Movies/Films/TV
Best Christmas Pageant Ever movie: Humor with meaning. “The Herdmans were the worst kids in the history of the world,” declares Barbara Robinson’s classic seasonal novel, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Now, a new movie brings the Herdman children’s mischievous shenanigans to the big screen … and along the way, glimpses of touching warmth. (Short op-ed; published by Washington Examiner)
Average Joe movie: Supreme Court, praying football coach backstory. When Coach Joe Kennedy knelt to pray at the 50-yard line after a high school football game, he had no idea of the seismic legal transformation he was triggering. A new film explores his backstory and the U.S. Supreme Court decision his actions prompted. He’s an unlikely protagonist for such a momentous development. (Short op-ed; published by Washington Examiner)
Reagan movie: 40th U.S. president’s roots, relationships, revolution. Hailed by many as a history-altering savior responsible for communism’s decline. Scorned by others as a clueless, intellectually unsophisticated actor out of touch with both common folks and the real world. Ronald Reagan made a lasting global impact. A new film explores the roots of his confidence, the relationships that nurtured it, and the revolution he inspired. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
Sony’s The Forge movie: absent father, resentment, respect. Ever experience family conflict? Wish your dad had been more involved in your life? Longing for love and respect for yourself, or for your children? Is resentment churning in your gut? You’ll likely connect with key characters in Sony’s The Forge movie. (Short op-ed)
Baxters TV series: deeply touching emotional dilemmas. Ever fear rejection in romance? Concerned about family members you love experiencing troubled relationships? Been tempted to stray? Wondering whether or how faith and God fit into life’s complicated messes? If so, you’ll probably connect right away with Prime Video’s new deeply moving TV series, The Baxters. (Short op-ed)
Freud’s Last Session movie: Freud and C.S. Lewis square off. Harvard psychiatrist Armand Nicholi taught a popular course on “The Question of God,” examining Sigmund Freud’s atheism and C.S. Lewis’ faith. Now a related Sony theatrical film imagines that the two met in London shortly before Freud’s death. The result is a fascinating historical drama probing their intellectual, emotional, psychological, and spiritual development. Anthony Hopkins is masterful as Freud. Matthew Goode plays Lewis. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version.
Surprised by Oxford movie: Remedying broken relationships. Ever feel awkward opening yourself emotionally in a relationship? Got any family issues that make trusting others difficult? Does that affect your social life, job, or home life? Do you ever use work, studies, or accomplishments to bolster your self-image when, inside, you’re hiding from others? Perhaps you’ll resonate with this film’s protagonist. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version.
‘Big George Foreman’ movie: Fame, tragedy, triumph, second chances. George Foreman’s storied career has many facets: Olympic gold medalist, twice World Heavyweight Boxing champion, TV grill pitchman, philanthropist. But a near-death experience forever altered his life’s trajectory. Sony’s new biopic conveys his tragedies and triumphs, with inspiration for anyone who ever needed a second chance. (Short op-ed)
On a Wing and a Prayer movie: deadly danger; divine drama? Ever faced mortal danger? Imagine that you, your family, and a pilot have boarded a small private plane for a flight home from Florida to Louisiana. Ten minutes after takeoff, the pilot dies, leaving you – a passenger – to fly the plane. How would you feel? What would you do? MGM’s On a Wing and a Prayer depicts the dramatic dilemmas that Doug White and his family faced on Easter Sunday, 2009. (Short op-ed)
Women Talking movie: sex, religion, #MeToo. In the Oscar-winning film Women Talking, mysterious sexual assaults are plaguing a secluded religious community. Women and girls awaken drowsy, bruised, bleeding – some pregnant – as men drug them with cow tranquilizer and rape them at night. While the men are gone, the women debate whether to do nothing, stay and fight, or leave. (Short op-ed)
Jesus Revolution movie: ’60s turmoil, radical responses. “Is God Dead?” a 1966 Time magazine cover asked. A 1971 Time cover heralded “The Jesus Revolution.” What caused this cultural shift in the radical 1960s that still impacts us today? Kelsey Grammer (Frasier) stars in a new film that tells part of the story: how a hippie, a drugged-out teenager and a straight-laced California pastor linked up to bring hope to millions. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
