Do It Again, Reuniting The Kinks

As a musician, as a film reviewer I was looking forward to seeing the documentary Do It Again, the journey of Geoff Edgers a Boston newspaper reporter who has an urge to do all he can to bring back together, the legendary band, The Kinks. The band noted for such hits as ‘You Really Got Me,’ ‘Lola,’ and ‘Come Dancing,’ among others has been feuding for years, and while many in the world of music would love to see them reunite, those who know them think the likelihood of them getting together again is perceived as a crazy idea that just isn’t going to happen. Edgers has an edge though that can’t be ignored, one that may just get him in the door. The edge? Edgers has been a fan of the Kinks since a small boy. That has to count for something doesn’t it?

While Edgers is the producer and subject matter of the documentary, the film is directed by Robert Patton-Spruill. What transpires on screen, for this one music fan, which happens to be a musician, is many moments of smiles and giggles, while shaking my head at the disbelief of the audacity of the subject Geoff Edgers. This isn’t in a negative way, but in numerous joy filled moments way. Not always the laugh out loud kind but the kind that brings a sense of joy throughout the film, up through and including, the ending credits. Do It Again is a tale that is weaved together and shot with entertainment as its focus and music laced all throughout the movie. Unfortunately, it is the cost of licensing the music for Theatrical and DVD release that may be the single factor that keeps the populace from seeing this wonderful gem of a movie. While the music for the film has been licensed for Film Festival usage, even the costs here according to Edgers in an after the film discussion was prohibitive.

In the film Do It Again, we see Edgers suffering with the reality that his income is getting ready to be drastically reduced at his job with The Boston Globe. He has a wife, a daughter, a new house and a dream. The dream is to get the Kinks reunited, if for nothing else, just one song. He has grown up with and loves this band. Edgers believes that one way he can bring the band together is to meet as many people in the entertainment industry as possible, including those who have actually worked with the Kinks. Here, their influence and tips will be of benefit in encouraging the boys to get together.

At the Tallgrass Festival where I screened this documentary, Edgers in the after screening discussion spoke about how he had contacted over 70 artists and individuals to interview. There were the members of the band Heart, who couldn’t meet because they had their hair to worry about, John Cougar Mellencamp thought he was crazy, and even though Edgers got an interview with Paul McCartney, someone who handles McCartney didn’t like the way the interview turned out so wouldn’t give permission to use the footage in the film. There are a few of those Edgers contacted who agreed to be interviewed, and they should be thrilled they chose to participate in this project. Among those interviewed was Sting who came across as a genuinely caring, fun guy with a willingness to not only care about his fans, but have a good time with them in the process.

Along the journey to reunite The Kinks, Edgers realizes that following his dream of reuniting this band is coming at a cost. Along the journey, he soon realizes that the likelihood of getting the band back together may not happen, it is then that when many would give up, that Edgers decides to go to the next level, he goes to Great Britain to take one last shot at accomplishing his dream. What transpires are opportunities he couldn’t have imagined, and secrets that will remain between him and one of the Davies Brothers.

The Davies Brothers, Ray and Dave are the two founding members of the band, The Kinks. While Ray Davies was the driving force of the band, the turmoil between the two brothers led to what many state was the ultimate demise. One of the most painful moments in watching the film is when Edgers has the chance to interview Dave Davies. During the interview he is asked about his brother and he states that his brother was only happy for 3 years of his life, the first 3 years of life before he (Dave) was born. This sort of Cain and Able story is heartbreaking. In a world where one would want and desire love between families we are challenged by Edgers daughter riding in the back of the car when she confronts her father about how come two brothers can’t love each other? That is actually a great question, a question that is all too real for many families. We live in a world where we wonder why we can’t get along, come to a place of peace, when in reality we can’t even get along with those we should be closest to, a brother or a sister. For me, as a person of faith I am reminded of the words of Jesus here, if we can’t love our brother or sister here on earth that we can see, how can we even pretend to say that we love God who we have never seen? A good question that for me was driven home as I contemplated about the apparent lack of love between these two brothers, who are so loved by so many others on our planet. If looking for world peace, there would be no better place to start than loving your brother. One would only hope the Davies brothers would come to this place of loving, not just in word, but in their actions.

