Reviews With Mike Furches: 2016

Friday, August 19, 2016

Ben-Hur, 2016

There are movies that are classics, and then there are classics that will seemingly endure forever. The story of Ben Hur has been told in numerous movies and scripts dating back to 1907. The most respected version of the story is the 1959 version starring Charlton Hesston. This rendition of the film is certainly in the top 25 films of all-time by virtually every film critic and reviewer on the planet. It is for good reason Charlton Heston is outstanding and the cinematography and story, along with direction and cast is nothing short of exceptional.

So it is, justifiably so, that one would be critical from the outset at trying to explain why there would need to be a remake of this outstanding film. It would seem as if a remake would be doomed from the start from the criticism that would come about from fans of the 1959 film. I would remind folks, though, that even the 1959 film is itself, a remake of earlier versions of the story. So it is, with some understanding that I understand, the reasoning for a remake.

Ben Hur, 2016, is brought to us by producers Roma Downey and Mark Burnett among others. These two have delved into religious-themed movies in recent history, some good, some not so good and all thought provoking. So it is with the new version of Ben-Hur starring Jack Huston as Judah Ben-Hur, Toby Kebbell as his adoptive brother Messala and numerous others including Morgan Freeman as Ben-Hur rescuer and mentor Ilderim.

The story takes place in Jerusalem during the time of Christ. Ben-Hur and Messala are best friends who are like brothers. Ben-Hur believes in the way of peace while Messala understands the need to become a part of the Roman Empire. Messala ends up joining the Roman forces while Ben-Hur stays at home in Jerusalem. Many of the Jews in Jerusalem join the Zealot Movement to try and overthrow Rome, Ben-Hur believing he should befriend all people harbors a Zealot who later on brings his house under the swift and judgmental sword of Rome. As a result, tragic events happen under the eye of those in power and Ben-Hur's life long friend and brother Messala. Ben-Hur is placed into slavery aboard a warship. Later he regains his freedom but is still wanted for acts against Rome and comes under the protection of a wise mentor, Ilderim who takes him under his wing and trains him to race chariots. The story along the way is the story of Ben Hur that so many are familiar with, and this rendition stays quite true to the intent and concepts of the other films.

I have to say, there is not what I would consider any outstanding leads or bits of acting in this film. It is good but does not compare to the classic 1959 version which one can't help but think about. That said it is still told quite well with the script doing a good job at showing the influence of a young Jewish carpenter named Jesus. We see the role of Jesus in a background sort of way have an impact on Ben-Hur and the characters around him, including his wife, Esther, played by Nazanin Boniadi. We see the impact and teachings of Jesus certainly come into play in regards to the spiritual freedom he emphasized in a country that was occupied by Rome, especially so when so many Zealots and others fought for religious freedom. Whether by intent or not, the movie helps illustrate in many ways the life-changing impact of Jesus, even in a political climate that seems to be in opposition to all things related to faith. The freedom provided is an internal freedom as opposed to a political freedom. In this manner, the direction provided by Timur Bekmambetov is quite exceptional as it tells an exceptional story and weaves in quite nicely the impact of Jesus not just individuals around him, but the culture of the time.

Ben-Hur tells quite nicely a story that shows the power of redemptive change but along with that concept, the power of forgiveness. I was quite pleased, and moved at how the movie weaved in these messages, not that they haven't been told before, they have and even in an exceptional way, but the reminder of these themes is still needed in today's world, and it is in this vein that I can recommend the movie even though it is not a great movie as is the 1959 Classic, it is still a story worth watching and I believe many will see the story for the first time because it is on the big screen. Hopefully, though, it will also inspire people to go back and see the earlier versions, especially the classic 1959 version. I know it did me as I want to return to the classic to compare.

Now the special effects in this are quite incredible, especially the chariot race towards the ending of the film, many will and are talking about those scenes, but again, for me, I can't help but go back to the 1959 classic film to think about and realize, while there were some special effects and stunt actors used in that film, there was no CGI.

All in all, this is again, a good movie, that doesn't make it a classic or great movie, though, I found the first 30 minutes or so of the film quite boring, almost at times amateurish, but it picked up and the last two-thirds of the film were actually quite good and entertaining and, as the story came together, quite meaningful. I am going to recommend this movie, on the big screen for those reasons. It is a movie that revisits the themes of today's world that seem to exist in society as a constant, yet, it also shows the power of Jesus to change lives, and, the message on forgiveness and the power it can have is as relevant today as it ever was.

So on a scale of 1 - 10, while it may not seem like a great score, it is still a movie I highly recommend seeing, for the letters in Ben Hur, I give a somewhat, perplexed 6.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BmeR9GYdDU

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Friday, June 10, 2016

The Conjuring 2

One of the things I get blasted for more than anything in regards to movie reviews is my willingness to review Horror. There is no doubt, horror of all genres, is often the most misunderstood, and most unliked, especially among the Christian crowd. This is largely not true among the regular person attending movies though as is evidenced by the large box office numbers put up by Horror Films. One of the baffling concepts of this to me over the years has been the reality that most Horror Films address spiritual themes like no other genera. This is especially true in the realm of possession movies which include the influence of the Demonic within haunting types of movies whether it be possessions or poltergeist forms of a movie. The difference being a haunting can and usually does involve possessions of people or others that last over a period of over a year, and normally poltergeist types of movies lasting for no more than a few months.

