With
Superman, Man of Steel we not only get a retelling of a classic comic book
character, we get a powerful marketing campaign between the mighty DC Comics
and the mightiest of box stores, Wal-Mart. What has transpired could be a new
way for production companies to make money and partner with and create long
going advertisement campaigns not just for their movie but the companies who
partner with them. Who better to kick off this model than the partnering of
Superman, arguably, the mightiest of all superheroes and Wal-Mart, the
mightiest of all retail outlets?
Wal-Mart
purchased the rights to promote Superman Man of Steel, including hosting early
premiere showings the night before the movies openings. Individuals purchased
their tickets at the megastore prior to the showing on June 13. While tickets
were reduced in price, there was also a small packet of materials including web
site extras only available to those purchasing the tickets along with the souvenir
ticket that came with it. The near capacity to sell out showings of the film
along with a 15 minute special feature available only to those going on the opening
Wal-Mart night were among the highlights. While there were some fans that were
critical of the effort of Wal-Mart, they were, never the less still there, many
dressed in their Superman garb. I found the criticism somewhat hypocritical, if
not wanting to support Wal-Mart; they could have simply waited a few hours to
see the film without the features that went with the Wal-Mart Promotion.
We
have likely entered a new era of film promotions, if it produces the special
features, (which this reviewer likes) I see a stroke of genius there. This also
comes at a time when many theaters are lobbying to reduce the time of trailers
shown in their theaters. I have never heard a consumer complain about too many
trailers but anything to reduce time prior to a movie in order to sell more
tickets, to more showings should be expected. Movie production companies are at
a place where they have to look at alternative ways to promote their films to
make more money. While this could be a solution to that problem, I see it as another
problem in other ways. There are only a few companies that can provide the resources
to make this happen. Many of them will be controversial to some of the consumers
who want to support certain films.
Unfortunately,
in the scheme of things that are likely to come, consumers, including many Christians
may be called to a place where they are tempted to compromise their faith and
integrity. What if a company promoting a movie we want to see that has as a
focus the power of the family also promotes products that causes damage to the
family? What if that company is promoting principles and/or products that go
against our belief system? That is likely the case even in this example with
Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart has not been recognized as the friendliest company to small
private business owners, there is a great deal of speculation and debate about
the Wal-Mart effort take advantage of labor with reductions in benefits and
hours. While one may or may not agree with this, there are many who do, for those
individuals, they are once again tempted to give up their core beliefs about
supporting an organization like Wal-Mart and now a more in your face approach
that includes major sponsorship of a movie many have longed to see, especially
children.
While
there are no easy answers to this issue, it is clear, the efforts of major cooperation’s
impacting our everyday life, outside of typical promotions of their products
exists. Many will give in and see no problem with compromise doing this, some
will see something positive, I will withhold judgment as it is too early to
tell what the long lasting results of campaigns like this will be. Who knows,
while we have had product placement in the past, we now have Superman, or at
least the actor portraying him speaking the high praises of Wal-Mart. I have to
wonder though, living in the great state of Kansas, the home of Clark Kent,
would that same actor and all of those individuals promoting Wal-Mart in the
special feature before the film, also speak out for and support those small
local businesses who have been hurt by major companies like Wal-Mart. I would hope that if growing up in a small
Kansas town would have taught Clark Kent anything, it is the need to stand up
not just for the big guy but also, the little guy who has been there all along
from one generation to the next. To see part of the Wal-Mart Special Features Film click on the video, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6TWwZ9azYw
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 material is provided.
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.comYou 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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With
the upcoming release of The Lone Ranger, Disney has been at work heading off much of the expected controversy that is sure to follow Johnny Depp as he plays the iconic
figure of Tonto. Depp who has stated that he believes he is Native American
(many actually prefer the westernized term of Indian and many Native peoples such
as me now prefer Original American) has not been able to give proof to that
claim other than recently joining the Comanche tribe after a blessing from one
of its elders. Even among Original American peoples, the concept of purity in
ones blood line is debated. I must give a full disclaimer that my own heritage
includes a strong back ground including Cherokee peoples, while my bloodline,
from the Eastern Band of Cherokees is not pure, it is enough that many in my
family still carry on Original American traits and looks. After years of
research and study, I am also aware of how the Original Americans have been
portrayed in Cinema.
Many
may not understand the issues many Original Americans have with a non Original
American’s playing the part of an Indian in cinema. Many hold it cat amount to a
white actor playing the part of an African American actor in black-face There
is also the recognition that there are many qualified Original American actors
that could have played the part of Tonto. It is not to detract from Depp’s
ability, but as noted, it has been clear there are issues by Depp’s own efforts
to seek recognition and speak out on the subject as well as Disney’s attempt to
address the issue, albeit quietly over the last months.