I Wanna Dance movie: Whitney Houston’s success and struggles. Singer Whitney Houston was a global superstar with a complicated life. Adored by millions, mocked by some fellow Blacks, this New Jersey church girl struggled with drug and alcohol abuse as she sought to navigate a stratospheric career and tumultuous personal life. I Wanna Dance with Somebody presents revealing glimpses into her emotional and professional journeys. (Short op-ed)
Johnny Cash movie: His life, loves, challenges and successes. International superstar; honored by presidents; a jailbird and addict. Singer Johnny Cash knew great highs and great lows. What was The Man in Black’s legacy? (Short op-ed)
‘Till’ movie: Racial murder helped spark civil rights movement. White racists brutally murdered young Emmett Till in 1955 Mississippi. His death, and his mother Mamie’s reaction to it, helped spark the civil rights movement. MGM’s Till tells their compelling story. What gave this grieving mother strength to pursue social change? (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘Nothing is Impossible’ movie: Hoops, romance, second chances. Feeling battered by life’s challenges? Do circumstantial hurricanes keep hitting you in the face? Could your love life, work, or family relationships use a tune-up? Maybe a rescue or do-over? Chances are you’ll relate to the characters in Nothing is Impossible, a fun and inspiring sports and family drama. (Short op-ed)
‘Elvis’ movie: All Shook Up meets Heartbreak Hotel. Elvis lives. At least in the hearts of his fans, and they are everywhere. Warner Bros.’ new Elvis movie extends the legacy. Why does the raven-haired, swivel-hipped crooner still fascinate millions nearly 45 years after his death? (Short op-ed)
‘The Mulligan’ movie: Need a second chance? Ever wish life granted second chances? What would you do with them? The Mulligan movie uses the game of golf to get you to ponder possibilities. (Short op-ed)
‘The Chosen’ Jesus TV series: Why so popular? So, why would an online television series about Jesus be breaking popularity records? It has no big-name stars or producers. The stories are ancient. Are viewers looking for hope amid pandemic uncertainty? Are they bored with working from home and turning to diversions their bosses cannot monitor? What did TMZ think? (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘American Underdog’ movie: From supermarket stocker to Super Bowl MVP. Do life’s challenges ever get you discouraged? NFL Hall-of-Famer Kurt Warner’s wild journey from castoff to superstar could inspire you to keep pursuing your dreams. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’ movie: Televangelist sex, drugs, and holy rollin’. The 1980s PTL televangelist scandal became a global soap opera, complete with corporate intrigue, Jesus-praisin’ power struggles, big bucks, betrayal, sex, tears, and mascara…plenty of mascara. The Eyes of Tammy Faye interprets Jim and Tammy Bakker’s saga for new generations, providing valuable life-lesson reminders. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘Show Me the Father’ movie: You and your father. How do you think of your father? With love, happiness and respect? With fear, misery and anger? Your relationship with your dad can influence your self-image and success. Show Me the Father uses gripping stories of good parenting and bad to motivate viewers to promote healthy fatherhood. (Short op-ed)
‘Respect’ movie: Aretha’s success, struggles, secrets, soul. Entertainment superstar Aretha Franklin was an industry icon and international treasure. Beloved by millions, honored by presidents, she also struggled with personal and family turmoil. The Queen of Soul handpicked Oscar® winner Jennifer Hudson to play her in this long-awaited MGM biopic. All Aretha was askin’ for was a little respect. Does this movie bring it? (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘The Streets Were My Father’ movie: Who’s your daddy? Could you forgive someone who murdered your family member? Or was an MIA parent? Absent, neglectful or abusive fathers can leave lifetime scars. The Streets Were My Father depicts three sons who experienced it all, and have turned their corners in dramatic, inspiring ways. (Short op-ed)
‘A Father’s Legacy’ movie: What was your dad like? Did you ever want to feel valued by someone special? Or mourn losing a loved one? Ever wish you could undo past decisions or take back hurtful words? Maybe you know the right thing to do, but lack courage to do it. The complex characters in A Father’s Legacy may resonate with you. (Short op-ed)
‘Blue Miracle‘ movie: castoff kids, fractured families, fishing, and hope. Does your life sometimes seem stormy? Financial woes mounting? Trouble at home or work? Got family conflicts? Need some hope? Maybe what worked for these Mexican orphans and their caretaker is worth trying. Go fishin’. And pray. (Short op-ed)
