Cobra Kai, Season 4

 

Cobra Kai, Season 4 has just been released to Netflix.  This highly acclaimed follow up series to The Karate Kid has drawn fans from season to season and this series which started originally on YouTube has gone on to become on of the most binged, watched, fan favorite seasons of any television series.

This program and season once again bring back many of the original characters in the series. The series largely follows the much older Daniel LaRusso played by Ralph Macchio, and Johnny Lawrence played by William Zabka.  The Characters John Kreese played by Martin Kove and Thomas Ian Griffith makes his return as diabolical Terry Silver. 

 

This season is again, well directed with some twists and turns as if follows the dojos Cobra Kai, Miyagi-Do and Eagle Fang. We continue to see changes in the characters of Johnny and Daniel as well as their children, and those they are closest to developing their own identities outside of the ones that would typically be chosen by their predecessors, no matter which dojo they happen to fight for. We see struggle with letting go as well as struggle in areas like forgiveness and cooperation. Of course, all of this comes at a cost, much like it does in real life and those consequences are one of the things that continues to make this series among the top-rated series in television. 

 

This season we see attempts at working together, but with such strong personalities, and so much pride can two leaders, who haven’t resolved their conflict come together to defeat a common enemy who could, would destroy their very existence?  Can anyone be trusted in a world where pride rules?  Then how can two views of life, and/or karate coexist?  Those are all questions among many others that are approached in season 4 of Cobra Kai. 

 

Cobra Kai is about much more than karate. It is about family, conflict, opposites, working through problems, consequences and much more in conjunction with living life in a sometimes-difficult world.  It is a series I highly recommend and appreciate due to the real-life situations approached. 

 

I personally really enjoyed the season, but I have enjoyed all the seasons and appreciate the binge ability of this. I watched all 10 episodes in less than 24 hours. The series has a way of doing that and then keeps you thinking even after you have completed it. 

 

On a scale of 1 – 10, for Season 4 I give a very deserving 8 and am already highly anticipating Season 5 as I know many others are. 

 

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For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. 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.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

 

 

 

Sandra Bullock Returns in Netflix's The Unforgiveable

 

In life we often make choices, those choices are made for various reasons, some for good and in wisdom, others foolishly that end up having horrible consequences. The thing is, we never know why one makes the decisions they do but unfortunately that doesn’t change the consequences of the choices we make. Such is driven home in the new Netflix movie starring Sandra Bullock, The Unforgiveable.

Bullock is back in full force in this story driven narrative that explores the life of a “convicted cop killer.” Along side her are such notables as Richard Thomas, who to me will always be John Boy from the Waltons but a deserving actor none the less along with the great Viola Davis, Vincent D’Onofrio, John Bernthal and others in this nicely cast Netflix Movie.

The Unforgiveable raises many questions that are answered in the flashbacks throughout the movie. Typically, the use of flashbacks can be tricky but the script and direction provided by Nora Fingscheidt is spot on.  While there are some minor setbacks in the character development and story line, it is still nicely woven.

 

As a society and as individuals we often make judgements as to what is and what is not unforgiveable. Even in faith there are many questions as to what is “the unforgiveable sin.”  It is amazing at times the various answers one gets as to what that “sin” might be and unfortunately, we all have our own individual reasons as to what we deem to be unforgiveable.  The movie The Unforgiveable does a good job at raising questions about judgements about things we may be too quick to judge. We often base our opinions on our knowledge of a situation but is it possible that we make those judgements with only partial judgement when our opinions would change if we knew the whole truth. How does that effect the consequences on may have to go through because of those quick judgements we have made. Even there though, sometimes we make voluntary judgements based not on our own need, but quite possibly in many situations the needs of others. Yet, the consequences are often the same, and in reality not fair. Who is to blame for those consequences, the one who voluntarily took them on themselves or the ones making judgements without knowing the truth?

 

The Unforgiveable is not a perfect film but it is a film well worth watching if for no other reason to get us to think about how we sometimes make poor judgments not just in the doing but in the judging.  It was nice to see Sandra Bullock back in full force as a truly powerful force in the acting field.  The supporting cast is superb and quite enjoyable. The best part of this story though, is the story. The writers of The Unforgiveable have done an excellent job. The last thing I will mention here is the amazing trend that streaming networks such as Netflix and Amazon seem to be providing top notch quality movies that while are deserving of theatrical release are instead released directly onto those streaming networks. My oh my how the world of movies has changed.

