Reviews With Mike Furches

Monday, February 23, 2009

The Oscar's Review 2009

I haven’t done an Oscar Review in the past because I frankly didn’t care much for watching the Oscars AKA as the Academy Awards over the last few years. I would tune in of course, but I just wasn’t that interested. This year, Slumdog Millionaire gave me a movie to root for and Hugh Jackman gave me a host to want to watch so, I tuned in with intent and thought I would jot down my thoughts this year.

First, I have made it clear, I love the movies, and I have since a small child. I also love finding spiritual components to think about when watching the movies. It isn’t really that different than Jesus telling stories in the Bible known as parables. In fact, the Bible states about Jesus, “He never taught them anything without first telling them stories.” Movies today are the most popular form of story telling, and just like Jesus, if we look, we can find spiritual truths in those stories we see portrayed on the big screen. Seeing those movies is something I do quite a bit of, to watch the program known around the world as the award show honoring those stories is a celebration extraordinaire.

This year I was actually pleased with the production that was a throw back to the “Golden Age of Cinema” which featured song and dance and then some. The show started off in a terrific way with actor Hugh Jackman.

Jackman is likely the surprise for many who watched the show. He did a wonderful job and it didn’t take long for him to get off on the right foot as he did a terrific montage tribute in song and dance. Jackman may have been one of the three huge winners of the night. He was entertaining, fun to watch, full of wit, and moments of humor and intriguing commentary appropriate for the format he was in. Jackman has this likeable personality, but seeing his ability to perform in the opening segment as well as his duet and tribute with Beyonce was impressive to say the least. We saw a reminder of the “Golden Age” that was well fitting, and entertaining from a popular actor that many of us didn’t realize had the ability to pull it off.

Another winner at the Oscars was the movie Slumdog Millionaire. The winner of 8 awards from 9 different categories, (It had 2 songs in the best song category.) The winners of multiple awards including Best Director, and Best Picture this thriving, emotional movie leaves the viewer with hope, and the underdog story from the slums continues to overcome. To think this movie was almost released directly to DVD because of its inability to find funding to end up garnishing the accolades it has is amazing. In a world where multitudes of people are losing hope, we can watch a movie like this and find hope because the movie has as a main point of its theme, hope.

One of my favorite moments in the Oscar’s this year was the acceptance speech from A.R. Rahman for one of his two awards for Score and Song for Slumdog Millionaire. His acceptance speech was short in length, but deep in meaning. He simply said: “My whole life I’ve had the option of hate or love, I chose love and here I am now.” What a reminder of the importance of love, a sweet comment with a reminder to all of us that there are rewards for letting love drive our actions and lives.

Other moments that moved me and had me personally enjoying the awards this year were varied. The simplicity of the awards were pretty good and enjoyable this year, more so than in recent past years. One of the features used by the Academy was to use past presenters to announce each of the nominees. They had short speeches and would add personal moments to the nominees mention. It was a pleasure to see the emotion in the eyes of not only the presenters but those receiving the nomination. While these are actors and actresses, we forget they are real people with real emotions. To see this has always been one of the pleasing moments of this and virtually every other Oscar program.

I was also pleased to see the Jerry Lewis tribute this year. Mr. Lewis has done a lot of quality work to help “Jerry’s Kids” over the years. This award shows that many of the great stars do give back to their communities and bless in some ways those who have blessed them with a good living. Lewis looked much better than he has in the past and to see the expressions between his wife and daughter was touching. While his speech was short, he made a point to recognize his kids in his speech. He was also kind in his comments to his fans and the members of the Academy.

There were also funny moments at the Oscars, although not as many as in some past shows but the impression of Jaquim Phoenix by Ben Stiller via reminding us of the recent David Letterman appearance was spot on and really funny. What was even funnier was the crowds and audience response. There were literally tears coming from the eyes of many of the Hollywood crowd and stars.

With all of the good moments, I have to make mention for at least me, some of the disappointing moments of the awards.

While some may not think the award deserving the Supporting Actor award for the late Heath Ledger was to me very deserving. It may have been the one single award most people were looking forward to. The acceptance of the award by the family of Heath Ledger was somewhat of a let down. I mean no disrespect, but for some reason I expected more.

I was also disappointed in the presentation by Bill Maher. His comments against religion during the documentary awards announcements were in my opinion, disrespectful. He was one of the few who used the platform to push his agenda. I have a love hate respect for Maher, and he lost more respect from me. Of course, I don’t think he cares what I think. I think the comment regarding choosing to love or hate by Rahman of Slumdog Millionaire is something Maher could learn from.

There was another moment where politics worked its way into the presentation that was with the award for Best Actor given to Sean Penn. Penn love him or hate him, has been outspoken about his political views for some time. I am not as offended at that as many may be because at least Penn chooses to act on his convictions rather than just talk about them but I have to admit, I wasn’t pulling for this former Ridgemont High student. I was pulling for Mickey Rourke who really was the comeback kid this year. So my disappointment here wasn’t so much against Penn’s political commentary, as it was I wanted Rourke to win the award.