‘Walking with Herb’ movie: Fun sports drama, inspiring second chances. Need a fun, refreshing break from COVID-world? How about some laughs, mixed with high-level sports drama plus some inspiring second-chance stories woven in for good measure? Veteran actor Edward James Olmos and comic George Lopez will make you chuckle as you ponder in Walking with Herb. (Short op-ed)
Mark Burnett’s ‘Resurrection‘ movie: compelling drama; inspiring story. Mark Burnett and Roma Downey – Hollywood’s Bible Power Couple – are back with a flourish. Their dramatic film about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, debuting March 27 on Discovery+, captures the personal angst and adventure of those tumultuous days. (Short op-ed)
‘A Week Away’ movie: Facing fears, feelings, fun, faith and friendships. As a teen, did you struggle to find your place in a complicated world? Could you ever be “good enough” or express your true feelings to one whose smile you desired? Has a personal tragedy made you question divine existence or goodness or power? Do those feelings still linger? If so, A Week Away could help you sort them out. (Short op-ed)
‘Wonder Woman 1984’ movie: Will you get what you want? Suppose you could have anything you ever wanted – fame, fortune, relationships, pleasure. Would that make you happy? A megalomaniacal global villain is tapping human desires to help him dominate civilization. In 1984, Wonder Woman races to foil his dastardly scheme. (Short op-ed) Washington Examiner version
‘When We Last Spoke’ movie: Kids’ dreams, family secrets, forgiveness. Did you have fun as a kid with your siblings? Argue with them as adults? Were your parents imperfect or absent? Did your grandparents dote on you? Got any family secrets? Do any childhood wounds still need healing? If any of this is true about you, you may feel right at home watching When We Last Spoke. (Short op-ed)
I Still Believe movie: True love, rough roads. In the mood for a touching love story? One with romance, challenges, and hope abounding? Popular singer Jeremy Camp’s story could be just what you’re looking for. You may laugh…and cry, too. (Short op-ed)
1917 movie: Risking all to save a life. What risks would you take to save a life? What risks would you want someone else to take to save your life? This highly acclaimed, Oscar®-winning World War 1 drama vividly portrays the emotions, commitment and struggles facing one who chooses to value another’s life as greater than his/her own. (Short op-ed)
Mr. Rogers movie: Want him as your neighbor? Ever feel lonely? Underappreciated? Frightened? Need a friend who’s kind? Respectful? Wise? You might like Mr. Rogers. Sony/Tristar’s new film, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, depicts Fred Rogers’ friendship transforming a cynical journalist’s life. (Short op-ed)
Harriet movie: Courage, freedom, faith. Antebellum abolitionist Harriet Tubman had convictions and courage that helped free herself and many others from slavery’s scourge. She’s inspired modern activists and academics, schoolchildren and senators. What drove her risk-taking and sustained her struggles? A new film dramatically portrays this heroine’s exploits. (Short op-ed)
Overcomer movie: What defines you? What defines who you are? Your job? Your spouse, your partner, your accomplishments? Does your sense of well-being and satisfaction come from dependence on your position or friends or appearance or skills? What would you do if all that were taken away? Overcomer tells an entertaining, sensitive story of finding a stable source of personal identity in the midst of life’s shifts in relationships, family, work, and sports. (Short op-ed)
HBO’s Alternate Endings doc: How do you want to die? Got your burial plot picked out yet? How ’bout your casket? Planning on cremation? So where will your ashes go? A coral reef? Outer space? HBO’s insightful new documentary Alternate Endings: Six New Ways to Die in America looks at novel approaches to life’s end. Is there anything after death? (Short op-ed)
Emanuel: Steph Curry movie documents Charleston church shooting forgiveness. Some members of Charleston’s Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church shocked observers by appearing in court two days after Dylann Roof massacred their family members at a 2015 Bible study session, and telling him they forgave him. Would I do that? Would you? (Short op-ed)
CNN’s Redemption Project: Could you forgive your loved-one’s killer? When someone offends you, do you get even? Ignore? Seek to reconcile? Suppose their offense were killing your loved one or maiming them – or you – for life. Would you meet with the perpetrator and talk it out? Van Jones presents compelling, moving, true stories of offenders encountering the offended. (Short op-ed)
