Directed by: Robert Redford
Written by: James Solomon
US Distributor: Roadside Attractions
Starring: Robin Wright, James McAvoy
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
Mary Surratt is among those arrested and charged with conspiracy to assassinate Abraham Lincoln. Though there is little evidence connecting her to the plot, she is nevertheless brought before a military tribunal which is predetermined to find her guilty. A Yankee lawyer who was coerced into defending her is the only person standing between her and the gallows.
Movie Quote:
“The Bible bears as many interpretations as anything else.”
Frederick Aiken (James McAvoy) The Conspirator (2010)
Bible Quote:
“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.”
2 Peter 1:20 (KJV)
Commentary:
While what Aiken says is true, it is what he does not say that is most important to remember. People do read many things into the scriptures and tend to interpret it to fit whatever it is they already believe. This does not make their interpretation true or accurate.
The Bible’s testimony of itself is clear. There is no private interpretation that should be forced upon it. It does not matter what any individual thinks a verse of scripture means. This leaves us with two remaining choices. Either the Bible cannot be interpreted, rendering it meaningless and therefore useless; or the Bible must be able to interpret itself.
It is of course the latter that is true and remains the challenge for us today. In order to discover the one true interpretation of the Bible; the one that represents God’s original thought and intent, we must become diligent students of the entire book. It is why He calls us to be “workmen” of the Word.
“Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (Amplified)
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does one find the true meaning of any scripture? What are the keys to the Bible’s interpretation?
2. Was justice served in the events depicted in the film? Why or why not?
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
KUNG FU PANDA 2 (2011)
Directed by: Jennifer Yuh
Written by: Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger
US Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie
Rated: PG
About the film:
Po, the giant panda, seeks answers about his origins even as the evil Lord Shen seeks to gain control over all those within the country which he rules with an iron fist.
Movie Quote:
“The cup you choose to fill has no bottom.”
Soothsayer (Michelle Yeoh) Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
Bible Quote:
“For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.”
Jeremiah 2:13 (KJV)
Commentary:
Whether it is a bottomless cup or a broken cistern that can hold no water, the result is the same. Whatever goes into either is lost forever. It cannot be retrieved. And this is exactly the lesson that God wants us to know.
Both the biblical and movie quotes refer to what we choose to believe in or trust. We can choose to trust in something that is strong, secure, and dependable and receive the positive results of our believing in something that is true. Or we can choose to trust in something that is weak, filled with holes, and unreliable and receive the negative results of believing in something that cannot provide what we desire. God be praised, the choice is ours. But the consequences of making the wrong choice are enormous and life-changing.
God gives us this analogy to exhort us to believe in His Word which is unshakeable, undeniable, and unwavering in its representation of His truth. His Word is the solid cup or cistern in which He wants us to put our trust. When we do we will never be disappointed.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Po suffers from distractions that hinder him during the course of the film. How debilitating are distractions and what can we do to keep our focus despite them?
2. Adoption is also a subject that is considered during the course of the film. What does God have to say about adoption and how does that relate to the film?
Written by: Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger
US Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie
Rated: PG
About the film:
Po, the giant panda, seeks answers about his origins even as the evil Lord Shen seeks to gain control over all those within the country which he rules with an iron fist.
Movie Quote:
“The cup you choose to fill has no bottom.”
Soothsayer (Michelle Yeoh) Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011)
Bible Quote:
“For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.”
Jeremiah 2:13 (KJV)
Commentary:
Whether it is a bottomless cup or a broken cistern that can hold no water, the result is the same. Whatever goes into either is lost forever. It cannot be retrieved. And this is exactly the lesson that God wants us to know.
Both the biblical and movie quotes refer to what we choose to believe in or trust. We can choose to trust in something that is strong, secure, and dependable and receive the positive results of our believing in something that is true. Or we can choose to trust in something that is weak, filled with holes, and unreliable and receive the negative results of believing in something that cannot provide what we desire. God be praised, the choice is ours. But the consequences of making the wrong choice are enormous and life-changing.
God gives us this analogy to exhort us to believe in His Word which is unshakeable, undeniable, and unwavering in its representation of His truth. His Word is the solid cup or cistern in which He wants us to put our trust. When we do we will never be disappointed.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Po suffers from distractions that hinder him during the course of the film. How debilitating are distractions and what can we do to keep our focus despite them?