One
of the reasons many Original Americans and others have taken issue is centered
around, not only the roles often being played by non Original American’s, but
also the way they have been portrayed as savages and non educated peoples. The
negative portrayals of Original American Peoples over the years continue to
show a need of understanding. While there are still many unfortunate portrayals
of the people, there have also thankfully been over recent years somewhat of an
understanding and respect given Original American’s in film.
Some
of the recent portrayals and positive images show the strong family nature of
many Original American people, also portrayed though is the strong emphasis on
their faith and spirituality. The importance of faith, among many tribes and
people and the early acceptance of Christianity has played and presented in a
significant way.
Various
races and partial blooded Original American People have taken up the cause to
help the plight among Original Americans and those efforts still continues. Depp has garnished the blessings of many for
his portrayal of Tonto, which Disney has also rewritten. Tonto will not be
presented in the same way, speaking broken English in the way he did in the
original television series; instead Depp is reported to bring the character meaning.
This has garnished the praise of many within Original American circles, but
also Chris Eyre, the most noted Original American Director in Hollywood.
Whether Depp’s own persistence to receive the blessings of Original Americans and
to portray a character the people will be proud of is yet to be seen. While
Depp has at times been involved in some questionable behavior, he seems to have
tried to remain faithful to the things he supports outside of Hollywood
including the blessings of Original Americans in his own portrayal of Tonto.
As
a person whom has enough Original American Blood to claim full Indian Rights, I
anxiously await the release of The Lone Ranger. I am also hopeful the film
shows the deep spiritual leanings of the Original American’s. While I am
certain the Christian influence that existed rather strongly isn’t portrayed as
accurately or as much as it should be, hopefully people of all faiths can at a
minimum, consider the racism that has and still exists towards Original American
Peoples. I hope that especially Christians, because of their own racist
practices of the past take the time need to reconsider the damage done not only
to the cause of Christianity but also for the ways we treated and tried to
convert to a Westernized mindset the Original Americans reached out to among
various missionary groups. As
Christians, we don’t have a good track record in how we treated Original
Americans. It would be hypocritical for us to ignore the plight which still
continue, but also the plight which many of our forefathers within the realms
of Christendom perpetuated on Original American Peoples, from reintegration
programs, to schools that taught Original Americans to forget their past and
history and to adapt to being “White.”
The hope is that not only Hollywood will show a fair and accurate
presentation of history but also the Christian community can research and
understand its history in the damage that was done among Original American
Peoples. There is a reason many missionaries in America are having difficulty
reaching the Reservations that still exist, we only have to look into the
mirror of our history to understand. Hopefully, Depp’s presentation of Tonto in
The Lone Ranger will help us in that understanding and in the process, help
tear down the walls of separation, which in many places still exists among the
peoples.
To see how many Native, Original Americans Have Been Portrayed in the Movies, Click on the Following Video, if the Video Doesn't Appear, Click on the Link
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 material is provided.
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.comYou 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
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219
Email: mike@furches.org
Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew
Ronny Cox is a man who was in many ways made famous by the movie Deliverance. There is little doubt that he would have made it in music or some other life vocation had without Deliverance but it was in fact, the movie Deliverance which catapulted him into the world of film. Ronny has been in many favorites over the years, from such movies as Robocop, Total Recall and Vision Quest to television roles in Dexter, Apple’s Way, and The Starter Wife. He has recorded numerous albums and tours nationally playing his music. There are interesting tidbits I learned while doing this piece, for example, the scene in Deliverance where he plays Dueling Banjos took all of 2 hours to record. The movie Deliverance was filmed in sequence, an almost unheard of thing nowadays, but one of the reasons many believe the actors did so well in their parts, as the story developed, so did their characters because the characters were, in fact, developing along storylines as they developed.
Ronny has a new book out, titled Dueling Banjos, The Deliverance of Drew. The book is available in paperback, hardback, and e-reader versions. It is a captivating story of stories related to the movie Deliverance. Included are stories of how Ronny Cox was largely responsible for the author of Deliverance being asked to no longer be on set during the initial filming of the movie. There are other well told, captivating stories such as the story of Billy Joe Redden, the 15-year-old boy at the time who played the banjo in the now infamous and iconic scene in the movie. While the 40th Anniversary Blu-ray DVD version of the movie has a mini-book that comes with it, Ronny’s book carries far more detail than previously told before. The book in itself is a worthy companion to the film Deliverance. I have seen the movie many times, seen various features on the making of the movie, but the book Dueling Banjos, The Deliverance of Drew was a captivating, page-turner of a read that I couldn’t put down until completing it.
I recently had the opportunity to interview Ronny in an exclusive for The Virtual Pew and Hollywood Jesus. I enjoyed the short time we had together, and hope that others glean some information about Ronny and of course, the movie Deliverance. The interview was about much more than the movie though and in it are lessons we can all learn from and things of interest we can learn about Ronny Cox. Enjoy and hopefully, you will have as much fun reading it as I did getting it.
Ronny Cox (RC): Hi Mike
Mike Furches (MF): Hi Ronny, how are you doing?
