Reviews With Mike Furches

Sunday, June 29, 2014

Armageddon 15 Years Later

I did a brief review for Hollywood Jesus some 13 years ago for the movie Armageddon after it first came out on DVD. I focused then on the powerful relationship between the father and daughter but now, on the 15 year anniversary of the film I have watched the film again and realized, the themes are just as powerful as ever.

Armageddon is a film that is self described in its title. An all star cast in the special effects laden flick features the upcoming likely demise of the earth by a giant asteroid. A rag tag group of astronauts and others are brought together by NASA to help make a last ditch effort to save the earth before being struck by the asteroid. There are multitudes of stars from Liv Tyler, to Billy Bob Thornton and Bruce Willis to Ben Affleck. While many were critical of the film when initially released, I found it then and still do, very entertaining and quite emotional. Just as the film caused me to reflect on family, loved ones and the willingness to sacrifice for those loved the first time I saw it, it still maintains those emotions for me all these years later.

Armageddon is directed by the king of the Summer Blockbuster, Michael Bay and is produced by Jerry Bruckheimer. It seems as if Bay has a way of directing movies that gets blasted by many critics yet loved enough by fans to have them flocking to the theaters. Armageddon was in fact the 2nd highest grossing film of 1998 right behind Saving Private Ryan. It has everything Summer audiences seem to enjoy, the potential destruction of the earth, lots of special effects and a love story that involves sacrifice and salvation. The formula has worked well for Bay in many of his films.

The special effects for Armageddon are spectacular but as good as they are, there was something else special about the movie, something that touches the soul. There is a story of the love between a father and daughter and the willingness of the father to make a sacrifice not just for his daughter but the world around him. In that sacrifice he thinks and knows what is important. While he is willing to sacrifice for others, he also understands that his daughter has a special place in his heart. It is the thing many critics seemed to make fun of, even ribbed the movie for but it got to me as I think about the sacrifices for the ones I love as it would most any parent watching the movie.

Another theme addressed in many movies of the summer as in Armageddon is the potential destruction of the earth. It seems as if people are always thinking about the end of the world. How will the world end? Will it be an asteroid, drastic changes in weather, or even a giant monster from the ocean or a virus from outer space? For many Christians this is due to our beliefs from the Bible. Is it close to the time to the end happening? While these may be appropriate questions, Armageddon the movie also does a good job at addressing and making sure we address and observe important factors in this scenario. It causes the viewer to take into consideration not just the future but the present. What about the relationships we have with family, friends, coworkers, etc...? Are we doing our best to make sure we enjoy and thrive on life while at the same time, making a significant difference now? As I have gotten older, these themes still resonate and the desire to love has grown over the last 15 years, thus driving my own mortality even more home. Movies like Armageddon can actually contribute, inspire and move people towards a better life, not just for themselves, but those around them. Armageddon illustrates limits on life and none of us are guaranteed of tomorrow. At the end of life on this planet, hopefully we have made a difference and those around us will know of our love and sacrifice for them.

Armageddon is one of those movies that when I first saw it I was a little more critical of than I should have been. There are other movies over the years I rated higher that I tire of but that has not been the case with Armageddon. Even in the case of that years bigger movie, Saving Private Ryan, I gave a better, more critically praised review, but truth is, I have only seen that movie twice in the last 15 years. Armageddon though has caught my eye at least 5 or 6 times. I think it is one of those movies many can relate to. If looking for a good, enjoyable, thought provoking, tear jerker of a movie Armageddon is a good reminder of one that the audiences loved despite what the critics say. It is one that moves the audiences to contemplate those they share the earth with and for this father, thinking back on his daughter over the last 15 years to need a tissue to wipe some of those dust mites away in his eyes that cause a tear or two.

To see the movie trailer for Armageddon, click on the following video if the video link does not work, click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq6q2BrTino

The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry. Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work. Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

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

Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click to subscribe to my blog

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

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

The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

Friday, June 27, 2014

Twister, Some 20 Years Later

Every Spring for the last 20 or so years life gets exciting. Living in Oklahoma and Kansas over that period of time I know for a fact, those of us living in Tornado Alley get to experience, the excitement that comes with the weather. Weather for us isn't just a conversation topic, it becomes a way of life that keeps our attention and unfortunately for some, death.

We had lived in Oklahoma for 1 year after arriving on January 1 1995. Then on May 10 1996 there was a release of a little movie called Twister. It received a lot of criticism from the critics and praise from many in the movie going audience. The movie starred Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton. Paxton's character Bill Harding was a somewhat eccentric storm chaser who ends up working together with his former wife Dr. Jo Harding a meteorologist to chase some serious storm in Oklahoma. The movie filmed in Central Oklahoma was riddled with good weather and clear skies leaving production depending heavily on cinema special effects provided by Industrial Light and Magic. Those effects helped draw multitudes to theaters with Twister becoming the 2nd highest grossing movie of 1996.