Do It Again is about much more than The Kinks though, there are far more lessons we can learn from the example set forth by Edgers. This movie is about in many ways, going after dreams, seeking to do what your heart tells you. I was intrigued at the concept of interviewing someone you care about, love, or you have idolized. I asked Edgers if he got any butterflies during any of the interviews and how he saw them when he looked back on them. He replied that he really didn’t have any butterflies. He was so driven to do the story and to document the experiences that the experience was all he was thinking about. The only thing that created a little nervousness was going into each interview he knew he was going to ask the person he was interviewing to sing, or play along with a song with him by The Kinks. This provided quite a few entertaining moments but it also gave likeability to those who participated, and it humanized Edgers not just as a journalist, but a fan who really loved The Kinks.

I enjoyed this movie, the subject matter and the insight into not only The Kinks, (the film is loaded with their music) but especially Edgers. In truth, this isn’t really a movie about The Kinks, although there is a lot of material there, it is really a story of a man, Geoff Edgers who goes after his dream. It is the story of not giving up, of persevering, even in tough times. It is also the story of love between families, the ultimate love of a father wanting for his family, and the lack of apparent love between two brothers that would be so selfish in their apparent hate at its worst, clear dislike at its best of each other. Edgers is in fact the hero here and the truth is, he is the least known of the subject matters in the movie. He is a hero because he has a dream, and pursues that dream. That dream is sought out through love. It will likely provide a lasting impact between a daughter and son and those that view the film. That dream, is a dream worth sharing.

To see the trailer for this film, click the following video. If the video doesn’t appear, just click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5oJRPjOd3I


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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.com

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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Gerrymandering A New Documentary

Every year the plains of Kansas burst wide open with film through the Tallgrass Film Festival in Wichita, not just any film, but this year as an example, film on the fringe, film that pays tribute to the Independent film maker. This year is no exception, and as a result the first film I choose to see is a film addressing the political climate in America. A concept not to be lost with recent news within the last 24 hours with the firing of Juan Williams from NPR for his supposed commentary on the Fox News Program, Bill O’Reilly’s The Factor. People engaged in politics are interested in the news of recent, whether it be the seeming hypocrisy of some in the Liberal Left regarding the firing of Juan Williams, the reported dogmas of those in the Tea Party or the mid term elections that are only a few days away, the world, including film, seems to be bursting at the seams to engage in political discourse.

I am somewhat of a political moderate; I love politics as a hobby. I tend to be driven in my politics by my faith. Another concept not lost on me at the moment is the pre screen testing that is taking place right now as Dave Matthews is singing in a concert video about Jesus, and his role regarding faith and the practice of faith in the political system.

The documentary Gerrymandering takes a look at the political process of redrawing voting districts. This is most often done for various reasons and normally every 10 years after the federal census which looks at population growth and decline. The redrawing of voting districts takes place for various reasons. The premise here is it takes place at the directives of those in power, those in the state and federal legislatures. In this process, redistricting is often done to maintain and continue political power, essentially taking the power away from the people making the decisions.

The film is written and directed by Jeff Reichert. Reichert does a very good job of keeping the story moving and in being fair in his approach. It is rare that a documentary is impartial, and ultimately they all have a premise and purpose, but Gerrymandering takes a seemingly fair approach. It would have been easy to take the side of a particular political party, but the documentary takes the side of the man and woman in the street, ultimately the voter. The film also does a good job in the other technical aspects, including lighting and sound, often ignored or not taken as seriously as need be in independent film.

As mentioned above, Gerrymandering pulls no punches, it attacks both political parties equally in the exploration of this concept designed to give power to the politicians as opposed to the people. Unfortunately, the people often believe they have the power to elect individuals of their choice into office. Using pundits on both sides of the political spectrum, from Republican Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger to former National Democratic Chair, Howard Dean; Gerrymandering takes a fair approach at addressing this issue. One of the concepts this documentary hits hard on is the lack of knowledge among the American people on this issue, and the reality that behind closed doors things are done by those in power to take away the voice of the people in the voting booth.

