Upside

In a world where many families are looking for family friendly movies it is nice to see a mature, coming of age love story like Upside. Upside is not just a coming of age love story though, it is a story where a young man has to come to discover his own purpose, his own journey, a journey where faith comes in and brings about an unexpected change.

Upside is the first feature film by Spyplane Films. Starring Randall Bentley as Solomon White, best known for his role in the television hit series Heroes. Solomon is a high school senior who is a stand out lacrosse player. He is on the radar of numerous Ivy League schools and the Naval Academy. He is trying to break away from a former girlfriend, having some difficulty in class, having trouble with his single mother who is overbearing, and looking for shortcuts not only in school but in life. He has a tragic accident while playing a game and his vision is impacted. After the accident he sees everything upside down and has horrendous headaches. While attending a public speech given by 20-year-old Wren Woods, played by Leah Sims, he ends up developing a friendship with her where he not only takes on a journey where he is searching for meaning, but a journey where he searches to find himself. Along the way is a literature teacher, Mrs. Buck, played beautifully by Taylor St. Clair. Mrs. Buck is a teacher who cares, and who goes out of her way to help her students. How Solomon responds to those who become a part of his life, the decisions he makes and who he listens to will determine his future.

Upside lacks in a lot of areas, among those is a cast which can deliver the goods to make this a very good movie. The direction given by Ken Horstmann, who also wrote the script, does as much as is possible with the talent he has. I was impressed by the talents of Bentley and especially that of Taylor St. Clair. While other actors do a decent job, especially for a film of this nature, it is subpar. There are times the plot gets a little preachy, and the movie certainly has a religious intent. On this point, notice I said a little preachy. I actually appreciated the reality of the movie and it focuses on a pretty good story. While religion plays a part, it is not done in a threatening way; it is respectful and causes the viewer to reflect without feeling like they had just attended a Baptist Revival.

Horstmann does a good job at developing the story and moving it along. This is the type of story that reminded me of a television series, and in fact, would make a pretty good series, especially with the New England feel. It is also quite interesting because both primary characters have what many would consider a disability. While White has an injury brought on by a sporting accident, his love interest in the story, Wren Woods is permanently and totally blind. The relationship that develops is based on numerous things, and this is a good reminder of what can develop in real relationships off screen. It is also nice to see these age groups presented in a positive way, with potential to do the right thing.

While Upside has as backdrop, people of faith, it is presented in a respectful way. Solomon White, despite some mistakes, a temper, and an attitude at times, is deep down a good kid. We see this especially when given the opportunity to cheat on his girlfriend on a college visit, yet he chooses to remain loyal. There are other examples we see illustrated such as a teacher who is devoutly Christian, yet she respects the public school setting she is teaching in. We also see a real and non threatening way how one can live their faith, and how it can bring about needed change.

Upside is a good first effort. I wouldn’t mind showing it to my family, and I would think many families where faith is important will enjoy this DVD. There is some good advice for those in the age group this film is intended for. While not a great film, it is a little better than average, and certainly better than many religious themed movies due to the respect it gives the viewer. I would have liked a better developed script, and a little more focus on the technical aspects of the film. While not a film I would want to watch over and over again, I would consider renting the DVD and enjoying it at home with the family. What you decide to do, well that is up to you. There is an upside though; you will get some good themes and decent reminders in this family friendly movie that not all has to end up bad, and that some of those searching for answers, may just find them.

To see the trailer to the movie, click the video below. If the link doesn't appear, click the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMEwr1iV3eY

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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

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Open Water, Open Water Adrift DVD Blu-Ray Double Feature

I love the water, I love movies, I love Blu-Ray DVD’s, I love movies about the water, I love good horror, I wish I could say I love the double package DVD of Open Water and Open Water Adrift, but the truth is, I don’t.

Blu-Ray DVD’s are generally worth the few extra dollars they cost, you get a lot more in sound and quality in images. Blu-Ray players coming down in price recently makes for a worthwhile purchase. For many, like me, they find themselves checking out some of the double features on Blu-Ray to save a few dollars. One of the upcoming releases on the double feature disc is the Open Water series based on true events. Many consider these films as fitting into the horror genera so I figured it would be worth giving these films from 2003, and 2006 a first time look.

The premise of the two films is that horrid events lead up to individuals being left in the ocean to face their own demise. In Open Water, we see two scuba divers accidentally left behind in the ocean through a series of events, and in Open Water Adrift we see six friends celebrating a reunion of sorts, along with the birthday of a friend overboard a yacht, unable to get back on board due to not having a ladder. While the themes are largely the same, the movies are uniquely different.

In Open Water we see a horror story, not just in the story itself, but the way it is told. Having to sit through the one hour and twenty minutes of this movie may have been the most horrific and horrid movie experience of my life. While the special features and makers of this movie dwell on the aspects of indie film, I have seen and personally worked with several indie films and filmmakers who are far more deserving of having their work make it to the big screen. Everything from the direction, camera angles, acting, and story are enough to have had me wishing the two principles in the movie would die sooner than later so I could quit watching the movie. There is an underlying theme in both films that causes one to think about what they would do in the last hours of life, how one would respond to loved ones or friends if with those loved ones and friends. Unfortunately in Open Water, these themes are so poorly explored there was little value I could find. It would have been better if for the larger part of the movie there would have been other characters to explore and more of a story to watch. Of course there is value in the inspiration and the process of how an indie film can find national distribution and a large audience as is illustrated in the special features, but that isn’t the film itself, although it is a part of the product.

In Open Water Adrift, we see a poor movie come close to looking like a masterpiece due to the horrific nature of its predecessor. Here we see some 20 minutes of character development and the six characters play off of each other throughout the film. There is an effective use of flashback sequences that helps the viewer sympathize with one of the characters. There is a fair exploration of the role of religion on individuals when they are close to death, or facing what appears to be certain death.

Throughout Open Water Adrift we see persons either turning to faith, remembering faith, or questioning faith as they face death. We see one character who is reminded of the cross and the conflict and pain that came about through the image of that cross. We see pain as a part of her past, her present, and see that it will be a part of her future.

Another character turns to the Lords Prayer as a means of hope and salvation. She is seeks peace despite actions that show how little her faith meant to her in her past. In the end, she realizes the importance of faith, but in the words of another character, there is the question of where is God in the reality that millions of people die without God’s intervention. There is the question of why she and her friends should believe that God would hear their prayers when it is clear there are so many whose prayers aren’t heard.

Many seeking spiritual truth will find those questions troubling. Many people of faith seem to ignore the reality of the world around them. The reality is that for some people, their preconceived notions don’t work. There are innocent people killed in war, dying from starvation and more. There seems to be people isolated by their environment who have difficulty distinguishing the difference between reality, faith, and perceived notions of what their faith is supposed to be.

Open Water Adrift was worth a view, but compared to many movies on the big screen, it still falls short. I wish I could give it a higher recommendation, but truth is I have seen better television movies.

Overall, I wasn’t a little disappointed in this double feature Blu-Ray DVD, I was extremely disappointed. From the sound quality, to story, and from the transfer quality, to special features, there was little of value. Unfortunately, the only aspect of the Blu-Ray that was worth watching in high quality was the previews of other movies and some of the special features of Open Water. I would be okay with watching Open Water Adrift, but would enjoy the conversations started from the questions and points mentioned above more. Other than that, I would say get a bag of microwave popcorn, pull out an old VHS version of Jaws, sit down, and enjoy. The horror from that movie will be far more enjoyable and thought provoking than the horror of having to sit through these two movies.

To see the trailers for these movies, click on the videos below, if the videos don’t appear, click on the links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wc7-biVJlJQ

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

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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.

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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

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Let Me In

I am so sick of sparkly, day walking, loving teenage vampires! Don’t get me wrong I have seen the Twilight movies, I see some value in them, but I tend to walk around with a number of horror writers and movie makers of horror. I have found few real vampire or horror fans that enjoy the bastardization of hundreds of years of legend and myth. I have my own theories as to why this is taking place, but for me, if there is going to be a retelling give me a Wes Craven version or even the HBO version of True Blood, but give me vampires if you are going to tell a vampire story.

In 2008 there was an award winning vampire, blood drinker story made into a Swedish movie titled, Let the Right One In, directed by Tomas Alfredson. I have to admit, I haven’t see that movie, but after seeing the American release of Let Me In, directed by Matt Reeves, I may have to go on a search to find it. Reeves brings an unusual telling of vampirism to the screen in a unique, yet refreshing, true to the legend and myth lore way. While there are challenges due to children being in the primary roles, one shouldn’t let that fool them, while children are involved, this is far more than a teenage, lovey dovy, story of pre-teen love. This is a vampire story intended for later teens who can deal with adult themes, and adults who enjoy good story and thought provoking themes more than blood, gore, and killing. Don’t get me wrong, those things exist in this movie, but the clear and obvious thing that drives Let Me In is story.

Let Me In is the story of a young boy going through difficulty in his life. His mother and father are separated and going through a divorce, he is bullied at school, and in desperate need of friendship. A young girl and her supposed father move into the low income apartment complex he lives in. Late one night as the boy, Owen, played by Kodi Smit-McPhee meets one of the new tenants, a young 12-year-old girl. Abby, played by Chloe Moretz, received critical acclaim for her role as the young foul mouthed avenger in Kick Ass. Abby has a secret Owen doesn’t know about. It doesn’t take the viewer long to figure out there is much more about Abby than one may first think. She tells Owen in one scene when asked how old she is, “I am 12, but I have been 12 for a long time.” Of course by then, we know why she gives this strange answer and while she never comes out and tells Owen that she is a vampire, it doesn’t take him long to figure it out. It is inevitable that things will soon start to go wrong as there are those who have been looking for Abby. As Abby and Owen develop a close friendship, the world seems to cave in around them. There is the intensity of not knowing what is going to happen next and the confusion of wondering what is going to happen next in the story. The story builds to an exciting ending where there is potential for the development of the story.

The advance trailers for Let Me In don’t do justice to the story. Unfortunately, I believe many will be drawn to the film expecting an edge of your seat thriller and not be prepared to deal with the unique and wonderful story that evolves. Let Me In is beautifully filmed and much is left to the imagination. While there are ample blood scenes, it is clear the special effects, gore, and blood drinking is not the focus. The critical component of this story is story. Much kudos has to be given to director Matt Reeves. Not since Brittany Murphy has a young actress been as mesmerizing and thoroughly skilled in her craft as the young Chloe Moretz. Reeves doesn’t just do wonders with Moretz though, he directs in such a way to bring about believable, incredible chemistry between her character, and the character of Owen played by Smit-McPhee. Using some incredible cinematography, a great and at times, funny soundtrack, Reeves gets as much out of his actors, primarily children as anyone in a long time.

One of the things the viewer is challenged with, as are the characters is the seeming recognition, at times dispute, and reality of God. We see a mother who is deeply religious, offering prayers for her child, yet, hiding in her own reality through with alcohol, and in her religion. She seems to think that religion provides all of the answers yet; she refuses to surrender to the teachings of religion that one would think is critical. She leaves her son alone most of the time and refuses to get involved in any serious level of his life. No matter how many photos of Jesus she has around her apartment, or how many times she prays before dinner, she has yet to give of herself to her son and his own problems. As a result, Owen questions the reality of evil and turns to friendship and love where he can find it. Abby is also lonely and a unique friendship develops. Owens’s father doesn’t really care about him either which is evidenced by his rejection to be there for his son. This Romeo and Juliet story resembles what many in real life have gone through.

I really liked this movie, the conversations that can come about; the story and maturity of how it is told. While having some first hand knowledge of working with children in film, I appreciate the direction by Reeves. While I believe many may be disappointed because it isn’t a Twilight style of movie and it isn’t as scary as the previews make it, it is a tremendous story that forces one to think about their own situations, the ways we hide from reality and ignore those who should be closest. It is a reminder of the need for friendship, and the ways some look for it, even if having to look in dangerous places. I also appreciated the way Let Me In forces us, the viewer to question what is evil, and what is good. There are no pat answers; in fact, the answers the viewer gets may come from different places with different conclusions. The answers are not always easy, they are there for the search though, if we allow ourselves to search in places we may have never considered. If willing to do that, we may be surprised at the conclusions we come to and those conclusions may help us be better people, with more fulfilled lives.

On a scale of 1 – 10, while not a perfect movie, in fact far from a classic, it is a very good, thought provoking retelling of vampires with some unique retellings, and some answers to questions some have asked for years, I give a resounding, thought provoking and enjoyable 8.

To see the trailer for Let Me In, just click on the video, if the video doesn't appear, just click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reRRAEVHq8E



Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid

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You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

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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.

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

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Amish Grace

Sometimes truth makes incredible story, sometimes, true faith brings about incredible life lessons. I remember being mesmerized regarding the Amish Tragedy in Pennsylvania a few years ago. Being Mennonite myself, and having studied some of the materials of the author of the book, Amish Grace, How Forgiveness Transcends Tragedy by Donald B. Kraybill, I was somewhat interested to see how the Lifetime Television Network did with their made for TV movie now on DVD.

Amish Grace is the story of a milkman Charlie Roberts, played by John Churchill who lives in an Amish community in Pennsylvania. He is distraught after the death of his daughter at birth. He blames God and figures the way to get even with God is to go to an Amish school and kill the children. Based on true events, the story explores the forgiveness offered to the wife of Charlie who is left with three children. In the process of forgiveness within the Amish community, one of the mothers, Ida Graeber, played by Tammy Blanchard, struggles with forgiveness, especially when her faith community has banned, ‘shunned’ (a term used within the religious community) her own daughter for leaving the community and marrying outside of her faith.

Amish Grace is unfortunately, an obvious made for television movie. Missing are the typical top actors, and certain film techniques. The good news is, that while many made for TV movies and series as of recent have been quite exceptional, this isn’t quite up to par too many of those shows. It is however a quite good, well acted, mesmerizing story, and one that is actually quite good for a Cable Network like Lifetime. One of the surprising and appreciative aspects is the respect given to the Amish Community in the filming of the movie, while not compromising some of the appropriate questions about their faith concepts.

The direction provided by Greg Champion is quite good as is the editing by Anita Brandt-Burgoyne. In their work the story evolves quite well, and the truth is, the DVD feature is likely superior to the television story, if for no other reason, the ability for the story to move along without commercial interruption. While there are some questions and some holes in the plotline, they are eventually answered and clarification is given.

The journey involves two women who were impacted by the events. It is here the film causes this reviewer to reflect on a number of issues. Amy, the mother whose husband killed the children at the Amish School, and later killed himself, and Ida an Amish mother whose daughter was killed in the shooting are both women whose faith are important to them. One doesn’t know how one could forgive, and the other doesn’t know why she should forgive when she has been hurt so much by her own faith community. Their journey to discover their own answers to their faith ultimately brings them together, to a place that isn’t easy to arrive at, and a place where most viewers will appreciate. One of the enjoyable things about watching this movie is the progression of the characters and the honesty of how the story is presented. While we see conflicts of faith, and conflicts of belief, we see them in a way where the good and the bad are presented.

One of the things we see presented in Amish Grace in a beautiful way is the complexity of a concept like forgiveness. It is a concept that when truly offered is offered out of love, a love that not many will understand. We also see it presented in a way where we realize it isn’t always easy. The question of who deserves and doesn’t deserve grace and forgiveness is asked in a real and unique way. While many would say that a murderer doesn’t deserve grace we learn to understand that sometimes the lack of grace and forgiveness may have more of an impact on the innocent than we realize.

Amish Grace is one of the best spiritually themed television programs to come about in a long time. The DVD is well worth the retail purchase price and deserving of an audience. One shouldn’t expect to see a top notch theatrical release because that isn’t what this movie is. What it is though is a thought provoking presentation of a people who live by peace, but also at a cost. It searches out in an honest way not just the highlights of their belief system and family oriented communities, it also explores the beliefs that seem to be inconsistent to much of their teachings, especially in the areas of how shunning impacts not just those intended to help, but those who are having to offer the practice. What transpires however in Amish Grace is a discussion and presentation of honesty. One I appreciated and could recommend.

In a world where so many want to condemn and judge, we see a movie where forgiveness and grace are ultimately offered, even to those seemingly not deserving of that love and grace. The amazing thing about what we see is that most of us won’t have an excuse to not try to exhibit this behavior though, because the story is true, and the events all too real. Sometimes those stories, despite them being on television as opposed to the big screen can be just as powerful. That is if given the chance, and Amish Grace is certainly worth giving a chance.

To see a video of the news coverage regarding the shooting click on the following video, if the video don’t appear, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjJt3wKXdRc


Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

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

You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

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.

Click to visit Mary Jane Furches' new MySpace Page

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

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The Amityville Horror 2005 Blu-Ray

One of the most controversial, and studied horrors in America History involved a house in the Long Island community of New York known as Amityville. The story resulted in a top selling book, and a movie franchise that has resulted in 9 films. The latest theatrical release was in 2005. The Michael Bay produced film directed by Andrew Douglas is now on Blu Ray DVD. While the film starring Ryan Reynolds and Melissa George as George and Kathy Lutz is well made, it doesn’t fully explore the supposed and controversial history of the house at 112 Ocean Avenue that has led to skepticism among many and assurances of others regarding the haunting and murders which took place.

While there is skepticism and controversy that still exists regarding the haunting experienced by the Lutz family, there is no doubt as to the murders which actually occurred at the house on November 13, 1974. The story, as presented in the movie has it that 24 year old Ronald, ‘Butch’ Defeo Jr. took a 35 caliber, lever action Marlin rifle and shot and murdered his mother, father, two sisters and two brothers. He later claimed to have heard the devil telling him to “kill them all”.

The movie starts out showing the book, Evil is Proof of God, which has been read and marked up by Butch. Butch then proceeds on a shooting spree killing his family. After the house has set vacant for approximately 1 year, the Lutz’s recognize what they think is a good deal and buy the house. While the realtor is somewhat hesitant in showing the house, she later tells them the history of the house after they inquire about the price of the house. Despite their knowledge of the history of the house, the Lutz’s decide to purchase it. Shortly after moving in the newly married couple, and three children, (Kathy Lutz was a widow from a former marriage with 3 children) the family experiences what in real life, the Lutz’s swore was the true story of a horrific 28 days prior to moving out. While some in real life speculated the family moved out due to their inability to pay the mortgage, others speculate the events as largely portrayed in the movie, along with the haunting, poltergeist, and hallucinations, actually occurred. There seems to be collaborating evidence from real life priest, Father Ralph J. Pecoraro, played as Father Callaway by Philip Baker Hall in the 2005 movie and other sources that give credibility to the story.

On the surface, the exceptional editing, terrific sound to support a horror story, and acting are decent, the story just isn’t there. There are too many jumps in the script and few answers, for that matter, the appropriate questions aren’t asked that could have provided insight into the actual story. The 2005 movie is a rather poor remake of the original 1979 film starring James Brolin and Margot Kidder. The age of the older version adds to the visual horror better than the high definition Blu-Ray. While there is a sequence in the film resembling older 35 MM home video footage outside of this, there is little to appreciate about the film and transfer. Unfortunately, the story doesn’t benefit from the high tech aspects and one of the faults in the direction is the thought that newer techniques in the transfer would give reason for a remake and rerelease. While there are some good camera angles in the film, and unique perspectives, specifically within some of the Point of View shots, it seems as if the underlying themes that made the real story, and the legend of the haunting so scary is somehow lost in translation. I don’t see the need for a remake; I certainly don’t see the benefit of it being transferred to Blu-Ray some years later.

This movie touches on aspects of evil and good, and recognizes the reality of evil. What that evil is, and where it comes from is not fully explored in the story. We do hear about a supposed Indian burial ground, a fact in dispute in the real Amityville. While there is the possibility of evil coming from Satan presented in the movie, it is never really explored outside of the viewer seeing the book being read by Butch prior to the murders and the recognition of the house needing to be blessed and ‘exorcised.’ This also too place in real life by the Lutz’s. While the mother, a non practicing Catholic, and George Lutz, a non practicing Methodist, seemed to understand the importance of religion in the attempt to ‘cleanse’ the house it wasn’t until near the end of the 28 days the family decided to explore this option.

With the history of the house, and the legends surrounding it, one would almost have to work at ruining the story, that is exactly what we have in this movie, a story that isn’t that good, and not very scary. The transfer of the Blu-Ray high definition has nothing of value, certainly nothing to justify the higher price for the DVD combo package including the Blu-Ray version and the regular DVD version. The only benefit are the special features including the Deleted Scenes, Supernatural Homicide an exploration of the real murders, The Source of Evil, a Photo Gallery and more. While the special features seem to offer an exploration into the real story, they also lack the detail one would normally hope for, even here though, there is nothing new and this material has been available for some time for those researching the history of the Amityville Horror.

While the concept behind the story is intriguing, and quite interesting because of the exploration of good and evil, the movie and DVD fall short. One may challenge that good and evil cannot exist without the other and that is certainly a worthy debate and discussion. There is little good and little offered in that debate and discussion on this DVD though. There is nothing special about the DVD and the Blu-Ray version to justify the purchase. While one may find some value in the special features, I did not. That doesn’t change the need to search though, I just happen to prefer the potential and possibility of hope and good, unfortunately, The Amityville Horror, 2005 offers neither.

To see the trailer for the film just click on the video below, if it doesn’t appear, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xHJOG03eDE


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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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The Mysterious Islands, Evolution VS Creation

Over the years The Virtual Pew has been on the forefront of online ministry. As a result I have been involved in various online social groups. One of the things I have seen is many debates on various issues. Near the top of those debates is the debate of Evolution VS Creation. Not many sources from the view of a Creationist have been available. With the release of The Mysterious Islands, this documentary may very well be the best exploration on the subject from a Creationist perspective.

Unfortunately, it seems as if most Christian filmmakers are satisfied with lack luster quality. I have personally seen many a documentary that isn’t worth the cost of the plastic it is pressed on. In regards to the technical quality of The Mysterious Islands I was more than pleasantly surprised at the quality of cinematography, sound, editing, and story. This top notch documentary accomplishes its purpose in providing a quality product beyond the typical lackluster ‘Christian’ film.

The Mysterious Islands follows the journey of the father son team of 16-year-old Joshua Phillips and with his father Doug. Also on the journey is Dr. John Morris, a noted Creationist. They travel with their team to the Galapagos Islands to search for evidence to refute many of the teachings and beliefs of Charles Darwin. The fact that this is done on Darwin’s 200th anniversary and 150th anniversary of the release of the book Origin of the Species is not lost in the production. It has been said that the Galapagos Islands are the birth place of evolutionary thought. While this is partially true, it is certain that many of the concepts espoused by Darwin were birthed on the islands.

The Mysterious Islands does a good job at following this road journey format as the exploration team searches out to discuss some of Darwin’s findings and conclusions regarding Evolution and the Origin of the Species. One of the concepts strongly challenged through out the journey is the belief in the Survival of the Fittest. Most documentaries start out with a premise supported by the film makers. Unfortunately, many don’t state their intent and present their film under the premise of fair journalism. The makers of The Mysterious Islands, from the get go, lets the viewer know of their intent and beliefs. There is no doubt their view will be presented from a Conservative Christian Creationist point of view. Thankfully on the exploration of the subject matter, they present their case in a logical way with the layman in mind. Most will understand the scientific material in a way that makes sense to them.

Unfortunately, I felt the action between the father and son was somewhat contrived and not needed. The story involving the two seemed to take away from the material being presented. The documentary would have been just as good without the preconceived concept of a father, son journey; I think it would have in fact been better.

This film respectfully explores the differences between Creationist and Evolutionists. From the start, they clearly point out that in their opinion; there were many things Darwin got right. They also point out that he got more wrong than right. They use the arguments of several well known individuals in the field who do not accept their faith to point this out. There is also respect and recognition given to many religions of the world that recognize and believe in creation. They also come to a place where they state that one who says they believe in God cannot believe any concept outside of creation. I would have liked to have seen more debate and openness on this subject. Especially from those who believe that God may have used parts of evolution, or even evolution as a means of creation. It is one of the things that Exposed by Ben Stein has over this film, a more open means of possibility. There are certainly far more beliefs than were presented by the makers of The Mysterious Islands, even from within a Christian perspective. One gets the opinion that if one doesn’t agree with a literal 6 day creation, then one can’t believe in the God of the Bible or be a Christian. It is these types of dogma that have the tendency to turn people away from a faith journey and honest discussion on the subject.

The Mysterious Islands does explore the concepts of transitional design within species. This is an interesting concept that was somewhat educational. As a lay person, I found this concept interesting and at times seemingly only a matter of semantics in regards to the differences between the two trains of thought. Concepts of transitioning, sounding like evolution seem to be accepted by the Creationists in the film. In this view however, the concept of transitions or changes outside of species is strongly attacked. There are compelling arguments and concepts presented that would have been interesting to hear from Evolutionists on. The documentary looks at the concepts presented in the Genesis account, specifically looking at the concepts of God created animals ‘in kind.’ From these various kinds of ‘in kind’ animals others came about.

Some other interesting views in the film look at the history of what they say have occurred as a result of Evolutionary thought. Here they present that the human species have been devalued. There are quotes provided by Darwin and others that accepted Evolution to promote their beliefs. These include people like Hitler and Margaret Sanger, the creator of Planned Parenthood. While it is debatable as to the role evolution played in supporting their perspectives and support of things like racism and prejudice, the quotes provided, seem to support these premises. They also seem to support the general notion that concepts held and presented from Darwin’s teachings were in agreement with the thought process of these individuals. There are additional interesting historical information presented including information regarding an affair between HG Wells and Sanger. It seems these are attempts to not just attack the various beliefs, but the character of these individuals.

While I greatly appreciated the technical quality of The Mysterious Islands, and the ability to communicate the message in layman’s terms I felt part of the story, while done to a small extent, could have been better developed with a more open exploration of the points. This would have taken this film from being widely supported by the Creationist community to a film widely used and effective to people in all belief systems. This could have effectively been used as a discussion point between Evolutionists and Creationists. This could have facilitated great discussions at Film Festivals, Churches, and Scientific Study Groups among others.

The Mysterious Islands is interesting and beautiful to watch. I appreciated that the makers recognize that their argument is an argument of faith, they also point out that the argument of the Evolutionist is also an argument of faith. When presenting the randomness and possibilities of evolution they ask the question of what it is greater to have faith in, random chance, or a God.

One of the things I like to comment on is the special features. I actually give them a mixed review. While there are ample features and information on how to obtain a study guide, much of the focus is more editorial. They vary from the history of the Galapagos to the history of Whaling in the area. It is certain; much of the features material will be controversial. I personally enjoyed The Flightless Cormorant, and their response to the findings of noted Atheist, Richard Dawkins as well as the history of the islands.

As stated earlier, while not perfect, this may be the best documentary on the subject from a Christian, Creationist perspective that has been made. While it will do little to change minds, it is done in such a way it can be understood and appreciated by audiences outside of Academia. I would have appreciated a more balanced approach, but I recognize this wasn’t the intent. It is worthwhile viewing and one Creationists will likely want to own.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products for services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog, and in my reviews. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The following is the trailer for the movie, just click on the video, if the video doesn't appear, just click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwyteUF43d0


Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Wichita, the Church in Wichita Kansas where Mike is the pastor.

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.

You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

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.

Click to visit Mary Jane Furches' new MySpace Page

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mary Jane Furches MySpace Page

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

Letters to God, An Interview with Writer Co Director Patrick Doughtie

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Patrick Doughtie the writer and co-director of Letters to God. The interview flowed as a natural conversation and was a little different for me because of my own personal appeal to the movie.

Letters to God is based on Patrick’s son Tyler. I had my own experiences with a little boy named Tyler Graebener who died from cancer when he was 9. I did a lot of work with Tyler over the years and will be forever impacted as a result of my witnessing of the tremendous courage and example of this little boy. Letters to God is a personal journey and story of Patrick’s son who succumbed to a rare form of brain cancer. There is something about the honesty, and life of a child that teaches lessons and has value. Letters to God is a movie and story that shares the wisdom of a child. While there are liberties taken in the story, the lessons, the examples, are very much a part of the reality of Tyler.

As I did a little research on the film I had a spiritual experience. Without me knowing, I discovered some associations with the film. Among those associations included is music from the band Stars Go Dim. I have gotten to know these guys over the last year or so and was surprised to discover one of their songs on the soundtrack for the film. I also discovered that Patrick is based out of Nashville, a city where I have many friends and once lived near. There is also the common concept of both of us losing a loved one to cancer, both who happened to be named Tyler. While much more personal for Patrick, as it is the story of his son, the research still brought back memories for me of the little boy I loved named Tyler. I was reminded of the boy I loved named Tyler and of how movies can impact the lives of people like I had once written of Tyler Graebener.

Patrick shared with me ‘the story of Letters to God is about a little boy who has cancer and writes letters to God, and was inspired by my son. The film version shares how he impacted people and it touches on his childlike faith. In the story he has an impact on a down and out postal worker.'

I asked how different the story was from real life and Patrick responded: ‘A lot of the conversations between the son and mother are actually conversations between me and my son. The movie is really Tyler’s cancer story wrapped in fiction. The letters are a metaphor of his life and his love for God. In real life, Tyler was his own letter to God. He was the messenger who had to share the story. Actually, I later found some letters that were passed off into the production company. There are a lot of fictional characters in the movie but some, like one of the little girls is based off a friend he met at St. Jude’s Hospital.’

One of the things I appreciated is the work being done to help raise awareness and help agencies that do work. As a part of the work being supported by the web site and movie include, charities such as, Hope Kids, The Arnold Palmer Hospital, and Give Kids the World Village. The web site for the movie, www.letterstogodthemovie.com also has a site link that allows individuals to share their own stories. It doesn’t take long to realize the impact this movie has had on multitudes of grieving loved ones.