RC: I’m good, how about you?
MF: I’m doing pretty well; I guess you’re staying pretty busy right now?
RC: Yeah!
MF: I have a number of questions, don’t think I’ll be able to get through them all, but over the years I’ve been a huge fan of Deliverance. One of the questions is related to music as I’m also a musician. Some of your music has intrigued me over the years. Can you tell me some about your music and the guitar you play?
RC: Well, I have one off the great guitars in the world. It is a hand made guitar by Dave Bertoncini. He is a luthier out of Tacoma Washington. He made this guitar for me. I’ll drop just a little bit of names; I live here in L.A. and I have a guy who works on my guitars and to drop just a few names, Paul McCartney picks this guitar shop as does Jackson Browne and people like that, and according to the guy who works on my guitar, he said none of those guys have a guitar as good as mine. So that’s about as good as it gets.
I play acoustic stuff. I am a really simple player who plays with a 3 finger picking style. I play more acoustic and rarely play with a pick.
MF: I love your style of music, would you say you play more of a folk style than anything else? I also have seen that you are going to be coming to my neck of the woods in Kansas.
RC: Yeah, but I like all kinds of music, but I am a singer-songwriter and I play a whole lot of folk clubs, folk and music festivals and things like that. When I come to Kansas I’ll have a piano slash accordion player and a fiddle slash mandolin player with me.
MF: I look forward to seeing you when you are out here. Another question though, how did you develop your love for music?
RC: I actually started playing when I was 10-years-old. I grew up in New Mexico and most people don’t realize this but where I grew up in New Mexico is a little town called Portales New Mexico. It is 19 miles south of Clovis New Mexico. In the late 50’s and early 60’s, Clovis was a hotbed of recording. I was actually at the studio where they were cutting the Buddy Holly cut Peggy Sue. Do you remember Jimmy Boyle and Buddy Knox?
MF: Oh yeah!
RC: Remember I’m Sticking with you, the Fireballs, Sugar Shack?
MF: Yeah I remember all of that.
RC: There was a country artist named Charlie Phillips who had a song called Sugar Time: (Ronny starts singing here) Sugar in the morning, sugar in the evening, sugar at suppertime. (Ronny starts speaking again) Those were all cut there so I was cutting records when I was in high school. I had a rock-n-roll band back in those days, Ron’s Rock Outs, (starts laughing.) I put myself through college with a rock-n-roll band and then when I started struggling as an actor I went to Arena Stage in Washington DC and I was in New York so I was playing folk clubs at the same time. I was struggling sort at the same time as an actor as I was struggling as a musician. I got the role in Deliverance because I could play. My second film was a film called Bound For Glory, a Woody Guthrie film, I also played music in that.
MF: I see that you’re going to be playing the Woody Fest down in Oklahoma?
RC: Yeah, I’m going to be at the Woody Fest in almost another month.
MF: Have you been there before?
RC: Oh yeah! This will be my sixth or seventh time there. I just got back from another Folk Festival. What kind of stuff do you play?
MF: I’ve played everything from a little bit of classic rock to with my wife I play some folk music, so it’s kind of a full-circle thing.
RC: Okay!
MF: You have a new book that has just come out which I have been reading. Can you tell us some about it?
RC: As you can see from the book, it is a book of stories about the making of Deliverance. The film meant so much to me that I just wanted to write about what it was like. I was a total unknown and to get to be in a place where I was one of the stars in a picture, but not only just a picture, but a picture that ended up being one of the most talked about, and iconic films that have been made in the last forty or fifty years. It really was an incredible breakthrough for me. It was my first time in front of a camera and it was Ned Beatty’s first film. While the film is 40-years-old it still holds up pretty well today and it is I think an incredible film. Now did you get the Blu-ray version of the film?
MF: Yes
RC: Are you enjoying the book?
MF: Yes I am, one of the things I appreciate is that it reads like a story. One of the questions I have is that the editor of your book makes mention of the fact that you are a storyteller. I love the Harry Chapin style and the art form. Do you think that storytelling as an art form is kind of lost in today’s society?
RC: I think that is part of it. The music just becomes so important. These days, I spend most of my time playing music. I don’t mean to be cavalier about this but most of the acting jobs I get offered these days I say no to just because I would rather go and play music.
MF: I have a question about possibly the most iconic song in the history of film, at least in my opinion. The song is Dueling Banjos. I can’t think of any single song that has had the impact in film. There is likely no one left alive to better tell the story of the song in the movie than Ronny Cox.
RC: Well, you know it was originally played with two banjos. In the book, they were playing Wild Wood Flower but Jim Dickey had heard Dueling Banjos and recommended to John Boorman. Warner Brothers weren’t too in favor of it because they didn’t think that anyone listened to Bluegrass Music. (laughter,) It became a huge hit. I think Dueling Banjos along with the theme from Bonnie and Clyde and Oh Brother Where Art Thou are primarily responsible for the popularity of Bluegrass in America today.
