War Room – Film Review

03 Sunday Jan 2016

Posted by boldkevin in Christian Film Review, Christian Movie Review, Film Review, Movie Review

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I think that you can easily be forgiven if – having seen the title of this film – you expected something entirely different than what you got when viewing this film.

Although I can’t help but wonder if the fact that I personally expected something entirely different isn’t some sort of wake up call to just how influenced by the ‘world’ I have become over the years.

To the point where my first thought – even though I knew this was a Christian film – was to expect a film about the application of faith amidst some panic stricken major threat set in some military silo or high-command somewhere. (Somewhere like that shown in this image – not taken from the film)

But in fact the ‘War Room’ in question – much like this film, is nothing as grand or as dramatic and any ‘explosions’ that are seen within this film tend to be of the domestic variety and certainly not military.

In truth I am not sure how to review or comment on this particular film/movie. That is to say that I am not sure if I should give it a good review or a less favourable one. And that in itself, I think, speaks into the very heart of this film.

It is an excellent subject – the fact that we are all – whether knowingly or not, whether willingly or not, whether deliberately or not – involved in spiritual warfare and the very clear message that we as Christians should be much more aware of this and much more prayerful about things. But I just can’t bring myself to conclude that this film has made that point in a powerful enough way, or in a way which relates enough.

Coming (as posters inform us) from the creators of Fireproof and Courageous

this film makes the clear and very true proclamation that

Prayer Is A Powerful Weapon.

And you’ll get no argument from me there. I am just not convinced that this film is very powerful in its presentation or storyline.

The acting in this film/movie is ok. Character portrayals are both good and believable. But, if I am honest, no one actor or actress (Hm. is actress still ‘pc’ a term I wonder) leaps out as being notable or delivering a superb performance. And in the same spirit of honesty I have to say that, for me personally, no one character leapt out as being notable either.

That is not to say that the story lines or sub plots weren’t relevant because they most certainly are.

Is this a film/movie worth watching? Yes I think it most certainly is. And I also – in the spirit of fairness – have to wonder if some of this film’s appeal was lessened as a result of cultural differences.

The issues of course cross cultures and are applicable for Christians the world over. How worldliness and the pressures of modern day living, how temptation and dishonesty and indeed greed can wreck relationships. And how prayer and indeed – personal and honest and open reflection of our ‘selves’ and our own walks measured against the word or God and our subsequently getting ourselves right with God before we seek to get those around us right with God also apply to us all.

So yes this film/movie does have clear and positive messages and yes this film/movie is – in the opinion of this writer – still worth watching.But is it engaging enough to make it memorable or something you will rush out to tell the rest of your church group about? I am just not convinced. And is it a film/movie which will engage and retain the attention of a youth group? Again, sadly, I am just not so sure.

But with all the above having been said, I still enjoyed the film and – in a world where so many Christian leaders within the public arena seem – again in the opinion of this writer – more interested in that public arena than anything else I wholeheartedly was blessed by the films central theme and I reminded of the following scripture.

And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. ⁶But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. (Matthew 5:5-6 NKJV)

Do I therefore recommend this film/movie to you? Yes, on reflection I think I still do – despite my observations above.

Title: War Room

Written By: Alex Kendrick, Stephen Kendrick

Directed By: Alex Kendrick,

Starring: Priscilla C. Shirer, T. C. Stallings, Karen Abercrombie

Genre: Christian, Drama

Runtime: 120 mins

Age Rating: PG

Violence: Next to None

Controversial Language: None

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: None

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 6/10 ††††††††††

Old Fashioned – Film Review

05 Thursday Nov 2015

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‘I have a Theory.’ Having a theory is a theme which runs throughout this movie. Generally being presented by one of the two main characters.

‘Clay’ excellently played by Rik Swartzwelder (also known for ‘The Least of These’) and who is also credited with both writing and directing this film and who – in his performance – presents his character ‘Clay’ as an engaging and appealing and a ‘reliable’ main character.

But back to my ‘theory’. I have, as I said, a theory. And that theory is that this film will speak right into the heart of many folk who see it and will challenge, if they allow it to, the way that many see romance and dating and indeed preparing for marriage.

Amber, his counter part and co-lead character, the recipient of most of ‘Clay’s’ theories and the focus of his affections is equally as engaging and appealing but (it has to be said) more of a free-spirit (shall we say?).

And Amber’s character is equally as well-played as a result of an excellent portrayal by Elizabeth Roberts (also known for Black Knight and World’s End) And indeed in many ways it is the differences between these two central characters – and the resultant chemistry between them – which goes a long way to making this film as enjoyable as it is.

