One of my favorite films in recent history was A Quiet Place. It
was prior to Covid that we begin seeing the advance trailers for A Quiet Place Part
2. With a great deal of excitement I anxiously awaited to see the movie, then
Covid shut down the theaters and put on delay many releases, including A Quiet
Place Part 2. I recently had the opportunity to finally catch the movie in the
theater. I had heard mixed reviews but knew I needed to make up my own mind by
actually seeing the movie. The movie was at a disadvantage as I had such high
expectations.
First, the entire cast is back and under the direction of John
Krasinski who also directed and helped write the original. His wife Emily Blunt
is back as Evelyn Abbott and her children played nicely by Millicent Simmonds
and Noah Jupe. Also, which will bring some confusion as this is a sequel and
not a prequel is the return of John Krasinski as Evelyn's husband. I won't give
much away as this is part of the draw to the film. Also added to this nicely
shot, scored, and edited film is Cillian Murphy as Emmett, a critical character
to the story.
In a Quiet Place Part 2 we see the continuation of the story
in large as to what happens after the first movie. It makes seeing the first
movie essential to fully understand and appreciate this film. We see creatures
that while blind have an incredible sense of hearing thus, requiring quiet. In
Part 2 there is more dialog than the first film but the importance of silence is
still a mainstay of the film. Thus, when there is sound, it brings the audience
into the story with a measure of perceived fear as at that point we know
something is about to happen, we just aren't sure when or how. \
I love the themes carried over from the first film which involves the
importance of family and the love family should have for each other but there
are other aspects here that are added. We see the importance of overcoming fear
and taking on responsibility, as well as the continued story line of a
willingness to make sacrifices from others. Even the times when one may not
want to make sacrifices but comes to the realization that one often has to take
chances and do something seemingly against their nature to help others. We see
what it is for a heart that has been turned cold to come back to the place and
willingness of serving others. What we see is a story of changed behavior,
seeking redemption and purpose in life and in that search, the importance it
can have on others.
There are continued lessons of morality and sacrifice here,
much like the first, but with different themes. For me, while it is not quite
as good as the original, it is still refreshing and worth seeing. In
comparisons to the near perfect original, it falls a little short, however, in
comparison to other movies as of recent, it still stacks up well.
This is a wonderfully acted and told story. It will have
some scares but more importantly cause you to think beyond what you see on
screen. It does what good film and in particular good science fiction does. It
incorporates elements resembling of Aliens but it goes beyond the original Quiet Place and takes
you beyond. Not in a way that takes advantage of the audience, but respects the
audience and the times we live in, where the message of hope, love and sacrifice
is needed as much as ever.
On a scale of 1 - 10 for the two children old enough to make
decisions that make a difference, thus a reminder of each of us doing the same,
I take them away and am left with a very enjoyable 8.
To
see the trailer for this film click on the following link:
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This summer, for me at least has been one hot, difficult, letdown of a season. Not just for movies but also regarding life. During one of the hottest seasons on record in the state of Kansas, I needed a good reminder of what I was about, what Kansas is in part about, and something to take my mind off of the difficulties of life. One of the things I normally enjoy doing to escape the reality of the world is the movies. This weekend the movie Cowboys and Aliens looked like it had the potential to be a perfect pick-me-up of a movie to see. I was far from disappointed.
In the 1950’s and early 1960’s there was a core of ‘B’ movies that normally had something in the plot that involved monsters or some of the really good ones had things like Cowboys fighting dinosaurs, giant tarantulas or something of the like. This summer with Cowboys and Aliens I expected something similar to those ‘B’ movies except with an exceptional cast consisting of the likes of Harrison Ford, Daniel Craig, Keith Carradine, Sam Rockwell, Adam Beach, Abigail Spenser and more I should have known there was going to be a surprise on the Western Prairie.