Many place a great deal of faith in their country, in the concept of Democracy. Yet, as we see in Gerrymandering, the reality is that unless people make the effort to better understand the government which they live, their voices may be heard far less than one expects. When politicians redraw districts to create a voting district to remove a potential opponent in a future election, or to maintain power for a particular political party, one has to wonder what kind of voice, what kind of respect is ultimately given to the voter.

At the heart of the film is the willingness of some to make a difference. As a part of the backdrop of Gerrymandering is the California effort to pass Proposition 11. Here we see people rising up and voicing their concerns against a political system that has the politicians drawing the political district lines as they do in most states. In the process we see the need to stand up and speak up for ourselves and for others. We not only benefit ourselves when we speak up, but the sacrifices we make help others around us. We also see the recognition of others that self sacrifice results in helping others in Gerrymandering; it is in fact, their desire to help others that moves them to the place of sacrificing their time, effort and actions. We see this minimally in their willingness to keep on standing up, even while trying many times, failing many times, yet they get back up and try again until they accomplish something of value. In a world where it is so easy to quit after one or two failures, to see the benefit of perseverance is refreshing. I remember the words of Jesus here, telling us, what we have done for the least of these, we have also done for him.

I love politics as a hobby as mentioned above, but it is one of the most frustrating hobbies I have. I see documentaries like this that appropriately explores and questions the way our political system works, yet the political parties, on both sides seem to care less about changing the system, and the people who are largely impacted by things like gerrymandering. Those on the extreme fringes seem to either not care, or are unwilling to do what is necessary to see to it that the people have the power through the voting process. We seem to blindly place our faith in a political system that is designed to help the politician and their interest, and at the same time ignore the people and their needs. Something about that line: ‘We the people,’ seems to be lost in translation. I have to wonder, do we the people really have a voice, and do we really care? Are we willing to do what is necessary to up for those who are often left behind and abused by the system? Those are questions we can all think about and apply regarding not the issue of political process, but in the issue of life.

To view the trailer for Gerrymandering, click on the video below, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kurAB5ridko


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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.com

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

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The Deadliest Catch, Season 6

Last year I commented at my social networking sites that while watching The Deadliest Catch on the Discovery Channel that I had just watched quite possibly the best moment I had ever observed on television. While I am not a huge television fan, I do watch a number of series with the compliments of the DVR so I can fast forward through the commercials. With that handy dandy tool, I have found myself watching more television than ever and thankfully in less time. One of the programs I do make room for is The Deadliest Catch. For those that follow this reality television program, they know it follows the dangers of fishing for crab off of the coast of Alaska. They also know of the drama surrounding the series this year. One of the most beloved captains featured on the show, Captain Phil Harris, died this year due to complications related to a stroke. The struggles of the family, crew and cast of the program took reality television to a new place for reality television. As a result, this already outstanding series had one of the most memorable seasons of any television series in the history of television.

This DVD series is in a word, OUTSTANDING! From the cinematography to sound, from the storyline, to cast, there are few negatives one could find. There is also the transfer quality of the series from television to DVD which is done in such a high quality. One can not only enjoy this phenomenal series, but experience the emotion, hard work, sacrifice, and tragedy. We obtain some understanding that the luxuries we enjoy in life, in this case crab meat, come at a cost from people who take their work seriously, and find joy, through their own difficulty to not only make a fair living wage, but to also enjoy the thing we often ignore, life.

In the 5 previous seasons of The Deadliest Catch, we hear each episode of the dangers of the work these men engage in. We see through the eyes of the camera lens the danger, and hard life these individuals live. As a result, we have gotten to know many of the crew, the actual fishermen who fish these deadly waters. This season however, with the death of Captain Phil Harris, we experienced for the first time, the heartbreak of death.