In essence this movie is about courtship and romance with an ‘old-fashioned’ approach – hence the title and as the imdb describes it is…

A former frat boy and a free-spirited woman together attempt the impossible: an “old-fashioned” courtship in contemporary America.

And yet it is so much more. It is about honour and respect, about traditional solid Christian values being applied not in a stoic or hindering manner but in a very relevant and rewarding way within the modern day world.

But don’t miss the additional messages and back-stories within this beautiful film/movie. Messages about being a new person (a new creation) in Christ. About how the past seeks to destroy the future. About family and the core value of family and about finding true identity and confidence in Christ.

And look out for the wonderful performance of Dorothy Silver (also known for The Shawshank Redemption and Promised Land) who plays ‘Aunt Zella’.

And who (in her character role) brings encouragement, inspiration, challenge and accountability. Things which are, in the opinion of this writer, often far too sparse when it comes to relationships in today’s world.

To say that this film/movie had me sitting on the edge of my seat would actually be as far from the truth as you could get. But that is not to say that it didn’t retain my interest throughout.

Actually a truer picture and description would be that it is the kind of film which would have you and your partner snuggled up together in a blanket, sipping warm hot-chocolate drinks and buried into a big soft couch probably with your partner resting her head on your shoulder, as you watched it together.

And yes I known I am not known for being prone to such scenes of romantic behaviour and nor do I believe I have any desire to have another partner. But those facts should if anything tell you something about just how encouraging and engaging this film truly is. And actually (since I am being candid and open about this film) watching it has been one of the extremely few times when I have questioned whether I am meant not to have another partner.

In truth I liked this film. I liked the comparisons it brought concerning different worlds and different life choices. I enjoyed to storyline and was encouraged and yes challenged by some of the back stories and messages.

It is a film of beauty. Beauty of scenery (and very well presented through the cinematography) yes. Beauty of characters also yes (ad also check out the wonderfully natural performance of Lejon Woods among others). But more than that it is about beauty of a pure heart and a gentle spirit. It is about healing and forgiveness and it is about love, honour and respect.

Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. (Ephesians 5:1-2 NKJV)

I have therefore no problem whatsoever in recommending it to you.

Title: Old Fashioned

Written By: Rik Swartzelder

Directed By: Rik Swartzelder

Starring: Rik Swartzelder, Elizabeth Roberts, Lejon Woods, Dorothy Silver

Genre: Christian, Drama, Romance

Released: September 18th, 2014 (USA)

Runtime: 115 mins

Age Rating: PG-13 for some thematic material

Violence: Next to None

Controversial Language: None

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: Not shown, but referenced.

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 7/10 ††††††††††

Not Today – Film Review

03 Tuesday Nov 2015

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not-today-movie-poster-4 If there was one film cover which, were I asked today, “What one Christian film I would recommend for a youth group or young adults group to watch?” I would ask you to look out for, it would most definitely be this one.

It is from the film ‘Not Today’ which comes from the ‘Friends Media’ production company and which is, in the opinion of this reviewer both compelling and inspiring.

As usual I always do my best to steer clear of giving spoilers in my reviews so here is a direct quote from www.imdb.com concerning this film…

While on vacation with friends in Hyderabad, India, Caden Welles – a privileged young man with the world at his disposal – takes an unexpected turn in life after initially refusing to help a starving man and his daughter.

But I have to tell you that the film is so, so much more than the quote would give us to believe.

It is a story of fate and faith and of worth. Focusing on the fate mainly of this one child – Annika. Who, along with her father, is part of a group of people in India who are known as the ‘untouchables’ the ‘Dalits’ (which tragically and poignantly is pronounced very much like the ‘deletes’) and who – in the eyes of far too many – have lost or are devoid of all value or worth.

It looks at the way in which God speaks into and indeed through the life of what is basically a spoiled rich American kind – Caden Welles (played excellently by Cody Longo – also known for ‘The Silent Thief’) and how – through his experiences in India and having met Annika and her father – he not only finds God’s true worth in His life and the life of others but (and perhaps crucially for him) his worth in God’s eyes.

It is a story about slavery and human trafficking. One which – if you are looking for something which will challenge the very fabric of your comfort zone – will certainly shock and challenge you.

He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker,
But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.

(Proverbs 14:31 NKJV)

In terms of the actors and acting in this film, as I said Cody Longo puts in an excellent performance and apart perhaps from John Schneider – who plays Luke (Caden’s step-father) no great names leap out at you from the cast list. But don’t let that fool you into thinking that you won’t therefore see some excellent performances. Because certainly that isn’t the case.

What you won’t see, however, is any Hollywood glitz and glamour. Nor will you be treated to gratuitous levels of CGI. Actually any CGI would be hard to spot in this one. And there within – within the earthy simplicity and purity of this film’s cinematography – is the film’s beauty.