Amazing Grace movie: recording Aretha Franklin’s best-selling album. After the Queen of Soul’s 2018 death, her family released the long-mothballed 1972 documentary about recording her bestselling album at a Los Angeles church. Mick Jagger was in Aretha’s church audience. Critics are raving. What’s it all about? (Short op-ed)
Breakthrough movie: Miracle on Ice? Ever meet someone who died…and lived to tell about it? Breakthrough tells a startling, back-from-the-brink recovery story that’s sure to leave you scratching your head, even if you don’t share the grateful mom’s faith-miracle conclusions. (Short op-ed)
Best of Enemies movie: Klan leader, black activist; race, religion, reconciliation. What happens when you assign a Ku Klux Klan president and a Black civil rights activist – in the racially charged 1971 U.S. South – to collaborate on school desegregation? Shouting? Threats? Violence? Murder? Fasten your seatbelts for a wild ride that few back then could have predicted. (Short op-ed) Chinese
Palau movie: Big dreams, remembering roots. When you see a famous and popular person on television, in the movies, or in person, the glow of success can sometimes eclipse their more modest roots. But the genuinely successful do well to remember their origins. Global Christian communicator Luis Palau remembers his, and he’s grateful to those who helped him along the way. This biopic, in theaters April 4 and 6, could inspire you to dream big, as he did. (Short op-ed)
History Channel’s Jesus TV series: Who was he, really? He’s one of history’s most controversial personalities. Was he a good man spreading love and peace? A rabble-rouser stirring rebellion? A charlatan deceiving the masses – then and now? Something else? History Channel’s series examines Jesus through the eyes of eight contemporary friends and enemies. (Short op-ed)
Run the Race movie: dreams, despair, romance, redemption. Ever had a dream die? Or a loved one? Perhaps you struggle with why bad things sometimes happen to good people. Maybe you enjoy romance, brotherly bonds, or football. If so, Tim Tebow’s film (he’s an executive producer) should appeal to you. (Short op-ed)
Indivisible movie: Would your romance survive this? U.S. Army chaplain Darren Turner wants to encourage soldiers through difficult battle circumstances. An ambush, live combat, and assorted conflicts make him question his own teaching and faith. He returns home callous and closed, angry and mean, casting his marriage on the rocks. A compelling and uplifting true story for everyone tempted to fight with their spouse or partner rather than fighting for their relationship. (Short op-ed)
Interview with God movie: What would you ask? Suppose you could interview God and ask any questions you wanted. This is journalist Paul Asher’s opportunity as he returns from covering the war in Afghanistan with more questions than answers about life’s troubling complexities. He gets three sit-downs with an intriguing man claiming to be God. Their interaction – and Paul’s reactions – may resonate with your own life and curiosity. (Short op-ed)
Paul, Apostle of Christ movie: From vengeance to love. OK, Batman. Riddle me this: Who attacked his opponents with a vengeance, then switched sides, lost his head, but came out a winner? Nick Saban? Babe Ruth? Ronald Reagan? Donald Trump? Good guesses, but… nope. Easter is a good time to remember this guy. (Short op-ed)
I Can Only Imagine movie: Abuse, anger, redemption. Could you forgive a dad whose rage drove your mother away, and who abused you physically, verbally and emotionally? The film saga behind this popular song depicts with grace, tenderness, and beauty what became of a prodigal father and his unforgiving son. (Short op-ed)
Samson movie: Passion, betrayal, redemption. Beware of seductive women who want to know the secret of your superpowers. And who keep scissors in their boudoir. The epic biblical tale shows that good can triumph over evil, and that flawed leaders can turn second chances into positive outcomes. (Short op-ed)
Justice League movie: Hope lost; hope restored. When Superman’s dead – and the bad guys are closing in fast, and all hope seems lost – who you gonna call? How about the Justice League! Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg team up to fight evil and seek justice for all. Warner Bros. brings their story to theaters on 6 continents. (Short op-ed)
The Star movie: First-Christmas animal adventure. This fun and funny animated film tracks a slew of animals following an unusual Star to a manger in Bethlehem, where they sense something wonderful is about to happen involving a pregnant woman named Mary and her husband Joseph. Celebrity voices include Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Kris Kristofferson, Patricia Heaton, Gina Rodriguez, Zachary Levi and Christopher Plummer. (Short op-ed)