The biggest disappointment of the Awards may have gone unnoticed by some, but it had me in my recliner, yelling at the producers and directors of the television program. One of my favorite moments of each Oscar presentation is the tribute paid to those who have died during the previous year. This year, I thought the formula, the camera angels, was not only disrespectful to those who had died, but disrespectful to the viewer. I have a large screen television, but the cut backs, the angles prevented us from seeing many of the individuals who had died. I had seen enough of the staging during the performance; I didn’t really care to see more of it during this segment while seeing a small screen on my screen paying supposed tribute to these great Hollywood elite. I would hope, in the future, when showing the tribute segment, let us see a front on view of those who have passed on, just show the full screen to us the viewers at home. I would like to see honor given those individuals and an awareness of their work presented in a way that those who may not have known them, can at least read and see their names to maybe encourage some of them to go out and check the work these individuals had given to us in the past.

I must also make mention of my happiest moment during the Oscar presentation, that is the announcement of Slumdog Millionaire as the best picture of the year. I simply loved this movie and hope the award inspires others to see it. For many, it is likely to enforce the view I have, that movies can inspire hope. Slumdog Millionaire may very well be the movie that inspires people to not give up in this time of discomfort for many on our planet.

There was another big winner this year. While the critics can find reason to be critical, I believe most who watched the Oscars enjoyed the show, it is therefore, the viewer who also won. In a time when we worry about jobs, the economy, war and much more, it is important to find moments of escapism. Sometimes that escapism can inspire us, move us, touch us, and help us know more about God, through story. Whether the commentary of one critical of religion, one who comments on the concepts of love and its power over hate, or a sincere aspect of speaking out for another, whether we appreciate it or not, movies can touch us, and the Oscars this year reminded us of how powerfully they can touch us.

The following is the video for the winner of the best song award, Jai Ho. Click on the video to watch, or if the video don't appear, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEsMNODj8YU

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Thursday, February 19, 2009

Jack Bauer and 24's Redemption

I have to admit, come Monday nights, at 9 PM Eastern, and 8 PM Central, you can’t reach me via telephone, so the lesson here is, don’t even try. On Monday nights my wife and I watch my favorite television show 24. The exploits of Jack Bauer played by Kiefer Sutherland has kept me captive for years now. I enjoy 24 so much that I always purchase the DVD season episodes when released. I got hooked when watching season 1 on DVD and found myself involved in a marathon of watching every episode in less than 2 days.

24 is written and directed by some of the best in television, not just television but all of film. This season started off somewhat different as it started as a movie episode titled Redemption. The prequel to this season picked up after season 6.

Jack, in the turmoil that has engulfed CTU has him going to Africa to the fictional country of Sangala. While there, he becomes involved in an upheaval and revolt against the countries current political leaders. In 24 Redemption Jack is staying with and helping a Children’s mission. When approached with conflict and the children being taken into slavery to fight in that countries civil war Jack resorts back to his old ways to provide safety and escape for the children.

In the spirit of the movie, Blood Diamonds and the powerful documentary, Invisible Children, 24 Redemption takes a powerful look at how children around the world are exploited. We see children taking up arms, trained for war, and used as tools to satisfy the lusts and desires of those seeking power. 24 Redemption is powerful because it opens the eyes of a viewing public who may not be aware of these types of activities. This particular episode holds the viewer captive and is directed in such a way that we find ourselves challenged as to the conditions of these children and our lack of action or knowledge. My wife and I were so moved that we decided to go through Compassion International and support a little girl through their program to help provide escape from the horror she faces on a day to day bases. 24 Redemption is a movie that used television to have a dramatic impact. A television program can do more than entertain; it can address important social issues.

In 24 Redemption, we see Jack go through a form of Redemption as he realizes the need of his own character to serve others. He has become consumed in himself and quickly realizes that the use of his talents and gifts has to be used for the right reason. Sutherland in his portrayal of Jack Bauer plays the character as few could. Going through his own issues in life for Sutherland plays a part that likely resembles his own search for meaning. In the character of Jack Bauer, we can learn as hopefully he has that life is sometimes about doing right. This concept not only complicates the story line we are used to in 24, it caused at least this one viewer to be drawn even more into the characters. We see a different Jack in 24 Redemption, it is a Jack that we hopefully see more of in the future.

There are many aspects of giving up ones life to save others illustrated in 24 Redemption. We see religion portrayed in a loving, caring way, especially towards innocent children. This episode shows the need to be aware of injustices on our planet, even if using a fictional country; the issues addressed are real. I was reminded of the Bible verse that states, how can we say we love God, if we see someone in need, have the means to provide for them and don’t? Thankfully movies like 24 Redemption challenges us and makes us aware of these issues.

24 the television series is in full swing now. The same captivating, cliff hanger stories continue as expected. The viewer is confronted with issues like torture, terrorism, political espionage, and more. We learn that the answers we seek in life are not always as easy as we think. Jack Bauer is the driving force for those issues and questions, but with Jack, as we see in 24 Redemption, we see a struggle with doing what is right. That is a struggle we are all confronted with, and it is a journey that keeps life just as exciting as a cliff-hanger episode of 24 if we allow.

The following is the official trailer for the television movie now available on DVD. If the video don't appear, just click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STYKG8KVqF4

The following video has interviews with the cast about Redemption

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnZkPC-I1ng

Monday, February 16, 2009

The Velveteen Rabbit

I have to admit, while growing up I followed Michael Landon Sr. and his work. I really liked and admired him. I felt that after his death we had all lost something valuable. Society needed someone to drive home the concept of family. I was cautious when his son Michael Landon Jr. came onto the scene and appeared to take over his fathers’ vision and work. Despite the caution, I have been pleased with his efforts, and after seeing The Velveteen Rabbit which Michael Landon Jr. wrote, and directed, I have to say, I think his father would have been so proud of what his son is doing. Landon Jr. is keeping the family movie, alive with integrity and quality. For me, The Velveteen Rabbit is without question, one of the year’s big surprises.

