Cloverfield

I was looking forward to the weekend, breakfast, some shopping, and a trip to see one of the most anticipated and hyped movies of the year, Cloverfield. Much of the hype was centered around the controversy of presenting images that many felt was taking advantage of the images of September 11, 2001. I don’t know if the controversy is true or not? I will say there are many images that resemble those we saw on this day. What I do know is I am fan of the television series Lost and Lost and Cloverfield producer, JJ Abrams. That said, as a result of seeing the movies preliminary trailers, I was excited.

The best way I know how to describe Cloverfield is to say it is like a bad ass Godzilla, with a twist that resembles The Blair Witch Project. The movie starts with what seems to be an official government comment that states the film was found at Central Park in New York City. Shortly after the commentary, we see what appears to be a home made film, that shows a group of friends celebrating one of their friends, Rob, who has taken a job as a Vice President of a company in Japan. Intermingled with the video we see the video being used is taped over of another video. We see a love story played out amongst the film congratulating Rob for the new job. While the action is jerky and resembling of someone actually shooting this as a home video, the viewer is drawn into the story as it develops. We don’t know what all is going on but director Matt Reeves does a great job of using this technique to tell a story, and developing characters. While not all of the principles are developed in the way I would have liked, the primary characters and story is. Not only do we get drawn into the lives of the characters, once all hell breaks loose and we see that New York City is under attack by some beast, it is as if we are there, along for the danger. Part of the reason this works is that Cloverfield don’t use well known actors in this role. As a result, we as viewers can better relate. It is as if we are watching real people, not actors.

At first, as New York comes under attack, we don’t know what is going on. There are loud explosions and earth shaking moments. The primary person shooting the video, Hud, continues shooting through everything, from the party to celebrate Rob’s new job, to the attack by the creature. There is a lot of shaky hand held footage and some not used to this type of filming, just like in The Blair Witch Project, may end up with motion sickness. While one may have issues with this, I felt it added to the enjoyment and realism of the movie. The viewer becomes a part of the movie, from moments including running with the characters, to the surprises along the way. There will be enough surprises to have you jumping out of your seat, and squeezing the hand of the person you are at the movie with if on a date. The story flows, the surprises keep your attention, and there are enough scary moments that if you have a heart condition, you might best stay home. The direction, script and everything else works about as well as it could for this roller coaster thrill ride with enough scares and moments the viewer will have to remind themselves to breathe.

As the movie developed, I thought about a passage from the Bible, John 15:13 states, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

We see this love in a various ways. While Rob realizes that he may have let the one love of his life slip away, he insists on going into the face of danger to have a chance at retrieving that love. Along the journey, several friends go along; not knowing what is ahead of them. They know they want to be with a friend, one they love. We may think these friends are crazy but one should not loose sight that these individuals genuinely love each other, and want to help each other. The horrors and dangers they face in order to be there for each other is what the movie is about. Sure there are scares and sickening things along the way but the constant theme is to press on out of finding and reestablishing love. While there are costs there is ultimately hope.

While the basics of Cloverfield seem to work, there are a lot of holes in the story. Holes surrounding what one would think are key components. What is the creature? Where does the creature come from? Why is the Creature there? And I could go on and on. I came to the conclusion that while the creature is a key part of the movie; it is really more of a sub plot than a primary plot. It actually reminded me of the movie, The Village by M. Night Shyamalan. One could take that comparison too far, but it is easy to get so focused on what we think the story is about that we likely don’t see the real story.

I was reminded of the tactics used by JJ Abrams in the television show Lost. There are many parts of the movie easy to miss if we glance away or don’t pay attention to the full picture or sounds on screen. I know part of the ending of the movie after the credits have rolled, and most people have left the theater certainly give to this tactic used by Abrams and others. I won’t give anything away, but there is a great deal of discussion about the ending of the movie. There are other scenes and aspects that fall into this. It is why I will see the movie again and I suspect others will do the same.

I would have liked to have seen another 15 – 30 minutes of Cloverfield, it was short in length. For all practical purposes the movie worked, and the hype while falling just short, still was close to being on track. I can’t guarantee a sequel or prequel, but I won’t be surprised. Without giving a spoiler, I will say if you stay until after the end of the credits, you will know why this is possible.

Cloverfield is certainly a worth while movie; it is one worth seeing if you like this kind of film. For that reason, on a scale of 1 – 10, I am taking away a 3 for the characters who appear to live and give it a satisfying 7.

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

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvNkGm8mxiM


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You 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.