Written and directed by Jon Van Dyke (not tremendously known for films of this type, it has to be said) the film is excellent. But if you are going to watch it (and I strongly recommend that you do) go beyond the film’s ending and watch the credit and back-story presented at the end. It is well worth it.

Title: Not Today

Written By: Jon Van Dyke

Directed By: Jon Van Dyke

Starring: Cody Longo, Walid Amini, Jon Schneider, Cassie Scerbo

Genre: Drama, Christian

Released: April 12th, 2013 (USA)

Runtime: 103 mins

Age Rating: PG-13 For mature thematic material

Violence: Next to None

Controversial Language: None

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: Integral to plot.

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 8/10 ††††††††††

The Cokeville Miracle – Film Review

30 Friday Oct 2015

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cokeville I came across this film purely by accident. But I have to tell you that I am so glad and was so blessed to have done so.

Especially since it was only released on June 5th of this year.

It is a film which is based on true events and for those who, like me, – living in Ireland and not the USA – are not familiar with the story. Cokeville in Wyoming, USA is where – on May 16th 1986 former town Marshall David Young and his wife Doris took (I believe it was some) 136 children and 18 adults hostage within their elementary school.

And that much I can safely share with you because it is – for many Americans – a well known incident. And, as far as I can tell, one which gripped many people as the intense scenes played out at the time.

And this film – The Cokeville Miracles – plays out a recreation not only of those scenes but also some wonderful and – let’s be honest here – very inexplicable (especially if you are a person who struggles to believe in God and Christ) happenings.

The film itself is – and I choose my words very carefully here – ‘nothing sensational’. And there within lies much of it’s power and its witness. For unlike a lot of movies of this type it doesn’t seek to sensationalize either through it’s retelling, assumed artistic license or the cinematography used.

It is, quite simply, raw and honest. And I for one loved that about it, and credit is due to the production company ‘Remember Films’ and it’s writer (and director) T. C. Christensen (also known for his works on such films as; 17 miracles, Ephraim’s Rescue, and Forever Strong)

In watching this movie you will be presented with many questions I feel. Questions which challenge and which point you towards reflections on faith. There are within the film – just as there were at the time of the real life incident – accounts from the children involved concerning ‘angelic visitations’. And these are certainly hard to simply dismiss. Especially if you are a Christian.

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.

The words in the above quote come from the book of Hebrews – Chapter 13 and verse 2. They are taken from the New King James Version and as a bible-believing Christian I cannot therefore deny the existence of angels. Do I fully understand their purpose or indeed their often reported presence among us? No of course not. But I am so very grateful for them and so very careful that my gratitude is directed to the right person, to God through Christ. After all, isn’t it important that we are correct in our beliefs and our approaches?

And so here I feel I should, as a Christian, make something very clear about this film…

Having watched and been thoroughly intrigued by this film, and having decided to review it here on this site. I began to research it more fully. I like to do that when writing a review and think it only right and proper to do so. It was only during that research that I learned of the connection this film seems to have with the ‘Latter Day Saints.’ And I could not in all good conscience write this review without pointing that out or without making it perfectly clear that I personally have nothing to do with that particular organisation or sect.

The above having been said, it does also therefore call into question – for many, I am sure – whether this is actually a Christian film and thus whether it should be reviewed here. And I have to admit I am still not settled on this issue myself. But interestingly there appeared to be little to no reference to the Latter Day Saints within the actual movie itself. And, as I said, the movie is powerful and raw and honest in its production and witness. And the cast – including many of the children put in excellent portrayals.

Title: The Cokeville Miracle

Written By: T.C. Christensen

Directed By: T.C. Christensen

Starring: Nathan Stevens, Jason Wade, Caitlin E. J. Meyer,

Genre: Drama, Family, Faith-based, History

Released: June 5th, 2015

Runtime: 94 mins

Age Rating: PG-13

Violence: Next to None

Controversial Language: None

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: Integral to plot.

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 7/10 ††††††††††

Heaven Is For Real – Film Review

03 Saturday Oct 2015

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Yesterday afternoon I sat and watched a film which I had decided (a few months ago) that I probably wouldn’t watch at all. The fact is that it is – without doubt – a controversial film and one which – if the conversations I have had previously about the film are anything to go by – divides opinion within Christian circles. It is a film based on a ‘true story’ and the book (of the same name but with the tagline “A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back£) by Pastor Todd Burpo.

And perhaps – in the interest of objectivity and honesty – it is worth my explaining that my awareness of this film came at a time when I was personally witnessing a large number of folk sharing weird and convoluted (and sadly all too often scripturally unsound) theories and indeed leaving churches and corporate worship for the much less structured (dare I say much less disciplined) private worship at home.