On the surface, the plot of Cowboys and Aliens seems unbelievable and unlikely, but isn’t that what the movies are for at times, a time and a place to escape reality? Then in the escape of reality, maybe just maybe, it would be possible for one to learn a lesson or two or at the least, make life a little better. The early scenes of the movie has cowboy, Jake Lonergan, played by Daniel Craig waking up bootless and alone in the western desert. It doesn’t take long as Jake is approached by a trio of roughens for the viewer to realize, there is something special about this cowboy, and those that cross his path better watch out. Jake also has this strange bracelet on his wrist which we find out about later in the film. He also has a case of amnesia and doesn’t rightly remember all that has recently transpired. After taking care of some needed business on the plains, Jake makes his way to a town where he comes face to face with the son of a ruthless barren. The father, Woodrow Dolarhyde is played to perfection by Harrison Ford. One night in the town of Absolution after a confrontation with the local pastor, Jake is told that one has to be willing to look for God if they are to find God. The town is later attacked by something not commonly seen in the wild-west, aliens. The alien space craft has this knack of roping some of the townsfolk like a cowboy ropes cattle, and hauls them off to who knows where, for God knows what. Jake and Woodrow form an unlikely alliance to find the townsfolk, and bring some justice on the wild frontier.
The acting here is brilliant, but it isn’t just the acting that is tight; the overall direction by Jon Favreau, known for his work on such films as Ironman among others is brilliant. This movie is technically superior to the old ‘B’ movies. The town looks like a town from the old west and it wouldn’t take much for one to think they smelled the smells of the old west. It isn’t just the look and sounds that impressed me, I expected the good special effects in the present world of CGI, what I didn’t expect was the tight story with a super plot and sub-plot. Cowboys and Indians deliver in all aspects.
Favreau delivers a tight story with a strong sense of development that allows the viewer to see characters we don’t like, change into characters we do. The transformation of characters is so powerful it is hard to tell much without giving away too much of the story. Once in the seats, you will see characters change, as you get to know them and the things that make them who they are, even those who aren’t liked have a story. Special mention has to be made not only to the exceptional work done by Daniel Craig, who is as good as anything he has been in a while, but also Harrison Ford who is back in a stronger role and character where the brilliance of his acting ability comes through like no other role in some time. Also making a valuable contribution to the screen is an actor I have appreciated for some time, Adam Beach, who plays the part of Nat Colorado. I won’t say much here other than to notice towards the conclusion of the film; you will appreciate how good of a job he has done when the heart strings are pulled and the viewer finds themselves reacting to a pivotal scene.
Cowboys and Aliens is loaded! In the opening scenes one of the first to help Jake is the town doctor who also doubles as its minister. It just so happens that the healing in the town of Absolution starts at the town’s church. It is here Jake is confronted head on with the concepts of good and evil, and each individuals own bearing on the good and evil that surround them. We don’t know much at first about Jake’s past but one of the things we see is the ability to turn from the past. We are challenged of the possibility of a bad individual changing and their ability to become a new creature. As the story progresses, just like for many who consider themselves followers of Jesus, there has to be a willing sacrifice of life to ultimately show the magnitude of love. The willingness to die for another does not necessarily bring salvation. It is through the resurrection from the dead that one ultimately receives the power that brings salvation. In that salvation and sacrifice one can find reason and the power to change. We see all of this and more transpire until the last scene of the movie when we see one of the primary characters who have gone through their own individual changes, that change starts at the church, and concludes at the church with the cross blazing. It is as if Favreau is telling the audience that the church and the faith represented by the church allows for the power to conquer the demons of life, but it also bring about the ultimate change each individual needs. It is at the cross where the town of Absolution finds the power to forgive.
I didn’t think I would like this movie as much as I did. It has everything, for those who love westerns and for those who love thrills and aliens, it has all one would want. In a summer with a lack-luster group of films, it takes over as my new favorite of the summer spot from Super 8. Cowboys and Aliens is a film I will see again. I suspect that for those who love spiritual symbolism in films, as well as a entertaining good time, they will enjoy Cowboys and Aliens.
How much did I like this movie, on a scale of 1 – 10, while the 13 letters in Cowboys and Aliens add up to the unlucky number of 13, I will transform that number to a number of perfection, a very deserving and entertaining 10.
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=8i7OaFi_-WY
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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It’s been a long time since there was a movie that was powerfully driven by a young cast. Some may say it has been since ET; that is until this summer. With a wonderful new story in the Steven Spielberg camp we have such a movie. Super 8 is a cross between Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Aliens, and ET. With the benefit of living in one of the top movie towns in America I just had the chance to see the film on the largest IMAX Screen in North America. It was perfectly entertaining and was driven with as much an enjoyable experience as I have had the honor to partake in for a movie in some time.