MF: Why do you think that scene is so iconic and has such a lasting memory?
RC: Well, I think there is an energy about that scene. It is also the incredible connection that music makes with a scene like that. One of the reasons that Drew, my character, has no fear of the mountain people like the other characters is because he was able to make a connection with that young boy through the music. It shows the power of music. I think that people, without maybe even realizing it consciously, subconsciously get it, they feel the power that that energetic piece of music occurring between two human beings. It becomes that energy which brings about a connection for everybody and it becomes infectious. If you notice that the old man starts dancing, there is another guy that starts whistling, people start moving and there is something about that piece of music that transcends the movie for a little while.
MF: I have 2 friends that asked me to ask you specific questions. One was a great fan of the show Apple’s Way. He wanted me to ask your thoughts as to if you think there is still a need for strong families in television oriented programs?
RC: Yeah, I loved doing that show in that it was a kind of modern-day Walton’s. Shows that talk to the human condition are I think, really important in television and movies and I think needs to be done. Now, I am in no way in favor of censorship, but it seems to me that we are just doing these reality shows where people trash other people and I just don’t know what those are all about.
MF: Another friend wanted me to ask your long love affair with your wife Mary who passed away several years ago. He wanted me to ask, what you think was the reason for the success of your long love affair and marriage with your wife?
RC: You know, I was just lucky that I found that love of my life, early in my life. Mary lived in my hometown and we met when she was 11 and I was 14. We started going together when she was 15 and I was 18 and we got married when she was 22. I’ve never had another date or another girl in my life. I think one of the reasons for our success is I married someone way, way, way, way smarter. (Each of us, including the publicist present during the interview starts laughing here.) Mary had a Ph.D. in Chemistry, that is the secret for us guys, to marry up. (Myself and the publicist start laughing again, but Ronny stays serious) I said that to Mary, thinking I would get some brownie points, “Mary I know the secret to our great marriage.” She said, “What?” I said, “I married up.” She looked at me kind of funny and she said, “What? All men do!” (we all, including Ronny, start laughing again.)
Mike Furches here, with just a thought, there are so many places I could have gone with this interview, so many things I could have concluded with, but I think it appropriate that Ronny and I ended our conversation on a note about his long love affair with his wife. In a world where so many couples just don’t seem to make it, there is something to the concept that a husband loves his wife so deeply and sees her as much more than he. It is a concept of servitude I think Ronny lives by, it is a concept many of us can learn by. His character in the movie, Drew is the one who tries to maintain a sense of normalcy with the world around him, with his surroundings, with doing what is right. It was a role in many ways made for a man like Ronny Cox, it is a character, that through the actor Ronny Cox we can still learn from, not just in the things presented in the movies, but in this thing called life which Ronny has continued to live for some years now. You can find out more about Ronny, his touring schedule, plus listen to his music at his website: www.ronnycox.com
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The Virtual Pew and our other work are 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.
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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
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I have recently been challenged with a life looming question. What would one do to keep, maintain, nurture and help life’s most enduring treasures? I struggle with that question as I am confident that often times, some of us are moved to go beyond, and do more we ever imagined. There is another question though; what is society’s greatest treasure. Waiting for Superman claims the answer to that question is our children. In the exploration of that claim is the understanding that our schools, and the system of education is doing more harm for many than good, and thus we have an exploration as to the problems, the causes, the issues, the solutions, and the hopes of our educational system.
Waiting for Superman is the documentary that raised eyebrows across America with its theatrical release. Now in DVD release the movie is opening even more eyes, and the special features add to the story with schools and situations not seen in the movie. There are also updates on various individuals featured in the movie. While not blended into the story as an extended version, the stories and situations are still there in a captivating, thought provoking call to action.
Waiting for Superman starts off with the realization that while we may be waiting for Superman due to the seemingly impossible situation we are in regarding education, the reality is, Superman isn’t real and isn’t going to show up. The conclusion the makers of this film quickly come to is it is up to us to solve the problem of a poor educational system that potentially spells doom for America’s children. As the husband of an educator in the public school system for over 30 years now, I have been engaged in many discussions, I have seen many things around the public school sector, not only through the eyes of a parent, but through the eyes of a husband whose wife has felt the call to teach in public school. In those capacities, I quickly begin to see, understand and believe in many of the premises set forth by the documentarians of this film. I understand the seriousness of the issues presented and the reasoning why individuals from all sides of the political spectrum have come forth to support this movie.
Waiting for Superman follows the plights of various families to seek more for their children in the educational system. Prior to this part of the film is the presentation of how schools are failing and the impact on America’s children. We see everything from the politicalization of educators and politicians to the unionization of teachers that prevents in many situations the termination of educators who fail to teach due to the policies of tenure. While there are no technical components of the film to brag about and a few glitches in the editing process, there is still no doubt, the story, investigation, and the inspiration to the viewer to do more, insist on more, and ultimately fight more for our children is clear. As a society, we may be hurting our children more than helping them through the educational systems in place that do more harm than good. It isn’t that teachers as a whole are intentionally doing harm. But when a system is in place which prevents teaching, and refuses to reward those who do a good job because of the process of tenure and union decisions, and then keeps teachers who do bad jobs, then we have to question the way we do education. As a documentary, Waiting for Superman builds a compelling, thought provoking argument; there is more that can, and should be done to improve the educational system.
