Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Criminal Minds, Suspect Behavior On DVD Season 1

One of my top 10 television shows in all of last year was Criminal Minds. The program in my opinion surpassed CSI and there was no doubt that eventually a spin-off series would occur. Sure enough in February, 2011 it did. What came about was Criminal Minds, Suspect Behavior and with a cast including one of my favorite actors, Forest Whitaker it was enough to have me watching, even with one of my least favorite actors in the cast, Janeane Garofalo. With some of the same cast as the original Criminal Minds, notably Kirsten Vangsness who reprises her role of Penelope Garcia, I found the show different enough to warrant its own viewing and found myself watching each episode of the season. With the new release of the boxed DVD set I found myself able to refresh the experience, comment on the quality of the product, and offer my thoughts.

As is the case with Criminal Minds, Suspect Behavior does a good job at putting together a good story with interesting plot twists and entertaining and thought provoking characters. We first saw this in the spin off episode from Season 5 of Criminal Minds. The series has a flashy theatrical look resembling the old Miami Vice. There is a look of a well put together, postmodern program. The quality of editing which is sometimes lost due to the television commercials is nicely presented in the DVD format. While I normally use the DVR to skip over the commercial interruptions, the transfer without the commercials is much nicer and the stories lose nothing in translation, if anything, as is the case with many programs, it is improved on the DVD versions.

While there is a story continuance from the first episode until the last, as is the norm in many programs now a days, it isn’t disruptive or prevent each episode from working as a stand alone. While I enjoy the style of programs like 24, I also get kind of tired of them. There is character development we see continue through out the series, this is especially true with the characters portrayed by Forest Whitaker, Janeane Garofalo, Matt Ryan and Michael Kelly. We see characters that are holding back information and keeping secrets. In their own idiosyncrasies we see progression and openness develop as they learn to trust and get to know those around them. Much of this comes about not just through the commitment to each other, but the reality of the horrors around them as they investigate serious crimes against individuals by sick people. The group seems to have an ability to understand those committing crimes around them but it takes some time for those skills to develop with each other. While the crimes from week to week drive the series, it is the understanding of each other that takes place over the course of the season that drives the ongoing development of character and ultimately, the overall story.

There is a concept of community and team that comes across. The closeness that develops is more than just a team building concept; it is one that resembles a family committed to each other in a sacrificial, loving way, even towards those where differences exist. Throughout the series we see the concept of family played out, whether in an episode that has young girls disappearing, or in episodes where we see young mothers abducted in the presence of their babies. There is another concept presented; the reality of evil, even to good people who appear innocent. There is a reality where many seem to think they can escape the horrors of life, yet just as we are reminded in the Bible, it rains on the just and unjust. We see that sometimes, good people do have bad things happen to them. While many want to place blame on others or on God, it is as people come together to solve the crimes, to solve the problems that we see that while bad things happen to good people, sometimes the coming together of a society of strangers out of the good for their neighbor can be overlooked. Yes bad happens, but sometimes, out of that bad, it is as if God can use that which was meant for evil to turn it around for good.

There is also the spiritual conflict Forest Whitaker's character goes through throughout the season. He is a man who values God and the spiritual concepts of the church. While there are at times conflict in his beliefs and his vocation, he recognizes how to balance those roles and often uses his faith to keep his strength on the job, as well as to help others who are having issues related to their own circumstance.

While I liked Suspect Behavior, Season 1, I think there is some time before it develops into the quality series of its predecessor. There are some first season struggles, specifically in some of the stories and some of the unlikable characters and situations. I was pleased though with the reality that the season got better from episode to episode and by the end of the season it was a pretty good. The better understanding of characters enabled better scripts and plots likely added to that reality.

I was pleased with the variety of special features on the DVD’s which ranged from various commentaries, to gag reels, deleted scenes, and a variety of documentaries and studies on CSI researchers using behavioral studies to find criminals. The benefit of watching each episode commercial free, along with the special features makes this worth owning. I am looking forward to the continuation of the series and suspect it will get better just as Criminal Minds got better. While it isn’t quite there yet, it has the cast, direction and writing to make it possible.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2GWc2WFU1I


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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

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Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

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Monday, August 29, 2011

Bambi II On Blu-ray

One of the classic films of all time is the Disney film, Bambi. Just released on Blu-ray DVD is the sequel Bambi II. The film released in 2006 is the follow up to the original which was recorded in 1942. Despite the difference in time regarding the release of the sequel, the story in Bambi II starts soon after the death of Bambi’s mother.