The Conjuring 2 is a continuation of sorts from the initial Conjuring which involves a haunting of a home, and family and its investigation by popular researchers, Ed and Loraine Warren. The Warren's are among the only people who were not Catholic, ever recognized by the Catholic Church for paranormal investigations. This story takes place after their investigation of the popular Amityville case in the United States. After what some has said is the most researched case in history, the Warrens are called to research a family and haunting in London England, known historically as, The Enfield Haunting which involved a mother, her two daughters, and a son in a flat in London. The family begins to experience paranormal activity and the uniqueness of this story, as in real life, the family immediately goes to neighbors once the events start happening and the neighbors see and experience the same things. The family calls in the police that night who also report in their documentation of the case that they as well experienced paranormal events that were unexplainable.

One of the things that make the Conjuring 2 in some ways better than the original Conjuring is that there is better story telling. Don't get me wrong here, the Hayes Brothers, responsible for the script in both the Conjuring and Conjuring 2 did an exceptional job in the first movie, but there is much more plot development and especially character development in this story which at times is as much of a love story between the Warrens as it is a haunting experience. It is clear though the Hayes Brothers who are both unapologetically Christian, have a lot of material to work with regarding the real life Warren's and their work due to their own Christian-oriented beliefs, whether they be traditional beliefs or not. Another aspect they have to work within this film is a film that depends on more on its characters than it does its scary moments, of which it also has ample moments.

The cast in the Conjuring 2 is terrific! Patrick Wilson, (Ed Warren) and Vera Farmiga, (Loraine Warren) are both back and as terrific as ever, especially Vera Farmiga in this film, but the scene stealer for the film is Madison Wolfe who plays the part of young Janet Hodgson. It is unfortunate that this movie falls into the Summer Movie category and is a Horror Film, otherwise, this young actress, in my opinion, does such a terrific job that it would be horrific if she is not at the very least considered for numerous awards in the supporting actress category. She plays the part in such a believable way that it does nothing but adds to the intelligence behind this movie. There is also a haunting and at times, a funny sound score for the film along with terrific editing and direction by James Wan. The film has received such critical praise prior to release that there is already talk of a sequel to the film, of which there would be no problem as there are numerous stories involving Warren's research. Word is that the Hayes Brothers have already signed on for the sequel and that Wan is considering it.

One of the aspects of the film that challenged me was my thought process specific to how many Christians ignore or even go so far as to hate this type of movie, when reality is, especially in this film and with this script, faith, specific to the person of Jesus Christ is so strongly presented. We see for example the usage of the cross in some way in virtually every image in the film, yet we also see the difference between the reminder of the cross, to the use of the cross from a nonbeliever's perspective and the perspective of a believer and follower of Jesus Christ. It reminds me of the old Stephen King Movie, Silver Bullet when a vampire is presented with a cross and the vampire tells the person showing it that the cross only does good if the person believes in it.

The film also strongly addresses the areas of faith, calling and visions. We see the Warrens as two
people who are passionately in love with each other, have a deep faith in God, but also a deep love and appreciation for each other who happen to believe that God speaks to them via various means including at times for Loraine, visions. They see those visions as not only something that could happen but possibly as things that they are called to change and beware of. Of course, the film depends largely on people believing in the possibility of the demonic and paranormal as it is presented as a true story. That said while many choose to believe in Angels there seems to be a reluctance to believe in the Demonic, this seems to be at times especially hypocritical of those people of faith who present all a one sided good story without ever considering the reality of evil. I can't help but bring up a discussion I had years ago with the popular Christian author Ted Dekker, he stated that "Evil painted with anything but the darkest of brushes is not a true representation of evil." The Hayes Brothers paints a dark brush, but thankfully, also understands the power of light and the ultimate power of God to overcome evil.

For me, this movie was not as scary as The Conjuring, but it was, because of its powerful storytelling and direction, better than its predecessor. I recommend that people who go see it don't just go for the scare tactics but look at the underlying themes in the movie, the love between a husband and a wife, their willingness to sacrifice for their fellow human, their desire to do what they believe God has called them to do, no matter how difficult it is to do it. Then, of course, there are the other themes, as to the power of the cross in the hands of one who believes in it, the influence of how the Demonic will often attack others to gain its own purpose and much more. I don't think the film will be too upsetting to those attending the movie, I also expect this movie will have the potential to point people to the power of God. The Hayes Brothers have done such a terrific job of weaving a story under the direction of James Wan that one can't help but get something spiritual out of it.

One a scale of 1 - 10, for the number of letters in the hauntings' investigated by Ed and Loraine Warren, I give a very deserving 9.

To see a behind the scenes feature from the movie featuring the real family click the following video, if the video doesn't work click on the link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIGP5aMI4Wo

Monday, February 29, 2016

When Movies Do Good, A Response To Hollywood

To see this article click here to be redirected to its original posting:

http://thevirtualpew.blogspot.com/2016/02/when-movies-do-good-response-to.html

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

Friday, August 19, 2016

Ben-Hur, 2016

Friday, June 10, 2016

The Conjuring 2

Monday, February 29, 2016

When Movies Do Good, A Response To Hollywood

Thursday, January 14, 2016

13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi

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