Much of Twister was objected to by many who had gone through tornadoes, experienced damage or loss of life but the movie also was found to be humorous by many storm chasers in our area who I spoke with regarding the movie, albeit extremely entertaining. The experts have said the scenes are outlandish but didn't take away from their enjoyment of the film because it brought recognition to real storm chasing including those chasing storms for safety purposes and research as was the case with most of the chasers in the movie. Unfortunately, according to several chasers, there are also those chasing for pleasure with little or no training or appreciation on the real destructive properties of a tornado. Dangerous traffic situations can occur due to that attitude as was exemplified last year even as an experienced storm chaser was caught in a tornado outside of Oklahoma City due to the amateur chasers and spectators.

As is the case in Twister, those of us in society often get caught up in our surroundings and in the latest habits or popular activities. We don't think about the potential dangers we may be getting into. There are at times dangers for those not following safe guidelines, not only in storm chasing but in life. It is one of the areas Twister does quite well. It shows dangers yet at the same time tells a story many cam appreciate, whether it be the dedication to chasing storms and the attempt to save lives or the rather incredible, albeit, unbelievable special effects presented in the movie. The same could be applied to our lives, how do we look at life, what do we look for, and will we recognize the real from the fake? Can we spot danger and see our surrounding for what they are? Or do we become mesmerized to the point that we put ourselves in dangerous and life threatening situations.

I enjoyed Twister the first time I saw it and have seen it several times since. I know that much of the film isn't realistic, yet I also know that there are parts that are. There are those who constantly put themselves in harms way, just like in life. Some for good reasons others out of stupidity. The earth has a way of letting others know of the power of God if willing to listen, unfortunately many don't. Truth is, in both Kansas and Oklahoma and I suspect other places, when the sirens go off, more times than not many go outside looking for the tornadoes, knowing full well of the dangers. We know of the power, yet, in our own stupidity we confront those dangers face to face. For some, at times, with devastating consequences. In that regard, Twister addresses in an allegorical way that aspect of many of us not just in the chasing of storms, but the storms of life.

Twister is a film that is still enjoyed by many. There are also questions that challenge us. Will we respect God and His power? What about the power of Nature? Will we use our own abilities and desires to seek out ways to help others or be foolish and take advantage of or think we can control either God or nature? If we go into dangerous places, doing dangerous things, we should be prepared and understand, that just as in the storms of nature, the storms of life can also present some dangerous and eventful consequences.

Twister is an entertaining movie that keeps most viewers on the edge of their seats due in part to the story and the incredible special effects. The situations that bring that about on screen for many of us also brings about similar concerns in real life, whether it be the break up of a relationship, the unexpected harm to another, or horrific events to seemingly innocent people. While the movie may at times exaggerate those aspects, in some ways, it also presents an appropriate allegory for those of us experiencing hardship in life, or the need to rescue a friend or family member going through the difficulties they do. I like many others realize this isn't the most Oscar considered story, the most believable of circumstances and so forth in a movie, but it is a movie that holds its own after some 20 years. People like to dream, they like to have a thrill, they like seeing that which seems to be unbelievable. In all of those areas, in a way many can relate to, Twister still succeeds. Now as the tornado sirens blare outside, what should I do? Give a second, I have to go take a look outside.

The following is a brief documentary about real storm chasers. To see the video just click on the video, if the video doesn't appear or work, just click on the following link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fl89cj_wsQ

Monday, June 23, 2014

The Wizard of Oz, 1939

How does one even begin to write a review of a movie, that is considered one of the most popular movies ever made and most will say, the most watched movie of all time? The movie Wizard of Oz is based on the book by L. Frank Baum. He went on to write 15 books on the Wizard from 1900 - 1920. Additional 'Official' books continued by author Ruth Plumly Thompson who went on to write 20 more books published between 1921 and 1976? One of the top movies of all time starred the legendary Judy Garland and was so popular that multitudes of movies, documentaries, and even other books have been written. What an honor to review a movie that brings back some of my earliest memories regarding the movies. One I have seen many times, own various renditions, edits, and remastered versions. I also own all of the official books written by Baum and Thompson, although I haven't read all of them.