 

On a scale of 1 – 10 except for a couple of minor flaws I give a very deserving and thought provoking 8

To see the trailer for The Unforgiveable, check out the following link:

https://youtu.be/JNUjx7LZoiU

The Following is information about Mike Furches Reviews and The Virtual Pew and ways you can support our work. 

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

You can support us monthly at Mike Furches / The Virtual Pew / Mosaic is creating A Community of Faith To Those on the Fringes | Patreon

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. 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.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

Midnight Mass on Netflix

 

Over the years I’ve been ridiculed, praised, unfriended, friended, called a heretic, called a prophet and on and on regarding my appreciation for horror. To be honest, I’m at this point used to it all and if one doesn’t like my positions, they don’t have to read, but I’ll be honest about it, sometimes, I think I have insight into a few things that are worth exploring and thinking about. Sometimes I am as well impressed with the quality of a series, movie, show that has me thinking beyond the norm, especially using the genera of horror. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, nothing addresses spiritual themes quite like horror. With that said, few shows in recent years has done this in such a thought-provoking way as the new Netflix Series, Midnight Mass.

Midnight Mass, created and directed by Mike Flanagan is a brilliant, thought provoking story that has at it’s heart religion, specifically Christianity, and the influence of evil into the concepts of the church. In fact, the miniseries stars Kate Siegel known for various roles including her role in the late television series, Hawaii Five-O, Zach Gifford well known as the High School quarterback in the great television series, Friday Night Lights and many others including, Rahul Kohli playing a Muslim Sheriff on the small island town and Hamish Linklater as pivotal character Father Paul.  Each actor gets their fair share on screen and one of the wonderful things about a series like this is the ability to explore various subplots and focus on the characters in the story. This series does a terrific job at this.

 

The first 2 2/3rds episodes would have one from a fundamentalist Christian perspective praising the series, even though the primary religion portrayed is Catholicism. Even with that the case, from a Christian perspective, the series never really disrespects the ideals and calling of Christian responsibility, but the last third of episode three of the 8-episode series has the series taking a drastic twist for the remainder of the series. Remember this is classified as a horror series and for good reason, but that reason and the story is such a dramatic epiphany twist that it will shock many a viewer and for some who may be offended at the strong “Christian” message and themes at the beginning, and, throughout the entire series, will be pleasantly surprised at the twist the series takes. It frankly reminds me of the movie Dracula 2000 that has as a part of Dracula’s origins, Judas Iscariot. 

 

There are serious questions asked in the series, among of which the greatest is what is good and/or evil. How do we interpret that which is good verses that which is evil? How can the intentions of one destroy the goodness and potential around them?  There are serious questions about healing, can God heal?  Is it possible for healing to take place under the appearance of being from God but, come from other sources?  One of the great questions surrounding faith questions is the concept that Jesus and the writers of the New Testament advocated, that is, that no greater love can any human show than their willingness to lay down their life for another. There is another question though, that is brilliantly answered at the conclusion of this series. Is there the potential for redemption for those who have gone astray, done wrong, been deceived and if so, how does one obtain that redemption?  As I clearly stated, without giving a spoiler here, I think that last question and the way it is dealt with in this series is dealt with brilliantly and frankly, makes great sermon material. There are so many other themes wonderfully addressed in this series that to address them in a review would have me going on and on and on.

 

The Bible states that Jesus never taught them anything without first telling them stories. I can, frankly, see Jesus using stories like what is presented in Midnight Mass to get people to think and to drive points on issues like redemption, good vs. evil and so many others home. While not quire perfect, it is refreshing to see something as good as Midnight Mass. Sure, I expect a few to once again be extremely critical, going so far as calling me a false teacher or heretic for praising the story lines of this series, but let the dirt fly and land where it lands. In my opinion this program has a far greater chance to challenge one to think about their faith than it does to turn anyone away from their faith. 