In looking at this movie, I was reminded of the teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus emphasized throughout his life the importance of children, both from a figurative and literal perspective. There is no doubt as to the importance of children and the role adults have in providing for, training, and helping children. I couldn’t help but wonder are we doing our best to provide for the children in our educational system? Is our educational system the best it can be? There is numerous challenges parents face in the education of their children. Unfortunately, the system is not set up to assist the parents in those challenges.
I have to admit, at one time I was somewhat critical of the concepts of Home School education, and then I met a family from Colorado, the Holbrook’s. Andrew and Lynn Holbrook raised their children, but among those receiving recognition are four sisters which have formed the band SHEL. They are receiving national recognition for their music. These four beautiful, intelligent young ladies give credence to the benefits of home schooling in a way I had never personally witnessed. They are well rounded, and have learned to apply their education to their lives in a quite positive way. I’ll never forget Lynn, the mother telling my wife of their respect of someone like her who also teaches in the Public School sector. ‘We are so glad that public schools have teachers like you Mary Jane. The schools need teachers that care.’ There was more to the conversation than that, but they were so right. I also understand though, that just as ew need teachers that care, we need parents that care. Public schools need teachers that care, but they also need an environment that allows the good teachers to do their jobs. The bottom line, the Holbrook’s has done what they felt best to provide for their children. There are many other parents doing their best to provide a quality education for their children. Unfortunately, there are many children who don’t have parents who are doing their best, and many who may not even care. In those situations, something has to be done to see to it that the best possible means of helping our children and their future is provided. Waiting for Superman address these issues full force ahead.
Many parents are looking for the best options for their children; many others realize the impact on not just children, but society. I appreciated that Waiting for Superman shows that more money is not necessarily the solution to the problem. There are other solutions; one solution is in keeping and rewarding good teachers, and getting rid of bad teachers who simply don’t care. The children deserve the best, and unfortunately, in a system where lotteries are often used to place children in the best schools, it is wrong when other children don’t get the same opportunities. Waiting for Superman challenges us to do more, not only for our own children but for all children. When we do this, not only will the children benefit, but we as a nation will. While there are many arguments some educators use to support the system, Waiting for Superman takes on those arguments straight ahead, unapologetically and in a convincing way.
When it comes to documentary movies, Waiting for Superman is unique because it not only educates the viewer; it challenges the viewer to do more. This movie has become a movement for the improvement of the educational system. It will be interesting to see if that momentum continues with the release of the DVD, which is well packaged, and worth owning. I for one hope the momentum snowballs and we continue to see a better, and brighter future in education provided for the youth of America. One thing is certain, if things don’t improve, we as a nation are in trouble, and our youth deserve the hope and promise of a brighter future. Hopefully the adults care enough to see to it that the youth of American get what they deserve, a chance not just for a job, but a career.
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.comYou 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 6441 N. Hydraulic Park City Kansas, 67219
Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew
I have been married for 30 years and my wife and I love movies. I especially like horror and psychological thrillers. My wife especially enjoys romantic and comedy ‘chick flicks.’ We go on dates, a trait we still follow through on quite often despite the years together. Those dates more times than not, involve movies. My wife on a rare occasion goes to the movies I like, and sometimes, like in The Book of Eli, she really enjoys them. For me, well, reread that first sentence of the paragraph, ‘I have been married for 30 years and my wife and I both love movies.’
There is a reason we have been married over 30 years, there is give and take, sacrifice, for example, more often than not my wife doesn’t like the movies I like, especially those in the horror genera. I often find myself surprised and enjoying the movies she wants to see, even the ‘chick flicks.’ We recently had an event cancel so decided to go to dinner and a movie. My wife wanted to see the movie Leap Year starring Amy Adams, known largely for her role in Disney’s Enchanted, but more recently Julie and Julia. We decided go and as I often found out, it wasn’t a bad thing.
Leap Year is a simple story that has been told many times before. Anna, (Amy Adams) is a successful assistant in real estate where she gets the property ready to sale by making it look like a home. Her boyfriend, Jeremy is a successful cardiologist. The two are looking at moving in together but Anna has dreams of the two of them getting married. Jeremy has other ideas. Shortly after applying for a high end apartment in New York, Jeremy decides to attend a conference in Ireland. Anna hears from her father (John Lithgow) of the legend of prospective brides proposing to their prospective husbands in Ireland on Leap Year Day. She decides to take a spur of the moment trip to Ireland to propose to Jeremy. On her trip she incurs inclement weather, her flight is redirected and she begins a journey to get to Dublin by Leap Year day. She finds an owner of a pub in a small town who is dangerously close to having his pub repossessed by the bank. In order to obtain the needed funds, he decides to taxi Anna to Belfast. Along the way Anna gets to know Declan (Matthew Goode), more than she anticipated, but she also gets to discover more about herself.