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Joshua (2007)

I have to admit, I didn’t know what to expect from this movie. I had heard about how it was a cross between Rosemary’s Baby and The Omen. I don’t know if that got my hopes up or what, but frankly, outside of the quality number of special features on this DVD, I was extremely disappointed in this movie. This highly anticipated thriller directed by George Ratliff received broad ranges of reviews when released. Some presented Joshua as a thinking person’s thriller and others as a waste of time.

Joshua follows the changes in the Carin family after the birth of a daughter. This young family has a son, Joshua who is a talented protégé pianist. What transpires is enough twists and turns to keep you thinking through out the movie. As strange things happen to the family and Abby, Joshua’s mother played brilliantly by Vera Farmiga begins to develop signs of postnatal depression, we the viewer are either totally confused by the poor script development, or amazed at the hodge podge of story we see on screen. One of the things I thought of is the concept some have in a fine art museum. When some view contemporary art, some see value, some are totally confused. Enter into the story an uncle we can’t figure out, and in-laws who are strong fundamental Christians and the story goes in so many directions it becomes difficult to stay focused.

One of the interesting story lines, not nearly developed enough is the interaction between the Carin family and their in-laws. Abby is Jewish and is married to Brad, played very well by Sam Rockwell. As Abby begins to show signs of either a previous mental illness, or postnatal depression we see the involvement of Brad’s parents. Especially involved is the grandmother, Hazel, played brilliantly by Celia Weston. Hazel has issues that the children have not been baptized and is emphatic about finding ways to have Joshua become a Born Again Christian. Joshua, while seemingly responsive has other intentions. If anything is certain about this movie, Joshua is one confused little boy, confused so much so we have a hard time determining if he is a role model in an Occult sort of way, or if he is just a confused and possibly abused child. None of those questions are ever answered, and it is a script that depends on the viewer to write most of the story line with their own imagination.

There are so many weaknesses to the plot and story development it would be hard to say anything positive. If positive attributes are there, they are in the casting and acting. Sam Rockwell, Vera Farmiga, Celia Weston and young newcomer Jacob Kogan as Joshua are wonderful. The cinematography, sound, and music are also wonderful, but the story is just horrific. I was hoping to get some additional insight from the special features on the DVD, but despite a good number of special features, there is no new insight provided outside of the directors’ commentary. Even here, while I normally enjoy this feature, it was like torture having to see and hear this feature.

There are so many concepts I would have loved to see developed further. There is the apparent desire for the director to present some form of supernatural spiritual thriller. Unfortunately it never developed. From a deeply fundamentalist Christians desire to see her grandchildren converted to Christianity, even a scene in church where an apparent salvation takes place, to the difficulties between Jewish and Christian blended marriages. We see all kinds of issues addressed that could have provided some measure of thought provoking commentary, unfortunately, these themes are used as background and never seems to get on track and find a point in the plot development. While the religious themes could have provided some thought provoking questions, I was disappointed in the lack of development.

Joshua is a strange sort of movie and DVD. There are great special features, great acting, quality sound, great cinematography, but an incredibly boring, and confusing movie. I had a hard time watching and enjoying this movie. It is not a movie I can recommend, even if just renting it. That is sad because of the wasted talent displayed on screen. I sincerely hope to see more of the principals in the future, especially Vera Farmiga but I can promise you, I won’t watch this again. I guess I’m just not smart enough to see all of the things everyone else did that thought Joshua was a brilliant masterpiece. Then again, maybe my schizophrenic tendencies hadn’t set in yet.

On a scale of 1 – 10, for the terrible time I had watching it and the confusing plot lines, I give a disappointing 4, one for each of the principal actors who did their part.




To see the video trailer for Joshua, just click on the video below, if trouble, click on the following link:


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



Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

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

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

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry. Click to subscribe to my blog

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

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.com

You 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.

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

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To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

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The Bucket List

One of the first things my 18 year old son noticed as we entered the theater was he was one of the youngest ones there. Later, as the theater filled up, he was one of several less than 20 years of age. In front of me were an 85-year-old-lady and her family. I would overhear them say it was the first time she had been to a movie in years. Of course a movie featuring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman dealing with terminal illness in the later stages of life was something that would appeal to an older crowd. The direction provided by Rob Reiner and a wonderful script provided by Justin Zackham would provide a story of excellence for any age.