Bambi’s father, The Great Prince, voiced by Patrick Stewart, is a single father facing the conflict of raising a son. Bambi goes through many issues that others may be going through, as a result Bambi II is more than just a coming of age story, it looks at the relationship of single fathers and the conflicts they go through in raising a child on their own. Through a series of events, Bambi and The Great Prince learn to realize the need for each other, but not just each other, the community around them.

Over the years I have been quick to praise Disney for their outstanding work, especially in the field of Blu-ray transfer. Bambi II has a great story that is mature enough for adults and children to watch and learn from. The voicing of the characters of the film is quite good, especially Alexander Gould, the voice of Bambi, Brendon Baerg as Thumper, and Nicky Jones as Flower. The story is well crafted. What is lacking isn’t so story, but the magic animation Disney is noted for. There are several good scenes with quality transfer but those are few and far between. The quality is more of what may be expected of a television program than a DVD or movie release. Whatever the expectation, one who has viewed Disney DVD’s in the past will agree this is not as good in its animation.

One of the strengths of the DVD is the story and in that story the understanding of the two primary characters, Bambi and his father The Great Prince. While the story could have been a tad longer, the basics of the characters are intact. One of the weaknesses is the movie plays to the attention span of small children too much. It would have been possible to add some moments appreciated by small children, and developing the characters for the adult audience. For those who have gone through single parenthood, there is enough information but for those wanting to understand the issues, more could have been worthwhile.

Just as in real life, lessons for both father and son are learned through experience, sometimes, even the bad experiences. We see this transpire in a natural and real way, if seeing the story as an allegory. Thankfully, the ultimate lessons doesn’t come at the cost we of the original Bambi film. That doesn’t mean there isn’t tragedy involved, and it doesn’t mean there aren’t lessons to be learned. While some of the events may be difficult for the very young viewer, there are ample opportunities for discussion between child and parent and due to the nature of the events and growth process within those characters it is likely discussion will need to take place.

We unfortunately live in a society where family is becoming more fragmented. Disney recognized that I believe when they decided to do this sequel. The struggles of single parenthood are at its root the theme of this film. While there are difficulties in single parenting, Disney in the character of The Great Prince recognizes that the concept of love within the family, even in broken or single parent families is important and needed. Ultimately that love is transferred not just from a father to a son but from a son to a father. That love involves a sacrifice where one is willing to go beyond the norm. We see that sacrificial love throughout the Bible, a love that reflects not only the goodness of God, but the goodness and love to be communicated to our fellow human. While there is at times conflict, the ultimate desire is to love God and each other. Through the experiences, which require sacrifice, we can get to the place where there is not only understanding, but a life worthwhile for each of us.

I find myself having mixed opinions about Bambi II. I loved the story, although it could have been longer than the 74 minutes of the film, but I was disappointed in the quality of animation. I expect more from Disney and this product just didn’t deliver. While there are some special features on the DVD, I also found them lacking. If purchasing the DVD, I would recommend the purchase of just the standard version of the film as there is nothing worth the additional expense of the Blu-ray. It is nice to know that Disney is offering a value price of the Blu-ray that comes complete with the standard DVD. If able to find the standard DVD in a stand alone package, that is what I would recommend.

I still find myself reluctantly recommending this product on the power of the story and the well acted out voicing. It isn’t the best, but a less than average Disney product is still better than the standard run of the mill animated or children’s product. This one isn’t much better, but it is better on story alone. For that reason, it is worth owning and seeing several times, especially for those coming from single parent families and fathers.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PqdgiSq52Q



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Click to subscribe to my blog

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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

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Monday, August 15, 2011

Hoodwinked Too, Hood vs. Evil on Blu-ray

In 2007 I had the opportunity to interview one of the hardest working men in Hollywood, Patrick Warburton. Since then, his career continues to go full force ahead. He recently revised his role of the Big Bad Wolf in the movie Hoodwinked Too, Hood vs. Evil. While he may not have the primary role, his character steals the show with this star studded cast in this animated movie by The Weinstein Company.