JJ Abrams noted for the television series Lost has written and directed one of the best new stories in some time. As per the norm with Abrams there is attention to story which is done in an entertaining, thought provoking way. In Super 8, we see a family impacted by the death of a mother in a drastic way that has an impact on two different families. The Lamb family has lost a mother and the Dainard family is impacted in a way we are not quite sure of until later in the movie. There are two single dads, raising children and facing the difficulties on dealing with teen children.
Young Joe Lamb and his friends are into making movies. It is while making a zombie movie with a Super 8 camera; they involve the girl of their dreams, Alice Dainard. More than one of the boys in the group have a crush on her and while she makes a perfect cast member in the movie they are making, she also brings a level of conflict that contributes to the tension in the movie.
One night while filming near an old train depot outside of town there is a horrific train crash. The train is an Air Force train and is carrying a strange cargo. It doesn’t take long for the military to get involved. Strange things start to happen around the town and the young filmmakers know more than they let on with the town that starts to have strange occurrences. Of course there is a lot more they don’t know then there is they don’t, but that is for us to discover as the movie progresses.
Technically Abrams has done his best work in a feature film as of yet. From a taught script to incredible special effects, a great sound track, and unbelievable set and prop design. I normally don’t comment on this but there is such a good job of replicating the late 1970’s including the things a young man would have in his room I had to make mention of it. I lived during this time and it is as it was. Even the soundtrack and movie starts with the music of my favorite bands of all time, Electric Light Orchestra with the song Don’t Bring Me Down.
One of the magical attributes of Super 8 is the cast and development of characters. To think that two of these young actors, in lead roles, has never been in a motion picture before gives credit to Abrams on his ability to do one of the most difficult things in movies, direct and get quality results with children. The children in this picture, virtually every one of them are magical. I adored every single one of the primary cast, especially those in the lead roles, Elle Fanning, Joel Courtney. I especially enjoyed Riley Griffiths as Charles a young heavy weight child, with a deep friendship for Joe Lamb. Griffiths also carries off quite well the temperament of a young movie director. Abrams starts developing the characters from the very opening scenes and that development continues until the completion of the film. We get to know what drives them and their innermost thoughts. Not since Stand By Me with River Phoenix has there been the potential in a young cast that we have in Super 8.
Abrams does such a good job in his direction that there are multiple themes addressed in the movie, none as important as the themes of forgiveness and learning to let go of past mistakes and moving on. The concept of being able to forgive is critical to the need to let go and move on in the themes here. It is also the formula that allows love to take place when one may not have expected love, whether with a friend or a parent. For many, it is only when they come close to losing the things they love most before they realize the importance of forgiveness and moving on. We see that many are held hostage to their situations because they are unwilling to forgive. Sometimes the bitterness that exists in ones heart is there for unfounded reasons but we won’t know that until we take the step to forgive. This can create conflict that lasts for years and impacts others around us that we love. Some would rather die with an attitude of hate or bitterness than to experience the freedom and liberties that can come about when we forgive those we believe have done us wrong. Super 8, from the very opening scenes until the closing scenes drive these themes home in a way to force us to contemplate on their own need to forgive others.
I loved Super 8! It is without a doubt one of the best movies I have seen in a long time. I loved the tributes in the film by Abrams, not only to Stephen Spielberg but to the great Zombie creator, George Romero. It is a modernized, more sophisticated film than any child cast film since Stand By Me. It is fun, entertaining, with a wonderful message. It is frightening at times with a number of jump out of your seat moments. The only negative I would even dare to bring up, was it could have been longer as I liked the characters so much I wanted to see more of them. I suspect there will be some that don’t like the negative portrayal of the military, but I honestly don’t think that is any thing intended by the makers of the film. I have stated in the past that it would be hard to imagine many films better than this one this summer. While I have been wrong before, and may be again here, it is still hard to imagine a better film this summer. I suspect that word of mouth will have Super 8 making its 45 million it cost to make returned this weekend and from there, it will be one of the hits of the summer. I honestly don’t think you can go wrong here unless you take very small children to the theater. It is appropriately rated PG-13 but families will enjoy seeing it together. I know I enjoyed it and I fully expect to see it again before the end of the summer.