Each episode of the 8 series season is right at or a little over an hour, yet I binged the entire series in less than 24 hours. It held my attention and challenged me to think regarding my own faith, heck, I’m still thinking about the themes, and this is a rare series that will likely have me watching it again. 

 

On a scale of 1 – 10 it is very hard to not give this series a perfect score, but I just can’t go there, I almost can, but not quite, therefore, I give Midnight Mass a still very good score of a 9. 

The Following is the trailer from Netflix for Midnight Madness

(155) Midnight Mass | Official Trailer | Netflix - YouTube 

The Following is information about Mike Furches Reviews and The Virtual Pew and ways you can support our work. 

 

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

You can support us monthly at Mike Furches / The Virtual Pew / Mosaic is creating A Community of Faith To Those on the Fringes | Patreon

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. 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.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

Lessons from Netflix and Bob Ross

 

Did you ever have one of those days where it seems everything is off kilter?  That’s kind of been my day, a day where it is easy to get to a depressed state and not really knowing why, so, it was, I decided to watch the Netflix Documentary Bob Ross, Happy Accidents Betrayal and Greed.  It was then I realized, sometimes, no matter how hard you try, there are just some things out of your control.

This documentary is fantastic, let me say first, I was never really a fan of Bob Ross, just wasn’t my kind of entertainment. Now that said, as I’ve gotten older, I realize, kind of like Mr. Rogers, what all I missed out on. This documentary, well done and produced in part by Melissa McCarthy, tells a story that pays tribute to the man, while also telling the catastrophic story of how ultimately, some of the things that meant  the most to him, according to the filmmakers, gets left behind and here we see their presentation of betrayal and greed.  Of course, the driving force of that in the documentary is the desire for money, a selfish self interest that seems to take little concern and passion to the real desires and wishes of Bob Ross. 

 

It is at this point this changes from a film review, which I would give an 8 star review out of 10, but more into a commentary on life. A commentary driven by some research done on Bob Ross after viewing the film, but also reflecting on my own life.

 

Many in this world seek to do good and, for a period seem to do good. That comes about for various reasons, for me, my driving force is my faith, for others it may be an epiphany moment where they realize that their life while in the military drives them to be a kinder and gentler person, as is apparently the case of Bob Ross from some of the research I’ve done.  Nevertheless, all of us will have some force that will cause us to reflect on life and not just the life we lead now, but the life and example that hopefully carries on after death.  Sometimes, as in the case of the corporate world, or even our lives living from day to day, there are others around us who may have motives outside of our own desires to where our lives benefit them as opposed to the things we wanted. I wonder, what drives the desires of others?  Is it love? Compassion? To get something for themselves.  What is it? 

(122) Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed | Official Trailer | Netflix - YouTube

 The Following is information about Mike Furches Reviews and The Virtual Pew and ways you can support our work. 

The truth is we can only control a part of who we are and the legacy we leave in life. If lucky and blessed, we will have loved ones who care enough about us to maintain that legacy as opposed to “profiting” in some way off that legacy.  Are we and do we work at maintaining the relationships where we love people more than profits or money?  I am reminded after the documentary of the Bible verse that says the “love of money is the root of all evil.”  Then again, I kind of wonder, are there things that are just as important as money to individuals, say status, or the opinions of others?  I think anything that ultimately has us focusing on things, or feelings over the needs of people can fall into that category.

 

While we never see any indication of faith related to Bob Ross, we do see a representation of what appears to be a good man, with a few mistakes who came upon hard times. He didn’t focus on those times, instead of giving up when it was discovered he had cancer, he worked harder to make sure his legacy and work lived on.  Yet, others around him according to the documentary tarnished his desires and wishes. That doesn’t take away from Bob Ross and those types of things, as much as they may take away from our efforts and lives either.

Today, I’ve reflected, largely alone and truth is, I would have rather had someone to reflect with, but I didn’t, so I deal with those reflections of life, service, and so forth alone. Am I or is my work appreciated? Much like most people at times I think it is okay to reflect on these things. It is then we realize, maybe all we can do is do what we can and understand that there are some things in life we have little, if any control over. That isn’t an upbeat reminder, but it is a truthful reminder, one I think each of us can learn to focus on and think about. I know that in the case of Bob Ross, I may have never watched him, but now, I sure think about him and his efforts, despite the apparent lack of appreciation from many of those around him who saw profits as opposed to the dreams and work the man did which inspired then, and continues to do so now, so many around the world.