In regards to the stories that have been shared, Patrick shared: ‘The stories have been phenomenal! There have been on a daily bases Facebook messages and others at my own web site www.patrickdoughtie.com others forward messages to me that deal with things they have heard. The one thing that sticks out in my head was my thought that if just one person comes to Christ through the story then the entire experience was worth it. There is a woman who contacted me through Facebook and she gave me permission to use her story. She was diagnosed with leukemia at 14 and was considered cancer free for 5 years. For all of her life she was agnostic and didn’t believe in God. She is now 28 and was recently diagnosed with a new kind of cancer with no cure. Her mom asked her to go see the movie, she went reluctantly and came out and messaged me. She wanted me to know that she wanted to live the rest of her life for God and the next week would be the very first time she ever stepped foot in the church.’

Patrick continued with his thoughts, reflecting as he told me; ‘I wanted to see one person come to Christ and impacted by the story, but instead I have seen hundreds of people who have gone through similar circumstances and the story has provided hope.’

Having some experience in knowing what it feels like to garnish some success due to work with such a personal subject, I reluctantly asked how it felt to try and balance everything, including the success with the personal experience of losing his son, Patrick had thought of this before, but was gracious to answer the question freely; ‘Ultimately the entire process has been healing. I went through a period of depression and into a slump for almost 2 years. I was mad at God, I asked the questions of why, it’s not fair, and I started thinking back of when I was in the hospital looking for him. The church I was in gave me the book The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren and I started seeing a purpose for everyone. I saw Tyler’s purpose as being on the planet to impact the people he impacted and had an effect on. It’s a roller coaster of emotions. I am blessed that I have been used by God in this manner, there are so many that have lost children that don’t have an opportunity to make a movie about their child. Each one of them touches people in their community and their family’s lives. There is definitely a purpose in each person’s life.’

I couldn’t help but relate to what Patrick had said here. I had seen and experienced the same type of thing with my friend Tyler. In fact, I had asked the same questions, came to the same conclusions. I couldn’t help but think that the consistency of the message gave a type of guarantee that the message really was from God.

In my own personal experiences, I also realized, time has to go on, there has to be a future. I asked Patrick what the future included for him. ‘I am still writing and raising funds for a movie I am now working on. I have a screen play, actually several that I am developing in novel format and they are being pitched to the publisher. The book hit the NY times best seller list so that helps and doors open. I also write a political column and I also just signed with Single Source Speakers Bureau, all in all, life is pretty busy.’

While the movie is getting mass marketing from Wal-Mart among other retailers, the possible impact from the mega giant isn’t lost. Patrick shared, ‘Wal Mart is a huge outlet for us, they have picked up a couple hundred thousand copies, LifeWay is also promoting it pretty well, I haven’t spoken to the marketing team but am hoping they also put more advertising on television. I also know the movie has been released in other countries. Hopefully more people will know about the release. It is also available at Red Box.

I realized as we proceeded, a lot is happening for Patrick. I was impressed; impressed with a lot of things, from similar experiences, to the life his son must have led. I was wondering though, had his purpose, had his desires changed so I asked about his wishes for the future: ‘Honestly, my only wish and goal is like from the start; it is that as many as possible will see the movie, it isn’t really about the sales and all of that, I’m just hoping now that millions can see the movie, be touched by the story. How that helps, or if I make a lot of money doesn’t matter to me nearly as much as that Tyler’s story touches lives.’

As I concluded the interview, I could relate, relate to a real guy who has had to go through tragic events in his own life to make him who he is. I was challenged, in fact moved, the reality is, many of us, whether we realize it or not, do in fact have a purpose in life. We unfortunately come to the conclusions we do through difficult circumstances. All too often, many of us focus on the negative, the negative of how we relate to others, or how we feel about our circumstances. There is certainly a time for grieving as is illustrated in the Biblical book of Ecclesiastes, but there is also a time for healing, a time for joy, a time for living. It is in all of those times that we become who we are, and who we are will determine who we impact and the reality of maybe, just maybe we can be used by God to touch others with meaning and purpose. I think Patrick gets that, in fact, I am certain he does, thankfully because of the gift of his son, now many more, hopefully millions will as well.

The following is a video of an interview with Patrick, to see the video, just click on the video, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCwZeX_om1U


Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Wichita, the Church in Wichita Kansas where Mike is the pastor.

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.

You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

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.

Click to visit Mary Jane Furches' new MySpace Page

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mary Jane Furches MySpace Page

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