Sometimes I get advance screeners worth watching, and others that are a waste of time. When getting The Velveteen Rabbit, I was expecting a hokey animation story done trying to capitalize off a popular story. What I got was a live action / animation blend with a very good story that was extremely entertaining and very moving emotionally. Michael Landon Jr. has directed and provided a movie sure to surprise many who see it. It is so good that I would have liked to have seen wide spread commercial theatrical release. The timing of the release of the movie is the only thing I personally question. This classic story, with a strong Christmas theme is beautiful. It isn’t the first time a potential Christmas Classic has been released outside of the Christmas season, can anyone say, It’s a Wonderful Life. While this surely won’t become as big as that movie, few will, it is destined, at least in my house, to be a regular Christmas viewing.

The first thing I noticed about The Velveteen Rabbit is the cast. While the part of Mom played by Jane Seymour is minimal we actually see quite substantive roles given by Tom Skerritt who plays Horse, and Ellen Burstyn who plays the part of Swan. Between these three we have numerous awards from Emmy’s to Oscar’s. All give credence to their craft in their contribution to the animated segments in the film. The quality doesn’t stop there in the acting. I was also quite impressed with the young boy Toby played by Matthew Harbour. This youngster gives depth to his part, and is a young man the viewer finds themselves caring for. He is surrounded by other notables like Kevin Jubinville who plays Toby’s father, John, his grandmother Ellen played Una Kay also provides wonderful depth as Toby’s grandmother. You find yourself disliking her, and then growing with her character as her character grows. Another wonderful portrayal is by Michael Sinelnkoff who plays the Butler. While having minimal screen time, he provides a voice of reason in this fascinating and addictive story.

I was concerned about the blending of animation with live action, but Landon does a very good job of blending the two to where it is not a distraction. The quality editing, direction, cinematography and periodic costuming is done very nicely and given the detail expected in a major theatrical release. I was impressed with other components of the film often neglected. The quality of sound and lighting were very well done. These are things I seldom make mention of but the effort here is worthy.

The story develops as Toby’s dad, takes him to spend the Christmas Holidays with his grandmother. Toby has lost the joy of family in the death of his mother and his father has never adjusted. Instead of giving Toby the time he needs, he isolates him and spends most of his time at work. This old tale as portrayed in the song Cats in the Cradle by Harry Chapin, is a reminder of not only fathers but adults who take time away from their children’s lives. Unfortunately for Toby, just like many other children, the adult presence with the child is limited because there is just too much going on for adults to spend time with children. In fact, Toby hasn’t even learned the most basic of skills for a boy, how to throw a ball.

While at his grandmothers, Toby finds a magic attic and it is here that life lessons occur, for Toby but also the viewer if they allow. Toby befriends a stuffed rabbit, and while shedding a tear, the rabbit comes to life and Toby discovers an animated world where he discovers love. It is here that children, in their imaginations discover the things God intended for them, often in the little things we can even learn in the faith of a child.

My son loved the television star, Lassie. I used to watch Lassie every Sunday night on television when I was young. My son, Nathan took it a step further, he would go around for what seemed like hours pretending to be Lassie, never speaking but barking, and doing all of the things Lassie did. I could have, like other parents, ignored this, but my wife quickly taught me this was okay, and to play along. We did, and I still treasure the moments of having Lassie follow me around on all fours as I would give her a treat for being such a good dog. While some think these things were crazy, we knew God gave the imagination of a child to the children for a reason. The treasured moments of spending that time with my own children, who are now both grown, is something that built relationship, it was showing each other love. The Velveteen Rabbit takes this concept of loving and being there for your children to a level that not only children will appreciate, but so will the adult audience.

As Toby goes through his journey, many things happen. We see the results of what occurs when a parent is too busy to provide these moments. The Velveteen Rabbit also shows the joy that occurs when these moments are allowed to occur. We see transformation in the lives of the live action characters, but also in the lives of the animated characters. There is one tragic scene where we learn that no greater love has any toy than to give up their life for a boy. This is an obvious lesson on the passage from the Bible that talks about loving each other.

There are other lessons and examples; we see an illustration of the great Michelangelo art, The Hand of God where we see God reaching down to touch humanity. The touch of a loving parent can resemble in some ways the touch from God. We see illustrations that loving another are worth the risk and when giving love to others we discover life. There is a concept presented that love makes us real but a beautiful reminder that it’s not love that makes us real, it is loving that makes us real. Learning to love means simple things like playing ball together, teaching a child how to hold a bat, knit a darn, it involves spending time with each other, doing things together.

Just as in real life, there are few excuses. We have all had lessons in our life; we know the joys, hurts, pains, and wants. We have people who still get it to give us reminders. One example of this in The Velveteen Rabbit is Neil, a Christmas tree salesman. While a small part, it gives illustrations and lessons to this point. We all have those reminders, unfortunately, it often takes a tragedy, or potential tragedy, to bring us back to a place of understanding, a place of, if you will, loving.

The Velveteen Rabbit is a Chronicles of Narnia type of tale filled with magic and allegory. It is a movie that touches all audiences, not just children, but the child buried in each person. It is those types of lessons where we can find joy and escape the doldrums that hold us down. Children still have the magic if we allow it to happen and don’t squelch it. The magic can be contagious if we as adults join in the fun, join in the journey with our children.