Hoodwinked Too is a fun little family film, fun to watch and quite enjoyable. The animation is top notch and the direction by Mike Disa keeps the story moving forward. While not up to par with Pixar or Disney, the Hoodwinked series has some good material that features a top notch cast featuring the voice talents of Warburton, Glen Close, Cheech Marin, Joan Cusack, Bill Hader, Martin Short, and the list goes on. While the script gets a little tired at times it is still fun.

The story of Hoodwinked Too is quite simple; Hansel and Gretel are apparently kidnapped by an evil witch who is upset over always coming in 2nd place in various competitions and life. Little Red Riding Hood, voiced by Glen Close and her companion, The Big Bad Wolf, voiced by Warburton team up in order to rescue Hansel and Gretel. Along the way they discover some things about themselves, judgment, friendship, and the need to care for others while giving all people a fair shot.

While there is an understanding that many in the audience have seen the original Hoodwinked, it is likely the audience will get lost if they haven’t. Even though this is a follow up to an earlier film, more character development would have been appreciated. The lack of character development is one of the weaker points of the movie. Some of the sequences, while enjoyable, could have been much stronger with more understanding of the characters on screen. There seems to be an assumption that character development is needed in a movie with a focus on children, unfortunately that seems to be the case here.

Joan Cusack plays the part of Verhuska the Witch. Her character is originally billed as evil, yet we see the potential of change. We also gain an understanding of why some people go the direction they go. In each individual there is potential for change, not just from those we think are bad to do good, but from those who are good to turn bad. Those assumptions about character and personalities, especially when making judgment on first impressions can get people into trouble. If Jesus had chosen the people to follow him that others wanted history would have been different, instead, he chose the downtrodden, the outcast, the common man and woman to associate with most of the time. It was the heart that mattered, and so it is the heart that should matter to us. The theme of change, understanding, and second chances are also themes presented in Hoodwinked Too. Yes there is a battle of good vs. evil but the assumptions of who is good and who is evil is challenged. Those themes are strong enough to carry the movie and make it worthwhile.

Hoodwinked Too isn’t a great movie, but it isn’t bad either. There are moments that are quite enjoyable and thankfully Warburton was used as much as he was in the film as he was the best thing in the movie. There are some good themes and I especially liked the change in characters. There are also fun characters in background roles. While this may be a let down to many, the future of the series maintains hope. I would like to see a move more in the direction like Shrek where we see some hidden adult themes and while some of those exist in a minimal way, they just aren’t strong enough to for an adult audience.

I’m glad I didn’t pay full price to see this movie in the theater. That said, it can still be enjoyable as a rental. There are ample special features which are nice and the Blu-ray transfer in both visual and sound is nice. While there are positive attributes, I wouldn’t recommend the purchase of this film. It will make for an enjoyable family time with some appropriate themes to discuss. It wasn’t bad enough to keep me from watching a third installment if it occurs but that is yet to be determined, hopefully, if it does occur, there will be better story, character development, some of the same quality cast and animators as in this rendition.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RhwaIwx0Is


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Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mary Jane Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Page

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Hollywood Jesus

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To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Monday, August 8, 2011

Mars Needs Moms, On Blu-ray

Sometimes movies are praised so highly that when you see them there is somewhat of a letdown. I had never really anticipated the reverse to be true but I think it is, sometimes a movie can be panned so badly that when you see it, you realize it really isn’t that bad. Such is the case of the new DVD release of Mars Needs Moms. I had seen various reviews of the movie, most all bad, the latest, on a nationally broadcast syndicated television show had two critics listing it among their worst films of the year claiming it wasn’t for children. After seeing the movie I was pleasantly surprised, while not the best Disney film I have seen, it was far from the worst and it was actually ended up being quite enjoyable.