In life we are often challenged with the reality, that one of the last things we do is to die. We live as if we don’t always recognize this, nor do we recognize the reality of mortality. Programs like this can help us in that discovery. This boxed set, thankfully, includes a special disc, titled After the Catch. Here we follow the life of Captain Phil, his two sons, and others who loved him come face to face with mortality, with a loved one, not an acquaintance, but a father, a co-worker, a friend. We get to see not only the impact of mortality on the cast of the series, but in some of the most moving sequences, also the crew who are a part of the show. Like no other moment I have seen on television, is the reality of mortality so powerfully addressed. While the entire DVD set is exceptional, the special features disc After the Catch is well worth the entire cost of the set.

I have to admit, I wish the exceptional nature of this season, didn’t come at the cost it did. That wouldn’t be real life though; it wouldn’t be ‘reality.’ Many are rightfully critical of ‘reality television,’ there are however, some good programs that present reality, few that have lasted as long, or done as well as The Deadliest Catch. This program inspired quality in reality television in my opinion, the willingness to capture and show real fishermen, in real situations, and in real life and death is a part of the reason of the success of this show. This season, we saw and witnessed love, compassion, and reflection on life, and yes, even death. Not all deal with the situation in the same way, some are called to be brothers that become fathers. Some are called to be friends to those who are hurting, to visit those in the hospital, and even to dance at the joy of life, and the gratefulness of memories. In fact, we see that we shouldn’t just reflect on the spiritual aspects of death, but the need to get our spiritual lives together in life. It is in life that we can truly celebrate. It is in the death of those that lived life that we can find a place to celebrate even in death. Not because of what we may have done, but because of the way one we love lived. In that regard, Captain Phil Harris not only lived, he inspired others to live. I have a strong suspicion, that if watching this series, you will be inspired as well, just as I have to live life. None of us are guaranteed of tomorrow, there is more to life than living, but there is also life in and after death. What we do with that life is determined in part by how we live, may we all live life as God intended us to live. Thanks Captain Phil Harris for inspiring me to try and do just that.

The following is the trailer for the television series. To view the video, just click on the video below. If the video doesn’t appear, click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCtXdgs2rDc

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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.com

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

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MGM Collections, Kids Movies & 80's Movies

MGM has recently released two collection series, one; The MGM Movie Collection, 6 Kids Movies, and the other The MGM Movie Collection, 6 80’s Movies. Both sets contain 3 double sided DVD’s and are offered up with mixed reviews.

The first of the series I watched was the collection including the 6 Kids Movies. The DVD series features the live action movies Snow White, Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, Puss In Boots, Sleeping Beauty, and Hansel and Gretel. These movies from 1986-1988 features various cast members and were nicely done. I was surprised at the intensity of some of the movies. While they seemed to be marketed to small children, I thought more appropriate for children a little older. There are some scary themes and adult dialog and situations in some of the features. There was enough of an adult orientation that I actually found myself enjoying these more than I thought I would.

The second of the series, featuring the 80’s movies include, Valley Girl, The Rachel Papers, Losin’ It, The Last American Virgin, Class and Zapped. Each of these ‘R’ rated movies are targeted towards teens and young adults. Their ‘R’ rating and targeted audience gives some indication as to the content. While there were some break out roles for such actors as Tom Cruise, James Spader and others, one should not expect great acting or great story lines. What one can expect, depending on their age, is a little nostalgia, an opportunity to enjoy seeing younger versions of current stars, and a little history of the predecessor of the more adult oriented teen movies we have today.

Both sets of movies offer a little history that shows what some may say is the golden age of morality, and others would say the decline. In the children’s features we see a variety of stories that teach morals and certain life lessons. They are stories most parents and children are aware of. The movie versions of the stories are faithfully told and done quite well. On the other hand we see a variety of movies in the 80’s films that one could think on the surface promote inappropriate and dangerous behavior. I challenge though, that while I didn’t like these movies nearly as much as the kid’s collection, there are still life lessons taught because of the consequences of actions. We also see the development of relationships in these films, the importance of accepting people without prejudgment and the danger of inappropriate relationships. For some, like me, the nostalgia of living through the 80’s will also bring back memories. The truth is, people change, and we are not the same for the duration of our lives. While we may carry on certain characteristic traits, ultimately, we have the potential to change. One of the things we see from both of these sets is that change can not only occur in adults, but children. Often those who are unwilling to accept change are the ones left behind, or made out to be the antagonist.