The Wizard of Oz is noted for many things, most see it as a children's story and while it is that, it is much more. When the movie was made by MGM it was the most expensive movie ever made. It made minimal profits during its original release, some will say even lost money, but, we all know now the power of legs and the importance of television. When the film was shown some years later, in the 1950's on television, the film took off and viewers everywhere took notice. The movie received critical praise, although some critics didn't like it. During the theatrical release in 1939, it was nominated for numerous Academy Awards in a year considered by many until this day as the best year ever for movies. It lost The Best Picture Oscar to eventual winner, Gone With The Wind. The Wizard of Oz won other awards including Best Song, Somewhere Over The Rainbow which is considered by many as the best song in the history of film.

One little known fact is the 1939 version of The Wizard of Oz was not the first movie release of the story. Others based on L. Frank Baum's work was released in 1910, 1925, and 1933. Baum even commissioned a theatrical musical of the story released in 1902. The movie for me has lasting memories for other reasons though. I live in Kansas, the lasting references to the Land of Oz and not being in Kansas anymore is something I endure if not on a regular basis to this day. Kansans because of the love of Dorothy for her home has most Kansans sympathetic to the movie.

While there are many things to notice in this classic fantasy, from the incredible, lasting special effects, the use of color, the terrific direction, cast and music one can't get away from magical moments that exist from the opening scenes in black and white to the color transitions to the closing scenes. There is everything in between from a horrific witch to singing Munchkins and flying monkeys. Along the way are friendships that give example to the things each of us have the potential to possess. A brain that gives the ability to think, courage that allows one to stand on their convictions and a heart that allows one to love and care for others. Dorothy is if you will a sort of savior who has come from another land to rekindle hope in this place called OZ. She does so by helping instill dreams for a Cowardly Lion who needs a courage, a rusty old Tin Man who needs a Heart, and of course a Scarecrow who needs a brain. Each of these characters, in some ways represent all of us. They take on attributes that ultimately defeat evil and provides Oz the salvation it needs. After accomplishing her purpose, just like the Savior Jesus, Dorothy goes home to the place she loves, Kansas. She departs much like Jesus, into the Heaven's with those she has saved looking on and declaring her glories.

Dorothy represents the need to sometimes help and inspire others. We can see ourselves in this beautiful story. Psychology Today did a piece on the story in the June issue of 2010 that stated the movie is the most popular movie of all time, (viewed by more people of any movie in history) because in part, "...it embodies some of our most enduring values. At the same time, it also raises some provocative ideas." Within those ideas are reflections that each human can relate to, a place to call home, we are powerless and in need of a redeemer or savior if you will and the realization that our strengths and weaknesses come from within ourselves. (June Issue 2010, Psychology Today, The Narcissus In All Of Us, Why 'The Wizard of Oz' is the most popular film of all time) Of course as a person of faith, I believe the ultimate answers to our problems come from God. Just as Dorothy illustrated the need of Oz to have a savior, Jesus is the embodiment of the savior we need. It is clear that some of Baum's early Methodist and Episcopal roots are evident in his stories, although he converted to a free thinker train of thought through theosophy, at many points even confronting Christian theological aspects, that said, it is hard to escape the need of a savior as presented in The Wizard of Oz. Whatever the perspective, there is no doubt of the influence of faith on the writings of Baum, whether they be to promote or tear down religion.

As movies go, The Wizard of Oz about covers everything, excitement, story, great acting, music the whole bit. I also find it beautiful as it also opens up themes you can talk about with children and grandchildren. The themes are universal and can give examples on how God gives gifts, abilities and the special things that allow each of us to contribute to the world around us. These lessons aren't just for children though which is why I suspect so many still find the movie so touching, even after watching it year after year on television as it still makes its annual broadcast. We need those innocent reminders of home, value, conflict, purpose and more.

While our Summer Blockbuster features focus on Summer Blockbusters, truth is, initially, The Wizard of Oz just doesn't fit into that category. What it does fit into though is a movie with legs, a movie that inspires, one that went on to become the most watched movie in the history of Cinema. It is a lesson for each of us, it isn't always how we start that matters, it is how we finish. Run the race well, and be prepared to win, for no matter how we do in this life, for the follower of Jesus, in the end we gain everything, including eternity with a Savior in a heavenly place that is better than Oz, a place called Heaven that will be appear as; the Land of Ahs! While that may not have been the intent of L. Frank Baun and his theosophy beliefs, it is what I as a follower of Jesus can take out of it and on that matter, I can find cause and reason to celebrate a classic, called The Wizard of Oz.