On a scale of 1 – 10, for the 9 letters in the name Spielberg who has once again, produced magic, I give a very enthusiastic 9
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=tCRQQCKS7go
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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Email: mike@furches.org
Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew
I hate reading the views of others before seeing a movie, yet I kind of fell into that with the new movie, Avatar. The views of the religious community especially many in the Christian community had few positive things to say about Avatar. Unfortunately, I have heard these complaints before, with ET and Star Wars. Many are being critical of this film for the same reasons, based on what someone said in a review. With a focus that seemed to be politically driven more than spiritually driven, or even worse, on their ‘spirit led’ views. I decided to see the movie, to see if once again, the religious community was jumping the gun, or if in fact the spirit in me, would convince me they were right or wrong. (Note on the previous sentence, I am being sarcastic because I think any of us can use this argument as if it gives us the excuse to not use logic or reason to support our views, but if those ‘led by the Spirit’ can use that as a end all to prove their point, I can digress there as well.) Now to try and do something that I have actually seen few ‘Christian’ reviews (outside of Hollywood Jesus) do; talk about the movie and the positive aspects of it.
First if you are just arriving back from the space shuttle, out of prison, from the dark pits of a jungle or some other place where you have been away from movie news, let me tell you a little about the new release Avatar. This film directed and written by James Cameron took right around 5 years to make. For Cameron this was a labor of love, and many think the initial costs of production will actually make it difficult for the movie to make profits. It is extremely sad if that is the case because, especially in the 3-D format which is the version of movie I saw, we see brilliance on screen. Not since Star Wars can I think of a movie that advanced the concept of imagery better than Avatar. I use the following word carefully, but I ‘marveled’ at the images portrayed on screen. Apparently Cameron oversaw every facet of the film and what happens visually in the blending of animation, CGI and live action has one forgetting and at times, even confused as to the images they are seeing, what is real and what is CGI is lost, we simply ‘marvel at what we are seeing on screen. The 3-D effects do a good job at placing us in the movie. On the point of 3-D, I have heard many say this is the best 3-D they have seen. I will say while it was good, it wasn’t the best I have seen. I appreciated the 3-D in 2009’s Disney’s A Christmas Carol much more. If reviewing a film based simply on visual, sound, editing, direction, and technical aspects, Avatar would be an easy 10 for me. Unfortunately there is more to a movie than just the visual and technical.
Avatar, rated Pg-13, has Jake a paraplegic war veteran going to the planet Pandora. Pandora has as its people the Na’vi. This humanoid race has their own culture deeply rooted in their planets history and religious beliefs. They are connected with nature, and ultimately with each other and their creator. We see early on that a way has been developed for the humans to take on the bodily form of the Na’vi. Jake has been chosen for this option. He is to learn the ways of the Na’vi and in the process assist the humans in developing the land to obtain its valuable resources. Jake begins to develop relationships with the Na’vi, especially the beautiful Neytiri who is responsible for his training. As their relationship develops, Jake not only starts to fall in love with Neytiri, he falls in love with the people and culture of the Na’vi. This doesn’t set well with those who have no respect for the people of Pandora, and Jake has to ultimately choose sides.
Unfortunately the main problem with Avatar is the story. We see a story we have seen many times before, albeit not always as well done as here. In the development of story we loose some of the quality as it is not very deep. The acting is credible, and at times, especially the grieving scenes are very moving, however, it takes too long to develop, and I found the first 30 - 45 minutes boring. The cast do a credible job, especially Sigourney Weaver who plays Dr. Grace Augustine. Her role may have more audience appeal than anything she has played in some time. One of the things each of the characters do through CGI and Live Action is deliver a wide range of emotion, and with virtually every character, we see class work.
One of the criticisms of Avatar is it promotes “New Age” beliefs, especially in the appreciation and care of the planet. Many forget about the Biblical mandate in Genesis to take care of the planet. There seems to be the belief that the earth, (some would say the parallel intended by Cameron with the planet Pandora) is to use as we want, the earth, to our benefit. Many Christians forget about their teachings that God created the earth with a purpose, it was all good, and it all works together. There is the mandate to care for the planet. The book of Romans specifically states that God has revealed and shown himself through nature. However, because some particular belief that we disagree with also uses those same concepts we want to throw out the baby with the bath water.
I think another point of criticism that parallels the film to ‘New Age’ concepts is rooted in prejudice and sexism. Don’t get me wrong, but I really believe this. Avatar refers to the creator as ‘she’ as opposed to ‘he.’ For many this is likely rooted in their issue with ‘Mother Earth.’ There seems to be an unwillingness or guilt association that relates anything feminine to the nature of God. Many Christians either don’t know, or forget, that there are also references to God that relate him to a loving and caring mother, a feminine attribute. There is also the refusal to accept others who are different, and anything that seems to want to draw people together, through their spirits is based not only on racial prejudice, but religious bigotry. I think that the alien concept is one some may have issue with, but while the body may be different, their spirits are intertwined, all created by God, and all individuals God is willing to listen to in prayer, when that prayer is sincere, (another visual illustration portrayed in this ‘evil’ ‘dangerous’ movie.) Strong words I know, but even though this may not be a conscious response by many, I believe that for some it is, and for others, a subconscious reality.