Something which both saddens me deeply as a result of my understanding of scriptural encouragements and indeed God’s will for us as believers and disciples of Christ. And so I found myself experiencing a reluctance to even consider watching this film.

But then, (and this seems as good a place as any to insert a quote from the film),

What we believe changes what we perceive.

As usual I am going to try to avoid the trap of giving out spoilers and so I will say very little about the film’s actual content in this review. It is – in the most simplistic of terms – a film about a small boy who has a near death experience and visits heaven and then returns. Plus, of course the fall out of such a revelation.

Instead of discussing the films specific content, I will try to focus on general topics, questions and thoughts raised by this film. And certainly the whole question of a 4 year old boy actually seeing heaven and then returning (Hm. Did he actually ever leave the earth? A debate which will be well oiled I am sure before conversations about this film are over) to earth poses difficulties for many.

Which is one area where the truth of the quote above actually stands out, isn’t it?

Visiting heaven and returning is something which for many is reserved for the ‘special’ the most holy perhaps. And indeed within the parameters of some folk’s understanding and thus their faith the idea that a ‘normal’ (whatever that is) young lad actually going there and coming back poses great difficulties.

And actually, in all honesty, I still don’t know exactly where I stand on that question. Which is probably more of a comment and reflection on where I am in my own faith and walk than it is about this film.

What I can tell you is that whilst the whole subject is a veritable minefield when it comes to the cheesy and twee. And whilst the temptation to flood the thing with wonderful CGI effects must have been great. This film actually manages to get through it without doing so. Although (and again this could well be a reflection on me) it did in one or two places come very close.

But thankfully it managed, as I said, to avoid this temptation or those mines.

And let’s be honest. Some folk seem to have a leaning towards the cheesy and the twee when it comes to this kind of thing. As this image (found when I Googled heaven is for real) illustrates.

Which, unless Jesus has started to endorse Andrew toilet tissue (you really need to have seen European Andrex Toilet tissue adverts to fully understand this comment) makes no sense whatsoever.

The film instead handles the subject extremely delicately and with as little glorious (Hm. perhaps that is the wrong expression) CGI effects and sensationalism as possible. And in doing so certainly adds – or at least doesn’t take away any – credibility.

Greg Kinnear (who plays Pastor Todd Burpo) puts in an excellent performance and is mainly very ably assisted by his on screen son Colton Burpo (wonderfully played by young Conor Corum) and his on screen wife Sonja Burpo (played by Kelly Reilly.)

And I feel I should also mention the wonderful performance by Margo Martindale (also known for such things as Million Dollar Baby, Lonesome Dove [TV] and August: Osage County). In this film she played a church official who was – as a result of her own situation – so very quick to suggest dropping Pastor Todd when things got a little uncomfortable. Oh how true to life and human nature that sadly is. And look out for Thomas Haden Church’s performance in this film – which is also well worthy of a mention.

In essence this is a film which is engaging in both it’s subject matter and it’s presentation. It is, in the opinion of this reviewer, beautifully filmed and delicately handled.

Does it contain a clear message? Yes it does and actually it presents many a believer with questions and even challenges which they may not be too keen to consider. But then, as the quote I started with above “what we believe changes what we believe” suggests, that really depends on each individual believer.

And as pastor Todd Burpo asks and even suggests in the asking within the film…

If heaven is for real, wouldn’t we all live different lives?

I enjoyed the film and yes I would recommend it. But only after admitting that this is now the day after I watched the film and the questions it raised in my heart and my head are still very much pressing for prayerful consideration. And so I close this review with a passage of scripture in the form of Colossians 3:1-4 NKJV…

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. ²Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. ³For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ⁴When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory

Title: Heaven Is For Real

Written By: Randall Wallace, Chris Parker, Todd Burpo and Lynn Vincent.

Directed By: Randall Wallace

Starring: Greg Kinnear, Kelly Reilly, Thomas Haden Church, Conor Corum, Margo Martindale.

Genre: Drama, Christian

Released: May 30th, 2014 (UK)

Runtime: 99 mins

Age Rating: PG

Violence: Next to None

Controversial Language: None

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: None

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 7/10 ††††††††††

Flywheel – Film Review

29 Tuesday Sep 2015

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Coming out of ‘Sherwood Pictures‘ (a fully fledged independent production company which is a ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church, in Albany, Georgia, USA) and their first big venture this film is – in many ways – the forerunner of such Christian films as ‘Fireproof’, ‘Facing The Giants’ and ‘Courageous’, and as the forerunner it certainly does show it’s infancy in comparison. But that should not put you off watching this film.