2. Adoption is also a subject that is considered during the course of the film. What does God have to say about adoption and how does that relate to the film?
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
YOU AGAIN (2010)
Directed by: Andy Fickman
Written by: Moe Jelline
US Distributor: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Kristen Bell, Odette Annable
Rated: PG
About the film:
A young PR executive learns that the “mean girl” from high school, who made her teenaged life a living hell, is engaged to her brother. What’s a girl to do? Don’t ask mom. She’s got problems of her own when she meets the new bride-to-be’s aunt and recognizes her as her own high school nemesis.
Movie Quote:
“You can’t control the things that happen to you but you can control how you react to them.”
Marni (Kristen Bell) in You Again (2010)
Bible Quote:
“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.”
1 Thessalonians 5:15 (KJV)
Commentary:
For many people, “turning the other cheek” is easier said than done. However, we see from the Bible that it is possible. And more than possible, it is encouraged. The benefits that come to us when we follow God’s exhortations so greatly outweigh the alternatives that there is really no choice at all.
Granted, life is difficult at times. Few, if any, get through it completely unscathed. We will have bad times; we will experience unpleasant events; we will find ourselves in unjust situations – and most through no fault of our own. But nothing we face need dictate to us how we are to respond. We can operate on a higher plane.
God has given us, through the incredible design of the human body, the ability to control our minds. By controlling our minds, we have control over our thoughts, our actions, and even the responses we choose to have to negative situations.
God certainly does not want us to be life-long victims; subject to the abuse of everyone else. But neither does he want us to use unjust abuse as an excuse to act in opposition to all He teaches us. It remains our choice, of course. But He is clearly pointing us in the direction He would have us go.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does forgiveness figure into the film’s story? Who shows the most forgiveness?
2. What is the best answer to a bullying situation? What would be the Christian response?
Written by: Moe Jelline
US Distributor: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: Kristen Bell, Odette Annable
Rated: PG
About the film:
A young PR executive learns that the “mean girl” from high school, who made her teenaged life a living hell, is engaged to her brother. What’s a girl to do? Don’t ask mom. She’s got problems of her own when she meets the new bride-to-be’s aunt and recognizes her as her own high school nemesis.
Movie Quote:
“You can’t control the things that happen to you but you can control how you react to them.”
Marni (Kristen Bell) in You Again (2010)
Bible Quote:
“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.”
1 Thessalonians 5:15 (KJV)
Commentary:
For many people, “turning the other cheek” is easier said than done. However, we see from the Bible that it is possible. And more than possible, it is encouraged. The benefits that come to us when we follow God’s exhortations so greatly outweigh the alternatives that there is really no choice at all.
Granted, life is difficult at times. Few, if any, get through it completely unscathed. We will have bad times; we will experience unpleasant events; we will find ourselves in unjust situations – and most through no fault of our own. But nothing we face need dictate to us how we are to respond. We can operate on a higher plane.
God has given us, through the incredible design of the human body, the ability to control our minds. By controlling our minds, we have control over our thoughts, our actions, and even the responses we choose to have to negative situations.
God certainly does not want us to be life-long victims; subject to the abuse of everyone else. But neither does he want us to use unjust abuse as an excuse to act in opposition to all He teaches us. It remains our choice, of course. But He is clearly pointing us in the direction He would have us go.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does forgiveness figure into the film’s story? Who shows the most forgiveness?
2. What is the best answer to a bullying situation? What would be the Christian response?
Sunday, July 31, 2011
SOURCE CODE (2011)
Directed by: Duncan Jones
Written by: Ben Ripley
US Distribution: Summit Entertainment
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A helicopter pilot finds he can relive the last eight minutes of another man’s life. He uses this as an opportunity to discover the identity of a terrorist before that terrorist can strike again.
Movie Quote:
“What would you do if you knew you only had one minute to live?”
“I’d make those seconds count.”
Colter (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Christina (Michelle Monaghan) in Source Code (2011)
Bible Quote:
“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:16 (KJV)
Commentary:
How we spend our time may be an individual choice but it is a choice which should be considered carefully. Time is the one commodity we possess that we simply can’t replicate, grow, or hoard. All we can do is to use it in the most effective, meaningful way possible.