I loved the Velveteen Rabbit because it is a wonderful reminder of loving others and being a parent. My wife, a teacher of over 30 years now, and I both unexpectedly teared up while watching this film. I didn’t expect this movie to do that for me. It was more than joy though, it was a life lesson I wish I would have had some years ago to remind me of my own needs. I can’t help but think, Michael Landon Sr. is looking down from Heaven, realizing, and knowing that his son is carrying on his vision and dream. I expect he is smiling and for those who have longed for quality family entertainment, seeing this movie will have you smiling as well.

While not a perfect movie, The Velveteen Rabbit is an exceptional movie. On a scale of 1 – 10, for the 9 letters in the word Christmas, minus a little boy named Toby, I give a very deserving and enjoyable 8.

To visit the official website for The Velveteen Rabbit movie click here.

To see the trailer for the movie, just double click on the video below, if the video don't appear, just click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq0TVEQIaVA

Friday, February 6, 2009

Lord Save Us From Your Followers

I am approaching 50 years of age, I was once a tough guy, at least some think so. Many when looking at me now with the goatee, long hair, seem to think I still am, yet, the older I get, the more I search for an understanding of God, Spirituality, and discovering the place I need to be according to my understanding of that search, the more emotional I find myself being when I find either new answers that will take me in a new direction, or in obtaining reassurance that I am on the right path to where I need to be going. One of the beautiful things about this journey is that sometimes, in fact, more often than I really deserve, I get to see movies, read books, hear music that I believe God has touched to help me in that understanding. It isn’t always something super spiritual; in fact, one of the first instances of this in my life that had a dramatic impact was the movie The Prince of Tides which I write about in my book, The Keystone Kid. There are other times though, times God uses something with spiritual intent to point me to spiritual conclusions. Sometimes when this happens, that formerly big tough guy gets emotional; such was the case this morning after finishing my viewing of the new, sure to be controversial documentary, “Lord Save Us From Your Followers, The Movement Edition, Why Is The Gospel Of Love Dividing America?” I was so moved by knowing that I am on the right journey, have come to some of the right conclusions, that I found myself weeping. It wasn’t so much for me, I would say it was for the hurt I feel for the Church that has forgotten about the mission of Jesus, and especially those who have been hurt. There was also tears for those that get it and are being Jesus to a hurting world.

This film by Dan Merchant should be required viewing and discussion for any church. The good thing is that some churches will take up this task; the sad thing is, most churches, will ignore the challenge. It is a shame; it is why the Church as perceived by many has become more like the whore of Hosea than a beautiful bride that loves her husband, Jesus Christ.

Lord Save Us From Your Followers, (LSUFYF), is a documentary exploration that explores the Church, specifically in America. In the exploration we see not only the perception of the church from various segments of society, but also how many within the Church, and the political influence outside of the Church views themselves. It is a road journey of sorts where discussion takes place not only on the streets of various cities, but with certain public individuals who have offered public perspectives. From Al Frankin, to Ann Coulter, and from Bono of U2 to Anthony Campolo, and numerous other views are presented and challenged. The movie while quoting and using the Bible at various points depends largely on common sense. The majority of the documentary actually takes on the exploration of ideas of how the Church and Christianity would be viewed if they did one simple thing, act like Jesus. The effects, the challenges that come about are not only eye opening; they are concepts that are effective. We see the effectiveness of this approach in various places it seems the Church has been at war with, from the media to gay community and from the public sector to the homeless and poor. We see this by practical applications of trial and error by the makers of the film, and we see it from the reality of the impact of Para church organizations like World Vision in their work with the poor in Ethiopia. One of the amazing points in showing the power of being like Jesus comes not at the mouths of the religious, but those who are outside of the institutional Church, or mainstream Christianity. It is here, that if those individual people who make up the Church, choose to listen, and learn, a great deal of effective work can be done. Now don’t get me wrong, one of the reasons I loved this movie is it isn’t that we do these things to make projects out of people, we do it because we love them, just as Jesus loved them.

One of the things I think some within Christianity and the Church will become critical of is that the movie doesn’t address the “salvation” concepts required by some within Christian circles. On this point I would simply state, I don’t believe that is the purpose of the film. In the Bible Jesus tells the story about one who is planting or sowing seeds. Some fall on good ground, some bad ground, there are some that come and help some along to grow and be effective and some, well some seeds die. It all starts with the concept of planting seeds or sowing seeds, it is a concept that I believe the Church, and many with Christianity have forgotten about. It is an approach that drives the work I am involved in, it is an approach that many find fault in. I love this movie though because it addresses the idea that the building of relationship, the showing of unconditional love, of universal acceptance of the person, compassion for their hurts, is a starting point of showing a person the very love that Jesus showed them. It is in taking on the characteristics of Jesus that we genuinely learn to love others to the point that this love ultimately becomes a natural part of our persona. Jesus loved and hurt all people, so should we, including the child dying of aids, the hurting in a hurricane devastated city, the homeless on the street, even those we may disagree with, the Democrat, the Republican, the Homosexual, and the Ultra Conservative. Love is patient, love is kind, love is…, well love is many things, but it is seldom confrontational, angry, hateful, and disrespecting.

