Sandra Bullock Returns in Netflix's The Unforgiveable

 

In life we often make choices, those choices are made for various reasons, some for good and in wisdom, others foolishly that end up having horrible consequences. The thing is, we never know why one makes the decisions they do but unfortunately that doesn’t change the consequences of the choices we make. Such is driven home in the new Netflix movie starring Sandra Bullock, The Unforgiveable.

Bullock is back in full force in this story driven narrative that explores the life of a “convicted cop killer.” Along side her are such notables as Richard Thomas, who to me will always be John Boy from the Waltons but a deserving actor none the less along with the great Viola Davis, Vincent D’Onofrio, John Bernthal and others in this nicely cast Netflix Movie.

The Unforgiveable raises many questions that are answered in the flashbacks throughout the movie. Typically, the use of flashbacks can be tricky but the script and direction provided by Nora Fingscheidt is spot on.  While there are some minor setbacks in the character development and story line, it is still nicely woven.

 

As a society and as individuals we often make judgements as to what is and what is not unforgiveable. Even in faith there are many questions as to what is “the unforgiveable sin.”  It is amazing at times the various answers one gets as to what that “sin” might be and unfortunately, we all have our own individual reasons as to what we deem to be unforgiveable.  The movie The Unforgiveable does a good job at raising questions about judgements about things we may be too quick to judge. We often base our opinions on our knowledge of a situation but is it possible that we make those judgements with only partial judgement when our opinions would change if we knew the whole truth. How does that effect the consequences on may have to go through because of those quick judgements we have made. Even there though, sometimes we make voluntary judgements based not on our own need, but quite possibly in many situations the needs of others. Yet, the consequences are often the same, and in reality not fair. Who is to blame for those consequences, the one who voluntarily took them on themselves or the ones making judgements without knowing the truth?

 

The Unforgiveable is not a perfect film but it is a film well worth watching if for no other reason to get us to think about how we sometimes make poor judgments not just in the doing but in the judging.  It was nice to see Sandra Bullock back in full force as a truly powerful force in the acting field.  The supporting cast is superb and quite enjoyable. The best part of this story though, is the story. The writers of The Unforgiveable have done an excellent job. The last thing I will mention here is the amazing trend that streaming networks such as Netflix and Amazon seem to be providing top notch quality movies that while are deserving of theatrical release are instead released directly onto those streaming networks. My oh my how the world of movies has changed.

 

On a scale of 1 – 10 except for a couple of minor flaws I give a very deserving and thought provoking 8

To see the trailer for The Unforgiveable, check out the following link:

https://youtu.be/JNUjx7LZoiU

The Following is information about Mike Furches Reviews and The Virtual Pew and ways you can support our work. 

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

You can support us monthly at Mike Furches / The Virtual Pew / Mosaic is creating A Community of Faith To Those on the Fringes | Patreon

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully, you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

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Midnight Mass on Netflix

 

Over the years I’ve been ridiculed, praised, unfriended, friended, called a heretic, called a prophet and on and on regarding my appreciation for horror. To be honest, I’m at this point used to it all and if one doesn’t like my positions, they don’t have to read, but I’ll be honest about it, sometimes, I think I have insight into a few things that are worth exploring and thinking about. Sometimes I am as well impressed with the quality of a series, movie, show that has me thinking beyond the norm, especially using the genera of horror. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, nothing addresses spiritual themes quite like horror. With that said, few shows in recent years has done this in such a thought-provoking way as the new Netflix Series, Midnight Mass.

Midnight Mass, created and directed by Mike Flanagan is a brilliant, thought provoking story that has at it’s heart religion, specifically Christianity, and the influence of evil into the concepts of the church. In fact, the miniseries stars Kate Siegel known for various roles including her role in the late television series, Hawaii Five-O, Zach Gifford well known as the High School quarterback in the great television series, Friday Night Lights and many others including, Rahul Kohli playing a Muslim Sheriff on the small island town and Hamish Linklater as pivotal character Father Paul.  Each actor gets their fair share on screen and one of the wonderful things about a series like this is the ability to explore various subplots and focus on the characters in the story. This series does a terrific job at this.