For a rare treat, click on the following video to watch the first full length OZ film, The Patchwork Girl of Oz from 1914 in its entirety. If the video doesn't work, click on the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z9AY741gGs

Monday, May 26, 2014

Dirty Dancing 25+ Years Later

Dirty Dancing was released August 16, 1987. The movie was not expected to be anything more than a fun little coming of age teen movie which featured a cast at the time not that well know. The movie became the heart of the youth and it did very well across the globe. It was the first DVD to sell over 1,000,000 copies. and still does well in DVD sales. It is among the top streamed movie on streaming options to this day. While in theaters it was the #1 film in America for weeks with mixed reviews at best. While it received decent reviews from some critics it received very poor reviews from others. It was really the hearts of those going to the movie that gave Dirty Dancing the preverbal legs it ended up having.

Dirty Dancing is far from the best acted, directed, or plot driven movie out there, even during the period it was released. All of these things are at times are quite week. There is a time though for most young people where they need to feel their voice is heard and that they are understood for the lives they live. Dirty Dancing was a movie made at the right time, with the right kind of chemistry and theme that expressed the feelings of many young people and had many of them going back to the theater over and over to see it. It expressed their attitudes about adult authority, growing up, and finding ones self. It was one of those movies where word of mouth made a tremendous difference in its success.

Jennifer Grey, playing Baby is noted most recently for her participation in Dancing with the Stars. Screen legend Patrick Swayze plays Johnny in this the bad boy good girl forbidden couple story. Baby comes from a well to do family where her father is a doctor and Johnny is fast driving bad boy who also teaches and entertains with dance at an elitist Summer Camp. A series of events ultimately brings the two together and one of Johnny's friends and dance partners has to have an abortion. Baby volunteers over 3 weeks to learn to dance with Johnny. At this point Dirty Dancing moves into a theme of class acceptance as Johnny and his friends come from one side of society and Baby, her friends and family come from another. It is a play on Romeo and Juliette made famous by a fellow a few years ago named William Shakespeare. The themes of forbidden love have been prevalent for years. Dirty Dancing played on the usage of provocative dancing with a strange mixture of 70's and 80's music mixed into a soundtrack that took place predominantly in the 50's and 60's. The movie in many ways also resembles another popular coming of age story and musical, West Side Story where we see the Italian boy falling into forbidden love with a Jewish girl. Dirty Dancing is if you will, a contemporary blend of the two stories.

I have a couple of additional interests in the movie. The film used dancers from a dance troop from my wife's home town including some dancers I went to high school with. It was filmed in a community, Hendersonville, Lake Lure North Carolina where I had lived and spent a lot of time. While the dancing is wonderful, albeit out of period to some extent, I am also keenly aware of the beautiful landscape in the area. It was filmed in the same location as The Last of the Mohicans with Daniel Day Lewis, but takes little advantage of the scenery in the area. I have often wondered, what was it about Dirty Dancing that had it having the impact to drive millions to the theater?

Looking back over the years I think it was the viewers identification with the need to discover their own identity. They wanted to be who they wanted to be as opposed to who others wanted them to be. It is a theme that has been played out many times before, it will be again. There have been times that various things has set this attitude in motion, this time, it was a movie. We see this especially in the movie in Baby and Johnny. There are other characters we see it, some quite well, then there are the antagonists who think things are fine and they are fine having to meet the expectations of others.

I appreciated Johnny's character, he is has always looked down on to the point where some on the other side of the tracks may see him either as a sex object, bad boy, or one to simply make a profit from. Few see him as one with talents, abilities and desires. Many in society go through phases, and more times than not the reality of feeling rejection and being held back, not seen as people of value with the ability to be productive and decide for themselves. Even at times the church and related faith groups seem to discourage people in their individual search, without recognizing the people. The rules, the thou shalt not's, and the religious expectations which fall into the norm are presented as the only options while holding back individualistic identity. When one feels that their freedoms are taken away, they rebel, just as in the case of Dirty Dancing. It isn't that the rebellion is bad, it is the price that some will pay though to experience their freedom. Often times, just like spoken about in the book of Romans chapter 7, when some are given the freedom to be themselves, through Christ, then they will have a deeper understanding and appreciation of certain rules and guidelines, but that comes more completely when they have experienced freedom. We see this in a way in the conclusion of the film between Baby and her father when he realizes his role in not understanding the truth of what is going on and his own imprisonment of Baby's spirit.

If we are made in the image of God, which the Bible states we are, we need to remember, that often times, the talents, abilities and desires often come from God. It is evident in the case of Baby, she can dance, it is something she loves, yet she is discouraged from doing it the way she wants due to the perceptions of others. While there may be legitimacy to the style, it is still an expression of her individuality, which is used to later also learn a more classic style. While the love affair between her and Johnny may ultimately have limitations, she loves being with him and he with her because of the challenges they present to each other.