Due to this being a review on the film itself and not a commentary on the wonderful initiative of Christian Churches actually being behind the making of Christian films, I am going to limit myself from rattling on about this new initiative. But I do think it is worth mentioning what a blessing it is.

In the most simplistic of terms this movie is about a dishonest car salesman – Jake Austin (played by Roger Breland) who so intensely wants and needs to sells cars but who then turns his life (and his sales ethics) over to Christ. And as such the film focuses on the changes in his life and also to his favourite car.

However there is (as I am sure you were hoping) more to the story than that. Jake is not only a salesman he is also the owner of the car lot (used car sales business) and thus his dishonest practices are also the practices of his staff. And so changes to his life and integrity obviously threatens theirs. And so we see how God changing the life of one person can filter out and influence the lives of many others.

Normally in my reviews I comment on and try to acknowledge wonderful performances and acting as well as making mention of any well known actors or actresses within the films that I review. But in truth this film offers we the viewers no well-known actors and next to no – in my opinion – wonderful performances. Although most performances are – it should be said – perfectly acceptable and believable.

To be honest I found the acting in this film (and yes I openly acknowledge that it is a church-based project completed on a small [I think around $20,000] budget) to be somewhat flat and uninspiring. And actually I found the film to be equally as flat and uninspiring, outside of the fact that finally Christians are fully involved in the making of Christian film making.

That is not to say that the film isn’t worth watching. It certainly is and yes it has a good and healthy message.

I don’t know. Perhaps I – like many (I believe) of our young people – have become socially conditioned by the media to expect – and almost even demand – the sensational? I am certainly open to that possibility. And certainly I am (and have long since been) of the opinion that this social conditioning of expecting the sensational has done so much damage to us when it comes to our also expecting to and actually recognising and seeing Christ at work in the small and simple as well as the big and dramatic.

And whilst this film was released some twelve years back and the initiative no longer new or in its infancy I still don’t want to be discouraging about it in any way. It is an OK film with an acceptable level of acting from unknown actors – many of whom I suspect were not even actors before this venture – and as such does a good job. And I really do want to compliment those who had no acting experiences or even ambitions but who committed to this film and venture.

Is the film worth watching? Yes absolutely it is. Is the story interesting – even captivating? Interesting yes, captivating no. Sorry but actually I suspect the real-life story of Sherwood Pictures and ‘the Kendrick Brothers’ is more captivating than this movie.

Is it inspiring? Well, actually I suspect this is more down to we the viewers and our expectations than it is down to the film-makers.

“I love those who love me,
And those who seek me diligently will find me.”

(Proverbs 8:17 NKJV)

Title: Flywheel

Written By: Alex Kendrick, Stephen Kendrick

Directed By: Alex Kendrick

Starring: Rosetta Harris Armstrong, Lisa Arnold, Blake Bailey,

Genre: Drama, Christian

Released: April 09th, 2003 (USA)

Runtime: 120 mins

Age Rating: PG

Violence: None

Controversial Language: None

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: None

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 5/10 ††††††††††

The Second Chance – Film Review

28 Monday Sep 2015

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I have this afternoon decided, that in all of my reviews from now on (and who knows I might even go back and amend the ones that I have already done) I am going to include a relevant passage of scripture.

After all, this is a Christian site reviewing Christian and faith-based films/movies and with an attitude of faith. So for this review the passage of scripture which instantly come to mind to this reviewer (you may very well have your own) is that of Joshua 24:15 and specifically the last line.

But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. (NKJV)

This film is all about faith, and indeed all about serving the Lord. And I have to tell you that I thoroughly enjoyed watching it and very much appreciated it’s central message.

It stars – along with several others – the Christian singer/songwriter Michael J Smith who plays the role of Associate Pastor Ethan Jenkins. a man who grew up in his father’s ministry but who – as is often the way – sees things a little differently to the old man.

But actually it isn’t his seeing things differently to his father that forms the main storyline of this film. This is where Pastor Jake Sanders – excellently played by Jeff Obafemi Carr (who then went on to have roles in Pure Country 2 – The Gift, Blue Like Jazz and The Secret Handshake) comes in. For as wealthy and comfortable as the “rock star status” Pastor Ethan Jenkins (Michael W Smith) – or ‘Gucci’i as Pastor Jake calls him – may be, Pastor Jake (Jeff Obafemi Carr) is not.

Along the way, in this film we are introduced and invited to connect and empathise with several other characters and we learn their stories and see God working in their lives. It is, it has to be said, a story of comparisons. Material wealth verses material poverty and yes also spiritual wealth verses spiritual bondage often through material wealth.

And whilst that may already be ringing an ‘oh no aren’t there already enough story-lines about that’ bell in your mind, please don’t let this put you off watching this film as it really does present it’s message – and indeed it’s challenges – in an interesting and slightly different way.