Unlike Colter, who has multiple opportunities to relive the same time period to achieve a desired goal, we have just one opportunity to make our seconds count. Once time has passed, there’s simply no bringing it back. How we spend our time throughout the course of our life will determine whether we look back on it with regret or with satisfaction.
God exhorts us to redeem the time. A literal definition of the word “redeem” is to “rescue from loss.” The natural state of time is one of waste or loss. It is only through our action that time has purpose and meaning. Make the seconds count. Let life have its purpose.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What does “redeem the time” mean to you? How is it demonstrated in the film?
2. What are the greatest “time stealers” in your life? What can you do to protect yourself against them?
Written by: Ben Ripley
US Distribution: Summit Entertainment
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A helicopter pilot finds he can relive the last eight minutes of another man’s life. He uses this as an opportunity to discover the identity of a terrorist before that terrorist can strike again.
Movie Quote:
“What would you do if you knew you only had one minute to live?”
“I’d make those seconds count.”
Colter (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Christina (Michelle Monaghan) in Source Code (2011)
Bible Quote:
“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:16 (KJV)
Commentary:
How we spend our time may be an individual choice but it is a choice which should be considered carefully. Time is the one commodity we possess that we simply can’t replicate, grow, or hoard. All we can do is to use it in the most effective, meaningful way possible.
Unlike Colter, who has multiple opportunities to relive the same time period to achieve a desired goal, we have just one opportunity to make our seconds count. Once time has passed, there’s simply no bringing it back. How we spend our time throughout the course of our life will determine whether we look back on it with regret or with satisfaction.
God exhorts us to redeem the time. A literal definition of the word “redeem” is to “rescue from loss.” The natural state of time is one of waste or loss. It is only through our action that time has purpose and meaning. Make the seconds count. Let life have its purpose.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What does “redeem the time” mean to you? How is it demonstrated in the film?
2. What are the greatest “time stealers” in your life? What can you do to protect yourself against them?
Sunday, July 24, 2011
ALICE IN WONDERLAND (2010)
Directed by: Tim Burton
Written by: Linda Woolverton
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: PG
About the film:
19-year-old Alice returns to the strange place she once knew as Wonderland only to find the odd denizens there filled with anticipation of a long-awaited fulfillment of a prophecy in which she is to play a major part.
Movie Quote:
“You cannot live your life to please others. The choice must be yours.”
White Queen (Anne Hathaway) in Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Bible Quote:
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
Galatians 1:10 (NIV)
Commentary:
It is a natural human tendency to want to be liked. The downside is that our natural desire can and often does tempt us to present a false image of who we are or what we believe so as to gain the approval of others. The irony is rich. We might get “them” to like us… but it really isn’t “us” that they are meeting.
God exhorts us to walk honestly towards all men. No facades, no feigned words or false emotions… simply speaking and living the truth as we know it. It is not always easy. It is always profitable to God and to our souls.
Sure, there may be those who will not agree with what we say. And they may personalize the message to such an extent that they will choose to dislike the speaker as well as the speech. We can’t necessarily control how people react to us. But we can always control that what we present to them is honest and true.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does the Alice we see at the beginning of the film differ from the Alice at the end? What causes this change?
2. Who is the most honest character in the film? Defend your answer.
Written by: Linda Woolverton
Studio: Walt Disney Pictures
Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: PG
About the film:
19-year-old Alice returns to the strange place she once knew as Wonderland only to find the odd denizens there filled with anticipation of a long-awaited fulfillment of a prophecy in which she is to play a major part.
Movie Quote:
“You cannot live your life to please others. The choice must be yours.”
White Queen (Anne Hathaway) in Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Bible Quote:
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
Galatians 1:10 (NIV)
Commentary:
It is a natural human tendency to want to be liked. The downside is that our natural desire can and often does tempt us to present a false image of who we are or what we believe so as to gain the approval of others. The irony is rich. We might get “them” to like us… but it really isn’t “us” that they are meeting.
God exhorts us to walk honestly towards all men. No facades, no feigned words or false emotions… simply speaking and living the truth as we know it. It is not always easy. It is always profitable to God and to our souls.
Sure, there may be those who will not agree with what we say. And they may personalize the message to such an extent that they will choose to dislike the speaker as well as the speech. We can’t necessarily control how people react to us. But we can always control that what we present to them is honest and true.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. How does the Alice we see at the beginning of the film differ from the Alice at the end? What causes this change?
