers, her inspiring story spans five decades, two world wars, and the Great Depression. 100 minutes.

More Than Dreams (Dreams and Visions 2006) is a professionally produced DVD with testimonies of five Muslims from Egypt, Nigeria, Indonesia, Iran and Turkey whose encounters with Christ through dreams and visions compelled them to leave Islam and turn to Jesus. Recorded in Arabic and soon available in Farsi (the language of Iran and Afghanistan), this resource appeals to literate and n on-literate populations and provides English and French subtitles. This is a beautiful, heart-wrenching production perfect for outreach to Muslims from anywhere. To order, visit www.dreamsandvisions.com. For more resources on Islam, visit www.4truth.net.

The blockbuster portrayal of unsung hero William Wilberforce! Born in 1759 to a wealthy family and elected to Parliament at age 21, Wilberforce doggedly continued his decades-long legislative battle against slavery until his death in 1833 - one month before the practice was finally outlawed in the United Kingdom. "A brilliant and powerful presentation!" Chuck Colson. (PG.) 111 minutes.  DVD

After their mother's death, estranged sisters Sarah and Wanda wrangle over the family pecan grove. But they're startled to discover an old woman living on the property, claiming it as hers. As Sara's teenage daughter befriends elderly Lilly, she uncovers a tragedy that will haunt - and unite - them all. Starring Della Reese, Meredith Baxter, and Patricia Heaton. 92 minutes. DVD

A revival meeting changes a rowdy young man into the Lord's servant! This is the true story of Robert Sheffey, the renowned 19th-century circuit-riding preacher whose proclamation of the gospel transformed thousands of lives as he traveled on horseback to minister to those living among the Appalachian Mountains. 2 hours, 15 minutes. DVD

The Nativity Story chronicles the arduous journey of two people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, and the history-defining birth of Jesus. This dramatic and compelling story comes to life in a major motion picture starring Academy Award nominee Keisha Castle-Hughes as Mary, Oscar Isaac as Joseph, and Academy Award nominee Shohreh Aghdashloo as Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist.

The Nativity Story is directed by Catherine Hardwicke from a screenplay by Mike Rich and is scheduled for  a December 2006 release

Visit the official movie site for behind the scenes clips, photo galleries, free downloads and more.

www.thenativitystory.com

In the third installment of Janette Oke's popular Love Comes Softly series, Missie and Will LaHaye move westward and settle in Tettsford Junction. Willie rustles up misfit ranch hands to help him, while pregnant Missie befriend their Native American neighbors. Stepping out in faith, the young couple shares faraway dreams - and finds family in unlikely places. 88 minutes.

Get swept away by another heartwarming video featuring beloved characters from Janette Oke! Here, Clark and Marty continue the romance they began in Love Comes Softly. As they preside over their growing family, their prairie house begins to feel crowded - but never too full to welcome new friends and neighbors from the frontier! Directed by Michael Landon, Jr. 88 minutes.

Full of hope for the future, Marty and Aaron Claridge venture west in search of a new life. Suddenly tragedy strikes and Marty is left alone. When widower Clark Davis suggests a "marriage of convenience," Marty reluctantly says yes - and discovers new love growing where there was once only pain. Michael Landon, Jr., directs Janette Oke's heartwarming tale. 88 minutes.

After their treacherous journey west, Missie and her husband set up their homestead and begin raising a family. Now that the railroad connects the frontier states, Clark and Marty Davis can finally visit their daughter, Missie, and meet their adorable grandsons. But the joyful reunion is interrupted by tragedy. An unforgettable family drama, directed by Michael Landon, Jr. 85 minutes.

Ten-year old "preacher's kid" Opal is new in town - and lonely. When she asks God to help her make friends, a gigantic, shaggy stray dog is not what she has in mind. But from the moment Opal sees "Winn-Dixie,: she knows he's meant to be hers - and that wonderful adventures lie ahead! Based on the Newbery Honor-winning novel (PG) 109 minutes.

The neighborhood's newest resident is a humble miracle-working carpenter. As he quietly encourages townspeople to remove barriers that divide them, some - including church leaders - begin to fear him. Based on Joseph Girzone's best-selling novel and featuring an award-winning cast, this thought-provoking film asks, "What if Jesus visited small-town America today?" Includes behind-the-scene extras. Music b y Michael W. Smith. 90 minutes. Close-captioned

This movie is about a burned-out, depressed football coach whose life takes a miraculous turn for the better. This movie is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America. The MPAA said the movie contained strong 'thematic elements' that might disturb some parents. The MPAA initially explained "that the movie was heavily laden with messages from one religion and that this might offend people from other religions." Kris Fuhr of Provident Films said, "It is interesting that faith has joined that list of deadly sins [profanity, violence, and brief nudity] the MPAA board wants to warn parents to worry about." Later, the chairwoman of the rating board said the decision had nothing to do with Christianity but was based on football violence as well as the inclusion of mature topics such as depression and infertility. It is now being billed as an inspirational drama about a high school football coach who relies on faith to battle fear and failure. Co-written and co-produced by brothers Alex and Stephen Kendrick, associate pastors of media at Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Ga.

This major film, called End Of The Spear, premiered January 20. I believe God will use it in a big way. It depicts the effects of the grace of God in very powerful and spectacular ways.

The story begins in 1956, when five Christian missionaries (Jim Elliot was among them) gave their lives in an Ecuadorian jungle, attempting to bring the gospel to the Waodani stone-age people. At that time this group of pygmy-type people were the most violent tribe on Earth -- and yet they became the most loving and peaceful, as result of the Gospel.

The missionaries made friendly contact, but something went terribly wrong. The Waodani speared them to death. A tragedy? Yes, but God turns everything to good, for the blessing of many and for His glory, and this was no exception.

God used this tragedy to motivate more people to become missionaries than any other event in modern history -- perhaps ever. He also used two women to complete the work of the five martyred missionaries, bringing the Waodani to himself. so the deaths of those five men did more to advance the kingdom of God than their lives could.

God's ways are so great!

But the story doesn't end there. It seems God is about to use the tragedy that happened 50 years ago to help hundreds of thousands -- maybe millions --  to come to know Christ in our day, using The End Of The Spear. It is a major motion picture (production cost $12 million) that tells the story of God's grace from the perspective of the Waodoni. This is a movie I plan to see.

This film is based on the CS Lewis series, "The Chronicles of Narnia." Lewis authored the Narnia series during the 1950s. The entire series of books will eventually be made into movies. They have thrilled audiences, young and old, throughout the world. The Chronicles of Narnia; The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe tells of the adventures of four children who tumble through the door of a mysterious wardrobe, only to find themselves in Narnia - an enchanted world of talking beasts, fauns, dwarfs, giants, and other creatures. I took my family to see this film and was surprised at how excellently this film was produced. There are illusions of Christian themes throughout the movie. I recommend this film as a "family friendly" movie and one that the family will enjoy.

**A movie to be aware of**

The DaVinci Code

This past May a lot of hoop-la was made about a movie that has been directed by Ron Howard (a.k.a. Opie Taylor) and stars Tom Hanks. This movie promises to be a blockbuster. The problem: it is an outright attack on the "Deity of Jesus Christ. Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has a series of messages that answers the distortions that this movie and book produces.

Answering the DaVinci Code