I would have liked is a better quality of transfer in both the picture and sound for both sets of movies. I realize the primary benefit of these releases is to make them available in at an affordable price. These are affordable and fun. Don’t expect anything of great quality but do expect fun. In the process, notice the ability of some, of various ages, to change, then ask yourself, is there something I can learn, is there something I need to change about myself? If a movie buff like I am, you will not only see the change in the characters on screen, but you will appreciate the change in the actors who played those characters. Yes, life moves on, and we with it. Some may need or even desire the reminders of the past, as for me, I prefer the joy of the present and the hope of the future.

The following feature some of the scenes from a couple of the movies in the collection. Just click on the video, if the video doesn't appear, click on the link:

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





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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.

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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.com

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

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

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Mike Furches MySpace Blog

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The Way Home

Sometimes it seems as if the religious community wants to make quality film, but in reality has no comprehension of what it takes to either attract an audience outside of their belief system, or to make a good quality film. Thankfully, there are recent examples to show how a quality film can be made, that displays images of faith and spirituality, while at the same time telling a good, entertaining story in an effective way. The most recent such a film is The Way Home, starring Dean Cain, of Lois and Clark and Ripley’s Believe it or Not fame. The movie distributed by Lionsgate is produced by Red 5 Entertainment. It is more than an example of how to make a film regarding faith; it is an example of the quality work in much of the independent market.

The Way Home is the inspiring true story of how a community comes together in the search of missing 2-year-old Joe Simpkins. The Simpkins family is getting ready for a vacation when workaholic father, Randy, played by Dean Cain, takes a few moments to check his work email. In the meantime his youngest child is outside playing after Randy was asked to put him in his car seat. After going outside and discovering the tricycle on its side, he and his wife, Christal, played by Lori Beth Edgeman begin a frantic search in hopes of finding their child. It isn’t long before their local church starts up a prayer chain and hundreds from the community show up to assist in the search of young Joe.

One of the things I appreciated about this film is the quality of how it is made. While there are minimal flaws in the supporting roles, there is a good supporting cast. Their characters are provided great direction by producer, director and writer Lance W. Dreesen. Dreesen has done a more than admirable job in virtually every aspect of the film he had control of. From the lighting, to cinematography, editing, scripting and casting with a smaller than norm budget, A Way Home is exceptional. Lost in many indie films is the lack of story, this movie, while dialog and event driven, is driven by story. It is driven in such a way the viewer never looses interest and in the process finds themselves asking questions. There is a great use of camera angles that adds to this and the usage of hand held cameras in certain scenes adds to the realism of what we see portrayed on screen. This adds not just to the realism, it adds to the intensity. Dreesen in his direction also answers the questions we might ask, in a respectful way that provides life lessons.

As the story develops outside characters enter into the story. While some of those are minor, they are quite good and play key roles. We see the impact and change in their characters and the story as a result of their involvement. We see this in a few flashback sequences and an effective flash forward sequence where the primary character Randy Simpkins imagines and thinks about what the future may hold if he does, or if he doesn’t find his son.

There are other characters where we see this; especially good is Tom Nowicki as Sheriff Tony Reeves who does a stand up job. There are other interesting characters which add to the story, especially interesting is the character of Ed Walker played movingly by Sonny Shoyer, who joions the search for young Joe. Ed is haunted by years of memories regarding the loss of his little brother, also named Joe. Director Dreesen weaves the subplots together and draws the viewer into the story. Early on we see the mother Christal in some questionable moments. We see her character develop in such a way where there will be several scenes where it will be hard for any mother to not share in her pain, and in her tears. We also see effective direction and story telling when we see the impact of what is happening through the eyes of others. This is especially effective when we see through the eyes of a local television reporter who is observing the organized chaos around her, but also the people who care and are coming together.