As usual (having spoilers in mind), I am reluctant to say very much more about this film. Does it contain violent scenes? Yes but not that these are at all graphic by nature and actually they are extremely delicately handled. Having more suggestion than presence and then only enough to support the storyline.

Is it possible – even very likely – that some of the actions of both of the central pastors could be questionable to some? Yes absolutely (hey, they are even questionable to each other) but does that negate either the authenticity of their roles or their calling (within the context of the film)? No I don’t believe that it does.

Did Michael W Smith’s acting make me sit up and go, “Wow, there is a man who has missed his calling”? Lol not it did not. But neither, it has to be said, did it make me go, “Wow, there’s a man who should have stuck to his first calling.” Which is a blessing in itself – trust me.

Actually whilst all of the acting was – in the opinion of this reviewer – perfectly acceptable and plausible within their roles, no one actor or character really leapt of the screen at me. And again, in many ways, that is a good thing as from these humble messengers the film’s message lost no emphasis.

Again, I make allowances for the fact that this film was released some 9 years ago now (at the time of my writing this review) and again that means that budgets, access to equipment and resources – due to this being a Christian film – would have been more limited.

As a related sidebar, I have to say that it truly saddens me how in terms of Christian films and indeed Christian music the quality of production has always seemed to lag several years behind secular stuff.

I enjoyed this film. I appreciated this film. And yes I was challenged by this film. Although, in many ways, I think it’s challenge is as relevant to; church committees, leadership teams and boards as it is to the individual Christian.

And before closing I think I should mention that if you are keen on Michael W. Smith’s music and are thinking of watching this movie because of his music, you should be aware that actually it is extremely limited in this film. That is not the purpose of it.

Would I recommend this film to you if you came to me and asked me to recommend a good Christian movie? Yes I would, but I have to be honest here, there are several others that I would be more likely to recommend first.

Title: The Second Chance

Written By: Chip Arnold, Henry O. Arnold, Ben Pearson, Steven Taylor

Directed By: Steve Taylor

Starring: Michael W. Smith, Jeff Obafemi Carr, J. Don Ferguson

Genre: Drama, Christian

Released: February 17th, 2006 (USA)

Runtime: 102 mins

Age Rating: PG-13

Violence: Limited

Controversial Language: Limited

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: Limited (more suggested than actual)

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 6/10 Highly Recommended. ††††††††††

The Last Sin Eater – Film Review

28 Monday Sep 2015

Posted by boldkevin in Christian Film Review, Christian Movie Review, Film Review, Movie Review

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Based on a best selling novel by Francine Rivers, the 1850’s in the Appalachian mountains is the setting for this film which focuses on Welsh immigrants and one of the customs/traditions which they brought with them. A tradition which not only bound a whole community but also (along with another major tragedy) young 10 year old ‘Cadi Forbes.’ (Excellently played by Liana Liberato – also known for ‘If I Stay’)

This is a story about guilt and (thankfully) the freedom through Christ from guilt which binds so deeply. And actually wasn’t a bad film at all.

To be honest, throughout this film I mainly found myself either a) being placed in mind of the TV series ‘Little House on The Prairie’ – not least of all because the principal character or Cadi Forbes really reminded me of either Laura or Mary Ingalls [I am not sure which]) or b) trying to work out what was going on with the accents.

But that’s not to say that I didn’t enjoy or appreciate the film. Because I really did. And neither is it to say that I was so distracted that I missed the film’s main messages. Which, in the opinion of this writer (and again I don’t wish to offer any spoilers by going into these too deeply), are freedom from guilt through Christ and also how old traditions and ways – which whilst being practised to offer freedom – may actually be part of he very thing which binds us.

The scenery in this film is stunning and the cinematography in of a good standard if not a little dated in its techniques and thus it’s presentation. (The scene in the image above being and excellent example of this, where it’s drama was – at least for this reviewer – somewhat reduced by obvious camera techniques.)

But then, perhaps I am being a little harsh and so – in the interest of fairness – I should perhaps remember (and thus point out) that this film was released in 2007 and in terms of Christian films, this was long before such things as; budgets, professionalism and access to equipment and resources for the making of Christian films were brought any where near op to par for the making of secular films. And certainly this comment/observation is not intended to take anything away from the work of the excellent director Michael Landon Jr. on this piece.

In truth I am of the opinion that it might be difficult for some younger viewers to connect with this film and to be excited or even challenged by it. But then this is probably more of a social observation on these times and I am not young myself and perhaps shouldn’t make such judgement calls. Plus, the fact that I am of a certain age and of European culture might well be influencing my perspective here. And certainly if you have a differing opinion of the film I would love to hear from you about your perspective of it.