 

The first 2 2/3rds episodes would have one from a fundamentalist Christian perspective praising the series, even though the primary religion portrayed is Catholicism. Even with that the case, from a Christian perspective, the series never really disrespects the ideals and calling of Christian responsibility, but the last third of episode three of the 8-episode series has the series taking a drastic twist for the remainder of the series. Remember this is classified as a horror series and for good reason, but that reason and the story is such a dramatic epiphany twist that it will shock many a viewer and for some who may be offended at the strong “Christian” message and themes at the beginning, and, throughout the entire series, will be pleasantly surprised at the twist the series takes. It frankly reminds me of the movie Dracula 2000 that has as a part of Dracula’s origins, Judas Iscariot. 

 

There are serious questions asked in the series, among of which the greatest is what is good and/or evil. How do we interpret that which is good verses that which is evil? How can the intentions of one destroy the goodness and potential around them?  There are serious questions about healing, can God heal?  Is it possible for healing to take place under the appearance of being from God but, come from other sources?  One of the great questions surrounding faith questions is the concept that Jesus and the writers of the New Testament advocated, that is, that no greater love can any human show than their willingness to lay down their life for another. There is another question though, that is brilliantly answered at the conclusion of this series. Is there the potential for redemption for those who have gone astray, done wrong, been deceived and if so, how does one obtain that redemption?  As I clearly stated, without giving a spoiler here, I think that last question and the way it is dealt with in this series is dealt with brilliantly and frankly, makes great sermon material. There are so many other themes wonderfully addressed in this series that to address them in a review would have me going on and on and on.

 

The Bible states that Jesus never taught them anything without first telling them stories. I can, frankly, see Jesus using stories like what is presented in Midnight Mass to get people to think and to drive points on issues like redemption, good vs. evil and so many others home. While not quire perfect, it is refreshing to see something as good as Midnight Mass. Sure, I expect a few to once again be extremely critical, going so far as calling me a false teacher or heretic for praising the story lines of this series, but let the dirt fly and land where it lands. In my opinion this program has a far greater chance to challenge one to think about their faith than it does to turn anyone away from their faith. 

Each episode of the 8 series season is right at or a little over an hour, yet I binged the entire series in less than 24 hours. It held my attention and challenged me to think regarding my own faith, heck, I’m still thinking about the themes, and this is a rare series that will likely have me watching it again. 

 

On a scale of 1 – 10 it is very hard to not give this series a perfect score, but I just can’t go there, I almost can, but not quite, therefore, I give Midnight Mass a still very good score of a 9. 

The Following is the trailer from Netflix for Midnight Madness

(155) Midnight Mass | Official Trailer | Netflix - YouTube 

The Following is information about Mike Furches Reviews and The Virtual Pew and ways you can support our work. 

 

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

You can support us monthly at Mike Furches / The Virtual Pew / Mosaic is creating A Community of Faith To Those on the Fringes | Patreon

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully, you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

Lessons from Netflix and Bob Ross

 

Did you ever have one of those days where it seems everything is off kilter?  That’s kind of been my day, a day where it is easy to get to a depressed state and not really knowing why, so, it was, I decided to watch the Netflix Documentary Bob Ross, Happy Accidents Betrayal and Greed.  It was then I realized, sometimes, no matter how hard you try, there are just some things out of your control.

This documentary is fantastic, let me say first, I was never really a fan of Bob Ross, just wasn’t my kind of entertainment. Now that said, as I’ve gotten older, I realize, kind of like Mr. Rogers, what all I missed out on. This documentary, well done and produced in part by Melissa McCarthy, tells a story that pays tribute to the man, while also telling the catastrophic story of how ultimately, some of the things that meant  the most to him, according to the filmmakers, gets left behind and here we see their presentation of betrayal and greed.  Of course, the driving force of that in the documentary is the desire for money, a selfish self interest that seems to take little concern and passion to the real desires and wishes of Bob Ross. 

 

It is at this point this changes from a film review, which I would give an 8 star review out of 10, but more into a commentary on life. A commentary driven by some research done on Bob Ross after viewing the film, but also reflecting on my own life.

 

Many in this world seek to do good and, for a period seem to do good. That comes about for various reasons, for me, my driving force is my faith, for others it may be an epiphany moment where they realize that their life while in the military drives them to be a kinder and gentler person, as is apparently the case of Bob Ross from some of the research I’ve done.  Nevertheless, all of us will have some force that will cause us to reflect on life and not just the life we lead now, but the life and example that hopefully carries on after death.  Sometimes, as in the case of the corporate world, or even our lives living from day to day, there are others around us who may have motives outside of our own desires to where our lives benefit them as opposed to the things we wanted. I wonder, what drives the desires of others?  Is it love? Compassion? To get something for themselves.  What is it? 