There is no doubt that faith, and especially prayer and community are critical components of The Way Home. One of the things I appreciated though is the honest and respectful way the questions are asked and dealt with, not just a respectful way for those within the faith community, but also a respectful non preachy way for the non faith community. I had an initial reservation regarding the emphasis placed on prayer. I couldn’t help but wonder, ‘yeah, there is a lot of prayer going on in the community that the searchers will find little Joe but what about all of those that pray and their prayers aren’t answered?’ I later saw an honest and effective answer to this question in the character of Ed Walker. A man who had prayed for his own little brother, yet seemingly, God didn’t answer his prayer. Later on though, we see the impact of his actions, mixed in with his prayers. One may even come to the conclusion that God found a way to answer his prayer.

Another component many reviewers are picking up on is the importance of community. There is a powerful representation of people coming together, not just the faith community but the community as a whole. Of course we see the faith community praying, but not just praying, they are actively involved in the search for Joe. When the characters realize what is really important, we see behaviors and actions also change. The representation is so powerful on screen that this may be one of the best marketing tools the community of Carroll County, Georgia could have ever hoped for. There are the positives of living in a real community, where people genuinely love and care for their neighbors. The call for communities to come back to this point of life where we know and care for our neighbors isn’t lost on me. It inspires me to get to know my neighbors and will likely do the same for others.

Outside of a few issues with the small children in their roles, and a few times it felt like some of the cast was reading lines as opposed to acting, this is a very good film. I was inspired, and even though I watched it with another guy, couldn’t help but wipe away a few tears at times. I also enjoyed the special features on the DVD and the technical quality of the film. While not in High Definition Blu-Ray the transfer is exceptional and appears like a Blu-Ray high resolution film. It is even better than a lot of Blu-Ray films I have seen. I was also impressed with the 2 special features, one a documentary style making of feature which had interviews with several of the cast and the real life characters they played. The emotions of the real characters are quite moving. I also appreciated the feature with the sit down discussions of the real life characters, Randy and Christal Simpkins alongside the actors playing their parts in the film.

There is some really bad movies out there, a lot of those are making it to DVD either due to them being a direct to DVD release or a poor theatrical run. This movie deserved a better theatrical run than it had and is a hidden gem of a movie. Not only people of faith will enjoy this, but all audiences will be inspired by this remarkable story. While it is nice to be inspired, it is even nicer to be inspired by something the makers of this film obviously believed in, it is evidenced with not just the story, but the quality of how they told the story. If looking for an uplifting movie, you can’t go wrong with The Way Home.

While not the trailer, here is a video from opening night in Atlanta. Just click on the video, and if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YE3I6drptRk&feature=related


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 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 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.com

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

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

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The Least Among You

Last week, I just reviewed one of the worst movies I have seen in a long time. It was a faith based film and those who know me, know, I have some reservation about most of these types of film. Unfortunately, in my experience, faith based films are halfway done, and frankly, most of the time, unbearable. There are some good movies though that have story in them, well done, well acted, and have faith as a backdrop. It has been that way for years, and I suspect will stay that way for some time to come. I just had the pleasure of sitting down and watching a film that not only portrayed a part of history but also had faith as a backdrop that was presented in a real and honest way.

The Least Among You is a small independent film which has been picked up for distribution by Lionsgate. Lionsgate in fact has done a good job of picking up good indie films for national distribution. This is no exception. The Least Among You, while having a small budget for a ‘Hollywood’ movie plays quite large on the screen and is quite nice. While there are some story concepts that could have been explored a little more, the overall direction provided by Mark Young, (also the writer of the script) is quite exceptional. The story moves nicely, and there is a very good score for the film with some fun moments. The cinematography and lighting is appreciated and one of my pet peeves of indie films, the sound, is actually very well done. One of the only criticisms is at times the lighting and makeup just do not mesh up. While this is a minor issue, it is at times noticeable.

The Least Among You is a story based on the actual events of Reverend, Dr. Charles Marks. The story, with a name change tells the story of Richard Kelly, played by Cedric Sanders, (who is currently featured in The Social Network). Kelly is a young student with promise who is arrested during the Watts Race Riots of 1965. His mother works diligently to get him into an all white seminary and as a condition of his probation he is accepted into the seminary program. Kelly becomes the first African American student accepted into the prestigious seminary. While there, while one would think the attitudes and reality of racism wouldn’t exist, especially since it is a Christian Seminary. Kelly however has to prove himself on a regular basis and deals with racism and prejudice, even among the Seminary staff and student base. Along the way he deals with a less than honest Seminary President, Alan Beckett, played wonderfully by William Devane, and a professor who was a former missionary going through her own crises of faith, played by Lauren Holly. In a world filled with prejudice, despite the Christian setting, Kelly is befriended by a gardener and maintenance man, played by Louis Gossett Jr. It is here that Kelly rediscovers faith and the ability to persevere through hardship.

In The Least Among You, we see the challenge and questions faced by Richard Kelly as he progresses through stages of faith, and thus, eventually having to take stands for his faith. There is no doubt, Kelly is the featured story but it isn’t just his story. For the first time in a while we see Lou Gossett Jr. play a critical role. Gossett has always been there for emotional moments, and has been recognized for his abilities here, I have little doubt that he played a pivotal role in helping Cedric Sanders in his role as Kelly. We see the characters develop and there is a place for each role in the film, even those small roles. We see for example the importance and influence of a white roommate of Kelly from Texas in helping him understand his own areas of life in need of adjustment. While this character plays a bit part in the film, there is no doubt as to the his importance in the film.

The Least Among You uses faith as a backdrop, and it is done in a respectful, yet thought provoking way. It holds no punches in helping the viewer understand areas where some faith leaders hindered the progress and acceptance of African Americans, even in the Christian community. We are reminded though of the roles many individuals played in the decline of things like segregation, even within the faith community and at such places as seminaries. There was a price to pay, and Dr. Charles Marks was among those to pay a price. While the character based on his life, Richard Kelly is a representation of a real person, in real life, some like Dr. Marks had to live that life. There is the challenge beautifully portrayed and written for the screen that challenges the reality of faith, and the ways and reasons we as people of faith, either act on that faith or, deny it. We often talk about a God who cares, but few seldom listen to and responded to the voice of God. The question is asked, how would one know it is God who is doing the speaking if they bothered to listen? In the faith of Kelly, we see that life isn’t always a bed of roses. The message is not for the faint of heart, there are often consequences for living out faith, and there are sometimes difficult situations we face, it is often in the difficulty that others see the reality of faith, and at that point, are maybe willing, to be inspired.

While The Least Among You had some flaws, I loved this movie. It isn’t just one of the better films I have seen in a while with faith as a backdrop, it is one of the better, and most thought provoking films I have seen in a while, period! From the technical aspects of this film, including especially the acting and story, to the challenge to the viewer to understand our history, and those who paid a price for their beliefs, I liked almost everything about this movie.

One of the things I also liked about the film is the ample, and meaningful special features. I especially liked the interview with the real Dr. Marks, to see and hear him, now a college professor, telling his own story, and seeing him tear up and show emotion, all of these years later, when speaking about that gardener and grounds keeper played by Lou Gossett Jr. was a nice addition to this package. The reminder that even a gardener, even a simple man living a simple life can have such a dramatic impact on the life of another was touching and moving. In many ways, that feature lets the viewer know that in many ways, the real hero of the success of Dr. Marks, wasn’t Marks himself, but a man looked down upon by many, who took on a lowly job of serving others to sacrificially give of himself to better serve someone else. In many ways, that sounds like another named Jesus doesn’t it? In a world where so many strive to be all they can be, it is nice to have a reminder like this movie to challenge us, and move us to the concept of loving and serving others, from no matter what position in life we live.

Among the Least of You, isn’t just a film to educate African Americans, or history buffs, this is a movie to move and inspire all of us, whether we be a teacher, a truck driver or even a janitor working the halls of a school. We can all make a difference if we will but choose to show compassion for our fellow man. It is after all, Among the Least of You, that we will truly change the world, and the lives of those around us, not because we are least, but because we can use our lives to mirror the service and sacrifice of the one who is great, and presented himself as least. That was a lesson that changed the world, and we though our own examples, as presented by the example of Kelly, can at the very least, change the lives of those around us.