One of the challenges presented in LSUFYF is the need for open, respectful dialog with persons we may disagree with. The need to get to know and understand each other is one of the things the documentary helps illustrate many Christians do a poor job of. For those of us who call ourselves followers of Jesus or Christian, we think we have all of the answers, yet we don’t understand those we are communicating with. In theological terms, getting to know people, showing people you love them where they are at is a concept we know Jesus illustrated, it is a concept called incarnation. Despite what some contemporary, popular Churches, Doctrines, Street Preachers, Bible Thumpers, may tell you, Jesus illustrated by how he led his life the methods we should use. Followers of Jesus understand what it means to love even those they may hate, what does this say about our ability to love those we simply disagree with on various points? While there is certainly the need for talking about the specifics of what Jesus said, that discussion has to start with an area of respect and understanding. Unfortunately, many who call themselves Christian, represent in name all of us who say we follow Jesus. The consequences of that has been devastating and in many ways, it is likely those individuals who are so dogmatic in their need to “confront sin,” have damaged the possibility of some people rejecting Jesus based solely on the behaviors and actions of those most outspoken who have proclaimed their actions was because of Jesus. When religious leaders call for the assassination of political leaders, or political leaders say we should kill all of the godless in a nation and make that nation a Christian nation, is it any wonder people are confused? When Jesus says to love your enemy, to pray for those that would do you harm, where does his followers get off saying and doing the exact opposite? When we do, is it any wonder people are confused? When taking these questions, our methods, and our results seriously, is it any wonder that real followers of Jesus would say about many in Christianity, Lord Save Us From Your Followers?

The following is a 10 minute sample of the film, double click on the video to watch, if the video don't appear, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbPnWPOhL04

To visit the web site, and order the film or obtain more information, click the following link, oh yea, and tell them that Mike Furches from Hollywood Jesus and The Virtual Pew sent you.

http://www.lordsaveusthemovie.com/

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Monday, January 26, 2009

Jesus Fish The Movie

In the sport of wrestling, the real sport, not the fake male soap opera we see on cable access, there is the wrestler they call the fish. A fish is usually a push over who don’t do much more than lay on his back and flop around like a fish out of water. The bottom line, it isn’t a pretty sight and that fish isn’t given much respect. Then there is the symbol of the fish that used in the early first century that gave indication in a troubled world that one was a Christian. This was a secret sign as being a Christian in those days could easily have led to persecution and ultimately, death. That fish had a lot of respect as it represented a concept of love, dedication, service, compassion and much more. That fish represented rebellion against the norm as it was a counter movement to religion that sought to influence Rome and more about the willingness to follow the teachings and lifestyle of Jesus.

Unfortunately, the fish of early Christianity has become more like the wrestling fish. We still see that fish made in silver, gold, and platinum designs to place on necklaces, signs, magnets on cars and even expensive chocolate candies. We even see what I call the Christian fish wars. You have likely seen those wars, a plain fish on a car or bumper sticker, one with the Greek letters IXOYE in the center, or a fish with Darwin written inside the body of the fish, maybe even a fish with Darwin eating another plain fish, and there is the plain fish eating the Darwin fish, and before long we could even see a plain fish being eaten by a Darwin Fish, that is also being eaten by another plain fish. The fish has become an icon of many within the “Christian” community, not to mention an item for some to profit on, yet, I can’t help but wonder if the original intent of the fish, the original recognition of what that fish stood for has been lost along the way. The Jesus that ripped the money changers who sought to make a profit from selling in the temple, that had so much to say in contrast with the religious community seems so distant from what many within mainstream Christianity seem to represent.

I first heard about the independent movie Jesus Fish when getting a friends request at MySpace and a request to review the film. I was somewhat hesitant as I often have both bad and good movies sent to me for review. I love independent movies, but I am honest. If there is something about a movie I don’t like, I mention it, if there is something I like I also mention it. I will admit, I am a little lax on independent films because they generally don’t have the budgets of larger companies. There are the rare exceptions where you see independent film come through, films like Reversal a father son love story that uses wrestling as a backdrop is a phenomenal film, and then there are films like the current Slumdog Millionaire which ultimately gets international distribution and studio backing. But there is a different class of film within the independent media, movies where regular folk, with a love of movies, decide to make a movie. Such is the movie Jesus Fish, a movie that is truly an independent film. It is also a movie with something to say, something many will hate, many will be critical of, and in fact, many Christians will totally misunderstand, and instead of offering a view of understanding, many will offer misguided judgment.

Let me be among the first to say, Jesus Fish, in many ways, is without a doubt, a Christian oriented film, albeit one with sexual innuendo, drug usage, language, violence and all of the other things that involves real life. The difference in Jesus Fish though is it looks at the reality of these things that exist in life that most Christians, including, parents, pastors, and others ignore. It is for that reason, among others, despite the big budget, many “Christian” movies that stink. Their lack of concern towards originality and realism is one reason Jesus Fish excels in story, and at provoking thought.

Jesus Fish, filmed in Tulsa Oklahoma tells a terrific story. I lived in the Religious Mecca of Tulsa and understand why it is some could so easily become disillusioned at what they perceive the church to be. While not specifically stating this in the film, it is obvious at least in the eyes of this one reviewer that this has helped in the development of ideas that come through the story. My understanding of the idea presented in many places with such deep roots in religion helped me understand, the judgment from some within the religious and non religious community. It inspired me to perform a song in Tulsa that garnished some publicity in the Tulsa World, (The cities newspaper). The song, once banned was titled Reverend Silk and was originally written and recorded by The Rob Cassels Band which I was a part of at the time. I also wrote another song called Route 66 that stated, “Stopped in Tulsa, God was that you? I know it’s not now I’m in Depew.” The concept is that things in Tulsa seemed so Christian on the surface, yet, the reality is that as is the case so often in other places, the actions of many of the religious community is far from the heart of Jesus. Depew is a small town a few miles outside Tulsa; it doesn’t take long to understand that much of what is seen in places like Tulsa, (a metaphor for Christianity) don’t take long to figure out. It doesn’t always represent the things of God.

