Taken From Me, The Tiffany Rubin Story

With Taken From Me, The Tiffany Rubin Story, Lifetime Television continues its high standard of releasing important made for television movies. As is the case with the recent release of Bringing Ashley Home, Taken From Me is a true story that expresses important societal issues. In this particular story, we see the struggles of a divorced mother who has her child taken from her to another country by the child’s father. While the couple was never actually married, there are custody issues, some that transcend national borders that make recovery difficult. Approximately 1,700 children are involved in international custody disputes and while one would think answers to these problems would be easy to solve, this Lifetime movie shows that for many, not only is it difficult, it is near impossible.

As is the case in many made for television movies, we shouldn’t expect cinematic release types of effects and quality. While this is a true story, Lifetime does a good job at presenting a quality cast with an emphasis on story and drama, not special effects.

Taken From Me starts off with us seeing Tiffany Rubin, played by Academy Award Nominee, Taraji, P. Henson, and her new husband playing and interacting with her child, Kobe from a previous relationship. Tiffany has moved on and has an obvious love and passion for her child, what is also obvious is her new husband also has a deep love for him. Despite concerns expressed by her mother, Belzora, played by Beverly Todd from The Bucket List, Tiffany decides to let Kobe’s father spend a week with him on a trip to Disneyland. While there are warning signs from the start, Tiffany decides to give her child’s father the benefit of the doubt. What results is him taking the child to South Korea and not returning the child. What results for Tiffany and her family is the long battle to get her son back. Despite the child’s father being in violation of United States law, South Korea doesn’t see it that way. The lack of help from the State Department has Tiffany ultimately turning to Mark Miller, the organizer of a group called The American Association for Lost Children, a real organization. Miller, played by Terry O’Quinn from Lost, provides assistance to get her son back.

Taken From Me shows the heartache and struggles that families go through when seemingly impossible situations strike. We see the struggles of not just the mother, but also Kobe’s grandmother and his mothers husband Chris. In one powerful scene we see the struggle of relationship between Chris and Tiffany as Chris has to remind her of what a real father is. He has been there for Kobe, playing catch, swinging at the playground, praying with at bed time and more. He challenges her; ‘aren’t these the ‘things that make a real father.’ While Taken From Me is drama and dialog driven, the story weaves and flows nicely while maintaining the interest of the viewer.

Taken From Me is filled with spiritual overtones. In the beginning we see the reluctance of Tiffany to accept spiritual solutions despite the strong involvement and encouragement from her mother to trust, depend on, and lean on the church. Tiffany has had bad experiences with church though; the last thing she wants is to depend on an organization which will let her down once again. To the credit of the church represented in this movie, they take Tiffany under their wings, offering help and solutions even when she refuses to accept them. That doesn’t stop the church though, while many churches would give up, this church doesn’t. They continue to pray, provide support for the grandmother, and offer love, and prayers for Tiffany. It is in fact the church that recommends the individual Mark Miller who will ultimately go out of his way to provide hope for Tiffany. As Miller and the church continue to love those unwilling to accept love, Tiffany ultimately gives in. She accepts the help of Miller and gives in to thanking the church and praying with members of the church prior to her departure for South Korea to attempt a risky and dangerous rescue of her son.

I was impressed with Lifetimes approach at showing the positive contributions of some churches. Lifetime is a network that sometimes garnishes the disdain of certain religious groups yet the presentation here was as strong a positive commentary on the church as anything I have seen in sometime, on any level, including so called ‘christian’ movies.

I liked Taken From Me, The Tiffany Rubin Story quite a bit. As is the case of many movies released by Lifetime on DVD, I wish they would add special features to their DVD’s, especially the movies that are based and inspired by true events. Essentially all you get here is the movie, nothing else, but as much as I dislike that, I like the movie enough to state it is worth owning, not just viewing. I can imagine there will be ample opportunities to watch this movie again with friends and discuss the situations in the movie. With organizations like AAFLC, Lifetime could be doing a world of good, not by just making good movies, but providing information about the organizations in the movies. I hope that Lifetime gets it; they obviously make good and valuable movies. Now as I have said before, if they can just do a little more and do good.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:

Interview with the star from Taken From Me, The Tiffany Rubin Story
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OdsXoiqSEA


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Bringing Ashley Home

As of recent Lifetime Television has been releasing some pretty decent movies that were a part of their television movie line-up. One such movie is the release of Bringing Ashley Home. It is a rather meaningful story based on true events. It looks at the importance of homelessness and the serious effects of mental illness and those who love them who are searching through a system that seems to care little about the welfare of the individual.

In the 1980’s under the Ronald Reagan Administration there was the deinstitutionalization of numerous mental hospitals across the United States. Depending on whom you speak to will determine the consequences of those actions. Recently new federal legislation instituted what is known as federal HIPPA laws which supposedly protect the confidentiality of all individuals, including those with severe and persistent mental illnesses who are not comparable of taking care of themselves. Many family members, and some professionals and consumer groups will tell you many of these laws since the 1980’s have done more harm than good. Others will tell you they have resulted in an increase in suicides. Bringing Ashley Home is a movie, that while a made for television movie, does a terrific job at presenting of the hardships of this legislation.

Technically, it is obvious that outside of the acting, and a pretty good script, that Bringing Ashley Home is a made for television movie. There are the obvious edits which allowed for commercials. There is also the lighting, editing, and sound which are not quite up to par with theatrical release movies. The acting though, as is the case with numerous Lifetime releases is quite good. The movie focuses on the character Libba Phillips, played by A.J. Cook of Criminal Minds who is searching for her lost sister, who suffers with Bi-Polar Disorder (formerly known as Manic Depressive Disorder). The sister, Ashley is acted quite well by Jennifer Morrison noted for her role in the television series House.

The story starts with us seeing Ashley make a series of bad judgments, from the people she hangs out with, to the over indulgence of alcohol and other drugs. While not adequately explored in the show, this often takes place due to the the individual self medicating. Eventually Ashley leaves her family and gets lost in the system, even becoming homeless. Her sister Libba, the seemingly good sister where everything always works out decides to try and find Ashley after she disappears. Unfortunately she encounters a system that won’t share information and seems to not care about missing persons. Ashley encounters the horrors of the streets and the direction provided by Nick Copus has the viewer following the efforts of Libba to find Ashley, and then seeing the reality of the world Ashley lives in. The irony of this particular screening had me watching the movie with various homeless and mentally ill individuals who could unfortunately relate to the events and attitudes displayed on screen.

In the process we see what it takes for Libba to find her sister, and what she finds and discovers in the process. This has the character growing much like anyone would grow if they faced finding a loved one with mental illness or homeless. Libba is a character who is driven; we see that as she develops the organization Outpost for Hope. Outpost for Hope is a real life organization set on helping family members and loved ones find their lost and missing loved ones. The origination as detailed in the movie was established at a cost to Libba with the desire to help those facing a system they may not expect. The organization has effectively helped many and as we see Libba’s character develop, the viewer also has a better understanding of the needs displayed by the character of Ashley.

My faith tells me, ‘what you have done for the least of these, you have done for me’. That was Jesus speaking about himself and the work he expects his followers to do. The love and sacrifice required by Libba is rather outstanding by any standard. The story displays in a powerful way, that sometimes, standing up for right, and doing right requires sacrifice. It is those who have lost much that accomplish much. Libba is such a character; she loves beyond the acceptance of many, including family and friends. Fortunately, Libba understands that sacrifice is to be made by a civilized society. We should care more than we sometimes show regarding the homeless, mentally ill, and ultimately the men, women and children who go missing daily. While society has done a better job as of recent at giving the appearance of caring, it is ultimately those who love beyond reason that will make the difference for the missing and exploited of society. It is those who one by one go out of their way to establish organizations like Outpost for Hope. Is it easy to do these things? Certainly not! It is one of the reasons that followers of Jesus must also understand Jesus own words when he told them that they must take up their cross and follow him daily. It isn’t easy, but it is required.