I have to tell you, if you are looking for a movie with technical quality you can do better than Leap Year. There are various mistakes in the film and it seems as if there may have been a rush to complete production. From the editing to the special effects, such as a hail storm that seems to only hit parts of the scenery there are numerous glitches. There are also changing accents that for some may be somewhat of a let down, but I believe few will notice or care about those aspects where Leap Year is lacking.
What the movie does excel on is story. Although this is a story that has been told many times before, I couldn’t help but finding myself liking the characters. Amy Adams is a beautiful actress in her simplicity. She is not only effective as Anna; she is easy to look at in her simplistic beauty. There is something about her mannerisms, especially in the parts where she is in uncomfortable surroundings. In places where she is confused as to her feelings, you find yourself believing her. I also found myself really enjoying the sometimes obnoxious character of Declan, her companion on her journey to Dublin. Matthew Goode does a very good job of mirroring off of Amy Adams in their parts. He is a man that most men, like I who am not the super well built GQ type can appreciate. He can cook a good meal, enjoy a good pint of Guinness and at the same time enjoy a good time with the lads. He has known heartbreak and is ultimately looking for love that he knows is beyond his own credentials. I have to say, the Casting Director for Leap Year did a great job because what these two do have as the story progresses, is the ability to build off of each other and to get the viewer to actually care about the characters, despite all of the technical issues in the film.
I think stories like this and the reminders they provide are among the things I find myself liking about some of the ‘chick flicks’ my wife drags me to The reminder of what and where real love comes from. Sometimes we find ourselves in positions like Anna where we have expectations based on what society wants for us as opposed to what is best for us. Sometimes we need a wake up call and if we are lucky, we discover the things that are really important to us. We can’t underestimate the concept of love and the importance of love in a relationship. Sometimes we can discover that love in places we never considered looking. For some of us, that may be in physical relationships, for others, it could be in spiritual avenues. Nonetheless, unless we search for love or at the very least open up our spirits to receive love, we will never know the ultimate and full joy love can provide. There is a theme here that reminded me of the concept of the ‘One Thing,’ as presented in the movie City Slickers. That is, what is the one thing most important to you? If there was a fire in your home, what would be the first thing you would save if you only had one minute. It is in those moments we discover what is important. Ultimately, those things have the potential to last a life-time and beyond if given the chance.
I’ll admit, I already know my overall rating of this movie will be deceptive, it isn’t a great movie, it isn’t even really a very good movie, but what it is, is a really fun and enjoyable movie. I would watch it again because I appreciated the story, and I appreciated the fun, innocent way it was told. There is little that will offend anyone in this story, and it is a story that makes for a good date night movie. I’ll ignore the technical failures of the movie because sometimes, well, sometimes life is about more than perfection, and in that manner, Leap Year provides a good reminder of some of the things in life that really are important.
On a scale of 1 – 10 while far from perfect, if you take the 29th of February, and take that 2 from the 9 you still have an enjoyable, entertaining 7
The following is the trailer for the movie Leap Year, just click on the video, if the video don't appear, just click on the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Etm4VMLrSnc
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.comYou 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
As many may or may not know, I have had to reflect on life recently, the meaning of life, love, eternity, purpose, the whole bit. I have done this knowing the reality that my mother was getting closer to the end of her life. A few weeks ago I was finishing up a concert series with a wonderful band named Shel. Between promoting them in 8 concerts and being a part of the opening act we got to spend a lot of time together. On Fathers Day, the band decided to take my wife and I to the movies so we went to watch Disney/Pixars’ summer hit, Up. I had wanted to see this movie as I love great animation and Pixar had yet to let me down, they didn’t just impress me though Pixar provided a movie that for me, up until this point in time, the middle of July, is simply put, by and far, up and away, the best, most entertaining, enjoyable movie of the summer. As of this writing, Up is still in the top 10 films of the summer, and is the third highest grossing film of the summer. I expect that by the time it is all said and done, (including DVD release and sales) Up will even surpass the sixth installment in the Harry Potter series.
Up provides a tremendous story of growing up, letting go, and dreaming. It provides much more than that though, what Up does is causes one to reflect like few films of recent memory. Surprising to some, but not to me, Up is far more of an adult story than a story for children. We see the growth and development of Carl Fredricksen, voiced by Ed Asner, from childhood to old age. In fact the first 15 – 20 minutes of this film could work as a stand alone short, and may be the most emotional 15 – 20 minutes of a film in its opening sequences ever filmed. I would anticipate that easily 70% of the audience is in tears as we see the growth of Carl. This establishes a back drop into old age that any of us past 35 can likely relate to. One of the attributes of a great film though is that it causes one to reflect when they normally wouldn’t. That being the case, one could say that Up goes beyond this point of being a good film to being a great film as it is likely the overwhelming majority of the audience, even young adults watching this film reflect on life in a way they wouldn’t have normally.