In Dirty Dancing there is also the themes of standing up for the hurting, even if they have made mistakes. We also see themes of class struggle. A rich little, well to do Italian guy gets a poor little Jewish girl pregnant and in need of an abortion. While the movie seems to take a pro abortion stance, I don't see it that way, it shows what is perceived as the limited options of some, yet the entitlement options of others based on wealth. We do see a botched abortion and while some can see that as a horrible thing, it is presented as a theme plot which in some ways, causes Baby to fully address her own acceptance by her father as a result of her involvement of him in the scenario. Not all is well, assumptions are made, while Baby's desire to help someone may be different, it ultimately causes Baby to reflect further on the differences between her generation and the generation of those of her mother and father. A never ending story that seems to exist with every generation. There is a lesson here though, a lesson to make sure we understand what is going on prior to jumping to conclusions about right and wrong.

Now it should be clear; I don't think Dirty Dancing is a very good movie from a theatrical or technical perspective. I would say though, it is in the running for one of the best bad movie ever made. Despite the acting, plot, crazy inconsistent blend of music, I still enjoy this movie after the 25+ years. That should tell us all something, it isn't always the best and most well intended efforts that drives us on to success, sometimes it can be the not so great, the weak, if at the right time, in the right place, with the right voice. It isn't that way just with movies though, it is that way with us as individuals. We may not be the most talented of the bunch, but if we pay close attention, listen to our surroundings, maybe we can express a thought a voice or action that will impact those around us. Dirty Dancing certainly did that, it knew the hearts of youth, it played on that reoccurring theme and took advantage of the time. Fortunately for the movie, as long as there are children, parents, and bad boys or girls from the other side of the tracks, those themes and need to address those themes will always exist. For me, as a person of faith, maybe it is time that I/we, learn to hear those voices, respond accordingly, understanding the need of all of us to be free. Maybe, just maybe, we can learn that the freedom we encourage, will allow, maybe move some, to know the freedoms we speak of. Then again, maybe some will be challenged to reflect on the assumptions they have made, how they could have been wrong, and that the relationships we value the most have been impacted by our own willingness to be stubborn and not give in to an attitude of understanding, acceptance, and if you will, ultimate love which allows those we love, to be free.

To see an interesting take on Dirty Dancing by the late Patrick Swayze click on the video below, if the video doesn't work, click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usT4UMaIIJE

The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry. Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work. Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

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

Friday, May 2, 2014

The Amazing Spider-Man 2

Since 2002 I have reviewed every Spider-Man theatrical movie release. I love the character and outside of Captain America he is my favorite comic book hero of all time. While I was among the rare and few who didn't like the latest Captain America movie, I was impressed at that movie with more than anything, the trailer of the new The Amazing Spider-Man 2 in 3D. It was with great anticipation that I awaited the release of the movie, yet, with some reservation as I have been let down so many times as was the case with Captain America The Winter Soldier. I arrived an hour and 15 minutes early, only to have to stand in a very long line to get into the theater. It wasn't long after the movie started that all trepidation and concern flew out the window, the visuals early on convinced me I was in for an amazing ride over the next 2 1/2 hours.

As many who have read my reviews across the world know, I am blessed to live in the city with one of the top grossing theaters in the world, The Warren Theaters which reportedly has the largest IMAX screen in the world. It has wonderful sound, incredible seating and has great digital 3D possibilities. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is in Real 3D and while all of these special features in a movie going experience can be wonderful, they can also be a let down. That is not the case of The Amazing Spider-Man 2. It is for movies such as this that these types of theaters are popping up across the world. The Amazing Spider-Man didn't let down in any way. It has some of the most amazing 3D effects, sound and visuals of any movie I have seen. Not since Avatar has a movie been as visually stunning. I even found the 3D effects here even better and more powerful than Avatar. They incredibly bring you into the action. The movie is AMAZING! The sound pops, the images are as if you are there and when the web slinger goes slinging his web and swinging across the city, you will swear you are there swinging along with him. One of the monikers in the first Superman movie with Christopher Reeve's was "you will believe a man can fly." In The Amazing Spider-Man 2 it could be; "You will sling webs with Spidy."

There are other things about this movie that was unexpected and yet, amazing. In 2002 I didn't think they would find a more appropriate Spider-Man than Tobey Maguire. He seemed to epitomize everything about the character. With the launch of the Amazing Spider-Man series, I was okay with Andrew Garfield in the lead role, I just wasn't totally convinced and I still missed Tobey Maguire. In The Amazing Spider-Man 2 however, something has happened, the story, plot, character has clicked. Here Garfield sets the screen on fire. He isn't just good in the role, he is great and one of the amazing things is he has a great supporting cast deserving of Academy Award Consideration. While rare, almost even out of place to say something like this this early in the film year, I can't help it, Garfield is tremendous and as good as ever is Sally Field as Aunt May. The caliber of acting in this film is amazing, oh yeah did I also mention, Jamie Foxx, Denis Leary, Paul Giamatti and I could go on? The story, sound, direction, and everything about it takes this riveting superhero comic book movie from a strictly action and fun flick to an epic must see, will be Oscar considered movie.