Same Kind of Different movie: An inspiring odd couple. Not always in sync with your spouse or partner? Try befriending a homeless ex-con who shuns you. Maybe some miracles will happen. Homeless drifter Denver Moore became a catalyst that transformed Ron and Deborah Hall’s lives and jumpstarted a major community service movement. Paramount and PureFlix bring the bestselling book Same Kind of Different as Me to the big screen. (Short op-ed)
Dunkirk movie: WW2 mayhem and miracles. When your back’s against the wall, and the enemy’s closing in fast, and all hope appears lost, it might be a good time to consider praying. That’s what faced England in May 1940. Hitler’s war machine had pinned nearly 400,000 Allied troops by the English Channel. Surrender or annihilation seemed imminent. The ensuing drama inspired millions and significantly influenced the war’s outcome. Warner Bros. brings this epic story to the big screen. (Short op-ed)
Wonder Woman movie: Want her on your side? She deflects speeding bullets with her bracelets, swan dives off a tall cliff to rescue an Army officer who’s crash landed in the ocean, and dazzles with spectacular sword-and-shield combat moves. She does it all with power, grace, wisdom, and…wonder. If you were choosing teammates to defeat the bad guys, would you pick Wonder Woman? (Short op-ed)
Jonah movie: Whom would you like God to punish? So, if there is a God, and he punishes evildoers, whom would you especially like him to judge? And if he gave that person(s) a second chance – to follow him – would you be pleased or disappointed? Maybe you can identify with Jonah, the biblical prophet. A new movie musical tells his dramatic and entertaining story. (Short op-ed)
The Case for Christ movie: An atheist wrestles with the evidence. If you’re a committed atheist and your spouse becomes a follower of Jesus, it might just rock your world. That’s what happened to hardnosed Chicago Tribune legal affairs editor Lee Strobel, who marshalled his skills in journalism and law to find out what had happened to his wife. (Short op-ed)
CNN’s Finding Jesus series wrap: denial, doubt, dedication. Have you ever lied about a relationship to protect yourself? Or told close friends you didn’t believe them … about something really important? Maybe you can identify with Peter or Thomas, subjects of the two remaining episodes in CNN’s second season of Finding Jesus: Faith, Fact, Forgery. Curious about these guys? Here’s a primer that may facilitate your understanding of the programs. (Short op-ed)
CNN’s Finding Jesus series: What do you believe? What’s your take on New Testament stories about Jesus’ life and death and their aftermath? Did the events described really happen, or are they merely inspirational fables about a great man? For many years, I was skeptical. CNN’s second season of Finding Jesus: Faith, Fact, Forgery appears to be designed with questioners like me in mind. (Short op-ed)
The Shack movie: God and your tragedy. When your personal tragedy strikes – and it will – is God good? Millions wrestle with that question. The Shack, a bestselling novel and now a movie, uses fanciful fiction to help people process age-old intellectual and emotional struggles about evil, suffering, and divine character. (Short op-ed)
New Life movie: Real love, real life. As I watched this film, I often felt like the screenwriters had placed a hidden microphone in my home. True love. Romance. Exciting, intimate, emotional connection. Fulfilling, committed partnership. Joys and sorrows. Drama … tragedy … recovery … triumph. This one’s got real love and real life, folks. (Short op-ed)
I’m Not Ashamed movie: Columbine victim’s inspiring story. The 1999 Columbine High School massacre became etched in a nation’s collective consciousness. Shooters Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold murdered twelve fellow students and one teacher. Rachel Joy Scott was their first victim. This new film tells her inspiring story. (Short op-ed)
Birth of a Nation movie: Freedom fighter or domestic terrorist? Into a nation boiling with racial conflict enters a film about an antebellum Bible-quoting Virginia slave whose revolt inspires many today to counter racial oppression. Who was Nat Turner? What did he accomplish, and why should we care? (Short op-ed)
Deepwater Horizon movie: horror, heroism, fear and faith. The 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil rig explosion, oil spill, cleanup, and lawsuits against British Petroleum dominated the news back then. But the saga of what happened on the rig that night – and the valor that saved many lives – is a lesser-known story. (Short op-ed)
Ben-Hur remake: Revenge, redemption, inspiring backstory. Mark Burnett and Roma Downey have remade the classic MGM film for a new generation … complete with a chariot race for the ages, plus plenty of action, romance and inspiration. What’s behind this story, and why has it endured so long? (Short op-ed)