2. Who is the most honest character in the film? Defend your answer.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
THE CONTENDER (2000)
Directed by: Rod Lurie
Written by: Rod Lurie
Studio: DreamWorks SKG
Starring: Joan Allen, Gary Oldman, Jeff Bridges
Rated: R
About the film:
A female vice-presidential candidate is victim of a smear campaign that has been organized by a political opponent. When her personal life is probed by her enemies, she refuses to confirm or deny their allegations on the basis of principle.
Movie Quote:
“Napoleon once said, when asked to explain the lack of great statesmen in the world, that "to get power you need to display absolute pettiness; to exercise power, you need to show true greatness." Such pettiness and greatness are rarely found in one person.”
President Jackson Evans (Jeff Bridges) in The Contender (2000)
Bible Quote:
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”
James 3:13 (NIV)
Commentary:
There doesn’t seem to have been much improvement in the quality of statesmanship since Napoleon’s day. Now, as then, the lack of “great statesmen” is readily apparent. Today’s political scene abounds in pettiness. It is sorely lacking in anything resembling true greatness.
And the reason is as President Evans explains. The characteristics it takes to gain power are not the same characteristics that are needed to use that power to serve a nation… or a people. Unfortunately, the self-serving position seekers often get the jobs they want but they can’t (or won’t) perform those jobs in the way we the people need them to perform.
Believe it or not, meekness is the key. It takes a strong man to stay meek when presented with such power. A leader who remains meek enough to receive good and sound council but can also exercise the boldness to act upon that council for the good of the people he serves would indeed be worthy of those who elect him.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What qualities do you look for in a political candidate?
2. What motivates the various characters in the film? What informs the choices they make?
Written by: Rod Lurie
Studio: DreamWorks SKG
Starring: Joan Allen, Gary Oldman, Jeff Bridges
Rated: R
About the film:
A female vice-presidential candidate is victim of a smear campaign that has been organized by a political opponent. When her personal life is probed by her enemies, she refuses to confirm or deny their allegations on the basis of principle.
Movie Quote:
“Napoleon once said, when asked to explain the lack of great statesmen in the world, that "to get power you need to display absolute pettiness; to exercise power, you need to show true greatness." Such pettiness and greatness are rarely found in one person.”
President Jackson Evans (Jeff Bridges) in The Contender (2000)
Bible Quote:
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”
James 3:13 (NIV)
Commentary:
There doesn’t seem to have been much improvement in the quality of statesmanship since Napoleon’s day. Now, as then, the lack of “great statesmen” is readily apparent. Today’s political scene abounds in pettiness. It is sorely lacking in anything resembling true greatness.
And the reason is as President Evans explains. The characteristics it takes to gain power are not the same characteristics that are needed to use that power to serve a nation… or a people. Unfortunately, the self-serving position seekers often get the jobs they want but they can’t (or won’t) perform those jobs in the way we the people need them to perform.
Believe it or not, meekness is the key. It takes a strong man to stay meek when presented with such power. A leader who remains meek enough to receive good and sound council but can also exercise the boldness to act upon that council for the good of the people he serves would indeed be worthy of those who elect him.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What qualities do you look for in a political candidate?
2. What motivates the various characters in the film? What informs the choices they make?
Thursday, July 14, 2011
WHITE CHRISTMAS (1954)
Directed by: Michael Curtiz
Songs by: Irving Berlin
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney
Rated: Not Rated (G equivalent)
About the film:
Two successful producers, who once served together in the Army, stage a show in a failing Vermont resort in order to try to help the now semi-retired general whom they followed during World War II.
Movie Quote:
“When I’m worried and I can’t sleep; I count my blessings instead of sheep. And I fall asleep counting my blessings.”
Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby) In White Christmas (1954)
Bible Quote:
“Give thanks in all circumstances: for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)
Commentary:
Worry causes internal stress. It is a form of fear that has negative physical manifestations. But since it is internalized, we can control it. Bob Wallace’s advice is wisdom beyond even his own understanding.
We cannot always control what happens to us. But we can always control how we react to it. Bad things may come our way. But by reminding ourselves of the power, strength and victory which God has given to us through his son, Jesus, we can remain thankful… even in the darkest of situations.