Not only does Up provide an incredible first 15 – 20 minutes, it also provides an entertaining joy fest and heartwarming event for the eyes and soul. Everything from the story to the visuals, to the voice talent and music is special. This animated feature does something unique and rare; it takes the viewer into the special world of animation, where only certain things are possible, and then has the viewer forgetting that they are watching animation. In that sense, UP is magical.
While many think the movie is primarily about the young boy, Russell, it is really about the development and growth of Carl, even in his old age, he has lessons to learn, and while it may be hard to teach an old dog new tricks, Carl is open to learning and in that learning process, we all learn there is something we can learn even in old age. We learn things like recognizing and seeing the important things around us. We learn that while we should always be willing to go for our dreams, sometimes the real dreams, the real joys are the things around us. We learn to see that we should never take for granted the things we have, especially the loved ones around us.
Simply put, I loved this movie and now, almost a month later, haven’t been able to get the film out of my mind. As mentioned earlier, I have done a lot of reflecting on life lately. I returned from my mothers funeral a week or so ago, and Pixar did something that we sometimes fail to see in movies, or if we do see it, we are often afraid to let the filmmakers do what they long for, that is allow a movie to touch us, touch us somewhere deep inside the heart, deep inside the soul. I will forever be grateful to a band called Shel for this blessing in life when I needed it. While the movie isn’t perfect, it isn’t far from it. But more importantly than a critical review of a film, it is important I as a person who on occasion reviews film, often watches and enjoys film, realize that film, especially film like Up is a work of art that can reach in, grab the heart, and cause the mind to see things in a different light, and often cause us to walk along a different path in life. In that journey, it is important to understand that loving others is in fact a spiritual journey. I realize that in my faith, God tells me, that loving others in essence loving him. That includes loving my wife in the same way Jesus loved the church, but it also includes loving an orphaned child in a way as to let that child know I am there with them, even in the special moments when they need a loving parent the most. While we may not all be fathers or mothers best friends, or teachers to children, we can be one that provides love to someone in need. I doubt any movie will illustrate these points more seriously and more poignantly this year than Pixars’ Up.
I could write many more paragraphs about this movie, but why do that, I would simply encourage you, if you haven’t seen it, go see it while it is still in theaters. You are going to see a great short from Pixar prior to the start of the movie, but then you are going to see a great movie. You won’t be disappointed, I promise you that. On a scale of 1 – 10, for the 5 letters in Pixar, the two in Up, and the one special feature, I give a very deserving 8. Heck forget that, it is better than an 8 let’s go with a 9, like I said, not quite perfect, but almost.
To see an advance trailer for the movie, just click on the video listed below. If the video don't appear, just click on the following link:
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.comYou 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
Here we go again, another Harry Potter movie from the series by J.K. Rowling. I wrote about the series back in 2001/2002 with the release of the first film in conjunction with my views regarding the comparison between Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings. In that review, and subsequent others, I noticed these films in many ways aren’t really that different. Despite a few die hard religious fanatics, I hold and contend today, just as I did then, Harry Potter is fantasy much like Lord of the Rings, The Wizard of Oz, and other films of the sort. With the exception of some fanatics holding to their conceited theories regarding the film; let me hold to a point I made back then, very few of those individuals have seen the film, read the books or are consistent with their logic as to the ridicule of the film. There is their supposed giftedness of discernment which is not theologically sound or supported in logic or reason either, especially since so many of those with that giftedness have since apologized since Rowling has written her last book with what according to some, is an even clearer Messianic Christ figure than is contained in The Lord of the Rings.. In one way I am saddened by the inappropriate dogmatic views of some, and on the other, I find pleasure in knowing their criticisms help promote a quality, and worthy story filled with religious analogies not much different than the analogies used to support such films as The Chronicle of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis or the Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien. I find that J.K. Rowling may be on the fast track to associating herself among those great literary giants who understood the power of using a children’s tale to teach lessons on the impact of fantasy in addressing the battle of good versus evil, not only for children but also adults who find themselves on the journey with their children.
The sixth in the series of Harry Potter films, Harry Potter, and the Half-Blood Prince is not only a continuation of a beautiful tale, but a beautiful visual experience. The fact that the producers have kept the cast intact has allowed us to watch the characters grow. This includes not only the young characters who have attended Hogwarts, the school where Harry and his friends are fine tuning their crafts, but we have also seen a progression in the staff and background characters. The development of such actors as Daniel Radcliffe is a refreshing thing in movies such as Harry Potter. The young actor, in fact, the entire cast, seems to understand the epic journey they are taking their audience on. Not only have the actors matured, so has the production team. Don’t take me wrong here; this is an accomplishment due to the fact that the first movie of the series started off on an exceptional standard. The continued progression of this series is nothing short of astounding. Among the excellent direction, story telling, sound score, and more, we also see wonderful special effects, especially in the very opening scenes of the movie.