The Real MVP movie: Kevin Durant’s inspiring mom struggles and shines. When NBA superstar Kevin Durant received the league’s Most Valuable Player award, he named his mother “the real MVP.” The standing ovation and subsequent media groundswell confirmed that something significant had just happened, something transcending the game. Now, Lifetime Television brings the inspirational backstory to a wide audience. (Short op-ed)
Batman v Superman movie: Superhero rumble. Both stand for good, fight crime, and help the needy. So, why are these two guys fighting each other? Is it turf wars – Gotham vs. Metropolis? Do they each have Lois Lane crushes? Welcome to the backstory of how these two met. (Short op-ed)
Miracles from Heaven movie: Astonishing outcomes. A nine-year-old girl falls thirty feet, lands headfirst, sustains only minor scrapes and bruises, and leaves the hospital the next day. She says she visited heaven and sat in Jesus’ lap. Eventually, her chronic, life-threatening illness is gone. What happened? (Short op-ed)
Young Messiah movie: Jesus’ childhood imagined. Seven-year-old Jesus is accused of killing a bully … then raises him from the dead. He restores life to a dead bird, sight to a blind man. Sound familiar? Maybe not. Filmmakers and novelist Anne Rice – a former atheist who became a Jesus follower – portray a touching fictional story about how the child Jesus learned who he really was. (Short op-ed)
Risen movie: Resurrection hoax? Did Jesus Christ really rise from the dead, or was his “resurrection” an elaborate hoax? A Roman tribune searches for Jesus’ missing corpse. This novel, detective-story approach to centuries-old questions uses dramatic historical fiction to let viewers consider the evidence – and its implications – for themselves. (Short op-ed)
The 33 movie: Chilean miners’ despair, faith, miracle rescue. In this dramatic true story that captivated the world in 2010, a huge explosion traps 33 miners deep underground. Up top, an international team works frantically to save them. With miniscule rations and little human hope – but with deep determination and fervent prayer, both above and below ground – the miners last 69 days until liberation. (Short op-ed)
Peanuts movie: good grief – plus fun – in 3D! Charlie Brown wants to change who he is and become a winner. Snoopy’s determined to shoot the Red Baron from the sky. The perpetual underdog and his dog embark on an epic quest that’s all about dreaming big. Lots of family fun in this delightful film; lots of inspiration in the Peanuts stories. (Short op-ed)
Woodlawn movie: racial strife, football, faith. A nation too-often tarnished by racial conflict could use an inspiring film like this. The poignant story of NFL star Tony Nathan and how football plus faith helped bring harmony among racial enemies during his high school years in early 1970s Birmingham, Alabama. Mark Burnett and Roma Downey are executive producers. (Short op-ed)
Captive movie: gripping Atlanta hostage drama. Her story captured a nation’s heart. Hostage Ashley Smith reads to courtroom killer Brian Nichols from Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life. Two broken, wounded souls navigate a risky journey about purpose, survival, faith and redemption. (Short op-ed)
90 Minutes in Heaven movie: There and back again? What’s it like to die and go to heaven? Don Piper believes he knows. A horrendous 1989 auto accident left him battered, bloody, and – according to four Emergency Medical Technicians – dead. Yet 90 minutes later, he was alive. He says he visited heaven’s gates, heard celestial music, met deceased friends and family, saw streets of gold, and sensed God’s presence. Was his heavenly experience real? (Short op-ed)
War Room movie: got prayer? Got marital problems? Job-related stress? Ethical conundrums? Try prayer. This Kendrick Brothers / Sony TriStar release weaves prayer insights into a lively drama about a troubled middle-class family. (Short op-ed)
Faith of our Fathers movie: Vietnam War healing. What was/is the Vietnam War for you? Guided by wartime letters from their dads – combat companions who died in Vietnam – two men embark on an odd-couple odyssey to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial wall in Washington, DC, to discover the fathers they never knew. (Short op-ed)
John Rhys-Davies: Veteran actor with heart and conviction. When I interviewed veteran actor John Rhys-Davies at a film premiere recently, I already knew we had several things in common. We both understand some Swahili, studied at UK universities, and married older women. But I was not aware of his deep concerns about two significant social issues – slavery and anti-Semitism – that also ignite my passions. (Short op-ed)
