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Monday, February 29, 2016
Thursday, January 14, 2016
13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi
Like most people in America, I had heard about the story of
Benghazi on the news. One can’t help but escape the story from a political
perspective. How does one determine who to believe? What is the truth? Were the
attacks about a video? Was it an organized attack? I could go on and on as it
seems the story has gone on and on. I was excited to see the movie for a simple
reason, it was directed by Action Director Michael Bay, noted for such films as
the Transformers series, Armageddon, The Rock, Bad Boys and numerous other
films I have really enjoyed. To think that he would take on this true to life
story, while at the same time, involving those who were there at the actual
events gave me reason to believe, I could likely get much more truth about the
actual events detailed in the movie than I would politicians and pundits who
had something to gain one way or the other. After watching 13 Hours, The Secret
Soldiers of Benghazi I realized, this particular piece would be as much an
editorial as it would be a review of the film.
Benghazi is a city in Libya, the home of former dictator
Muammar Gaddafi. Currently Libya is considered a fallen state with 1/3 of the
state being controlled by ISIS as of this writing. We see images from the
outset of the movie of the dysfunction within Libya as well as the fall of
Gaddafi. We also see from the outset upon the arrival of one of the military
contractors to Benghazi to be stationed at the CIA Station, approximately 1
mile from the US Consulates Office where United States Ambassador Chris Stevens
was located. We see this soldier’s connection to his fellow soldiers, as well
as to his family back home in the United States. We also see the compound where
United States Ambassador Stevens was located having at best lackadaisical protection,
low numbers of qualified men to protect the compound with not enough firepower.
We also see the involvement of insurgents and others where little background
and dependability on them was in place. It was clear that Stevens was well liked among
many of the Libyan people and that he had their best interest at heart, it was
also evident upon his death in the number of Libyan people who stood up to
protest his death. Please note, while some may consider this a spoiler, I am
assuming most reading it are well aware of the death as it has been major
political news and a point of discussion for several years now.
While 13 Hours does not delve into the political discourse
on this movie, we do see the role, and clear lack of understanding of the
situation by those in authoritative positions. I am aware that I need to be
careful with my language but the movie does a terrific job of detailing the
complete cluster f**k that was taking place in Benghazi and amongst many political
figures who oversaw the operations of a militaristic need. From the opening
scenes of 13 Hours until the closing moments, the viewer is on the edge of
their seats, questioning outright the decisions that are being made by
politicians and administrators having no understanding of the sacrifices being
made and the consequences that could result from their lack of understanding.
It is also clear that those involved with the making of this movie, including
those on the ground at the time, believe that there were organizational efforts
being made to make the attack on Consulates office and more prior to the
attacks taking place. It was not as reported, and referenced in the movie, the
result of a movie which was promoted from within the White House and others in
Washington for some weeks after the event. Now we know that lies were told in
this and that is a shame and disgrace to those who so valiantly fought to
protect American and Libyan lives who served. What is not clear as of yet, is
why those lies continued for so long and the purpose of those lies unless it
was an attempt to escape one’s own culpability in the lack of understanding the
situation. One of the terrific things Michael Bay does in his direction and screenwriter, Chuck Hogan who based the screenplay off of the book written by Mitchell Zuckoff, (with the collaboration of those who served and fought during the events) was to tell a story where we feel for those serving and their families. The CIA Contract workers consisted of men who had extensive military training and experience from The Navy Seals, The United States Marine Corps, The United States Army Rangers and Special Forces. I was surprised at another concept that was included in a movie, dealing with such intense scenes and horrific terrifying experiences, that is, the use of humor. That comes about and is a tribute to the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Services. Their humor and the way they look at the battles and conflicts they are engaged in when their life is on the line shows something about their fortitude. It also shows though that one of the only ways to get through the battles they face, knowing that they could and in some cases likely will die while thinking of their families back home can only be dealt with in many ways with humor. As a result, we see what I believe to be an accurate representation of the men and women who have and do serve as well as the way they live their lives.
One of the things about 13 Hours that makes it work is the
amazing acting, filming sequences, editing, sound and more. In my opinion, this
is the best work from a Director I have always enjoyed, Michael Bay. As far as
I am concerned, with the seriousness of getting this story right, it is clearly
the best work Michael Bay has done. Not only is this his best movie, I consider
it a must for any American who truly value freedom, or for that matter anyone who
values freedom. 13 Hours shows the courage and sacrifices many make to insure the
freedom so many take for granted.