The premise of Mars Needs Moms is that an evil female Martian, called The Supervisor, voiced by Mindy Sterling, and has decided, unbeknownst to the other Martians to separate the male from female Martian babies because she sees little value in family. The female Martians are raised by robots and the males sent to the trash pits. Over the years the Martians have gathered or abducted Human Moms who ultimately die. The young human Milo, voiced by Seth Green, has issues with his mother, voiced by Joan Cusack. The Supervisor observes the issues and decides to abduct Milo’s mom. Milo sees the abduction, tries to save his mom, and gets trapped on the spaceship to Mars. While there he attempts to save his mother. He comes into contact with another human, Gribble, voiced by Dan Fogler who assists him in trying to save his mother.

One of the things Mars Needs Moms has been critiqued for by some is its dark nature, not only in its themes, but also in the colorization on screen. The film shot for a 3-D experience actually was quite nice on the Blu-ray rendition. Using a format which had the actors acting out the parts and having their images and expressions animated was quite nice. I was also impressed and pleased with the acting, and the dramatic nature of the film. The director, Simon Wells takes a difficult theme and turns it into a decent story.

One of the things the critics got right in their reviews is that it really is not a children’s film. There are scary moments and difficult themes which involve death, and abduction. These themes are rather difficult for young viewers, Seth Green, and especially Dab Fogler as Gribble do very nice jobs in their respective roles and we do see both characters grow. In their growth we see and learn about their past, especially in the case of Gribble. As the characters develop we see a change of attitude in Milo as he learns to accept the sacrifices his mother has made. By the time we get conclusion of the film, we feel for him, we also contemplate and think about our own relationships with those we love.

Mars Needs Moms address the most basic of human needs, the need for family, understanding and an appreciation for those who make sacrifices for others out of love. We see that sacrifice not just in the willingness of Milo to recognize his wrongs, but to recognize his need to change. We also see the love of a mother in her willingness to sacrifice for her son. As others observe sacrificial love they as well are moved to the point of change in their own lives, enough so to change their environment.

Many often refer to God as a man and male attributes and characteristics but there are several instances in the Bible that refer to the motherly nature of God. We see a glimpse of what that entails in the character of Mom. She is quick to discipline but she does so in love. She is also quick to sacrifice for her son and those she loves, in fact, all she does she does out of love. This is a reminder to the love God, no matter the situation or circumstance. That doesn’t mean we don’t sometimes have difficult times, even punishment, but it is always done out of a selfless love to improve our lives.

I found myself liking this movie far more than I thought I would. It isn’t a great film, but it isn’t bad either. Disney has always done a good job at providing quality entertainment and quality DVD’s, while this isn’t their best effort it isn’t bad. The package I reviewed came complete with a Digital Copy, a Standard DVD, a Blu-ray version and a Blu-ray 3-D version. There is a quality transfer with terrific sound and ample special features. Due to the quality of the special features and the complete package I found the DVD one worth owning. With the appropriate themes of family, respect, and appreciation of those who love you, the themes are worth visiting, and revisiting. While this movie isn’t for very small children, I think older children and parents will appreciate it. I have watched it twice already and fully expect to see it again. That said, one of the worst movies of the year? I don’t think so.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aS5W___Ezk


Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

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Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mary Jane Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Monday, August 1, 2011

The Perfect Game on Blu-ray

I was born in 1959; 2 years after what many consider one of baseballs greatest stories, a rag tag group of players from Mexico and their winning of the Little League World Series. I just finished viewing the movie based on the event, The Perfect Game, starring Clifton Collins Jr. as the teams coach Cesar, and Cheech Marin as Padre Estaban. I love the history of this sport like no other and this rich bit of history should appeal to not just fans of the game, but all of those who need a dose of hope.

This amazingly true story follows the journey of the small Little League Team, both literally and figuratively, from Monterrey Mexico. This rag tag group of young men would listen to baseball games after church and eventually decided to clear out a part of the blue collar factory properties to make a baseball field. The group of mainly poor children along with Padre Estaban would recruit a former bat boy in real life, locker room attendant in the movie to become their coach. The coaching of Cesar Faz is still considered by many as among the best coaching in the history of the organization. In real life, while not depicted in the movie, The Industrial Little League Team from Monterrey went on to become the first team in the history to repeat as champions.