Does it serve a purpose? Yes absolutely I believe it does. Is the message it carries important? Yes, here again, I would have to say yes. And actually it’s core message is as relevant, in my opinion, to a youngster in downtown New Orleans as it is to this 50 some year old Englishman living in a quaint little town in Ireland. The only question is that of being willing to hear via this film.

Sometimes, it is difficult to understand where traditions and beliefs come from or even why they are followed or practised for so long. And I think that viewing them and considering them in the culture and time of when they were practised certainly does help with our understanding. But I also firmly believe that actually we too could easily have grown up with, or adopted, or bought into practises and traditions which are either unfounded, untrue or unhealthy.

Would I recommend this film to you? Yes I would, having now made the comments and observations above clear.

Title: The Last Sin Eater

Written By: Brian Bird, Michael Landon Jr., (Francine Rivers)

Directed By: Michael Landon Jr.

Starring: Louise Fletcher, Henry Thomas, Liana Liberato.

Genre: Drama, Christian

Released: February 09th, 2007 (USA)

Runtime: 117 mins

Age Rating: PG-13

Violence: Limited but does include some child abuse

Controversial Language: Limited

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: Limited but does include some child abuse

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 7/10 Highly Recommended. ††††††††††

End of the Spear – Film Review

26 Saturday Sep 2015

Posted by boldkevin in Christian Film Review, Christian Movie Review, Film Review, Movie Review

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Some people say we live in a world of irreconcilable differences. Others say that true peace, lasting peace, cannot be obtained be obtained because we haven’t found a way to change the human heart.

Is a quote from the beginning of the movie and yet it is so much more than that isn’t it? Is it not the very essence of coming to Christ – the changing of the heart?

I came upon this film without any intention of doing so and thus with no preconceived expectations or ideas of what I was to be experiencing. But if I had of done – started viewing this film with a preconceived idea – perhaps of a gentle loving story with a clear healthy, maybe even an inspiring, message – then the opening scenes of men, women and children and even infants from the ‘Waodani tribe’ being slaughtered – certainly would have set me right.

And I feel that I really do need to make the presence of that content clear, right from the start of this review. This film is written ‘from a true story‘ and as such has not left anything to the imagination concerning some of the more graphic and violent details. But then it should be remembers that the film is not dealing with modern-day mid-town Wexford or even down-town New York. It is instead set (mainly) in and around 1956 and dealing with an tribe (the ‘Waodani tribe) indigenous to the jungles of Ecuador.

It is a story of two worlds, two ways of life, perhaps even two different times meeting and a story of how a group of missionaries sought to spread the word to those not of their faith or even of their world, culture or understanding.

And I have to tell you that it is, in the opinion of this reviewer, an excellent film with wonderful cinematography and a very sensitive, yet brave and honest storyline.

As usual I am doing my best to adhere to my policy of not delivering any spoilers and as a result of this there is very little that I really want to say about the details of this film. Primarily because I truly do feel that a great deal of this films beauty and value is in the first-hand and untainted experiencing of it, rather than from seeing it with a view to checking out someone else’s – especially mine – opinion.

In terms of character portrayal I have but two comments to make here…

Firstly, so that the film remained authentic to it’s setting and cultural content there is of course some nudity. Bare butts and breasts are all part of this. So if you are of a delicate or even prudish nature when it comes to this kind of thing please be warned. But I emphasise that this is not gratuitous in anyway, is – in my opinion – respectfully handled and essential for the film’s authenticity.

Secondly, amongst all of the excellent and seemingly natural character portrayals the acting of Chase Ellison (featured in the picture above) in his character portrayal of the young Steven Saint, is extremely good. And his character – the pain and suffering and yet also the forgiveness – really is such an essential part of this film and story.

This is not a film with a myriad of sub-plots going on in order to keep you engaged or to offer something for a number of different demographics. It is pure and uncomplicated and invites the thoughtful viewer to reflect upon and unwrap some essential and important question. Such as ones invited by the statement in the image above (and which I repeated as a quote below) and spoken by a compassionate father to a loving and fearful son.

Son, we can’t shoot the Waodani. They’re not ready for heaven… we are.

For those interested, the story behind this film is well-worth researching and is truly inspirational. I recommend this film to you. It is pure, it is real, it is untarnished and bold. It is as inspiring in its purity as it is disturbing in the portrayal of some of the events which took place.

Title: End of The Spear

Written By: Bill Ewing, Bart Gavigan, Jim Hanon.