Jesus Fish attacks much of the hypocrisy within the church in an in your face, confrontational, direct, and even insulting way. It is sure to offend many because we see saints as nothing more than sinners in disguise, and for many, not much of a disguise. Jesus Fish follows various characters from a local church Bible study. We see and observe the lives of various characters through a series of difficult circumstances. In the process, I was impressed at not just the story, but some of the quality acting. I have appreciated the talent in the Tulsa area in the past, and was not surprised at the movies ability to find quality actors to portray the roles in the film. Don’t get me wrong, this is not a “terrific” ensemble cast; there are frankly some actors that are clearly armatures playing their parts, but there are others that are actually quite exceptional, and so much so that I would hope they would be given opportunity in future roles. One such actor that impressed me a great deal was Rob Harris.

There is also a very well developed story line here and the editing is quite nice. I understand why the soundtrack used music I was not familiar with, and why the sound isn’t the best, but I forgave that because of the independent nature of the film and Jesus Fish does make the effort to give us decent quality in these areas within the restraint of their budget. Independent films seem to constantly have trouble with things like sound and lighting, and they just don’t have the money to get the well known songs placed legally in their final product. Jesus Fish suffers from some of those very typical problems. Something has to be said though regarding the direction provided the film. It keeps the movie flowing, and keeps the story and ideas popping. It was actually quite exceptional for an independent film. I saw the movie twice within 24 hours, asking myself each time what it was the movie was trying to drive home. Not in a questioning or poor way, but in a way that caused me to think about the contextual aspects of the story. It is quite simply a thought provoking movie that will have you thinking long after the movie is over, not in a confusing way, but a way that has one reflecting on things like life and faith.

Jesus Fish does something I believe to be quite spiritual, and frankly, refreshing. It caused me to reflect, how do I, as a follower of Jesus, represent him? I was also reassured, that I am not alone in knowing that bad things sometimes happens to even the most spiritual of people. It is one of the things many will make notice of; there are characters who despite their failures, and life experiences, question, and search for what I would call an authentic faith. Unfortunately, there are also those who play the game and make it difficult not just for those who would seek to find truth, but also those who are watching, and warning others, to “watch out for the Jesus fish.”

Now don’t take me wrong, Jesus Fish is a movie that will offend many Christians. In the first 5 minutes of the film, there is a scene of what some will call blasphemy. Unfortunately many of those making the judgment will stop watching the film here at this point. They won’t watch the remainder of the film to see how wrong their assessment is. Jesus Fish presents their story and perceptions in a more real, honest, confrontational way than I have seen in recent memory. It does so in a way where one sees the hypocrisy of many. Even here though, Jesus Fish offers a measure of hope, from a scene when one young woman recognizes that life sometimes sucks, to a scene where a character in an Easter Play goes out of character to share a powerful message of truth, those messages are there, if one will only be listening to the still quite whispers that clearly shows the true nature of God, as opposed to the self serving characteristics that have unfortunately polluted many.

I am hoping that at some point, in some way, Jesus Fish gets the distribution it deserves, because it does deserve to be seen. There are multitudes of people searching for spiritual truth who will see through the criticisms many within the religious community will hand out towards this film. For many of those, if given the opportunity, they will be challenged to think about not only faith, but their own life in relation to faith. That is a good thing, a great starting place, and a place I hope many journeys on. At that point, I know after their brief visit to Tulsa, they as well would realize, that wasn’t God they saw. It may take a few miles on the journey to realize it wasn’t God but that doesn’t mean God don’t exist, doesn’t mean he can’t be found, but he won’t be found in the ongoing hypocrisy and pretentious attitudes that exist within so many in the religious community. God will be found in the authentic search for faith that comes through the difficult times and places where we sometimes think life can’t go on. The times of hurting, conflict, tears, and pain that seem to indicate there is little or no love available. It is then, that if we allow, we can experience the ultimate love of God, we can see the miracles that can come about, and sometimes along the journey we realize there are casualties, but in time, if honest, we may find what we are looking for, even in a movie some will be quick to judge, and others quick to condemn. As for me, I’m glad I gave it the time, because now, some two weeks later, I am still thinking about it and for a little independent film out of Tulsa that is quite impressive. I have seen big budget films that haven’t accomplished that. That says something about this movie, now for those searching, I would also agree, “Watch out for the Jesus Fish.”

The Following is the official trailer for the movie Jesus Fish.

Warning to some, the videos included here may contain material which you find offensive.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VvYGlDKAGM

Now I must warn you, the following trailer is an extention of the release trailer with an additional "white scene." I will likely lose friends at MySpace and Facebook for posting this in my review. Rest assured, it will be offensive, and it is a 'R' rated scene. It is also not what you think it is, so beware of being critical when you don't know the full context of what the scene is about. It does give an illustration though, this is far, far, far, from your "typical Christian movie."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVQc-2iA1Pw

Monday, January 12, 2009

Slumdog Millionaire

I had been wanting to see Slumdog Millionaire since hearing of the premise based on the book Q & A by Vikas Swarup. The movie is essentially the story of a young man who grows up in the slums of India, falls in love with a girl, and realizes the opportunity to get back with her after a series of tragic events by appearing on the Indian Television Program, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. With the success of the television program in America, and the reality that many wonderful movies have come from India in recent years, I couldn’t pass up the temptation to see this movie. Slumdog Millionaire is a movie that is catching steam and with recent accomplishments at the Golden Globe Awards, a movie that may get serious Oscar consideration, as it should. Hopefully beyond that, it starts to get into more movie theaters for patrons to see.