The Perfect Game follows the team from the outset of their teams’ development to a trip across the International United States, Mexican Border on a 3 day Visa where they expected to loose in a tournament for their first series of games. What transpired after the 10 mile walk across the border to the small town in Texas was a 2 month journey that had them with the entirety of their possessions, the uniforms on their back and a single pair of underwear. Their entry here into the series continued through until the championship game in Williamsport Pennsylvania and beyond. What they accomplished was something for the record books which still stands today, a perfect pitched game in the finals of the World Series. As director William Dear mentions in the special features of the DVD, ‘While it is a story where you know the ending, it is one where you will learn about the characters that made the story happen.’ The Perfect Game is a moving, inspirational, tear-jerking picture.

Working with children, getting the best out of them is in many a ways a director’s nightmare. While the children, especially those in lead roles, are very good, it is one of the only weaknesses of this film. Given a relatively small budget it is unfortunate that The Perfect Game did not do as well as one would have hoped at the box office. There is hope the DVD market will give the movie a boost. The movie is put together nicely and stays true to the actual events. One of the brilliant things about it is the editing where original footage of the 1957 team is blended into the transitions of the movie. The constant reminder as to the truth of the story and the achievements of these young children, coaches, and community is ever present. The Perfect Game follows the time line of events concluding with a nice montage that shares some of the original photographs, history and more.

One of the surprises for many will be the casting of Clifton Collins Jr. as the teams Coach Cesar, and Cheech Marin as Padre Estaban. Both of these quality actors are typically cast in adult roles for adult movies, not per-say family oriented films. That said both do a good job in their respective roles. We see the development of their characters, especially that of Coach Cesar. One of the sub-plots of the movie steals the show though, that is the relationship of young Angel Macias and his father. His father rejects his son after the death of another son. The relationship and healing that comes about takes place as the father realizes his other son’s gifts and heart. This and other factors in the story make this more than just a baseball movie. Don’t take that wrong, it is certainly a baseball movie, but just as is the case, the game of baseball addresses and touches on life more than many may admit. One does not have to be a baseball fan to enjoy this movie, there are enough feel good moments that most everyone will enjoy it. Collins and Marin in stepping out of their comfort zone give a nice performance in this moving family story.

It is clear that to the 1957 Industrial League Little League Team, faith was important. The team started by the church and with the help of a priest, helps show the importance of what the church can do when serving the community. While many did not understand the game of baseball, the church saw the importance of serving the children in the community and their families. The church saw the potential of not just a group of boys coming together, but in a community coming together. The team ultimately understand the gifts of the church, we see this when they refuse to play until their pre ritual prayer and blessing takes place. We see a church from the United States start to appreciate and respond to the faith of the boys. They take up collections, offer transportation, and help this team which expected to be away from home for 3 days. As the team witnesses and experiences racism, not just themselves but black ball players from another team, they react and show love and appreciation. They experience the pain and bite of hatred, they desire instead to touch and show love. As the boys pick up and witness this, so does the national press. The desire to serve and love, even opponents on other teams has a poor team from Mexico teaching lessons that still teach now some 50+ years later. In a world filled with hate, they provide a little hope. The Perfect Game can still teach lessons for those in today’s world.

This movie is far from perfect. Many will watch it and think it plays too much on emotions, but imagine the truth of the story, and what it must have been like in 1957. Why shouldn’t we be moved by the events of history? The Perfect Game is so good and moving it deserves to make a profit. I hope those who haven’t seen it rent it, or better yet buy it. There are quality special features on the DVD, especially the Director’s Commentary which tells much of the story related to the film. The Blu-ray version I watched was quite nice, but not deserving in my opinion of the extra cost of the Blu-ray, don’t take me wrong though, it is still very good and worth owning.