Now for another bit of editorial comment. The movie 13 Hours
is being heavily promoted in Christian circles, let me be clear about something
I seldom do in my reviews. This movie is rated ‘R’ for very good reasons. There
are graphic scenes of violence, coarse language, (as one would expect with some
military personnel.) There is also crude sexual oriented jesting. One of the
issues I had was the way this is being promoted to some extent within the
Religious, Christian Community and the encouragement of a blend of a Nationalistic
Religious movement in the promotions. I personally find that to some extent,
offensive as my faith is to my God and while I appreciate, love and value my
country, the marriage of politics and faith often results in a compromise of
faith, at least in my observations. This isn’t just a phenomenon amongst the
Religious Right but also amongst those who have Leftist positions. That isn’t
to negate the importance of this movie, it is to say however, that one needs to
draw clear distinctions between the responsibilities of the follower of Jesus
and the responsibilities of those in Government and that of Nations.
Individuals like myself who considers myself a follower of Jesus should also be
concerned when those responsibilities clash or are not fairly and honestly
represented. That concern should certainly come about when politicians and
others are less than honest in their reasoning and responses that include
dishonesty.
I have friends on both extreme sides of the political aisle,
that said, the issues that occurred in Benghazi should be addressed and looked
at in a fair and honest way. This movie cannot be ignored, it is in many ways,
more than just a movie. When it comes to those who serve on the front lines
protecting our freedoms, whether they be to dissent, free-speech, practice of
faith, or even disagreements, I would say, "Make a point to see it
because, 'it matters,' and will matter to those in the future, serving in harm’s
way as to who their Commander and Chief is. It is in the area of politicians making
decisions that impact the lives of those serving be they Christian, Muslim,
Atheist, Red, Black or White and those they are called to protect that we see
the great failures of Benghazi and understand, this is more than just one
political side against another, it is a matter of doing what is right and in
the best interest of all people. Those who gave their lives trying to protect the
Compounds at Benghazi, and those serving at risk of life, bodily injury and the
impact on families left at home deserve that respect as do all of those who
have made these sacrifices.
There are moments of courage that we see represented in 13
Hours that should challenge all of us to be courageous. There are times we see
the importance of standing up for something you believe. That should of course
be done with integrity and honesty, especially if we value that which we stand
up for. We see that in 13 Hours not just amongst Americans, we see it amongst
Libyans who love their country, their faith and clearly stood up against those
making the attacks and seeking to obtain power within their country.
Unfortunately, as time progresses and moves on, it seems as if the bad guys are
winning the war in Libya, and at times, one has to wonder if they are not
winning globally. There were those in Libya during the 13 hours of the Libyan/American
Consulates Crisis that sold out to the almighty dollar. There were clearly
those who were more concerned about their own reputation than they were doing
what was necessary to protect lives. It was clear that there were those who
were so concerned with political correctness that their own political
correctness cost lives. It is also clear though, that one has to evaluate where
they stand individually, what freedoms they respect and appreciate and who they
want representing those who are on the front lines standing up for those
freedoms. We can if you will, have grandiose wonderful ideas that things will
work out and we don’t have to be involved in such decisions, decisions
involving honesty, integrity and so forth, but those grandiose ideas are often foolish
and ultimately will allow those who want to kill ever bastion of Western
Civilization to win. The question is, can we, will we be motivated to stand up
for what is right, especially when it comes time to listening to those on the front
lines fighting those battles that would seek to do harm to all of us, whatever
that conflict and battle is about?
13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi isn’t a perfect
movie. It could have delved a bit more into what causes the hatred some have
towards America, it could have answered a few more questions but in the end,
the movie is a 2 ½ hour representation of what happened during a specific time
and period. There is some background which is good, I would have just liked to
see a tad bit more. I do appreciate the reality that it does not make all
Muslim people look bad, it shows many in a favorable light and with a great
deal of respect. There are certainly enemies though, those on the ground with a
Radical faith who would kill and destroy but also, those with a Radical
political agenda who would kill and destroy. I left the theater feeling that
one enemy is just as dangerous as the other. Many will take issue with that but
it is what I felt and I believe many others felt.
This is a movie that every Freedom Loving American should
see but not just Freedom Loving American, but any soul on who values the
freedoms they have. I don’t believe it is a propaganda piece, I believe it is
instead, as accurate a representation of what actually took place as we who have
watched the news, read the stories, will get. I believe it is because those who
were there are telling their story, and 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of
Benghazi is in reality, their story but not just their story it is also the
story of the failures that took place then, and since then from a political
perspective and agenda.