WW II movie drama: Christian students hiding Jews from Nazis. As the world commemorates the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, Return to the Hiding Place dramatically portrays a forgotten story of dedicated Dutch students’ vital role in rescuing hundreds of Jews from Nazi persecution. Driven by faith, love and conviction, they endured great hardship and risked their lives to protect the oppressed from Hitler’s terror. (Short op-ed)
Cleveland Abduction: Courage, faith, riveting TV drama. No one should have to suffer what Michelle Knight and her fellow captives did in Ariel Castro’s house of horrors. With gripping realism and tender reflection, Lifetime’s movie tells this absorbing story from abduction to liberation and beyond. (Short op-ed)
A.D. TV series: The Bible continues … in prime time. Mark Burnett and Roma Downey – Hollywood’s Bible Power Couple – are back with a flourish, this time on prime-time network television. Their dramatic series about Jesus’ first followers, premiering Easter Sunday evening on NBC, captures the personal angst and adventure of those tumultuous early years. (Short op-ed)
Beyond the Mask movie: Swashbuckling fun, with a message. It’s certainly got swash. And buckling. Plus romance, intrigue, thrills, spills and chills. The protagonist in this Revolutionary War-era action adventure film even saves George Washington’s life … and then saves America. (Short op-ed)
Old Fashioned movie: 50 shades of nice. Want an alluring love story for your Valentine’s Day movie date? You have distinct options. Much-discussed Fifty Shades of Grey is based on the erotic novel that’s drawn countless bookclubbers into lip-biting, toe-curling ecstasy by offering excitement, mystery, pleasure, bondage, and pain. Old Fashioned takes, shall we say, a somewhat different approach to relationships. Romance lives. (Short op-ed)
Unbroken movie: hope, despair, redemption. When Louie Zamperini boarded a World War II bomber in late May, 1943, unforeseen dangers awaited the Olympic runner and war hero. He later said he’d prefer suicide to repeating his castaway and POW ordeals. His enthralling story – told now in film – still inspires. (Short op-ed)
Exodus movie: brother-enemies, slavery, liberation. If you were an epic-adventure filmmaker and wanted a protagonist who could connect with over half the world’s population, Moses would be a prime candidate. He’s revered by Christians, Muslims and Jews. Ridley Scott’s Exodus: Gods and Kings stimulates interest in this timeless story. (Short op-ed)
The Identical movie: Elvis-esque, secret past, conflicting dreams. Ever have trouble getting people you love to embrace your life dreams? You’ll likely identify with Ryan Wade. Music is in his soul. He has the looks, voice and moves of Elvis, and drives audiences wild. But his preacher father has different dreams for him, setting up a monumental collision. A fun Rock ‘n’ Roll parable with an upbeat, inspiring, message about finding purpose, revealing secrets, and experiencing redemption. (Short op-ed)
New Football Movie: Character trumps winning. Could a football coach who teaches that character trumps winning … win games consistently? It’s happened – and quite dramatically – inspiring the film When the Game Stands Tall. Jim Caviezel plays Coach Bob Ladouceur, who led an obscure, struggling California high school team to record-shattering national prominence by helping his players mature toward adulthood. (Short op-ed)
Moms’ Night Out movie: Laughs, plus hope for frazzled moms. Want laughs, plus a way to tell a mother she’s loved? Take her to see Moms’ Night Out, opening Mother’s Day weekend. On the set, actors and producers promised the comedy would be a hoot. They’ve delivered, with loads of family fun. I laughed out loud. (Short op-ed)
Heaven is for Real, movie claims. Colton Burpo says that at age 3, he went to heaven, saw Jesus, heard angels sing, and met both his deceased great grandfather and his miscarried sister. The best-selling book about him is now a major motion picture. Is heaven for real? (Short op-ed by Rusty Wright)
Noah movie: courage, faith, hope. With breathtaking cinematography – and not without controversy – Paramount Pictures releases an intense portrayal of a classic story. That story brings important lessons for 21st–Century living. (Short op-ed)
Son of God movie: Jesus for the third millennium. By Meg Korpi. Politics and religion; an enigmatic attraction. Television producer Mark Burnett and actress/producer Roma Downey have created an accurate and accessible portrait of Jesus of Nazareth for the big screen. See how this intriguing story continues today. (Review/Analysis)