(122) Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed | Official Trailer | Netflix - YouTube

 The Following is information about Mike Furches Reviews and The Virtual Pew and ways you can support our work. 

The truth is we can only control a part of who we are and the legacy we leave in life. If lucky and blessed, we will have loved ones who care enough about us to maintain that legacy as opposed to “profiting” in some way off that legacy.  Are we and do we work at maintaining the relationships where we love people more than profits or money?  I am reminded after the documentary of the Bible verse that says the “love of money is the root of all evil.”  Then again, I kind of wonder, are there things that are just as important as money to individuals, say status, or the opinions of others?  I think anything that ultimately has us focusing on things, or feelings over the needs of people can fall into that category.

 

While we never see any indication of faith related to Bob Ross, we do see a representation of what appears to be a good man, with a few mistakes who came upon hard times. He didn’t focus on those times, instead of giving up when it was discovered he had cancer, he worked harder to make sure his legacy and work lived on.  Yet, others around him according to the documentary tarnished his desires and wishes. That doesn’t take away from Bob Ross and those types of things, as much as they may take away from our efforts and lives either.

Today, I’ve reflected, largely alone and truth is, I would have rather had someone to reflect with, but I didn’t, so I deal with those reflections of life, service, and so forth alone. Am I or is my work appreciated? Much like most people at times I think it is okay to reflect on these things. It is then we realize, maybe all we can do is do what we can and understand that there are some things in life we have little, if any control over. That isn’t an upbeat reminder, but it is a truthful reminder, one I think each of us can learn to focus on and think about. I know that in the case of Bob Ross, I may have never watched him, but now, I sure think about him and his efforts, despite the apparent lack of appreciation from many of those around him who saw profits as opposed to the dreams and work the man did which inspired then, and continues to do so now, so many around the world.

 

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

You can support us monthly at Mike Furches / The Virtual Pew / Mosaic is creating A Community of Faith To Those on the Fringes | Patreon

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully, you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

RESPECT, Aretha Franklin's Gospel Message and Movie Review

Sometimes a movie comes around that is as close to a classic as one could hope for. It seems as if in recent years some of those films are what are called biopics, specifically biopics in relation to musical artists. The most recent stars the great Jennifer Hudson in her portrayal as Aretha Franklin.  I was excited to see the movie with my fiancé who is Afro American. She as well as I love music. We both love Aretha and I had wanted to see the movie since I first heard of it. Last night, we made it to the theater and to say the least, I was so far from disappointed it was unreal, in fact, I already have plans to see it with another friend for a Friday matinee. 

 The story follows closely as far as I can tell the story of Aretha, (Rhea as called by her family) from the time she was a little girl through adulthood to the time of the recording of her Gospel Album and live video concert. The concert was recently released as a movie, Amazing Grace, and this will tell you something about the movie and ultimately, life of Aretha Franklin. 

 The movie stars a host of notable stars, many who are among my favorite actors out today.  Aretha’s father, Pastor C.L. Franklin, by one of my favorite actors ever, Forest Whitaker. Marlon Wayans also does a terrific job playing the part of her first husband, Ted White.  There are so many others like Marc Maron who plays the part of famous producer Jerry Wexler. The direction by female director Liesl Tommy is impeccable, especially in considering the totality of work involved in this 2-hour, 25-minute movie. While there is a moment of it getting a tad boring due to the length, it quickly picks back up and is the only flaw in the movie, from the score, soundtrack, editing and more. This will certainly be an Oscar contender next year.

 This movie shows the tragedy of life with Aretha, much of what I did not know about, from an abusive father who is a famous pastor to the sexual assault, rape, and pregnancy by another person when she was a small girl. We also see her relationship with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and her role in providing crowds for his Civil Rights movement and speeches. There is so much more to Aretha’s story than many casual fans will not realize. That said, there is another side of the story so eloquently demonstrated. That story involves the story of her faith.

 There is no doubt that Aretha had every imaginable reason to hate God and the Church, from her abusive father to the tragedies she experienced, but, despite all of that, she held on to parts of her faith and when abusing alcohol to the point of alcoholism, it was her faith and belief in God, specifically Jesus Christ and the Church that brought her back to her faith. All along her life there were those like Reverend James Cleveland who was there to remind her of how she was loved by God and that God was always with her to help her through the tragedies and mistakes she had made. In that regard, as the movie ends, it is as if one is at an evangelical church meeting and the message of the Gospel of Jesus, a rarity for a popular movie in today’s world.