Many complain about the lack of quality family films. There comes a time when people need to quit complaining and do something about it when given the opportunity. This movie deserves more than a rental, I suggest buying it, sit down with your family, talk with your children about the times in 1957 and what a group of young boys did to accomplish their dreams. Also talk about how they impacted the game of baseball and the lives of those they came into contact with. You can also talk about their faith helped them to accomplish what it did. In today’s world we need inspirational, moving stories. When they are true like this one, it would be a shame to not to support them. While not a perfect movie, it presents the compelling story of a perfect game in a moving way and that my friends, is a homerun.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqYvtyNWJbY


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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

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Amelie on Blu-ray

In 2001 Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet brought to theaters, the wonderful film Amelie. French actress Audrey Tautou, who later also starred in Jeunet’s follow up film A Very Long Engagement, brings to life the wonderful, innocent character of Amelie, a young woman who was overly protected by her parents as a child and has learned to live in a fantasy world where she ultimately comes to life to better the lives of those around her. This 2001 film, nominated for 5 Academy Awards is considered by many as one of the top 100 films of all time and consistently stays among IMDB’s top 50 films of all time. Amelie has finally come to Blu-ray DVD and is sure to delight the fans of the film, as well as bring about new fans.

The direction by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and his understanding of the talents of those around him has him constantly ranked as one of the world’s top directors. He is fantastic here, as in all of his films at using various camera angles, unique story, coloring, and set design. Technically this film is brilliant and while it is sub-titled it is easy to look at without the subtitles. There are times the actors do such a good job in their acting that it is easy to get lost in the subtitles on screen. The pictures tell the story and with the wonderful soundtrack and imagery portrayed this film is virtually perfect.

We see Amelie as a young child growing up in an overly protected home. As a fantasy world exists around her we come to understand the innocence of Amelie. It is the tragic day that Princes Di is killed in a car accident that her world changes as Amelie has grown older and moved out on her own. It is a discovery in her apartment that leads her to helping those around her who are experiencing difficulty. As she helps others she comes to a place where she has the opportunity to experience love like she has never felt before. She doesn’t realize the lives she touches not only has an impact on them, it impacts her.

One of the things I appreciated about the direction of this film is not just the exceptional technical merits including the wonderful story but also the ability of Jeunet to develop each character. This 2 hour movie takes time to let us know about each character, not just Amelie. We learn to appreciate each one so much that we leave wanting more. It would be easy and satisfying to go back and retell the story with each of the characters being featured in their own right, in their own film. Just as one of the characters, a painter is trying to understand a character he is painting; the viewer could make the same attempt at learning more about each character on screen. Jeunet understand the human psyche and in his telling of the story we learn about all of the characters that Amelie comes into contact with.

There is a spiritual concept that says, ‘what you have done for the least of these you have done unto me.’ Amelie is a character who in many ways sees value in the lives of those around her. She dedicates her life as a seemingly unimportant waitress to one that has the potential to impact those around her. She doesn’t realize the one universal spiritual truth among all religions that we should; ‘do unto others as we would have them do unto you.’ As Amelie helps others, she realizes she is treating people the way she wants to be treated. As one show and displays love and caring to others they soon realize the impact it can have on their own life. There is a willingness of Amelie to do this and she does it with humility, she doesn’t want credit for what she does. She does it anonymously, wanting merely to touch the lives around her in a positive way. While there are minor setbacks, ultimately, she is as a loving God, providing hope and change for those facing difficulty. She does what she does because she desires relationship that is meaningful. It isn’t just for those from afar she does this though; she includes those closest to her.

I had been told for some time by my daughter that Amelie is one of her favorite movies of all time. While I wanted to see it for some time, I hadn’t until now. The Blu-ray viewing is wonderful with a very nice transfer, better than most movie screens unless digital, a wonderful soundtrack that sounds beautiful. The Blu-ray experience has the quality image, clarity and wonderful sounds, but also the special features that deliver. After viewing the film I can see why it is among many critics’ top 50 films of all time. I can’t wait to have my daughter down to my house to see the film on Blu-ray, it is such a wonderful experience, I think it may move her to consider the purchase of a Blu-ray player. I will watch this film again, and again, enjoying it each time as I know it is a brilliant film, by a brilliant director, that can likely be viewed in no better way than this Blu- ray experience.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj0CK_jgNns

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mary Jane Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed