Tropic Thunder

Recently on a message board I read a lot of comment about how some people don’t like Ben Stiller. Frankly, I just didn’t get it because while there are some movies with Stiller I didn’t like, there have been plenty I did. Most of the discussion had to do with why people were not going to see the new release of Tropic Thunder. One of the things I I didn’t realize about the movie was the magnitude of the ensemble cast. Tropic Thunder has a myriad of cameos, and others that are an active part of this movie. Most know about Jack Black, Ben Stiller, and Robert Downy Jr., but we haven’t heard about others that contribute, whether Danny McBride who is also in the current release of Pineapple Express, the talented Nick Nolte, Matthew McConaughey to the surprise for me, in a major role, Tom Cruise. This truly is an ensemble cast and for those basing their views as to whether they attend or not just on the fact that Ben Stiller is in this movie is missing out, missing out on a quite surprisingly good, funny, and meaningful movie.

The concept of Tropical Thunder is that a group of actors are in Vietnam making a movie based on one of the experiences of Four Leaf Tayback played by Nick Nolte. The spoiled, over paid, self serving actors in the film are so competitive with screen time that the movie and its production costs are way over budget. Each actor in the film has had previous issues and those issues, whether drug addiction, to recent movie flops has to learn to work together. When the production seems to be a failure, there is a suggestion that unbeknownst the actors in the film, that they be taken into the jungles of Vietnam, and be placed in a live situation. In the process, things go terribly wrong, and between drug dealers and being lost, the actors in Tropical Thunder have to grow up, look out for each other, and come to the rescue of one of their lost compatriots. Along the way, while vulgar and gory, we have a really good time.

One of the issues related to a movie like this is the issues faced in the movie. A group of top name actors has to work together, sharing the screen, and contributing to the crafts of each other. It is here Ben Stiller shows some talent, not in his acting, although it is fun and good, but in his direction. Stiller understands the concepts he is portraying, he is living with it when working with the cast he has playing the parts. In many ways, the making of Tropic Thunder is much like the real life experience portrayed in the movie. What transpires though is that this cast comes together, they come together in such a way that there are no stars, and that helps make the movie fun.

One of the strong themes is that comes through with Tropic Thunder is the importance of working together, using the gifts of each individual, and in the process making sacrifice for those loved. There is a strong theme of each person coming to recognize who they are. It is here I enjoyed this movie in a special way. As the characters develop, we see success not only take place on the screen, but we can learn from that and apply it to our own lives.

There is another area I have to comment on. I have to admit, due to my own experience of working with the Mentally Ill in the past, I have not been a fan of Tom Cruise because of his past comments on this disease. If I had known he was in the movie as prominently as he is, I may not have seen it. That said, it would have been a shame. Tom Cruise is wonderful in this film; in fact, it may be one of the most fun parts I have seen Cruise play and it may honestly be one of his best jobs of acting. While playing the part of movie mogul Less Grossman, we see that he cares about few things more than a profit margin, and this foul mouthed, evil handed mogul adds fun, fun, fun, to the movie. We see him as the evil figure behind all of the danger and misfortunes within the filming of Tropic Thunder, and he is the epitome of selfishness. If not for a lack of respect towards the comedy medium, Cruise could be considered for an Oscar in a supporting role he is so good in Tropic Thunder.

Tropic Thunder is a fun time at the movies, with some valuable lessons about getting along, becoming a team, and working together for a common good. As a pastor there are all kinds of applications that I found similar to leading a church, even in its rough humor there are lessons. From the opening theatrical trailers that resemble something out of Tarintino’s Grindhouse movies, to the closing dance sequence with Less Grossman, this movie is far more than I expected. It will likely be more than most viewers expect and that is a good thing for Tropic Thunder.

On a scale of 1 – 10, for the 10 primary characters who find out about themselves, minus the evil Les Grossman, I give a unexpected and enjoyable 9.

To see a trailer of the movie Tropic Thunder double click on the following video, if the video don't appear, just click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pxOzSpUXtg


The following video has Ben Stiller talking about the movie. Double click on the video to see, if you don't see the video, just click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAkLkxai3Mw


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

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

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

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

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

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

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

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

http://www.furches.org/donations/index.html

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed -http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed –http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

Pineapple Express

Did you ever wonder if you crossed a Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Fargo together? Well to be honest I never really did either. On the surface it would seem like just too far of a stretch, at least at first it would. Then I started thinking, if you got some talented actors, put together a pretty good script, this could turn out to be quite a story and fun movie. It was with that in mind I was actually looking forward to seeing Pineapple Express.

David Gordon Green was given the opportunity to direct a potentially good and unique screenplay provided by Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg. This different kind of comedy action film takes on new ground. The idea is that a couple of dopers get caught up in a murder mystery and must escape the attempts on their lives by the police who are involved and the mafia types who are in control. A new type of marijuana, Pineapple Express, is part of the story line and in the process of running for their life, these two dopers have to come to a place where they recognize what is really important.

Dale Denton played by wonderful character actor Seth Rogan works as a court server. He serves warrants to unsuspecting individuals whether a divorce case or criminal case which only adds to a meaningless life where he finds little in life to enjoy. While he is 24-years-old he has fallen for a 17-year-old high school student. While Rogan does a great job with his character we have to wonder about some of the direction and backdrop stories along the way.

Then there is Saul Silver played in a fun, fun way by James Franco. In many ways Silver has lost touch with reality, his life evolves around various types of drugs, and unfortunately he hasn’t learned of the difficulties of keeping a taste of the product you are supposed to be making a living from. Unfortunately for him though, he isn’t making a living, in fact, this character isn’t doing much more than existing. Even in the process of existing though there is something about this character the audience member can appreciate and like. Silver is an individual that through the innocence presented by Franco has us caring for. In many ways, Saul Silver is a character we see with potential, one we like.

A third character that adds a lot of fun to the screen is Red played by Danny McBride. Red is a drug supplier caught in the middle between his friend Saul Silver and leader of the organized crime group providing the drugs, Budlofsky played by the usually talented actor Kevin Corrigan. While McBride is fun to watch on the screen, Corrigan disappoints in his flat portrayal.

Along the way there is some fun dialog and interactions with these two. They are fun on screen together and unfortunately, they are more like real life dopers than many will realize. Unfortunately, I know about these experiences. Some of what makes the movie so funny is the ability of those of us in the audience to relate to the jokes and illustrations we see on screen. In those moments, the film is funny, and even enjoyable, even though it is a lifestyle I wouldn’t want to promote.

Pineapple Express does do a good job of presenting some fun moments centered around the usage of drugs, but surprisingly enough, it also does a decent job at showing the affects of drugs and the potential to destroy lives. There is harm in the attempt to satisfy self desires. Relationships can’t be trusted, friendships are lost, and trust is never really found. It becomes obvious that in some ways the characters are using each other, and it is only after the characters come off of and stops taking their drugs that they realize the importance the things taken from drug usage. While drug usage is the example for the characters, it is really only a metaphor of an attempt to help the viewer come to think about what is important in their own life. In that regard, as the movie moved forward I begin to think that my hopes of a deeply spiritual profound movie that would touch on the needs of today’s society, especially a group of people who seemed to thrive on this type of lifestyle. Unfortunately, my hopes didn’t develop, in fact, not only did they not develop, I felt let down.

Even in the areas where Pineapple Express let’s us down we can see characters and people we hope for, long for. It is a reminder that there is value in all people, that there are situations that cause people to do the things they do. It is in this area that those of us who are people of faith can relate to. Jesus as well saw value in the down and out, the down trodden, the drunks, the prostitutes, the out casts and we could go on. Here we can see benefit in realizing that people who live this lifestyle have value, they have potential, and they are worth saving.

Somewhere along the line in his direction Green lets the script take a life of its own and the story isn’t developed, in fact it jumps in and out of reality and from one place to another with little or no cohesiveness. I tend to think it could have come about in the editing room and some of the story we needed got left on the cutting room floor, but the bottom line, is Pineapple Express looses its way. While the movie is intended to be fun, it seems to have a hard time finding the balance between comedy and action. While there are funny lines, the movie falls flat. That is kind of sad because this movie had potential. It had potential to not only be a funny action filled movie, it had potential to be a great movie. Unfortunately what we have is a less than average movie. Hopefully those seeing it will get some benefit of the need to be open, honest, real, and above all straight.

On a scale of 1 – 10 for the lackluster story, that is less than average, I give a rather disappointing 4.

To see the trailer for Pineapple Express double click on the video below, if the video don't appear, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQqUyBN4g8M


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

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

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

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

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

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

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

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

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

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

http://www.furches.org/donations/index.htmlThe Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed -http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed –http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

Step Brothers

I don’t know whether it is a good thing or not that I went to see the new release of Step Brothers. While I have a great admiration of one of the stars, John C. Reilly, I have honestly had mixed feelings about costar, and one of the writers and executive producers Will Ferrell. Some of the advance trailers looked like this would be a decent flick pairing these two from Talladega Nights back together so I decided to see it.

Step Brothers is a contemporary tale about family with a contemporary twist. It appears that Brennan Huff, (Ferrell) and Dale Doback (Reilly) are two 40-year-old men who live at home with their respective single parents. Reilly’s mother played by wonderful actress Mary Steenburgen and Dr. Robert Doback, Dale’s father played by character actor Richard Jenkins does a wonderful job in the supporting role. These two come together in an overnight fling at a local conference and decide to get married, go after their dreams, and along the way, continue to spoil their children and finally realize their two boys are hindering them from finding true love and going after their dreams. In the process we have a journey that has not only the parents but the boys being forced to grow up, plus recognize there is a time to become an adult.

I wasn’t expecting great acting, but I enjoyed the acting. Reilly is as usual superb; Mary Steenburgen is as fun to watch on screen as ever. She is a beautiful woman who continues to age gracefully while maintaining her beauty. She performs and does what is necessary to convince the audience that her character is real, and she does a great job at conveying the emotions of that character. Then there is Richard Jenkins who has some meat in his character. We often see character actors given roles with little to develop. Jenkins does a great job here and his role could be considered a co lead as this film provides more of an ensemble cast than a character driven cast. Then there is Will Ferrell, as mentioned earlier, Ferrell has gotten a mixed bag of reviews from at least this reviewer. That said, he does an amazingly good job as he convinces me that he can act. While a comedic role Ferrell does a great job showing a variety of emotions along with some fun comedic timing moments during the film.

Director Adam McKay does a great job at developing the story of Step Brothers. We see the family going through struggles, while at the same time growing. In the growth we see sequences where the characters grow a part. While this could have been done in standard comedic shtick we see some real acting, for me, a pleasant surprise. We have a story that drives several points home, while using a lot of comedy and shtick along the way, we also have serious subject matter addressed.

Step Brothers addresses serious issues related to family, dreams, and reconciliation. There are themes of forgiveness that are also addressed. While the characters we see on screen are far from perfect, they are great reminders of our own need to look at these important areas of life.

One of the things I appreciated about Step Brothers, is that while many want “traditional” families we live in a world where “traditional” has many different faces. Blended families have a tremendous impact on all involved, especially children. While we see older children here, the point is still driven home. We also see areas of forgiveness addressed and virtually every primary character has to come to a place of not only offering forgiveness, but being forgiven. Of these themes, they are not the theme I appreciated most.

The aspect of going after ones dreams is an important area of life many forget about, or let go by the wayside as they get older. This theme addressed with most every character on screen is driven home through the conclusion of the film. The idea of age not being a factor in one making sure they go after their dreams is something addressed in Step Brothers and is an idea many can take to heart.

While I have mentioned some of the things I liked about this film, I have to say, Step Brothers isn’t for everyone. There is a lot of crude humor that goes over the top. That said, it is still a fun movie and for those who can deal with it, they will find out it is more than a teenager comedy flick. There is some meat in this film if one looks for it. While not a T-bone steak, it has a good supply of protein and will satisfy many taste buds. While looking for some of the good themes addressed it may also bring a smile, or a few laughs along the way.

On a scale of 1 – 10, minus points for the three brothers who had some serious lessons in life to learn, I’ll give an enjoyable 7

To see the trailer for Step Brothers, just double click on the video below. If the video don't appear or work, click on the link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHnvULVOtz8


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

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

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

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

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

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

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

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

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

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853To

Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed – http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

Mamma Mia

Ssshhhhhhhhh please now, everyone quite here but I recently went to see a chick flick, and here is the part to please keep quite, I really, really liked this movie. In other words, I saw this flick that at least this one dude thought was really good. Not only was it a chick flick though, it was a musical and for those that know me, they will know of the disdain I have of musicals, but not this one, nope, this one has me still singing.

Mamma Mia may be the most perfect movie I get the chance to see this summer, in fact, it may be one of the most fun, most perfect movies I have seen in some time and for this dude that was totally unexpected.

I have to admit, there were several things about Mama Mia that caused me to want to see it, I think Meryl Streep may be the best actress of all time, and the ensemble cast including the beautiful Amanda Seyfried, the handsome Pierce Brosnan and numerous others is a cast well worth checking out. The other thing is, my wife wanted to see the movie pretty badly, and on that note, I realized a real man is willing to do things with their wife or loved one they normally wouldn’t be willing to do. There was another reason though, it is one I have to ask you to keep quite about again as I don’t want a lot of people knowing this, but truth is, I knew the movie was based off of the Broadway Play of the same title and it featured the music of the Swedish band ABBA, and ABBA was a band I actually enjoyed. (Whew, I got that out of my system; please don’t hate me for it.)

How good is the cast, direction, and everything else about this film? Virtually perfect! As mentioned earlier, I consider Meryl Streep one of, if not the best actress of all time. That said, in advance interviews related to the film Streep had stated this was the most fun she had ever had in making a movie. That fun explodes through the screen, and frankly, as much as Streep has given the movie going audience over the years, I thought and now know, audience owe it to her to see her perform a role where she is having such obvious fun.

I could mention so much more, the cast is wonderful, virtually every scene, every song, (again it is a musical) is performed to maximum enjoyment. One of the great moves in the direction of this is having actors perform the music as opposed to lip-syncing. It allows them to act the part and there are several songs that really move the audience. Not in a long time have I heard an audience reaction like I heard in Mamma Mia. One song in particular performed by Streep towards the end of the film with Pierce Brosnan, The Winner Takes It All, is actually better than the original, not because of the quality of the voices, but the ability to act out the meaning of the lyric. Truth is, not since Moulin Rouge, has a better musical been made, and not since Grease has a more fun musical been made.

The plot of Mamma Mia involves a young Donna, (Streep) who has an affair with three different men over a brief period of time. In the process, Donna gets pregnant, and some 20 years later her daughter Sophie, played by beautiful Amanda Seyfried is about to get married. She finds her mothers diary, discovers the names of the three men who could possibly be her father and invites them to Greece to possibly discover her real father to give her away at her wedding. Thereabouts is the general story that plays like a Royal Flush in the World Series of Poker Finals.

One of the things I loved about this movie is the exploration of what family is, what is important, and how one comes about discovering the things in life that are important. The music plays beautifully to the story, and the characters seem to fully understand their roles. We see three men come to understand their own roles in life, mistakes and all, and we also see three women, including the characters played by Streep, Julie Walters, and Christine Baranski which rediscovers their friendship, and love for each other. Walters as Rosie, and Baranski as Tanya are nearly perfect in their supporting roles. These three may bring to the screen one of the most enjoyable ensemble group of women to ever be on screen.

It is a shame in some regards movies like Mamma Mia has to be there to remind of us of the importance of love, friendship, and relationships. Thankfully though, great movies like this one do just that. Real love, real appreciation between a parent and a child is something that is spiritual and of importance, while some of the conclusions to this film will certainly bother some ultra conservatives, the truth is, real love, and real value can be found if one ignores their own desire to prejudge and think of the negative. Family is of value, finding long lost love is also of value.

I loved Mamma Mia, I will see it again, and have discovered that real men can come to the conclusion that it is okay to like good chick flicks. Mamma Mia isn’t just a good Chick Flick though; it is a fun and wonderful piece of cinema, from spectacular scenery and cinematography, great costumes, incredible acting, and a fun time that actually had me applauding at the end of the film. Now for me, that is unusual, but I guess I am just one unusual guy.

On a scale of 1 – 10, for a great film an extremely rare, but pleasantly awarded perfect 10, so far, easily the most enjoyable film of the year.

To see a fun trailer for the movie Mamma Mia, just double click on the video below. If there is trouble with the video, just click on the link.

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



Meryl Streep Video Interview

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Qh6qNxJIMA



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

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

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

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

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

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

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

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

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

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853To

Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed – http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

Journey To The Center Of The Earth

As a young man I loved Jules Verne’s as an author. While I was a troubled kid, I wasn’t all bad; one good thing is I loved to read. I never regretted that love, and thankfully, knowing some of the classics has been of benefit as I got older.

Over the years there have been several variations of Journey to the Center Of The Earth, (JTTCOTE) that have been made. It was one of my many favorites by Verne’s and of all of the versions; I think I liked the 1959 version starring Pat Boone best. While not a great movie, this story, which inspired a television series, several movies and a great album by Rick Wakeman is a story that still stirs up dreams for boys and girls.

While there have been various versions of JTTCOTE, few have taken contemporary technology to the level the current film in 3D has. Seeing this story along with my family was something I had looked forward to for most of the summer, and while Brendan Fraser will be in an even larger box office hit this summer in The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, it is likely there are many middle aged men who was looking forward to seeing JTTCOTE with their sons.

Michael Weiss has done a decent job with the screenplay for the newest 3D version of the film. One knows from the git go that this movie isn’t going to be much more than a popcorn flick that is there for the sole purpose to entertain. With that in mind, one won’t be disappointed, the 3D effects are enjoyable and the performances by Fraser in the role of Professor Trevor Anderson and Anita Briem as Hannah Asgeirsson help deliver some fun chemistry. There is also the young Josh Hutcherson who does an adequate job playing nephew Sean Anderson. The adequate job of acting in this popcorn flick along with some nice special effects mixed in with some fun 3D helps JTTCOTE become a fun roller coaster ride for the fan watching the movie.

While the development of the characters is somewhat lacking, and the plot isn’t deep one realizes this isn’t the primary purpose of the film. Fun is the purpose, and hopefully along the way, there is enough interest in the story to inspire young readers to pick up the book and read it. In that regard, this movie has a chance to succeed for some young viewers. Unfortunately, with a little more effort, this could have been a better movie. Fraser is a much better actor than many realize although he has picked up much recognition as a summer flick adventure hero. This isn’t his best work, but most of that has to do more with the script than it does his ability.

There are some good themes touched on in Journey to the Center of The Earth. The importance of family and the value of not giving up on your dreams are briefly addressed. There is nothing new here though other than the inclusion of the 3D effects. There is an aspect that I think is worth mentioning though, that is that there is nothing wrong with going to the movies to have fun. For me, this was also a good film to reflect on my own youth, my own journeys, and then sharing in those moments with my son.

To share about seeing the movie when I was a kid moved me to go to the video store and buy a copy of the old movie. While that particular movie isn’t a classic, it is in the mind of a young boy who dreamed of dinosaurs, fabulous journeys and the whole experience of taking a trip to the center of the earth. Dreams, stories, and imagination are beautiful things God has given all of us. If wanting a fantasy adventure, this is a movie that can inspire a good time as it is appropriate for the entire family.

I have to wonder how this movie will carry over to DVD without the 3D effects. Hopefully it will I don’t know, for that reason I recommend seeing it in the theater. Even with the additional cost for the 3D features, it is still worth it at a matinee price.

While not a great movie this a fun movie for the family, especially with the 3D effects. For that reason, on a scale of 1 – 10 minus the 3D effects, plus the additional dollar or two you will pay to get in I give Journey to the Center Of The Earth an enjoyable 6

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


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xtff1ROz10



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

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

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

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

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

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

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

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587

Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853

ToSubscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew

To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed – http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus

The Dark Knight

I just returned from seeing Batman: The Dark Knight. As a long time comic book fan, and as one who got caught up in the original The Dark Knight hoopla some years ago, I attended the movie with mixed emotions, and various concerns.

The most recent episode of the Batman series directed and written in part by Christopher and Jonathan Nolan, and brings back an all-star cast featuring Michael Cain, Christian Bale, Morgan Freeman, and Gary Oldman among others has as an additional highlight Heath Ledger co starring as The Joker. The truth is, there has been so much hype and discussion regarding the death of the late Heath Ledger, and his terrific performance, that there may be a tendency to have expectations that are not realistic for either Ledger, and/or the film to live up to. I will make brief comment on Ledger but there is so much more to this movie, and while Ledger is certainly a huge story in regards to The Dark Knight, this movie is a film that will live on its own merit, despite the tragedy surrounding the film.

For fans of the comic series, especially those like me of the Dark Knight series, this will be a film most will absolutely adore and love. There are so many layers in The Dark Knight that one may have to see the movie several times to catch everything that is addressed and shown. While Bale and Ledger are certainly the two stars of the film, there is an ensemble cast of terrific actors to move the story along with the terrific screenplay and direction. This film is as close to perfect as anything that has been released so far this summer, from lighting to sound, and from plot to lighting. It is all there, and for a film buff like me much appreciated.

It is here that I must address some of the thoughts related to Heath Ledger in regards to this movie. I have been a fan of Ledger for some time and it is sad that this will be for many their first experience as to the quality of this young actor. I say unfortunately because unfortunately the homophobia of many and their reluctance to see him in his Oscar nominated role in Brokeback Mountain. I’ll have to be honest; I didn’t think there was any way Ledger could out do his role in that particular film. While I initially had some issues with that film, I had a tremendous amount of respect for Ledger and it is one of the only reviews I have ever done where I went back to make an additional comment on how I was wrong about that movie, and in particular Ledger’s role. While I had those concerns, I must say, while I was extremely skeptical of all of the hoopla surrounding Ledger’s role as The Joker, I was tremendously surprised at how good it actually was. While I stated that I thought Ledger would likely get a posthumous nomination for this movie, I will now say, it is hard to imagine anyone deserving it more than he. He is simply that good, and the truth is, all of the hoopla, all of the press is justified in saying the things they are saying about Ledger in his role as The Joker.

Now that the Ledger commentary is out of the way, the thing I am afraid many may look over is the terrific story we have regarding the conflict within each of us. We see the struggle of virtually every character with the battle within surrounding the decision to do either good or evil. We all have that struggle and in no character is the struggle more detailed and explored than with the character of Bruce Wayne. Others around observe the battle within Batman and Wayne, but he has to face serious difficulties before he realizes the struggles within, and the difficult decisions he has to make. While The Joker is pure evil, it is his evil that forces Batman to come to serious decisions and great sacrifices.

Throughout the film we see various characters dealing with the battle within their souls. There are several scenes where I won’t give much away, other than to say, I really appreciated the effort of the film makers to show that sometimes, those we least expect, are capable of doing good. We have stereotypes that put people, even God in a box at times, yet we see the ability of all people to do good, as well as the ability of all people to also do evil. The Dark Knight makes no excuses about it, there is the definite presentation of a constant battle between good and evil, and often times that takes place within our very souls.

The Dark Knight is a terrific film, the subject matter it deals with is worthy of thought, but while the film is close to perfect, it isn’t perfect, it is a little long and for me anyway, the last 30 minutes was rushed. We see the development of another villain in Two Face, but the development of that character just wasn’t clean enough and neither was the closure of the relationship between Gotham and The Joker. That said, this is still a superb film. It is dark, (not so much for the little kiddies) violent and hard hitting. It is also worth seeing again, and again. There are surprises along the way, and I am one who will say, all of the hoopla is right on the money.

On a scale of 1 - 10 minus the two villains of The Joker and Two-Face, I’ll give a well deserved 8.

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army

In 2004 I did a review of the first Hellboy movie starring Ron Pearlman and written in part and directed by Guillermo del Toro. The truth is I didn’t really like that movie, was somewhat disappointed and a whole lot confused. I was a little reluctant to see Hellboy 2: The Golden Army, (HB2), that is, until I had seen the trailers and heard that the creature team from the wonderful movie Pan’s Labyrinth was involved and I knew that Guillermo del Toro had done such a wonderful job with Pan’s Labyrinth.

A recent watching of the original Hellboy movie with Pearlman, yes the very one I was more than a little critical of in 2004 had me enjoying the original movie more the second time than I did the first. While this isn’t the norm for me, neither is it rare for me, it does on occasion happen as I assume it does for most of us.
The start of HB2 resembled the first movie; there is the background that is provided complete with the origin of Hellboy’s love for Baby Ruth candy bars and more. There is also some additional background provided regarding Hellboy’s teen years. This helps set up the plot of the movie and is welcomed storyline. There is also the associations and questions that remain, for example, is Hellboy from Hell, is he an angel, is he a demon, what exactly is he? I think I have learned to appreciate, at least in my own viewing habits the pondering of those types of questions, you know? Questions where there isn’t always answers and questions that causes the viewer to engage in the story and to try and figure some things out.

One of the things I appreciated about HB2 is the development of character, and the inward struggles and confusion we see Hellboy going through. He has struggles on everything from acceptance, to missing his adoptive father, and from love to his acceptance by the human race. I have always appreciated and respected Ron Pearlman, and while he will become noted for this character, I would have loved to have seen more of his expressions. He does a great job though using his voice tones and overcoming the limitations of the make-up involved in his character. Unfortunately though, even with the wonderful creature effects, we lose much of Pearlman’s wonderful expressions. He is a great actor, and only an actor like Pearlman could pull off a character like Hellboy.

This time around, the story line and plot do a much better job at developing character. Not just Hellboy, but all of the characters. We see additional development and struggle from Liz Sherman, the love interest of Hellboy played by Selma Blair. One of my favorite character developments this time around though is the development of Abe Sapien, an intelligent; man fish like character that kind of resembles the Creature from the Black Lagoon. In all of the characters we see the inward struggle of coming to an understanding of who they are, what they are here for, and their own lack of humanness, and appreciation from the human species. There is the use of drama, comedy, and great emotion often filled with humor. Each character, and each actor playing their parts does a wonderful job here.

HB2 is laced with spiritual questions. Apart from trying to figure out if Hellboy is an angel, or demon is the idea that he carries a cross. We see Liz constantly wearing a cross. There are other things though. There is one scene where the temptation of Christ is played off of. There is Hellboy a top of a business sign, high in the city, being tempted and confronted with serving and saving self and forgetting about serving or saving the human species. In the background is a lighted cross, and a movie marquee that says, “Get Saved.” Again, for me at least, the questions continue. We see battles and discussions taking place in the shadows of statues that resemble angels and much more. While the blatant discussion of God isn’t in the movie per say, it is certainly strongly evident in the images of the movie.

There are other significant spiritual overtones, the concept of the need to care for the planet is sure to be one of those that get some of the conservatives upset. I never could figure out the harm of that, but that message is there, but an even greater message, and a message that hit home far more this time than last time for me, is the willingness of Hellboy to sacrifice himself, to give up his own comforts, and own desire in order to sacrifice himself to care for a population of people who don’t even like him, who mock him, spit on him, make fun of him. Yet Hellboy in this regard takes on a Messiah and Savior concept that one can’t help but make some comparisons to Jesus.

I left this movie with even more questions in one regard than I did the first Hellboy. I left with a much different attitude though, for me, HB2 resurrects the story of Hellboy. It took a number of years to do this follow up. I am glad, it seems as if everyone involved has put a quality story, with good special effects, and solid entertainment mixed in with spiritual questions for all of us to consider. While not perfect, and maybe not even the best movie this summer, Hellboy was a worthwhile movie, and in some ways, it may be the most thought provoking movie of the summer. I can’t promise the same for you, but I can say this is a movie that if you go in searching and looking, you will find and appreciate some of the answers provided, and the search for truth of those other questions will be well worth the journey.

While Hellboy received a mediocre review from me, this one is at least twice as good so I am doubling that original rating of a 4 that I gave Hellboy and am saying that Hellboy 2: The Golden Army is deserving of at the very least a 8.5

Now here are a couple of trailers for your enjoyment. Double click on the video below, if it don't show, just click on the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUAJmmDRWo0



Ron Pearlman Interview

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnFx5eZVVic



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

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

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

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

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

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

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

You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew. Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.

Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Phone Number to Call During The Virtual Pew Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8587 Phone Number to Call During The HJ Live Show, (Please never call prior to the start of the show) - (646) 716-8853 To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed -

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/thevirtualpew To Subscribe to HJ Live Live Feed –

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds/hollywoodjesus