Mark Burnett’s Son of God movie: Action Epic. The Survivor producer and his wife, actress Roma Downey, wanted to communicate “the story of Jesus for a whole new generation.” Their new film presents adventure, drama and passion; a Jesus that is tough and tender; and enough gripping stories to allow skeptics, searchers, and the faith-filled alike to consider whether he really was the Son of God. (Short op-ed by Rusty Wright)
Linsanity movie: hoops, hopes, Harvard, heaven. Benchwarmer Jeremy Lin set the basketball world ablaze when he led the faltering New York Knicks to seven straight wins and helped boost them into the NBA playoffs. The film documentary of his phenomenal rollercoaster ride – from struggling underdog to global star – will inspire you. (Short op-ed)
New Comedy Brings Hope for Frazzled Moms. Hang in there, frazzled moms. Hope is coming! Moms’ Night Out, a new movie comedy about the challenges of parenting, recently wrapped shooting and is headed for release in 2014. (Short op-ed)
Man of Steel movie: got hope? “What’s the ‘S’ stand for?” Lois Lane asks Superman in the new movie. “It’s not an ‘S’,” responds the Man of Steel. “On my world, it means ‘hope’.” Man of Steel is a fun film that taps deep human desires for self-identity, purpose and hope. How do you find genuine, lasting hope? (Short op-ed)
Human Trafficking Movie Grabs Hearts. Annika, a delicate young girl, has been unwittingly handed into virtual slavery by her homeless father. Sweatshop labor and sex-for-sale portend a bleak future, unless someone intervenes. Caden, a spoiled, rich, 20-year-old Southern California student, determines to be that someone. Their inspiring saga in the feature film Not Today might grab your heart, too. (Short op-ed)
Mark Burnett’s Bible TV Series: Epic Adventure. The Survivor producer and his wife, actress Roma Downey, have produced an exhilarating take on classic stories about the epic struggle of the centuries between good and evil. Powerful depictions; gripping scenes. Well worth seeing by skeptics, searchers, and the faith-filled alike. (Short op-ed)
Les Misérables film: Mercy Triumphs. Could receiving a healthy dose of kindness and mercy help transform a person’s life? Victor Hugo thought so. The 19th Century French social reformer wove his famous novel Les Misérables around the theme of grace trumping legalism. A new film based on the successful musical opens Christmas Day. (Short op-ed) French
October Baby movie: Do you feel wanted? For nineteen-year-old Hannah Lawson, that desire drives a quest to discover her real identity. You see, she’s just learned that she was adopted, and the product of a failed abortion attempt. (Short op-ed)
Mighty Macs Movie – Teamwork Works. The basketball team at tiny Immaculata College – a “pint-sized papal institution” – became an example “for every team that thought they never had a chance” as they played for the national title. Their story could get you cheering, too. Rocky meets Sister Act meets Hoosiers. (Short op-ed)
Courageous Movie Portrays a Different Kind of Courage. Courageous is a fast-paced police drama with heart-pounding action and a spine-tingling surprise in the first three minutes. Good-natured banter and comic mishaps had us laughing, but the movie quickly reveals an introspective side that portends a human drama that challenges norms and will get you thinking. (Short op-ed by Meg Korpi and Rusty Wright)
Soul Surfer: A thought-provoking film for the whole family. A 14-foot tiger shark bursts through the waves and tears off 13-year-old Bethany Hamilton’s left arm. Three months later, she’s surfing competitively again. If you’re looking for inspiration to thrive in tough times, the true story of this determined teen’s triumph over tragedy will knock your socks off. (Short op-ed by Meg Korpi and Rusty Wright)
Superman Returns: Superhero Still Needed? Superman has returned. Bad guys, beware! Why has the Superman story remained so popular? What is it about the Man of Steel that captures the public imagination? Does the world still need a superhero? Spanish
Basic Instinct, Showgirls & God? Self-described “Hollywood Animal” Joe Eszterhas, the blockbuster screenwriter famous for steamy eroticism and dark thrillers, says God found him and life’s never been better. (Short op-ed) French
Mel Gibson’s Passion Film Ignites Passions. Is Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ anti-Semitic? Did Jewish people kill Jesus? Are all Jewish people guilty of his death? (Short op-ed)
Da Vinci Code Faith: Who is Jesus, really? Was he a mere mortal – as The Da Vinci Code claims – or something more? Consider the evidence on this controversial subject and decide for yourself. (Short op-ed)
Amazing Grace Movie: Lessons for Today’s Politicians. Can God and politics mix? Leaders contemplating faith-in-action would do well to look back two centuries to William Wilberforce, the famous British parliamentarian who led a grueling but inspiring twenty-year struggle to outlaw the slave trade. (Short op-ed)