Directed By: Jim Hanon

Starring: Louie Leonardo, Chad Allen, Jack Guzman

Genre: Adventure, Drama, Christian

Released: January 20th, 2006 (USA)

Runtime: 108 mins

Age Rating/Certificate: 12/PG-13

Violence: Yes

Controversial Language: None

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: Yes – see review above

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: Yes – see review above

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 8/10 Highly Recommended. ††††††††††

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When The Game Stands Tall – Film Review

25 Friday Sep 2015

Posted by boldkevin in Christian Film Review, Christian Movie Review, Film Review, Movie Review

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‘It’s not about the game, its about the team’ is one of the final statements of this film and indeed one of it’s core messages. And in this day and age where individualism is encouraged and heralded, and where ‘dog eat dog’ appears to be rewarded and admired that is not a bad central message to have.

Coming from ‘Affirm Films‘ (also known for ‘To Save A Live’, ‘Soul Surfer’, the soon to be released ‘War Room’ and another new film, ‘Risen’ due for release Jan 2016) and working with ‘Mandalay Pictures’ this is an excellent film. Especially if you are into American Football at any level – although this film focuses on it at college level.

And it is there where I find myself asking the question, “Does this film have the same appeal, indeed does it have the same impact, for those of us who are not so familiar with or clued up on or even keen on American Football?” And let’s be honest here, for some, this writer included, there are concerns about the punishment that this ‘sport’ does to the body.

And this film, I think, recognises and unashamedly acknowledges and indeed in some ways highlights the physical demand that the sport makes on its players. As this quote from one of the coaches in the film demonstrates…

Why don’t you tackle him? This is a contact sport. You can hit someone; it’s encouraged even!

Which leads neatly, I think to another question about this sport and that is the question of the way that for many this sport (along with others) has become to many almost a religion. And attached to that the way that many elevate and adore – almost to the point of hero worship – some of the stars.

I liked this film. I enjoyed it. And as a Christian I appreciated the questions the film presents in respect of this sport, life, fame, and way these sportsmen (and in this context very young men) are seen, and treated even by their own families.

And I have to tell you, having in my former years been involved with youth football (that would be the English kind of football) I have seen first hand the extreme expectations some parents can place on their children – often trying to live or achieve some sense of achievement vicariously through them.

This film’s official marketing trailer makes statements like “It’s not about winning, It’s all about.

“growing up” – and in many ways this film is a ‘right of passage’ movie.

“forgiveness” – and yes certainly that is true.

“commitment” – and again I would agree with that.

“Brotherhood” – and certainly that shines through.

“Standing tall” – and yes that is clearly demonstrated within this film.

But the question I think that we have to ask ourselves, certainly in respect of our young people of faith in our; families, youth groups, churches, is are we teaching, are we encouraging, are we expecting, are we inspiring all of these?

Because I have often thought that if we could inspire about their faith, the same passion, the same hope, the same expectation, the same devotion and commitment that many have towards their sport, their growth and indeed the growth of the church would be so much stronger.

And that if anything is one of the major concerns I have about this film. So much of it focusses on the sport and on the team and so little – although certainly it does bring it back to this – on the purpose and central belief. A central belief, it has to be said, which is very evident in the coach – Bob Ladoucier (excellently played by Jim Caviezel – also known for his portrayal of Jesus in ‘The Passion of The Christ’) and the ethos of his program at De La Salle High School. (Did I mention that this film is based on true events?)

People always ask me what it is like to never lose. Today I am lost.

Is a statement made by coach Ladoucier in this film at a particularly tough time in his and the team’s history. And it nods to the historic 151 game winning streak that the team was having. It also links to the challenges, conflicts, obstacles and even defeats that the team members (and the coach) are facing in their personal lives. Things which ask the question (of them and of us as the Christian viewer) how will you respond? And asks the question – when things do go wrong …

How do you find your way back?

The acting in this film is excellent. The characters (and the portrayal of them) plausible, believable, easy to relate to and empathise with. And despite the fact that as a European with limited knowledge of the game of American Football I was unable to fully immerse myself in the game and all the hype that goes with it – both in real life and within this film, I would recommend it as a good watch.

The sub-plots and back stories are both very interesting and very informative as well as also being – with the right mindset – very challenging. And there is more than enough, in the opinion of this reviewer, to keep those of us who are both uninformed and fairly neutral about American Football attentive and engaged.

Title: When The Game Stands Tall

Written By: Scott Marshall Smith, David Zelon, Neil Hayes

Directed By: Thomas Carter

Starring: Jim Caviezel, Alexandra Ludwig, Michael Chiklis, Laura Dern

Genre: Drama, Sport, Christian

Released: November 21st 2014 (UK)

Runtime: 115 mins

Certificate: PG

Violence: Some

Nudity and/or Sexual Content: None

Controversial Language: Little

Potentially Disturbing Scenes: Some.

For Faith and Ful-film-ent Rating: 7/10 Recommended. ††††††††††