There are ample aspects that are more than a little unique in Avatar. Avatar has been released the week prior to Christmas. Christmas is a time of year where many celebrate the birth of Jesus. In Avatar we actually see some of those concepts focused on, I believe in a very appropriate, allegorical way. We see Jake as one who takes on the form of the Na’vi. He becomes one of them so they will better understand him, and he better understands and relate to them. We see this developed in a beautiful way. He falls in love with the people and while they are quick at times to have him killed or not accept him he still offers a love built out of relationship. Jake is willing to ultimately offer up his life if need be to provide salvation to the people he has come to love. There is even the teaching of the need for individuals to be “born twice”. Through the second birth the individual receiving the second birth can experience eternal life. Then there is the ultimate need that the people of Pandora have to submit to and follow Jake unconditionally to not only experience literal freedom, but spiritual freedom. Freedom that even in death, eternity is obtainable. I wonder if these concepts presented in the film sound familiar to any who have been so critical for the movie being so much against the message of Jesus.
For the religious people of the world, especially Christians, if using the above concepts you may be confused. In theological concepts (the study of God) we call this incarnation. The concept of incarnation is something not only taught in various religious communities, as described in the movie, it is specifically taught in the Bible, it is an attribute specific to the person of Jesus Christ. Yet I am confused, I am confused because it seems as if so many people who state they are followers of their religious beliefs, are so quick to point to the ‘new age’ concepts of the movie as opposed to see the illustrations that can point towards spiritual beliefs. I have seen two particular reviews from Christian review web sites that are more focused on the political aspects than they are the spiritual aspects addressed in the film. Not a one brings out the spiritual parallels mentioned here, at least that I have seen.
I have to wonder are people, especially some Christians, so much like the humans in the film that they forget about the message of incarnation, to people who are different, to people who not only desires love and understanding, but desire to offer that love and understanding back to their creator. It is through the incarnational aspects we see presented in Avatar that we can learn and see messages of how missions, whether to other countries, or our own communities can have the opportunity for success. Enough on that ramble though, I suspect the conversation will continue, and each of us, will be led by God’s Spirit to come to the right decision. I just wonder though, when making such direct commentary, when there are those that disagree, how do we know which one has really heard from God on their conclusions?
I know some people go to movies to just enjoy the movie, I am fine with that, but I love going to see if there is spiritual commentary in the film. The reality is, like it or not, these types of associations do not happen by chance. One don’t have to look far to see these associations in Avatar, heck, all they have to do is stay awake and watch the movie. Avatar is loaded with ample opportunity to discuss faith, the protection of the planet, and so much more. Whether you care about the rainforest, a parallel in the film, or you care about the desire to know God, or even the ability to love those who are different, this film has it all. It is done in an incredibly beautiful way visually and conceptually. While the story is old, Cameron does justice to the story. It isn’t perfect but it is still very good and one I think fulfilled my expectations. I wouldn’t say it is the best movie of the season, but it is one well worth watching.
On a scale of 1 – 10, for the potential of infinity, (eternity) the movie suggests, minus the two words of Second Birth, I give it a very deserving and entertaining 8.
To see the following, just click on the video, if the video don't appear, click on the link:
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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Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew
Today I sit here with a big smile on my face. I have that smile because I am doing some research and laughing at what many are now doing regarding the legitimacy of the film The Fourth Kind. I find it humorous because while some applaud certain films like The Blair Witch and Paranormal Activity, some are upset who thinks the makers of The Fourth Kind are trying to get one over on the movie going audience. Here is all I know; I felt Paranormal Activity was highly overrated, obviously false while following a tired formula, I come home interested enough in The Fourth Kind to do some research and see what is true and what isn’t. This first person account does something many other first person account movies have forgotten about, it uses some originality that causes some of the audience to believe the story they see on screen.