Ono a scale of 1 – 10, for the near perfect movie going
experience that shows the power movies can have, I give a very deserving and
thought provoking 9 for the number of letters in the word, provoking.
To see the trailer for the movie, 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, just click on the video below, if there are problems, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m84z-GWwa58
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m84z-GWwa58
The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry. Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work. Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.
Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid
Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew
Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter
Mike Furches on Faceboook.
Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor
The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards
Click to subscribe to my blog
There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.
Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.
Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information
The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org
Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew
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Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Rise of the Guardians, 2012
I have to admit, every now and then there is a movie that
just slips by and I am not aware of it until sometime after its release. Such
is the case of the 2012 theatrical movie Rise of the Guardians. While I had seen some of the Santa images,
images I l
The first thing that surprised me was the caliber of cast in
the animated film, which included, Chris Pine as Jack Frost, Alec Baldwin as
North, or Santa, Jude Law as Pitch, Isla Fisher as Tooth or The Tooth Fairy,
and among many others, Hugh Jackman as Bunny or The Easter Bunny. All of these
did a fantastic job, especially Chris Pine and Hugh Jackman who deserve being
singled out for the emotional impact they gave to their characters.
I am pretty particular as a film reviewer. I comment on film
from a fan or movie goer perspective and one of the sad things about this film
is I truly wish I had had the gumption to see it when it was on the big screen.
As is the case with many other animated movies, this one is filled with adult
themes as well as themes and imagery that children will enjoy. I can’t recall
the last time I saw an animated film with as much message as this. I loved it
so much that my granddaughter and I sat right through it with no interruptions.
We were fascinated with the images on screen and the story that was being told.
Then the very next morning, I had to watch it again with my wife. She enjoyed
it so much that she agreed, it is a keeper to watch over and over again. Virtually
everything about this movie is nearly perfect, I can’t even find a single
aspect to be critical of, it is that good.
I know many, especially some Christians will have some
issues with the movie, that is a shame as the themes are deeply spiritual and I
believe can be used to point to a specific purpose and used as a clear allegorical
story, let me explain. There are those who have been chosen by a light in the
sky, yet they have to surrender to that light. They are to be a reflection in
many ways of the good that comes about. This reminded me of an old Barry McGuire
performance on a recording years ago on an album with The 2nd
Chapter of Acts. He speaks how followers
of Jesus are to be a reflection of the light of God’s love, like the moon if
you will, he states, “Wow I want to be a full moon.”
The characters in the story have a desire to love and bless children,
after all children are special, just like they were with Jesus who stated that,
“we must become like little children if we are going to enter the Kingdom of
Heaven. The Guardians are each characters based on lore and mythology to an
extent who help keep children happy and focused. It is in the good dreams of
the children, the faith, love and hope that they find their meaning, place and
purpose in life, of course they have to surrender, and have faith in the things
that seeks to give them those blessings.
As the story develops, there is an evil one who would
destroy all good things. He wants to bring fear and to tear people away from
all things that are good and brings purpose and life. Without giving too much
away, there is a character among the Guardians who speaks to the heart, but
never with audible words. He finds a way to enter into the lives of children to
give that hope, that dream and that purpose. Later on that character gives his
life to save the children. It appears as if all is lost, that he is dead and
gone. Later on we see the need of a savior. That character returns from the
dead to help save the world and defeat the evil one who rides on a black horse.
Do I need to say anything more about how this seems to be clear Biblical
imagery?
I found this movie fascinating and it has entered into my
must view movies during Christmas, but it is also good for Easter, that first
frost of the season or when a child places that first tooth under their pillow.
It is also good at understanding the importance of not being afraid, yes we can
and do know that evil exists but we also know there is a way to defeat that
evil and in fact, that evil has already been defeated, we just have to accept,
on faith, that there are those Guardians who protect us and have fought the
battle for us, whether they be the angels around us or a Savior named Jesus.
How good is this movie?
Quite good really, in fact, so good that I decided to write a review for
a movie made in 2012. Now if you haven’t seen it, get it, find it, watch it,
you will be glad you did, and for those who have already seen it, I am sure you
would agree with my thoughts on this movie pretty close to 100% if not a full
100%.
To see the trailer for Rise of the Guardians, Just click on the following video, if the video doesn't work, click on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPLiBxhoug0
The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry. Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work. Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.
Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid
Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew
Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter
Mike Furches on Faceboook.
Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor
The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards
Click to subscribe to my blog
There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.
Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.
Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information
The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org
Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew
Donations to The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
Personal Furches Web Site
Hollywood Jesus
Reviews With Mike
The Virtual Pew Sermons
The Virtual Pew News
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