From the outset it was obvious this project was close to the hearts of Director Reiner and actors Freeman, and Nicholson. The production, shooting locations, music, editing and so forth brings the complete package. There is not an ounce of wasted film. Not only are we treated with these wonderful components but a script that knows exactly how to blend comedy with the pairing of Nicholson and Freeman, two of our most brilliant actors but it also knows how to bring out the drama as we see these two face death. While a serious subject matter, Reiner comes through with his best direction since the early 1990’s. We see a story we think we know the answers to from the opening narration. The twist at the end brings us back to reality and forces us to think even more about the story we have just seen.

The Bucket List starts of with two individuals facing the reality of death. Mechanic Carter Chambers played by Morgan Freeman, and Billionaire Edward Cole, played by Jack Nicholson end up sharing a hospital room. Here Reiner brings these two contrasting characters together and shows the audience that not only are there the obvious differences, such as race, social economic status, and more, but there are also similarities. While each character may not recognize the similarities at first, they build a bond and friendship that moves them to the point of trying to achieve a few of their life dreams and desires before they kick the bucket, thus the creation of the bucket list. What transpires is not only heart inspiring, but laugh out loud funny, featuring some of the best lines ever and a tear jerking conclusion that will require a Kleenex or two.

Along the journey we see a deeply spiritual man, Carter Chambers who is loyal to his wife of over 40 years. He is unapologetic about his faith, and recognizes his life will not end with his death. He shares those attributes, hopes and dreams with his new found friend Edward Cole. Unfortunately, Cole is a man of science, not of faith. He is also a man who has lost a great deal of purpose. As these two live life to the fullest, they learn to love each other, and Cole sees a sermon of living, life, and faith lived out before him.

The Bucket List is in many ways a sermon, a sermon not just for Cole, but for each of us observing this wonderful portrayal of friendship and love. The sermon starts as we see a man who loves and gives to his children be consistent in his faith and willingness to share that love with others. While we see his faith and practice in various areas, we also see the struggle of Cole. Cole while he is praying to Jesus is so caught up in his own lack of belief that he refuses to recognize his own prayers, even to the point where he states he is talking to himself.

As we see Cole struggle we see Chambers find various ways to share his faith. From various discussions about faith, Heaven, love, and hope we see Chambers unapologetic about his faith. We even see scenes where his family is praying. Unlike many religious Christians, Chambers knows when to turn off the speech, and turn on the actions. He has learned through life how to let his life be the messenger of his faith. Chambers understands the importance of letting his light shine, and let it shine he does.

Luke 11: (33) No one lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a clay pot. A lamp is put on a lampstand, so that everyone who comes into the house can see the light. (34) Your eyes are the lamp for your body. When your eyes are good, you have all the light you need. But when your eyes are bad, everything is dark. (35) So be sure that your light isn't darkness. (36) If you have light, and nothing is dark, then light will be everywhere, as when a lamp shines brightly on you.

Chambers also understands the concept of joy, while in a Buddhist Monastery Chambers shares with Cole of the importance of joy. It is in being joyful, and living a life where others find joy through your life that we can ultimately find Heaven. Cole has trouble with this, while he has found happiness, he recognizes his life has seldom, if ever given joy to others. It is here the movie takes a twist. It isn’t just the things in life that should be important to us but the people we could have and should have loved, the relationships we may have lost, or the family we may have ignored. This concept was a message in itself. A message that shows people our faith and our lives are really what matters most. We see this ultimately in Cole as he crosses off the list the item of kissing the most beautiful woman he has ever met.


There are many other lessons and sermons preached in The Bucket List. One of those is the concept of how one finds God. While Chambers is sharing this, Cole is hesitant to receive it or understand it. We see Cole struggle to the point where he ultimately understands. This particular scene could have come directly from the Bible itself.

1 Kings 19: 11-13 (11) “Go out and stand before me on the mountain,” the Lord told him. And as Elijah stood there, the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. (12) And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper. (13) When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.

And a voice said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

The truth is I loved this movie. It is one I will see again, and one I will purchase when the DVD comes out. While funny, it is also serious and moving. While entertaining, it is also deeply spiritual and thought provoking. It preaches a sermon, but not just any sermon, but one that will resonate. I was never bored, and left the theater deeply entertained. I don’t know what more I could have gotten from the experience.

On a scale of 1 – 10 for the number of items on my bucket list, a resounding and grateful 10

The following is the video Say by John Mayer from The Bucket List. Click on the video below, if the video don't work, click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZ0z86LmXBM


The following is the trailer from the movie The Bucket List. Just click on the video, if the video don't work, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OltHNarHA9A


Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

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

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

Click to visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.com

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

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

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217
Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

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The Virtual Pew
The Virtual Pew Blog
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To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

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