The premise of The Fourth Kind is we are seeing footage of a study and research regarding Alien Abductions and tragedies that have occurred in Nome Alaska. The filmmakers reportedly mix in real footage with dramatized scenes. The style of the film, whether legitimate or not, is unique, fresh and even with the subject matter, entertaining. Without speculating on whether the events or some of the footage in the film is legitimate or not does not change the interest I had when leaving the theater as to the reality of the film, or the desire to do some research, neither does it change the intriguing questions the movie raises about not just aliens, but evil and the likelihood of the existence of God, and ultimately what type of God is God.
As mentioned earlier, The Fourth Kind is a first person, supposed real account of events in Nome Alaska. One of the things that makes this different, and leaves some room for speculation is the reported style of mixing in supposed real footage alongside dramatized footage via split and sometimes quad screen views. It draws us into the story, and the directorial style of following the split screens keeps our eyes moving in such a way that at least my brain was working constantly trying to figure out the difference between reality and entertainment, searching for truth and reality or fake footage with the sole intent to entertain. First time director, Olatunde Osunsanmi does a credible job of mixing in footage while at the same time following the supposed real psychologist, Abbey Tyler, played nicely by Milla Jovovich. We also have brief appearances of Sheriff August played by Will Paton. Both do a credible job, and the supporting cast also play nicely to the story and questions raised by the film.
One of the concepts presented in the film is the visitation to earth some 5,000 years prior to Christ of apparent aliens. Many have seen the footage of concepts of this nature but one of the things the film does is it raises the question of God in relation to the alien visitations. We see this by the usage from the aliens of ancient, dead languages, where when interpreted speak specifically of a savior and of God. In one interesting scene in the movie, Dr. Tyler is asked if she thought the beings were in fact God. She states no because she felt they were void of hope. An interesting concept, if God exists, then hope has to be present and a part of his personality. This is consistent with the aspects of hope presented by Jesus and some of the writers of the New Testament.
An interesting question of faith is also addressed in The Fourth Kind. How receptive are individuals in accepting the stories of devoutly religious people when those stories are outside the realm of faith? We see Dr. Tyler for example praying around the table in Jesus name, yet she is ultimately challenged to tackle concepts outside of her faith, and her experiences lead her to conclusions that are not only outside the norm of her faith, but outside the norm of many within society. The challenge of accepting those who are different is presented in a challenging way that at least caused me to think. I even noticed the questions on national message boards like IMDB that has people asking the question of can Aliens coexist with Christianity? This is an interesting question that seems to be a part of the movies intent, but also shown is the challenge to foundational beliefs and ones ability or desire to hold onto those beliefs when they are challenged.
While the challenge to belief regarding aliens may be outside the norm or possibility of reality for many people of faith, at one time, so was the concept of the ability of the earth being round, the earth revolving around the sun, or even the possibility of a person of non Anglo decent having a soul. Many things once held as truths have changed with time. There seems to be ample evidence of the reality of UFO’s, Aliens, or even Demons as presented by some. The Fourth Kind while not adequately answering those questions did at least have me and others in the theater, entertained and questioning the possibility.
I liked this film, much more than Paranormal Activity. As I spoke to some people as we were leaving the theater, they felt the same way. There are some aspects I would have liked to have seen addressed, but I suspect that to address some of those areas in the movie would have answered the questions many are asking. Personally I doubt the story has much legitimacy to it, but that doesn’t devalue the questions it raises. There could have been better character development and while the editing was choppy, it fit the style. Overall I was rather pleased and think that most that enjoy these types of film will be as well.
On a scale of 1–10, while not perfect, The Fourth Kind was better than Paranormal Activity, so if I added a 2 to the score for Paranormal activity, The Fourth Kind would have a deserving 8.
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Mike Furches heads up The Virtual Pew, some say, the first Online Church. He speaks nationally on various topics and; is a freelance writer. He has published 2 books titled The Keystone Kid which has received rave reviews and thechildren's book with his late wife Mary Jane, Herald The Angel.. The short film, The Long Walk is also based on the book The Keystone Kid. Mike’s ministry is to those often called The Last, The Lost, and; The Least. Mike has worked with some top music artists and has an active interest in film. He is also an inductee into the International Blues Hall of Fame as a Great Blues Musician from the State of Kansas. He is available for speaking on a various topics. Mike has also been in some capacity as a pastor at various churches over the years. Thus the name Pastor Mike, which is a part of his Blues Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band which has been endorsed by numerous Blues Hall of Fame Members from across the world.