 

For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

If willing to help, it is greatly appreciated. I ask you, do not write checks or make contributions to me. All contributions should be made either to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic. The Virtual Pew is a Religious Organization and Mosaic is a 501-C3 nonprofit. 

If willing to help this ministry continue you can donate online at the following.

You can support us monthly at Mike Furches / The Virtual Pew / Mosaic is creating A Community of Faith To Those on the Fringes | Patreon

Pay Pal to The Virtual Pew at mike@furches.org

Pay Pal to Mosaic at mikefurches@yahoo.com

If making contributions via pay pal, please designate as a gift to family or friends as to prevent us from having to pay additional fees to pay pal. 

You can donate at cash app at $MichaelFurches

Donations can be made at FaceBook via messenger to my facebook account Mike Furches

Or you can send a check to The Virtual Pew or Mosaic at the following address.
1249 North Saint Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214

If desiring more information about this ministry or the testimonials from others, please don’t hesitate to ask. I really am dependent on others to support this missional ministry to keep it going. I have nothing left to give as I’ve depleted, and I’m not complaining, my savings and retirement accounts, now, it really is dependent on you to allow yourself to be used by God to help us out.

I am more than willing to share at your church, business and so forth. I have shared across America as to the work God has done and done for me. I love those opportunities.

Blessings and thank you,

Mike Furches

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. 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.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:

 

The Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

Last Chance U Basketball, A Near Perfect Season

Netflix has become a staple for many around the world in the area of entertainment. They not only bring us quality movies, they also bring quality series and documentaries. As an athlete for many years and now a fan, I have greatly enjoyed the Last Chance U series that looks at various Junior College Sports seasons. Up until this season, football and this season for the first time, Basketball has been the focus. So, it is as a former college athlete and as a film reviewer I review this particular season.

I must say, as a former athlete I have binged and loved every season. Basketball is the 6th season in the series but is being considered as season 1 for basketball. Each season focuses on a particular school and follows the schools team throughout the season. This season has the documentary team following ELAC (East Las Angeles College) and the team and coach John Mosley. I have to say, the coach John Mosley is one I personally loved above and beyond any coach in any other season, largely due to the emphasis on his faith as a Christian.

There are clearly players that seem to put up with Coach Mosley's actions and faith but as the season goes on and comes to a tragic end, it also becomes clear at the impact this coach has had on many a young men that recognize the honor of playing for him. This season, more than any other, has a positive reference of a coach that actually cares above and beyond for his players and does not go overboard with his coaching style. Sure, there are unique attributes with Coach Mosley, but he gets the job done. 

There are things I would like to know, for example, the series follows ELAC's season to obtain the California State Jr. College Championship, yet I know that a few miles away from me in Hutchinson Kansas they have a National Jr. College Championship Tourney. Never in the series was that tournament mentioned. It forces me to assume that the California Champion does not participate in that tournament.

As anyone who follows sports will know, the ending of this story is not encouraging and is somewhat of a letdown. I'll say about it is that the season recorded is the 2019/2020 season. You can figure it out. What I will say is the impact of some things have/had a tremendous impact on some that prepared their entire lives for a moment.

Coach Mosley is the star of this series. Sure, there are basketball players we become intrigued with along with assistant coaches but there is just something likeable about Coach Mosley. I loved that Netflix covers and portrays his deep Christian faith in such a beautiful and real way without exaggerating or diminishing his faith. We see a man dedicated to his players, his family and making constant sacrifice, yet, above all, dedicated and committed to his faith. He even goes so far that he sought guidance from his pastor before accepting the opportunity to do the series.

I loved this series and this season. Coach Mosley is the type of coach I would want my children to play for. One to push them to the extreme, overcome the obstacles and all along the way, keeping a focus on faith while loving and giving his players a chance. He exemplifies grace as a coach like no other season up to date.  