As a whole I really appreciated the efforts of Bringing Ashley Home. There was one scene where Libba refers to the homeless in a negative way. It was frankly offensive to the homeless persons I watched the program with. They don’t see themselves as bums, rejects, drug addicts and so forth. While that is true for some, it is far from true for all. I don’t expect movies to always be sensitive to issues like this, but it was a strong enough statement that it did offend those watching the program. Thankfully, in the end, Libba realizes her calling is to help those who are missing, many of which are homeless. I felt the movie gave a fair representation of the struggles of those with mental illness and their families. I suspect, although I don’t know for sure, many family members of such organizations as The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill will appreciate this movie for the story it tells. They should because the story is an honest portrayal of the struggles they face.

This is one of those Lifetime movies that although it is a made for television movie, and not quite up to par to theatrical releases, that I would recommend for ownership. It would have been wonderful and appropriate to have special features on the DVD; it had none. It would have been nice to have a promotional spot for the organization, Outpost for Hope, homeless organizations, or organizations dealing with the plights of the mentally ill, including educational pieces. If Lifetime continues doing movies, which I suspect they will, I hope they take advantage of putting features on the DVD. Lifetime is a network making good movies, and the DVD’s can do more than just be good, they can do good. I hope in the future, Lifetime makes the effort to do good regarding special features.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdUY522BQH4&feature=related


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Barney's Version

Barney’s Version is a film garnishing critical acclaim in 2010, from its wins for Best Actor for Paul Giamatti at the Golden Globes for his portrayal as a love struck, alcoholic hockey loving, aging television producer, Barney Panofsky, to the Academy Award Nominated film for make-up as we see a 30+ year span in the life of Barney. There is also the supporting cast representing his 3 wives, his father played by Dustin Hoffman, his children, and ultimately his one true love, Miriam played by Rosamund Pike.

Barney is a tragic story of love lost, love found, and love lost again, well sort of lost. Barney while at his own wedding meets the love of his life, a woman other than his new bride. He leaves the wedding to ask her to marry him even though the two just met. What transpires is her initial rejection and then Barney’s attempt at getting out of a failed marriage doomed at the very beginning and his quest to be with his one true love, Miriam. The journey takes place over a 30+ year time span.

Barney’s Version is a tragic, yet touching and meaningful tale of love, and life. This acting tour de force is an incredible example of quality direction provided by Richard J. Lewis and the lasting story based on the book of the same name by Mordecai Richler. While the screenplay by Michael Konyves does the story justice, the movie does suffer at times from likely movie versus book comparisons. While the movie does a good job, it is impossible to follow the complete concepts of the book, yet, Richler does a good job at doing so and Lewis does a nice job of directing this story driven drama.

Through the story we see Barney from a young man fresh out of college, to the later stages of his life. The make-up transitions are simply put, amazing. Just as amazing is the character development. We never have quite all the answers which keep us glued to the screen as the viewer questions and searches for the pieces of the puzzle. While there are holes in the story, there is enough continuity to keep us mesmerized. The primary credit for this is the outstanding performances on screen. Giamatti is one of the top actors on screen today. He is a treasure to the cinema. He doesn’t let down one iota in this film. We hurt for him, grieve for him, get mad at him, and at times, want to curse him for the decisions he makes. Despite all of the emotion, we never get to the point where we don’t care for him. The end of the film had me tearing up for his character. He never loses love for his one true love, despite the tragedy that falls on him, and there are lessons we can all learn.

Barney’s Version is a reminder of the reality that real love is possible. It powerfully portrays the power of love and the lasting nature of love, even when it seems as if love at times fails. It also reflects on the power and damage that can come about due to jealousy. While jealousy appears to be the downfall of Barney, he quickly realizes his mistakes. Unfortunately the recognition of the mistakes and seeking out of forgiveness doesn’t take away from the consequences of his sin. Just as in many real relationships, while Barney loves his wife and family with a deep passion, he begins to take for granted the things he has. There are consequences for Barney as a result of this attitude, but in the end, despite the tragedies, he comes to the place where he never really loses the thing he desires most.

Many live in a world where heartache and tragedy are an all too real part of life. Some take love for granted. Barney’s Version shows that true love is possible and one should not give up hope. There is power in the love of family, yet many take it for granted. I suspect the director Lewis touches on this theme for a reason. While many of us feel sorry for Barney, we can relate to him. Some will be inspired to love more. Right after watching the movie, I did something out of the ordinary; I went gave my wife a kiss and tell her that I love her. I was inspired to not make the mistakes Barney had, I didn’t want to suffer the same consequences. I wanted my wife to know that I love her.

