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?
Sunday, July 31, 2011
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?
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