The promises that God has given to us bring us peace. And regardless of what external chaos may be blowing about us, our peace can remain uninterrupted. Next time a situation arises that tempts you to worry – remind yourself of the victory you have already received. Count your blessings.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Each character in the film seeks for a peace of heart in different ways. What are they? And how can a man or woman truly find peace within his or her heart?
2. How is the concept of service (or serving others) manifested in this film? Who demonstrates this quality the most and why?
Songs by: Irving Berlin
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Starring: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney
Rated: Not Rated (G equivalent)
About the film:
Two successful producers, who once served together in the Army, stage a show in a failing Vermont resort in order to try to help the now semi-retired general whom they followed during World War II.
Movie Quote:
“When I’m worried and I can’t sleep; I count my blessings instead of sheep. And I fall asleep counting my blessings.”
Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby) In White Christmas (1954)
Bible Quote:
“Give thanks in all circumstances: for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)
Commentary:
Worry causes internal stress. It is a form of fear that has negative physical manifestations. But since it is internalized, we can control it. Bob Wallace’s advice is wisdom beyond even his own understanding.
We cannot always control what happens to us. But we can always control how we react to it. Bad things may come our way. But by reminding ourselves of the power, strength and victory which God has given to us through his son, Jesus, we can remain thankful… even in the darkest of situations.
The promises that God has given to us bring us peace. And regardless of what external chaos may be blowing about us, our peace can remain uninterrupted. Next time a situation arises that tempts you to worry – remind yourself of the victory you have already received. Count your blessings.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Each character in the film seeks for a peace of heart in different ways. What are they? And how can a man or woman truly find peace within his or her heart?
2. How is the concept of service (or serving others) manifested in this film? Who demonstrates this quality the most and why?
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
TOY STORY 3 (2010)
Directed by: Lee Unkrich
Written by: Michael Arndt
Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
Rated: G
About the film:
The third film of the series finds Andy destined for college and his lifelong toys awaiting the decision as to their fate. Will it be Andy’s attic, the trash heap, or something else? As the toys embark on what may be their final adventure, the movie pulls a few heartstrings with its message of friendship, loyalty, and lessons learned.
Movie Quote:
“Now Woody, he's been my pal for as long as I can remember. He's brave, like a cowboy should be, and kind, and smart. But the thing that makes Woody special is he'll never give up on you... ever. He'll be there for you, no matter what.”
Andy (John Morris) in Toy Story 3 (2010)
Bible Quote:
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
Commentary:
The qualities used to describe the characteristics of a fictional toy cowboy speak of an ideal – an ideal that is often not realized in the world in which we live. But it is an ideal we crave… to have a friend in whom we can trust implicitly, without reservation, because he never disappoints us.
Woody, an imaginary friend, was that to Andy. And the imaginary bond that was formed between the toy and the boy helped the child develop into a caring, sensitive young man. Who wouldn’t want to have a friend like Woody?
The truth is that we have it better - not just a friend, but a father. We have a father who is incapable of lying, cheating, or disappointing We have a father who will never leave us in our times of need nor forsake us when we are at our weakest. We have a father who patiently waits for us to come to the realization that He loves us and will do anything for us. He will not give up on us… ever. He will be there for us… no matter what.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What responsibilities do we have to those who have influenced our lives?
2. What is the goal of the toys of Toy Story 3? How does that equate to the goals we set for ourselves? Are the goals we set ones which enable us to serve or ones that empower us to be served? Which is better?
Written by: Michael Arndt
Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack
Rated: G
About the film:
The third film of the series finds Andy destined for college and his lifelong toys awaiting the decision as to their fate. Will it be Andy’s attic, the trash heap, or something else? As the toys embark on what may be their final adventure, the movie pulls a few heartstrings with its message of friendship, loyalty, and lessons learned.
Movie Quote:
“Now Woody, he's been my pal for as long as I can remember. He's brave, like a cowboy should be, and kind, and smart. But the thing that makes Woody special is he'll never give up on you... ever. He'll be there for you, no matter what.”
Andy (John Morris) in Toy Story 3 (2010)
Bible Quote:
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
Commentary:
The qualities used to describe the characteristics of a fictional toy cowboy speak of an ideal – an ideal that is often not realized in the world in which we live. But it is an ideal we crave… to have a friend in whom we can trust implicitly, without reservation, because he never disappoints us.
Woody, an imaginary friend, was that to Andy. And the imaginary bond that was formed between the toy and the boy helped the child develop into a caring, sensitive young man. Who wouldn’t want to have a friend like Woody?
The truth is that we have it better - not just a friend, but a father. We have a father who is incapable of lying, cheating, or disappointing We have a father who will never leave us in our times of need nor forsake us when we are at our weakest. We have a father who patiently waits for us to come to the realization that He loves us and will do anything for us. He will not give up on us… ever. He will be there for us… no matter what.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What responsibilities do we have to those who have influenced our lives?
2. What is the goal of the toys of Toy Story 3? How does that equate to the goals we set for ourselves? Are the goals we set ones which enable us to serve or ones that empower us to be served? Which is better?
Sunday, July 10, 2011
THE GREAT BUCK HOWARD (2006)
Directed by: Sean McGinly
Written by: Sean McGinly
Studio: Magnolia Pictures
Starring: John Malkovich, Colin Hanks, Tom Hanks
Rated: PG
About the film:
A young man signs on as the personal assistant of an aging and demanding illusionist trying to stage a comeback to the national stage.
Movie Quote:
“Only something fake could work 100% of the time.”
Troy Gable (Colin Hanks) In The Great Buck Howard (2006)
Bible Quote:
“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.”
Ephesians 4:14 (NIV)
Commentary:
Troy’s skepticism is certainly understandable in our day and time. How many times have we been led to believe something or someone only to discover that what we thought was true and reliable was anything but? However, just because we have been disappointed in the past does not mean that truth does not exist. It just means that we’ve been looking for it in the wrong places.
Buck Howard’s illusions may, upon first glance, appear to be real and sometimes amazing but appearance and truth are not interchangeable. Deception, sleight of hand, and misdirection are all tricks of the trade for any magician or illusionist. But there is one, capable of the greatest acts man has ever seen, who needs not to rely upon tricks and illusions. In fact, He is incapable of them.
Our God, Creator of the heavens and the earth, cannot lie. He will not turn even unto the shadow of the truth. The Bible, which God revealed to man, is the one source we can turn to and rely upon for the truth (when read with proper spiritual discernment.) It will work 100% of the time without any kind of “fakery.”
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is it easier to believe an illusion you can see than an invisible truth? Why or why not?
2. What can we do to keep from accepting a lie or deception as truth?
Written by: Sean McGinly
Studio: Magnolia Pictures
Starring: John Malkovich, Colin Hanks, Tom Hanks
Rated: PG
About the film:
A young man signs on as the personal assistant of an aging and demanding illusionist trying to stage a comeback to the national stage.
Movie Quote:
“Only something fake could work 100% of the time.”
Troy Gable (Colin Hanks) In The Great Buck Howard (2006)
Bible Quote:
“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.”
Ephesians 4:14 (NIV)
Commentary:
Troy’s skepticism is certainly understandable in our day and time. How many times have we been led to believe something or someone only to discover that what we thought was true and reliable was anything but? However, just because we have been disappointed in the past does not mean that truth does not exist. It just means that we’ve been looking for it in the wrong places.
Buck Howard’s illusions may, upon first glance, appear to be real and sometimes amazing but appearance and truth are not interchangeable. Deception, sleight of hand, and misdirection are all tricks of the trade for any magician or illusionist. But there is one, capable of the greatest acts man has ever seen, who needs not to rely upon tricks and illusions. In fact, He is incapable of them.
Our God, Creator of the heavens and the earth, cannot lie. He will not turn even unto the shadow of the truth. The Bible, which God revealed to man, is the one source we can turn to and rely upon for the truth (when read with proper spiritual discernment.) It will work 100% of the time without any kind of “fakery.”
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Is it easier to believe an illusion you can see than an invisible truth? Why or why not?
2. What can we do to keep from accepting a lie or deception as truth?
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
THE KING'S SPEECH (2010)
Directed by: Tom Hooper
Written by: David Seidler
Studio: The Weinstein Company
Starring: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: R
About the film:
Prince Albert, known familiarly as “Bertie”, is the second son of King George V and suffers from a severe speech impediment. When his older brother abdicates the throne following their father’s death, the responsibility of the crown falls to Bertie who recognizes that he must overcome his physical limitation in order to be effective as a ruler.
Movie Quote:
“Poor and content is rich and rich enough.”
Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) In The King’s Speech (2010)
Bible Quote:
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And, having food and raiment, let us be therewith content.”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 (KJV)
Commentary:
There is great wisdom in what Lionel professes. Contentment is a state of being that is often overlooked. It never seems to be lauded quite as highly as it deserves. Most people, in their quest for fame, glory or riches, neglect to consider whether the attainment of those goals will truly satisfy.
And yet there are few worthier aims than to be content; to be satisfied in life; at peace with one’s self and one’s condition. Whether one is a king or a commoner, rich or poor, contentment is available to all who recognize and embrace its value.
The first step to contentment is to identify what our needs are. If our needs are met, then, by definition, there is nothing else that we need. Having no need is the kind of wealth that brings a peace of mind that all the possessions of the world cannot match.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why were Lionel’s unorthodox methods successful in treating Bertie’s condition?
2. There are many reasons why people have difficulty finding contentment. What are some of them?
Written by: David Seidler
Studio: The Weinstein Company
Starring: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter
Rated: R
About the film:
Prince Albert, known familiarly as “Bertie”, is the second son of King George V and suffers from a severe speech impediment. When his older brother abdicates the throne following their father’s death, the responsibility of the crown falls to Bertie who recognizes that he must overcome his physical limitation in order to be effective as a ruler.
Movie Quote:
“Poor and content is rich and rich enough.”
Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) In The King’s Speech (2010)
Bible Quote:
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And, having food and raiment, let us be therewith content.”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 (KJV)
Commentary:
There is great wisdom in what Lionel professes. Contentment is a state of being that is often overlooked. It never seems to be lauded quite as highly as it deserves. Most people, in their quest for fame, glory or riches, neglect to consider whether the attainment of those goals will truly satisfy.
And yet there are few worthier aims than to be content; to be satisfied in life; at peace with one’s self and one’s condition. Whether one is a king or a commoner, rich or poor, contentment is available to all who recognize and embrace its value.
The first step to contentment is to identify what our needs are. If our needs are met, then, by definition, there is nothing else that we need. Having no need is the kind of wealth that brings a peace of mind that all the possessions of the world cannot match.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why were Lionel’s unorthodox methods successful in treating Bertie’s condition?
2. There are many reasons why people have difficulty finding contentment. What are some of them?
Sunday, July 3, 2011
EAT PRAY LOVE (2011)
Directed by: Ryan Murphy
Written by: Ryan Murphy, Jennifer Salt
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem, Richard Jenkins
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A woman embarks upon a personal journey of self-discovery… leaving her everyday world behind to experience other cultures in the hopes to awaken a sense of who she is… or better yet… discover who she could be.
Movie Quote:
“That’s what you do. It isn’t who you are.”
Luca Spaghetti (Giuseppi Gandini) In Eat Pray Love (2011)
Bible Quote:
“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.”
Proverbs 23:7a (KJV)
Commentary:
Doing and thinking are two completely separate acts. How often do we think about a situation without doing anything about it? Other times may find us doing something without giving it one moment of thought. Some people have even mastered the deceptive art of doing one thing while thinking another.
So why is it that people seem to want to define us by what we do? What we do is not nor has it ever been a good and accurate indicator of what is in our hearts. And, as God reminds us, what we hold in our hearts is the only true test of who we really are.
Actions may speak louder than words but our private, unprompted, uncalculated thoughts of the heart speak even louder. It is certainly what God sees and hears when he looks at us. Not our words or deeds… but our innermost thoughts.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why was Liz so dissatisfied with her life? How would you have counseled her?
2. Is Liz truly a “different” person at the end of the film? Why or why not?
Written by: Ryan Murphy, Jennifer Salt
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem, Richard Jenkins
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A woman embarks upon a personal journey of self-discovery… leaving her everyday world behind to experience other cultures in the hopes to awaken a sense of who she is… or better yet… discover who she could be.
Movie Quote:
“That’s what you do. It isn’t who you are.”
Luca Spaghetti (Giuseppi Gandini) In Eat Pray Love (2011)
Bible Quote:
“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.”
Proverbs 23:7a (KJV)
Commentary:
Doing and thinking are two completely separate acts. How often do we think about a situation without doing anything about it? Other times may find us doing something without giving it one moment of thought. Some people have even mastered the deceptive art of doing one thing while thinking another.
So why is it that people seem to want to define us by what we do? What we do is not nor has it ever been a good and accurate indicator of what is in our hearts. And, as God reminds us, what we hold in our hearts is the only true test of who we really are.
Actions may speak louder than words but our private, unprompted, uncalculated thoughts of the heart speak even louder. It is certainly what God sees and hears when he looks at us. Not our words or deeds… but our innermost thoughts.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why was Liz so dissatisfied with her life? How would you have counseled her?
2. Is Liz truly a “different” person at the end of the film? Why or why not?
Thursday, June 30, 2011
THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU (2011)
Directed by: George Nolfi
Written by: George Nolfi
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Matt Damon, Emily Blunt
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A political candidate is attracted to a young dancer only to discover that a mysterious organization is conspiring behind the scenes to keep them apart. As he learns more about this organization, he comes to the realization that the world may not be quite the place he always thought it was.
Movie Quote:
“Free will is a gift that you’ll never know how to use until you fight for it.”
Harry Mitchell (Anthony Mackie) in The Adjustment Bureau (2011)
Bible Quote:
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Galatians 5:1 (NIV)
Commentary:
At the core of The Adjustment Bureau is a false premise… the idea that our free will is nothing more than illusion – given to us because we, as a race of beings, are not yet capable of living with such freedom without destroying ourselves in the process.
This, of course, is ridiculous. God would not provide us with a gift without giving along with it our ability to use it effectively. Our freedom was purchased with a dear price – the life of God’s only begotten son. He is not taking that back from us. Our freedom is real; it is no illusion. We are free from bondage; free from fear; free from the hundreds upon thousands of doubts and worries that can multiply within us to keep us from achieving all that is within us to be.
But our freedom is more than mere deliverance. We are not just free from things that are negative… we are free to do things that are positive. We are free to act; free to love; free to serve; free to be the sons and daughters of the God Who gave us our freedom in the first place. Our freedom provides us with more than the release from our spiritual chains of bondage; it also gives us the ability to never allow anyone or anything to ever hold us captive again. This is what “fighting for our free will” means – the fact that we have the ability to choose what we believe and how we will act upon that believing.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why does the Chairman’s plan change over time? How does that relate to the way God established the world and the lives of its people?
2. Can free will be a dangerous thing? How and why? What is the best way to protect ourselves from ourselves?
Written by: George Nolfi
Studio: Universal Pictures
Starring: Matt Damon, Emily Blunt
Rated: PG-13
About the film:
A political candidate is attracted to a young dancer only to discover that a mysterious organization is conspiring behind the scenes to keep them apart. As he learns more about this organization, he comes to the realization that the world may not be quite the place he always thought it was.
Movie Quote:
“Free will is a gift that you’ll never know how to use until you fight for it.”
Harry Mitchell (Anthony Mackie) in The Adjustment Bureau (2011)
Bible Quote:
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Galatians 5:1 (NIV)
Commentary:
At the core of The Adjustment Bureau is a false premise… the idea that our free will is nothing more than illusion – given to us because we, as a race of beings, are not yet capable of living with such freedom without destroying ourselves in the process.
This, of course, is ridiculous. God would not provide us with a gift without giving along with it our ability to use it effectively. Our freedom was purchased with a dear price – the life of God’s only begotten son. He is not taking that back from us. Our freedom is real; it is no illusion. We are free from bondage; free from fear; free from the hundreds upon thousands of doubts and worries that can multiply within us to keep us from achieving all that is within us to be.
But our freedom is more than mere deliverance. We are not just free from things that are negative… we are free to do things that are positive. We are free to act; free to love; free to serve; free to be the sons and daughters of the God Who gave us our freedom in the first place. Our freedom provides us with more than the release from our spiritual chains of bondage; it also gives us the ability to never allow anyone or anything to ever hold us captive again. This is what “fighting for our free will” means – the fact that we have the ability to choose what we believe and how we will act upon that believing.
Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Why does the Chairman’s plan change over time? How does that relate to the way God established the world and the lives of its people?
2. Can free will be a dangerous thing? How and why? What is the best way to protect ourselves from ourselves?
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