 There are many people of faith who complain about the lack of good movies and the disrespect shown to their faith in today’s movie going audience. This movie is a movie that should be heralded, praised, and attended by those people. The numbers to support movies of this nature will only lead to more openness in future movies regarding issues of faith. All movies will have some measure of spiritual concepts to them, few more than movies like this where faith has played such an important role in the characters life.

 Did I like this movie?  NO! I LOVED IT!  My fiancé and I were cuddled up dancing in our seats, and for me, tearing up at the gospel message and revival taking place at the end of the picture. Jennifer Hudson had Aretha Franklin’s character having me repent and thanking God for His Amazing Grace. 

Except for a bit or boredom, (only a bit) it was enough to keep it from being a perfect film, but it does receive an incredible score on a level of 1 – 10 for me. For the near perfection that this movie is, I give a heart pounding, hand raising, glory to God moment of Hallelujah, 9. 

To see the trailer for this movie, click on the following link:

(100) RESPECT | Official Trailer | MGM Studios - YouTube  

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully, you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

 

Black Widow, The Power of Family

Okay, I know, on this one I’m a little behind the 8 ball. This is a movie I would like to have reviewed earlier but since it’s still doing quite well at the box office, I figure, better late than never. Black Widow is a Marvel movie I wanted to see when the trailers first started coming out pre Covid. I finally got to see it, but it unfortunately suffers from the curse of many a movie with great trailers. This new continuation of the Avenger story line for Marvel is enjoyable as it follows the character of the Black Widow and her family.  It has much of what has come to be expected for a Marvel movie and in many ways it delivers.

 

Directed by Cate Shortland we see Scarlett Johansson back as Natasha Romanoff, AKA the Black Widow. This time we also have the pleasure of having her family tagging alongside as we see a kind of origins story for the character that transfers over to Marvel’s current storyline. It is here the story becomes somewhat convoluted and hard to follow. It isn’t that the movie is short on action, I unfortunately heard how some thought the movie struggled and was boring, if it is boring it is in the attempt to figure out the storyline in the movie. Truth is, there is enough action and comedic moments to keep one going and entertained, it is in trying to figure out what is going on that becomes difficult. The action sequences in the film in my opinion are terrific, well edited, and well shot. Unfortunately, I appreciate story and The Black Widow just falls short and becomes too complicated in trying to figure everything out, including the characters and who they are and what drives them.

 

There are several worth while aspects of the movie. The characters and heroes in the movie are female driven. I appreciate movies like this that attempt to present women in strong roles. The success of Wonder Woman was an example of how this can be done. Of course, there is a well-played father figure, Alexi, played by David Harbour.  He provides comedic relief and while I had high hopes of his role from the trailers, he just isn’t in the movie enough and we could have had more of him as he was one of the most enjoyable characters on screen. There were times that it seems as if even Scarlett Johansson gets lost on screen with her character.

 

One of the great questions of the film, is what is it that constitutes family. While the Romanoff family is trying to save the world, there are clearly aspects of dysfunction in their family. Without giving anything away, one of the things that eventually comes into play, and in some ways is a theme of the movie is that true, real family is often far more than a blood association, but sometimes more of a spiritual concept. I am reminded of the power of adoption as an example. I have an adopted son who is as much a part of my family as my biological daughter. I don’t see or recognize a difference. It is a reminder of the concept the Bible speaks about in being adopted into the family of God. In Black Widow we see a form of this taking place. We see that despite rough times, disagreements, differences in personality, that family, in the end can conquer all when seen as family. It is in family that everyone can use their specific strengths in overcoming the difficulties and surroundings around us. In that regard, Black Widow delivers, more so than I thought it would, despite the lack of story.

 

This is not a great movie, but it is entertaining and enjoyable. It has good themes and like I said, it is still drawing crowds. I saw it on a Tuesday night, and it was still a sellout. It’s worth seeing but don’t expect the strength of some of the other Marvel films, don’t be disappointed that it doesn’t seem to fit up to the trailer for the movie. I will give another hint though, make sure you stay until the end of the credits for the closing hepiloguej that gives details as to an upcoming and future Marvel storyline.