During the season of March Madness while I review this, for the perfection of the game of basketball, I give a perfect 10 as a series for the letters in the word, basketball. - 10

 

To see the trailer for this film click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-YCKtBb0L4 

To Donate via Pay Pal, donate at paypal at mike@furches.org

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You can also always donate to The Virtual Pew at 1249 North Saint Francis, Wichita Kansas 67214

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You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. 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.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

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Murder Among The Mormans, A Netflix Series

Over the years Netflix has not only developed into a top notch movie studio but they are also presenting some of the best series and documentaries around. Delving into the real life crime dramas such as Making of a Murderer, Crime Scene, The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel and most recently is Murder Among The Mormons they are leaving a mark.Over the years, I have done hundreds of movie reviews possibly thousands. One of the things I pride myself in is that I have less than 5 times included a spoiler, this series is as difficult a review as I've ever written while not leaving a spoiler, the ending is so critical to understanding the story one almost has to give it away.

The Mormon church among "Christian" churches has had it's fair share of criticism and speculation. Many place The Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints into one of three groups, a part of the legitimate Christian church, a sect of the church, or a cult. With that in mind it is worth the readers time to do some research into all aspects of this thought for their understanding this group and their history. It can give a truly deeper appreciation of the series.

The series follows the discovery of important documents that on one hand places at odds with the church, and on another supported other aspects of the church. As important historical documents are "discovered," including the famous white salamander prophesies as supposedly delivered to the churches founding prophet Joseph Smith. This document is verified as legitimate by the church and contradicts much of the original teachings of the church. As this and numerous other officially declared truthful documents are discovered, two grisly murders involving pipe bombs in Salt Lake City and a third apparent attempted murder using a bomb on the individual who had spent years in research in the discovery of these documents took place. Thus begins the speculation of the possible involvement of the Church of Latter Day Saints in this murder spree. 

This is limited series covers three approximate 1 hour episodes. The first episode and a half has the viewer asking questions as we are drawn into the story. For many it will support positions they have had, for others, it may cause them to question the beliefs they have had. Minds likely won't be changed if one stops watching the series here. It is in the final episode and a half the story unravels and takes the viewer into even more questions. Questions like the nature of evil, hatred, deception and much more.

I'll be honest, over the years from various groups I had heard stories and held to those things as truths. This series in the detailed explanation of these crimes and interviews changed my mind about some of those things and had me at the conclusion thinking I was wrong and needing to say,  "I apologize, I was wrong!"

That's how deep the reported findings and historical findings played into the religious landscape and mode of thought among many Christians regarding the Mormon church. If anything, it is a reminder for me, and should be for others to not jump to conclusions about things we have heard that is reported as truth, even when those things are studied and reported to be authentic.

I wouldn't say this is the best Crime Drama that Netflix but it's up there especially if you like this type of story. It is a fascinating documentary especially since so many of the people involved are interviewed and so much national effort was placed on the story.

This is an easy and worthwhile documentary to watch even binge. It raises questions not just about the church but it is a crime drama that comes to a conclusion that has the viewer thinking. One doesn't have to be religious to enjoy this documentary.  I even wonder if a person having no religious convictions will have the same response as someone who falls into one of the categories I mention about the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints above. Those things we ponder and wonder about after the show are among the things that I believe makes a good documentary, and this is a good documentary.

On a scale of 1 - 10 for the conflict and struggle I've had, I give an 8 for the number of letters in the word conflict. - 8   

To see the trailer for this film click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CE34_44piaU

To Donate via Pay Pal, donate at paypal at mike@furches.org

To Donate via Cash App, donate at $MichaelFurches

You can also always donate to The Virtual Pew at 1249 North Saint Francis, Wichita Kansas 67214

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click to subscribe to my blog

You can also check out Mike's Musical ventures by searching for Mike Furches and Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band. Mary Jane's album is available online and by contacting Mike and the Pastor Mike and Demon Slayer Blues Band album is available on over 150 download formats.

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives on The Virtual Pew and Mike Furches Reviews. 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.

You can donate via paypal at mike@furches.org or cash app at $MichaelFurches

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

To follow Mike's Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band, click the following link:
To see the video for the trailer of this movie, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5lrkdvEZGg

https://www.facebook.com/TheDemonSlayers 

The Movie Guys

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News