What makes this movie so good isn't just the above, it is the story and themes including the concepts, of Faith, Hope, and Love. Sound familiar? It should as it is a concept so strikingly represented in the Bible that one would have to wonder, is The Amazing Spider-Man 2 a movie about a superhero named Spider-Man, or is Spider-Man a parable about the potential for each of us, including the need for resiliency and need of a savior? I try to give spoiler free reviews but here we see the importance of sacrifice, the instillation of hope and the loss of loved ones. We even see the imagery as presented by Jesus in the Bible of the role and faith of a child. While Spider-Man or those on the forefronts of inspiring others may have difficulties, it is important to remember the faith, hope, love and inspiration provided to others, even a small child, who like the little boy David is willing to take on the giants of the world, even when they are in a Rino suit. Of course that hope provided can move us all to be a hero in some shape fashion or form, it can also inspire and convince us that we are more than a nobody, we are a somebody. Many in life would say, you aren't any one special, you are just a regular guy or gal but Spiderman, the Bible, and God tells us that we are more than that, we are in fact conquerors and we are chosen by God to be more than regular, more than a nobody, we are a somebody. We must remember though, that as is the case in The Amazing Spider-Man 2 we see with Electro, through the person of Max Dllion played by Jamie Foxx, we have to be careful to not let pride, or jealousy enter our thoughts, mind, or actions. Just as sure as there is the potential for good among all of us, there is also the potential for evil, the things that take us to the place of doing evil may seem minuscule at times but the end results of evil are still death and destruction, even when the original intent may have been good.

It is at this place I normally state what I didn't like about a movie, truth be told there really was nothing I didn't like about the movie other than the idiots who sat behind me who couldn't keep their mouths shut or apparently, (what I was told later but didn't observe during the movie) turn their cell phones off, a huge pet peeve of mine. Thankfully I was with friends and controlled myself, but as a reminder to everyone reading, please refrain from talking during a movie and turn off your cell phones, I can't think of many people who have earned the right to ruin or damper the movie going experience of others.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is in a word, AMAZING! Most people, including those who don't like superhero movies will enjoy this. It is more story than many will realize and it also has plenty of action with incredible special effects. The 2 1/2 hour movie will fly by as you will be so caught up with what is happening on screen. It is by and far, in my opinion the best of the Spider-Man movies which puts me in somewhat of a dilemma. I gave an earlier Spider-Man movie a 10 on a scale of 1 - 10. That being the case, how can I keep but giving this AMAZING, movie, which is better, anything less? So on a scale of 1 - 10, for the Amazing Spider-Man 2 I give a rather rare, but rewarding 10.

To see the latest trailer for the film, just click on the video below, if the video doesn't appear, just click on the link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlM2CWNTQ84

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Movies for Lent, Spartacus

Over the last few years I have had interest in the story of Spartacus. Despite that interest I hadn't seen the Oscar winning film with Kirk Douglas until recently. This epic film follows the story of a slave named Spartacus until his death in 71 BC. Spartacus is taken as a slave at the age of 13, he later becomes a gladiator for Lentulus Batiatus played by Peter Ustinov who won an Oscar for supporting actor. Spartacus ends up leading a revolt against Rome. The movie, almost 55 years old still holds up, especially when considering the making of this film was done with real sets and special effects. Initially budgeted at 5 million dollars it ran over to 12 million dollars, all funded by Kirk Douglas. The film made millions, maintaining the highest grossing film for the studio for many years.

What was done for 12 million dollars is astounding by today's standards. While the film is dated, the direction by Stanley Kubrick is brilliant, although the final print was something Kubrick was not so favorable of. The all-star cast features the likes of Tony Curtis, Kirk Douglas and Peter Ustinov as mentioned above along with Jean Simmons as Spartacus love interest Varinia and Laurence Olivier. I watched the 50th Anniversary edition on Blu-ray and was shocked and pleasantly surprised at the quality of transfer of picture and the quality of the sound. The transfer and restoration of the film was pushed and headed up by Steven Spielberg with the blessings of Kubrick. While over 3 1/2 hours in length, the movie flows nicely and the cinematography, which also won an Oscar, is stunning. While the film was initially blacklisted for political reasons, President John Kennedy crossed the picket lines to bring the film to national prevalence.

The irony of this particular review is that it is a part of the Lenten Series Reviews for Hollywood Jesus. While looking at it's placement, during Holy Week, I couldn't help but notice the similarities to not only how the movie was made but the content and story of the movie in regards to the world situations that seem to constantly exist and the need of so many who feel oppressed, abused and used by a system who doesn't appreciate or take seriously the potential and importance of the people around them. It is likely one of the reasons the movie got into so much trouble when made. There were Communist threats and the world was in the middle of the Cold War. There were clear distinctions between the wealthy and clear evidence of the power of the political elite. The savior, for that system was Spartacus, based on a historical character who had gone from freedom to slavery to gladiator to attempted liberator. Spartacus realized, that when some profit off of the experiences of the least of these, including slavery or a form of servitude including the abuse of the poor for the gain of the wealthy and politically powerful, there is a problem.

The movie Spartacus had clear intent in its making to show the power of Christianity as well as the references to the cross and crucifixion, even going so far as in the opening voice over stating that Christianity would be the eventual fall of Rome. While we don't see the primary characters as adhering to any particular religious belief system, we do see them praying, recognizing not just the power of God's but of a God. We also see the conditions which made it right for the eventual coming and birth of Jesus. We also see a great deal of imagery that focuses on the willingness of one to live out their convictions, dedicated to not only serving the least of these, but also having the least of these become disciples of a leader.

Spartacus is not presented as a god, although many saw him as a god. We see him as a "simple man willing to serve thousands and the day he would die, thousands would not only be willing to die for him," many would die for him. In the oppression of Rome, Spartacus realizes, "death is the only freedom a slave knows and to die is gain." We see Spartacus towards the conclusion of the film willing to give himself up on the cross to prevent a man many say in the book by Howard Fast and in subsequent other versions of the story was a gay man from enduring the pain of the cross. While the character, Antoninus, played by Tony Curtis here only hints at his homosexuality, there is still a clear willingness for Spartacus, the Messiah Figure to offer his life to prevent the ongoing pain and agony of the cross for Antoninus. We also see that character, like so many others, willing to give their life for Spartacus because while he may not have liberated their bodies from Rome, he has liberated their souls. We see a concept presenting the power of hope when Spartacus says; "When one man says no, wrong begins to fear." There is power among the people especially those who have been hurt, abused and enslaved. We see that power towards the end of the film as Rome is seeking to single out and make an example of Spartacus. Rome has won the final battle against the rebel forces. The movies infamous line comes about as each of Spartacus soldiers, stands up, one by one, yelling out as they have been asked by Rome for Spartacus to volunteer himself for certain crucifixion to save the lives of the rebels who will become slaves, "I am Spartacus!" In their willingness to stand up, they are showing they are willing to give their lives up for this man, Spartacus.

As I watched the dramatic presentation of Spartacus, during this Lenten season, I couldn't help but think of the obvious comparisons between the character of Spartacus, and the willingness of his followers to follow him, and my own willingness to follow Jesus. Am I willing to surrender all, even if need be, to the point of death? While the cross is not as pointed and brutal as we see in the movie of The Passion of the Christ, we still see the horror of the cross as it existed in the Roman Empire. People were executed by the thousands in what is thought by many to be the most brutal form of execution ever. Yet we still see the love Spartacus has for others in his willingness to take up the cross so those he loves doesn't have to suffer it. I was reminded of the Biblical concept, that no greater love has any of us than our own willingness to lay down our life for a friend.

I really like the story of Spartacus, that said, this 3 1/2 hour epic really does little justice to the story and complexity of the character of Spartacus, the time he lived and the people around him. It, isn't to say this isn't a great movie, it deserves all of the acclaim it has garnished over its 50+ years, but the character and the story is much more complex than even a 3 1/2 hour film can present. While the 1960 film touches on much of the sexual oppression and abuse during the time, due to the time the film was made, the late 1950's, many things were glossed over. These things are a critical component in the times of the story and the environment it took place. Knowing these things adds to the power of the story and in its lead character we see a simple man, holding true to his values where others can glean from and follow in a sacrificial way. Spartacus is willing to sacrifice for the multitudes.

As we celebrate the Easter season, let's remember that a more complete and perfect sacrifice was offered that allows us to follow not just a simple man but a God who provides eternal life. While on this earth Christ calls us to love our fellow human, to stand up for them, despite their sexuality, income, country of origin, color of their skin, whatever. We are called to love just like Christ loved, whosoever. We can sacrificially display that true freedom comes from within, it is available to all people and comes through Christ. Spartacus is a wonderful reminder during Lent, the sacrifices are worth it. In those sacrifices we discover, real freedom despite our circumstances, a freedom that comes from a servant leader, whose life we celebrate that ended on the cross, Jesus. Thankfully Jesus story doesn't end at the cross though, but through his resurrection. It is that resurrection that gives the eternal hope of a bright and glorious future.

To see the original trailer for the movie, click on the video below, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcIMY1Ah3aw

The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry. Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work. Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

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

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Movies for Lent, Schindler's List

As I was growing up I never really thought about the concepts of Lent as it was a Christian tradition for many that was unique to what little I understood about church. As I got older and became active in church it was something not typically practiced in the churches I attended. In my late 30's and early 40's I started looking at concepts of faith practiced by many, including Lent. As I became aware of the Lenten practices leading up to Easter Sunday I would give up something in my life to help me in my walk with God. As I gave up something of meaning it helped me to rely more on prayer and God. The concept of sacrifice and offering of something in my life became a key concept of my regular prayer and fasting, not just at Easter but throughout the year. I can think of few movies that emphasized the concepts of sacrifice more than the wonderful landmark film by Steven Spielberg, Schindler's List.

Schindler's List is the powerful biopic and Oscar Winning 1993 film that follows the life of Oskar Schindler during World War 2. Schindler a Nazi sympathizer and wealthy businessman becomes aware of the atrocities against the Jewish people while in Poland. During an epiphany moment for Schindler he decides to do all he can to save as many Jewish people as he can from the atrocities they experience during the Nazi regime. He makes sacrifices in all aspects of his life by giving away virtually all of his wealth to purchase the lives of Jewish people to work in his factory saving them from the various methods of death they would likely face in the German Concentration Camps. Schindler saved over 1,000 Jews and lost virtually all of his fortune as a result. The movie shows the consequences of his sacrifices. The movie, an American Classic won 7 Oscars including awards for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design and Best Actor in a Leading, and Supporting Role.

Technically, this work is brilliant. Filmed in black and white Spielberg known largely at the time as a
Director of fluff entertainment, albeit great fluff entertainment took the serious story of Schindler and made it entertaining, yet powerful. Despite the serious subject matter, this film flows quickly and seems to be much shorter than its 3+ hours and leading actor Liam Neeson is brilliant along with costars Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes and others. The real star though, is Spielberg in his direction and ability to tell a heart wrenching, compelling story based on the real Oskar Schindler.

This movie challenged me to contemplate my own willingness to sacrifice for the hurting, the abused and those in need. Few movies have likely ever moved the audience to contemplate their own sacrifice to help people in need. We are moved after seeing this portrayed in such a powerful way and then towards the end of the film seeing the attitude of Schindler in realizing that in his incredible sacrifices, he sees only how he could have done more by selling this car, or this or that, if he would have only made more money he could have saved more people. Schindler was aware not of what he had done but what more he could have done.

As followers of Jesus we often make excuses to ignore the pains and realities of others around us, we especially notice this when we ourselves are going through difficulties and there are few around us who seem to care. While the pain those Schindler helped was as deep as any pain one can experience, the pain we so often feel is none the less our experience, hurts, needs and pain. The need to help others is exemplified throughout the the Bible, unfortunately, sometimes we need reminders, from real people, examples, even sometimes a movie that presents the lives of other people like Oskar Schindler.

There are many moving pictures but this Lent season, for reminder of what it means to sacrifice, have a right spirit in that sacrifice and the importance of loving and caring for others, few movies present this as brilliantly as this Spielberg classic. Of course one of the beautiful things we also see is one we may or may not see the appreciation of those who are helped. While we may not know the impact of the sacrifices we make, others will still be touched and helped.

When Jesus was asked about entering the Kingdom of Heaven, He spoke of the importance of loving God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength, and in that process the importance of loving our neighbor as ourselves. We are also told, of all the commandments, there are none greater than these two, because when we keep these two, we have kept them all. In the process of loving our neighbor, Spielberg presents Schindler as among those in history who can inspire like few others. For those observing Lent, realize that among the best ways to show God you love Him is by the way we love others. That love when made with sacrifice is a love that will have an impact on not just those we are helping, but those looking in at our lives and examples.

To see the trailer for Schindler's List, click on the video below, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwfIf1WMhgc

Sunday, June 29, 2014

Armageddon 15 Years Later

Friday, June 27, 2014

Twister, Some 20 Years Later

Monday, June 23, 2014

The Wizard of Oz, 1939

Monday, May 26, 2014

Dirty Dancing 25+ Years Later

Friday, May 2, 2014

The Amazing Spider-Man 2

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Movies for Lent, Spartacus

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Movies for Lent, Schindler's List

Reviews With Mike Furches

Twitter Updates

Twitter Updates

Welcome

Mike Furches

About Me

Blog Archive

Links to Check Out

Reviews With Mike Furches

Just For You