 

On a sale of 1 – 10, it is still definitely better than average and will provide for a fun time at the movies. So I give it an entertaining 7

To see the trailer for the movie, click on the following link:

Marvel Studios’ Black Widow | New Trailer - YouTube 

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully, you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

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The Virtual Pew News

 

Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins

Okay, let it be known from the very start, I am not now, nor have I ever been happy with the redirection and retelling of the G.I. Joe story and characters as presented in recent movies. I am old enough that I grew up with the original G.I. Joe and appreciated the origins of the characters being American Soldiers who fought for good. Unfortunately, it seems as if that is just not possible anymore to present in any positive light the American Soldier and I believe that could be one reason so many look down on the soldier, and many first responders including policemen. Now that said, let me move on since I’ve gotten that major pet peeve out of my system,

Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins, is just that, an origins story of the G.I, Joe character Snake Eyes played by Henry Golding. He is a martial arts artist who saw his father killed when he was a child. As he becomes an adult, he is obsessed with finding his fathers killer and exacting revenge. He is driven by anger and hate. It is as he is working undercover for a government agency that he decides to defend Tommy/Storm Shadow a Japanese man of wealth and power to prevent him from being killed. Snake Eye gets into Tommy’s family and goes through a difficult initiation process to become a part of the family, while at the same time, working for a group attempting to take the family out. In his efforts to get in with the family Snake Eyes discovers that they are more loyal and ethical than those he is working for. What transpires is a martial arts action film complete with car chases and all the things that make some people happy in a movie.

I’ll admit, I on occasion like a good action movie that delivers, and while Snake Eyes clearly delivers on that front, it lacks in other areas that are also important to me, say, like plot and story. Unfortunately, it doesn’t just fall short in that area, it falls way short. I think a lot of it has to do with the formula some of these types of movies have taken on. It seems as if the primary driving force is the action, often enhanced by CGI and part action, part fantasy. In that regard Snake Eyes follows the formula to a t.  Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t a boring film, there are even some good attributes to think about, but while it’s certainly watchable, it’s just a tad better than average, some may say, a tad below.

 

The one thing about the story I liked is the redemptive journey of the character Snake Eyes. We not only see this to some extent with his character, but we also see him move from a character of vengeance to a character that can display mercy. In part we see his character change because his character learns to see people for who they are and in that he also sees their value. Of course, there are those who would present themselves as friends who deceive him, but thankfully for the sake of some story that is presented in a positive way, he ultimately recognizes who the good guys are as well as the bad guys.

 

Unfortunately, in life we are all faced with aspects of deceit. The Bible tells us that the Devil is the author of confusion or deceit if you will, but we need to also remember that the Devil also tried to deceive Jesus and, in the process, used scripture to do so. Saying good things, using good holy books and things of the sort do not guarantee one of truth. Sometimes though we seek the feel-good approach and attempts of those who would deceive us to the point that we don’t ultimately search for truth in the things they say or the causes they promote.  Snake Eyes in this movie goes through some tough times and there are consequences to those around him due to his actions, but he has time, a script written around him to help him succeed, but those of us in real life don’t always have that written for us on a movie screen because we live in a real-life world. In that case, we can use movies like this to cause us to contemplate on things like; Are there areas I’ve fallen short? Do I check out my surroundings and those around me or do make quick decisions to feel accepted?  Am I willing to change once I recognize my mistakes? What ways are there in my life where I’ve made mistakes to correct those mistakes? How do my actions impact others around me? 

 

Snake Eyes ultimately must come to the realization that there is a power that is beyond the powers we should possess, and those powers can be used for good and evil. Just as in real life, yes, even in Christianity, there are those who would use it for their own purpose and do harm to others as opposed to representing a faith that was founded on the principles and concepts of love.  A love that when sacrificially given can make a difference not only in our lives, but the lives of others.

 

At least the movie Snake Eyes touches on many of the above concepts which is why I will give it a slightly above average score. It’s okay, not great, not boring but not exactly memorable either. It is for that reason, on a scale of 1 – 10 I give Snake Eyes, an okay 6.

To see the trailer for the movie, click on the following link:

Snake Eyes | Final Trailer (2021 Movie) | Henry Golding, G.I. Joe - YouTube

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Pay Pal, donate at paypal at mike@furches.org

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

You can also always donate to The Virtual Pew at 1249 North Saint Francis, Wichita Kansas 67214

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully, you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News