I was somewhat upset going into the movie as a movie theater employee refused to let my sons girlfriend into the movie, despite her being 17 and with us. I gave the employee at the Warren Cinemas in Wichita the benefit of the doubt, as my son and his girlfriend went off to a local establishment nearby while my wife and I went to see the movie. After seeing the powerful film on screen, one of my first thoughts was a thought of anger, the MPAA rates, terrible films that glorify sex, violence and more PG-13 and here was a movie rated R that refused entry to for a 17 year old with adults. A movie that has more potential to get the self gratifying, selfish attitude of many in America to consider the realities of the harsh world we live in. There has to be something done at some point to get people to realize the overall redeeming value of a movie beyond the rating.

Whew, I got that off my chest, but now about the movie. Danny Boyle is a terrific director who just won the Golden Globe for direction for this film. To understand the talent of Boyle you have to consider that he is the same person who directed films such as Trainspotting, A Life Less Ordinary, and the terrific zombie style film, 28 Days Later. Slumdog Millionaire is a tale much different than any of these stories, and the diversity and talent of Boyle shines through in what may simply be one of the best directed films and efforts at storytelling in some time.

In many ways, Slumdog Millionaire is a terrific effort of storytelling. We follow the lives of three children to adulthood and the tragedy of growing up poor in India. Two brothers, Jamal played by Dev Patel, his older brother, Salim, played by Madhur Mittal, and Latika, played by Fredia Pinto. We follow these three primarily through a series of flashbacks and via three stages of life where the primary characters are played by other cast members from childhood, to youth, to young adults. The horror, the tragedy displayed throughout the film should have the viewer considering the plight of the poor, but more than this, we eventually come to an extremely satisfying conclusion where we see the power of hope, although we see that the hope one has isn’t based on whether or not one finds satisfaction in wealth, but whether or not one finds love.

I must comment on several components of this film, from its direction to acting, editing, and soundtrack it is a near perfect film. Not only does it in my opinion address the reality of the poor in the world, thus making fantastic social commentary, but it finds in a way to captivate the audience with beautiful storytelling, laced with terrific sound and song, and a story that is terrifically entertaining. In the two hour movie I was never bored, not an instant, not a second, I didn’t want the movie to end it was so good, but it does end, and after looking back on it, it ends in a way that transforms many in the audience of the things that are really important. Faith, Hope and Love!

I can think of a passage from the Bible this movie drove home. 1st Corinthians 13:13 states; “For now there are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love.”

While there is truth here, there is also truth we can learn regarding the faith and hope love can bring, and the inspiration it provides others. Slumdog Millionaire in a beautiful way, also reminded me of the story of Cane and Abel from the Bible. Slumdog Millionare also shows the power one can have when they exercise faith and live life as if there is purpose, a life driven by love, focused on love despite heartache, difficulty, terror, and at times resembling Hell on Earth. We see how one can conquer adversity, even coming at the hands of one who is supposed to love, we see the horror of hate, even when it comes at the hands of religion. We see it all, but ultimately, we see the power of love and the ability of that love to delver faith and hope to the multitudes around them.

I loved virtually everything about this film. It was a rare gem where I expected a great deal, and it delivered beyond my lofty expectations. I will see it again, no ifs ands or buts about it. Slumdog Millionaire deserves an even larger audience than it is getting. It is a film that does everything a film is supposed to. I am fairly confident that most will be glad they went to see this movie if they in fact make that decision.

How good is it, well it swept all 4 categories in the Golden Globes it was nominated for including, Best Drama, Best Director, Best Original Score, and Best Screenplay. For a little known film that a lot of people haven’t heard about, we can see that even when it comes to awards, the underdog, the unknown, the orphan of the movie world can still win, the inspiration continues.

On a scale of 1 – 10, while this is not the most perfect movie you will ever see, it is pretty close, so, for each of the actors that played the primary three characters in the film, plus the obnoxiously evil host of the millionaire, (not Regis or Meredith) I give a very deserving 10.

To see the trailer for the movie, Slumdog Millionaire click on the following video, if the video don't appear, just click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIzbwV7on6Q

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

The Dirty Gospel of Reverend Vince Anderson

I was recently asked by a reporter from a popular New York City publication about my thoughts regarding one of my MySpace friends, Vince. Well I had to respond back, “uhhhhmmmmm excuse me, but I have a number of friends named Vince, which Vince are you asking about?” She quickly replied, “The Reverend Vince Anderson.” Well to say the least, I got this great big smile on my face. You see one of my favorite folks at MySpace I have gotten to know, even if only a little, is the Reverend Vince Anderson.

Reverend Vince Anderson you see is an icon in the Brooklyn New York area. He is an assistant pastor at The Revolution Church in NYC. His record label is titled, Dirty Gospel, which is what he calls his style of music. Reverend Vince has four records on that label, which I regret to say I own none, but I listen as much as possible to his music on his page, as well as his YouTube videos. I may just have to remind my wife, and children, that a Reverend Vince CD would be a most excellent Christmas present.