To see the trailer for the film, just click on the video, if the video doesn't appear, simply click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEVte1yNEFY


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 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 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.com

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

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

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Bringing Up Bobby

As a part of my obligation in reviewing movies, I at times offend some people. There are the people of faith who are offended that I find good in movies they may not like, others who may not like that I am critical of certain films. With that in mind, I believe I have an obligation to truth, my faith, and my readers. That means when I see something I don’t like, I need to be honest. That said, sit back, and endure.

I recently screened the new release of the DVD, Bringing Up Bobby. The DVD is a Christian themed ‘comedy’ that involves the search of a dysfunctional family to discover who they really are. There is if you will; a search for meaning and purpose. On the surface, this is a great question for a movie theme. In Bringing Up Bobby the story involves a family who has been orphaned and is after some 12 years now going through a estate settlement as to who gets what from the estate. In the process, long lost relatives show up wanting their share of whatever from the estate. Thrown in for good measure are a sort of love story or two and a great deal of intended slap stick.

One of the troubling aspects of this movie is the cast actually shows a lot of potential. There are moments this largely unknown cast are quite good in their roles. This is troubling for various reasons, while the script and story had potential, the direction and story clearly falls short and there seems to be a lack of understanding to the real world surroundings. While there is an attempt to mirror aspects of the real world, it just doesn’t resemble the world I have lived in and experienced, and I have had many interactions with various population groups, including Goth’s as presented in the movie. Most of the time the slap stick just doesn’t work, and I didn’t even have a chuckle or two. Sadly, if watching this with friends, I may have found myself more embarrassed than entertained. There was the potential and possibility, but I found it offensive. This movie reminded me of a goofy youth pastor at a church, one who hasn’t lived in the real world, and one that isn’t that effective of reaching others outside of their faith.

In Bringing Up Bobby, we see the development of certain characters and their questions of faith and their discovery of who they are and what they believe. The search they are involved in just isn’t believable. There is one character that has a minor role that is somewhat thought provoking. Adam Misenko plays the part of Eric and brings some reality to the story. Eric lives in a troubled home, is in search for family and is a Goth. This subplot is interesting and thought provoking, unfortunately, his story doesn’t make for a comedy, and the tragedy of his experience detracts from the intent and style of the movie. While there are some good scenes involving his character explored in the film, the real strength of this storyline just isn’t explored in a satisfactory way.

The questions raised in Bringing Up Bobby are appropriate questions, that could have had real humor mixed into the story. How does one discover who they really are? How does one find meaning? How and why does family take advantage of family? What does it mean to be honest and love one another? All are adequate themes and while there is some minor exploration of this, the plot just isn’t well developed. We do see an honest portrayal of the search in the character of Nick. He is a representation that for some, no matter how wonderful we think our faith may be; there are those who live in and have tough and difficult lives. We do see the sacrifice of love portrayed by Bobby and his older brother James. It is just too little too late to make a real difference for where Nick is at.

I respect the intent of the makers to make a movie like this. I didn’t like it though, in fact, it may be one of the worst movies I have seen in a very long time. I am not the only one though, the ratings at IMDB is consistent with what I would rate this movie. When having a cast with the potential as this cast did, there needed to be more attention dedicated to the telling of the story. I would have preferred a serious subject matter dealing with the issues addressed, with a touch of comedic moments here and there, as opposed to the slap stick style I frankly just found offensive. Don’t get me wrong, I love good slap stick, I just don’t think this played well in this story. I do think there is potential in the makers of this movie; obviously I would say the casting of the film was quite good, as the discovery of a very good group of unknown actors is quite an accomplishment. Doing something with them that will translate in a real way would be appreciated.

The DVD does have a pretty good selection of items on the special features. There are some pretty good outtakes quite a bit funnier than the movie. I just don’t think I would have been happy with my purchase of this, no matter how good the outtakes and special features are. Will I watch a film from this group again? Quite likely the answer is yes, there is at least promise, promise I hope they develop, and hopefully with some of the same cast.

To see the trailer for Bringing Up Bobby, click the video below, if the video doesn’t appear, just click on the following link:

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


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 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 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.com

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

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

The Keystone Kid / The Virtual Pew Message Boards