Another wonderful, and unique, aspect of this series is that each movie, although a part of a series, stands alone in its own merit. The viewer doesn’t have to watch all of the preceding movies in the series to enjoy any film in and of itself. This holds especially true for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. One of the reasons for that is the development of the characters and the fact that we see the characters in different stages of their life. We see for example characters that are now older and discovering their sexual identity, not in an inappropriate or disgusting way, but a way each person can relate to that have gone through this age. We also see adult characters allowing the younger characters to grow up, and in the process, helping them become young adults to accomplish their purpose. In this we see the impact of both a good adult and a bad adult influence. The responsibility of adults is strongly addressed. This is seen especially so in the development of relationship between the characters of Harry and Professor Dumbledore who have developed a keen relationship over the years. There is an understanding between the two that is explored throughout the film, an understanding where there is testing, and yet through that testing, the development of a deeper and caring love for each other. We also see the use of manipulation in a bad way though, in a way where the desires and concerns are not towards the youth, but the manipulation of the youth to get what one wants for their own selfish desires.
Harry Potter, and the Half-Blood Prince, along with each film in the series, despite the beliefs that many espouse, is a deeply spiritual film that searches out the struggles involved in the battles of good versus evil. We understand there is a good and dark side that each of us have a choice to follow. Amazingly, despite the criticism of many, there is a large amount of symbolism used in the film, from images of baptism and resurrection, to the concepts of crosses painting the landscape. There is also the symbolism of giving up ones own life for the sake and salvation of another. All images that can be used to open spiritual discussion, but another thing I especially appreciated with this film, is the respect shown by Harry towards his elders. There is an understanding from some who are older, of the abilities of youth, but in that understanding, we also see the respect of youth for those who are older and an appreciation of the wisdom they often possess. In this is also the need to learn of the importance of learning those lessons of life, often love comes at a sacrifice, and Harry, his friends, professors, and even the viewer see that lesson from the examples in the movie.
While slow at parts, and an extremely dark film, I found plenty enough bright spots in Harry Potter, and the Half-Blood Prince to enjoy it a great deal. I enjoyed the film so much in fact, that I found myself doing something I haven’t done before; committing to reading all of the novels prior to the release of the next movie. While I know there are some Harry Potter enthusiasts that aren’t quite pleased with the film, I enjoyed it, it wasn’t perfect, heck not even the best movie of the summer for me, but it was enjoyable and well done. It was a movie that addresses issues I like seeing addressed, growing to maturity chiefly among those. The series continues to prove certain critics wrong, and impress open minded individuals like myself.
If a fan of fantasy, or other film with spiritual allegory, you will enjoy this movie. On a scale of 1 – 10 for the fact that I like the Lord of the Rings and the Chronicles of Narnia series better, I will take those two away to come up with a deserving score of 8 for Harry Potter, and the Half-Blood Prince.
To see a 30 minute clip on the premiere of the movie, simply click on the video below, if the video don't appear, just click on the link.
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.comYou 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
Welcome to my review page. You will find reviews for everything from books to music, but especially movies. Enjoy the page and don't forget while you are at it to check out all of the other blogs I do as well as my web site www.furches.org and www.thevirtualpew.com where you will find message boards that have open discussion about all kinds of issues related to faith.
Mike Furches heads up The Virtual Pew, some say, the first Online Church. He speaks nationally on various topics and; is a freelance writer. He has published 2 books titled The Keystone Kid which has received rave reviews and thechildren's book with his late wife Mary Jane, Herald The Angel.. The short film, The Long Walk is also based on the book The Keystone Kid. Mike’s ministry is to those often called The Last, The Lost, and; The Least. Mike has worked with some top music artists and has an active interest in film. He is also an inductee into the International Blues Hall of Fame as a Great Blues Musician from the State of Kansas. He is available for speaking on a various topics. Mike has also been in some capacity as a pastor at various churches over the years. Thus the name Pastor Mike, which is a part of his Blues Band, Pastor Mike and the Demon Slayer Blues Band which has been endorsed by numerous Blues Hall of Fame Members from across the world.
We
have likely entered a new era of film promotions, if it produces the special
features, (which this reviewer likes) I see a stroke of genius there. This also
comes at a time when many theaters are lobbying to reduce the time of trailers
shown in their theaters. I have never heard a consumer complain about too many
trailers but anything to reduce time prior to a movie in order to sell more
tickets, to more showings should be expected. Movie production companies are at
a place where they have to look at alternative ways to promote their films to
make more money. While this could be a solution to that problem, I see it as another
problem in other ways. There are only a few companies that can provide the resources
to make this happen. Many of them will be controversial to some of the consumers
who want to support certain films. 