1st Corinthians 13 in the Bible is in my opinion the most perfect of all definitions in regards to what love is. It is patient, kind, never envious, isn’t jealous, and the list goes on. It would have done Barney well to have known the definition of love as described in 1st Corinthians. Maybe the tragedies wouldn’t have fallen on him. Who knows?

The power of Barney’s Version and Paul Giamatti’s portrayal is that I found myself caring for this character, even after the movie was over. While the characters and their development could have been a little tighter, there was only one criticism I had of the Blu-Ray DVD I had for review. The Blu-ray version of the DVD, (it comes with a standard DVD and a Blu-ray) didn’t work. I worked for over an hour on the crazy thing and just couldn’t get it to work. Unfortunately, all of the special features are on the Blu-ray version. I love special features, and it appears as if there are a number of good ones, unfortunately, I can’t comment on them because due to the defective Blu-ray disc I couldn’t watch them. I wish I could as I wanted to know more about the story. The DVD advertises an interview with the original author of the novel, a behind the scenes making of feature, and more.

While this is a powerful story, well acted, well presented, I honestly don’t know if I would watch it enough to justify the purchase price of it. I would certainly strongly recommend the rental of it and believe film enthusiast and those who enjoy quality movie making with good story will greatly appreciate this movie. I know I did, and while it may be awhile before I watch it again, it will be awhile before I forget the excellent characters and story as presented in Barney’s Version.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsfjXNMQt8I


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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

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

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Email: mike@furches.org

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Billy The Exterminator Season 3

As I get older I am often reminded of the old days of television. There were three major networks and major limitations as to what was available for viewing. My how the times have changed! Now with the access of hundreds of networks and channels there are hundreds of options. Between the History Channel and the Fox Movie Channel and from Spike TV to A&E, there are ample selections on the tube where virtually every household can find something to keep them happy. My family enjoys several cable channels and thankfully with the advent of TIVO and the DVR we can watch that programming and wiz through the commercials. One of the shows we enjoy on A&E is Billy The Exterminator.

A&E has just released Season 3 of Billy The Exterminator. It has a growing audience and while one may wonder what is so good about a reality show with a focus on a family which runs an extermination company in Louisiana; one only has to tune into one episode to see the shows uniqueness. The company featured in the show is; Vexcon and is owned by Billy and his family, The Bretherton’s. The family dynamics and Billy’s methods are a part of the draw. Billy dresses in leather and he and his brother, Rickey, look more like an 80’s hair band than they do the operators of an extermination company. Between the dynamics of the family’ a father with health issues to his wife who operates the office and their spouses who are sometimes brought into the field to deal with things like snakes or spiders which they may have a fear of. Each episode deals with the dynamics in such a way that has the viewer realizing the pests around the house from cockroaches to rodents may be in need of extermination from a professional. The uniqueness of Vexcon is that the company prefers, when possible, to relocate the animals and operate under environmentally save methods with respect for the animals.

For a television show, Billy The Exterminator is quite well done. While the television show has the tendency to be burdensome due to the commercials, the DVD’s provide a more enjoyable experience than even the DVR and TIVO. The editing and flow of the show is nicely done and each show has a minimal plot focus. Normally it deals with either issues in the family or issues with the family in need of extermination services. The cinematography is quite exceptional and one of the benefits of the DVD is the special features show the dangers often involved, not just for the cast but the crew. When exterminating for thousands of bees, all are at risk, including those doing the filming. One of the misperceptions is that reality programming isn’t scripted; we see that in fact at least for this show, it is in fact, scripted as there are prevailing themes highlighted each week.

Season 3 of Billy The Exterminator does not have nearly as much focus on the extended family outside of the boys and their parents. While various extended characters are featured in the credits and opening scenes, there are some of them that are not in the program at all. Some of this is likely due to the conflicts that were portrayed on screen in previous seasons and in the personal and private lives of the characters. We do see some good footage of Billy, Rickey and their parents and as a regular viewer, I was just fine with that.