Now I know from the get go, a lot of people will be critical of me paying tribute to someone like Reverend Vince, but I have to tell you, the man makes me think of ways we should be sharing the message of Jesus with folks out there. He made the commitment some years ago to take that message to the bars and taverns around NYC, and over the years has been able to take that message all over the world to various places. Now his methods may be unorthodox, but for some reason, I can’t help but think that his methods bring a smile to the face of Jesus. While many Pharisees will be critical of the approach of going into bars, I know from my own experiences years ago, for those who love Jesus, for those who want to share Jesus with those who aren’t religious, there just isn’t many places better and Reverend Vince is doing a fantastic job of taking his music to the places people need to hear it the most.

While some may not like his methods, I have to ask, is getting people to think about the person of Jesus Christ have benefit? I think it does, I think that if truth be told, Reverend Vince may have gotten more people who aren’t in church to think about Jesus than most any pastor I can think of. You see, the same old methods of the church reaching out to those who aren’t in the church just don’t work. The church has this position that those who don’t know God, don’t love Jesus will come to the church while we are in the process of putting those people down, condemning them to hell and on and on. Well if you ask me, those methods of yelling at, chasing away, and so forth don’t work with dogs, they sure won’t work with people. Reverend Vince in that regard has a concept that works.

I have to tell you, I don’t care much for how the top friends and all are used at MySpace. I personally have my top friends set on random and love it as it prevents me from having to pick out my so called favorites, but ol’ Reverend Vince has his set up the old fashioned way, he has his top friends ordered. I know pride is a terrible thing, but I kind of have this sense of pride in knowing that Reverend Vince, for whatever reason, has had me on his top friends list for some time. I don’t know why that is, but it is and to tell you the truth, I kind of find it as a badge of honor. A man I respect, a man who is doing a lot of things right who understands, values, music and Jesus for some reason sees something in me. I only hope it is Jesus, I know when I look at Reverend Vince, I see a lot of Jesus. For those non religious, spiritually truth seeking folks out there, who happens to love a good measure of blues music laced with organ and horns, check him out for yourself, you will see real quick, he is different.

I have never had the honor of meeting Reverend Vince; have never had the opportunity to visit his church. I hope to someday, I know there will be things we disagree on, I also know there will be things we agree on, we will agree on a good tune laced with the blues, a good friend who many will consider a sinner, and a good savior named Jesus. In the process, we will also agree on the importance of letting people, all kinds of people, know that God does in fact love them. Our methods will likely be more similar than not, and there will likely continue to be many Christians who disagree with the approach we use, but in the long run, I know the methods work. I know they work because there are people listening, just as I am still listening to the music of Reverend Vince Anderson.

Here is the question I would ask each person reading this, are people still listening to you? Is your life, your music intriguing enough that people want to know more? There is this old fashioned, almost Pentecostal concept presented by Reverend Vince in the song, Water To Wine, the concept that “miracles don’t stop!” Yet for many who follow after Jesus, for many who seek spiritual truth it is almost as if we believe that Jesus is somehow different today and that his miracle working power of reaching those in bars, in taverns, the smoker, the toker, Jim Bean lover, sexually addicted, Atheistic, pornographic loving, three pieced suit wearing drug dealing gang banger don’t exist anymore. Well let me tell you, I disagree. Jesus and those who follow him should still be accused of being drunks, gluttons, partying, heathens because of those they hang out with. Not because we are under their influence, but because we are using the influence of Jesus of Nazareth, and his Holy Spirit to share God’s love with a world Jesus came and died for.

Jesus came to earth to give of himself and share his love; surely we can find it in ourselves to go to the places across town where the “sinners” live that need to hear that message of love and forgiveness. Now that song of life that involves sharing Jesus love might be laced with the blues, but it is concluded with a victory party that ends up in heaven. A party I can’t wait to participate in, a party that God is reminded of every time folks like Reverend Vince, Pastor Dave at Third Day in Fresno, David Bruce from Hollywood Jesus, and hopefully I and many others like Reverend Z engage in! In those moments we experience life and do the things we love. We know others can be touched if we do what we do out of love and out of obedience of doing the things Jesus told us to do. We know we have to take Jesus' message of love and salvation to all corners of the earth, not just the fancy smancy, suburbs and theaters of worship filled with gold hungry, pride seeking people in the places often called churches. God forgive us of that sin, and the sins of being critical of people like Reverend Vince who is doing, somehow, and in some ways, the very things I think Jesus would have us all doing.

I hope you enjoy some of the music of Reverend Vince Anderson.

Just click on the following videos, if the video don’t appear, just click on the provided link;

Dorothy’s Song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdsvILhLE5E

Abide With Me
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YeqGqDjBFM

Live from Black Betty’s in Brooklyn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7DaQXzfVic

Live at Black Betty’s, Water Into Wine
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3J9imfQu0Y

Dear Lunatics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3v9UyFlHoBo

Monday, February 23, 2009

The Oscar's Review 2009

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Jack Bauer and 24's Redemption

Monday, February 16, 2009

The Velveteen Rabbit

Friday, February 6, 2009

Lord Save Us From Your Followers

Monday, January 26, 2009

Jesus Fish The Movie

Monday, January 12, 2009

Slumdog Millionaire

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

The Dirty Gospel of Reverend Vince Anderson

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