One of the things I appreciate about the show is the uniqueness of this family. While the parents, Bill Sr. and Donnie are more old-fashioned, we see some of their parental influence having an impact on their children. Bill Sr. and Donnie are active church members and their office is decorated with symbols of faith such as crosses. We see in one episode where they are on their way home from church where they decide to go out of their way to help a friend. The friend has a snake loose in their house and even though Donnie is scared of snakes she goes out of her way to help. She is willing to make sacrifices for those she loves. Then we see in various episodes Billy and Rickey who don’t seem to have a strong indication of their spirituality, yet we see numerous episodes where they are willing to help others in difficult situations, often not charging those they have helped. There is an obvious appreciation for children and the elderly. Their compassion for the children, elderly, poor and their communities is one of the things that drive my appreciation for the show. The stereotypes people often have based on dress, style, and look is addressed in the show. We see all people have potential and they can and sometimes do, help others. The conflict based on appearance versus the willingness to accept help from someone different is an ongoing theme. Billy and his brother, despite their look are able to show people from different backgrounds that love is possible for all people in all situations. Love is not based on how one looks. If we are willing to get by the initial impression, we can quickly learn that love is displayed by what one does.

I like Billy The Exterminator. I liked it long before getting Season 3 for review. I don’t especially have an interest in the extermination business and while there seems to be an awful lot of roaches, bees, and the like to remove from the North Western Part of Louisiana, at least for now, I haven’t gotten tired of seeing Vexcom on their extermination jobs. I haven’t gotten tired of it because it seems like A&E understands the concept of developing characters, providing a little education, and having a show that does more than show how an extermination company works. A&E understands the concepts of why it is important to show how cultures can intertwine with positive results.

The DVD offered some decent special features worth watching. While there could have been more, it was satisfying. Season 3 of Billy The Exterminator is a fun show to watch, but it also has its touching moments. For fans of the show, it is definitely worth owning, for those who aren’t familiar with it; you will enjoy viewing it as a rental. A&E has provided a fun, decent, family oriented show. I hope it is around for a few more seasons and as the season’s progress, we continue to see the positive influence of parents on their children, in-laws and others around them. If A&E does this, I suspect Billy will be around for some time to come.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyfd_iqxkJ0&feature=related


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Click to subscribe to my blog

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

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

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

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

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A Shot In The Dark, An HBO Documentary by Adrian Grenier

I recently got to screen and review the DVD, Teenage Paparazzo directed and produced by Adrian Grenier. It was with the excellence of that particular feature that I found myself excited about the opportunity to see his 2002 release, now on DVD, titled, Shot in the Dark. Shot in the Dark follows Grenier in his efforts to reunite with his estranged father. Released on the heels of Fathers Day this documentary serves as an excellent reminder that not all families, not all situations are as positive as some would like. It does much more than that though, it also shows us that there is a possibility of hope for those who still have fathers and are searching for knowledge. Not necessarily hope in having a great fatherly relationship but hope in at least knowing and discovering ones self which is lost with the loss of a father. I unfortunately know much of this story, not from the perspective that my father walked away, but from never knowing my father and the perspective that many people go through the same thing with the loss of a father, whether it is possible for that father to come back and have a relationship with their child or not.

As was the case in the documentary Teenage Paparazzo, Grenier has a tremendous talent for telling a story. In this case, even though the documentary is almost 10-years-old, he also knows how to inject himself into the story. One of the things one finds out about Grenier here, as well as in Teenage Paparazzo is he is far more than an actor. The viewer relates to Grenier in part because of this. Grenier was much younger when this film was made, he had not yet tasted success, yet he is a character one finds themselves caring about, and the subject matter is quite serious. One can also see the early development of talents in his acting on screen. Grenier shows not only his screen presence though; he shows talent from behind the camera and from the directors’ chair.

The documentary starts off in an appropriate place, the exploration of what it is like for one to not have a father. There is for many an identity crises that may not on the surface be evident to the friends, and/or even family that surrounds the one without a father. Grenier explores this within his own life by being open in his direction and allowing friends and extended family to speak their own mind about his search, even at times contributing to the filmmaking process. This starts to materialize over a phone call between Grenier and his father one evening on Fathers Day, a day that is a struggle for many who are fatherless.

As I watched this as a fatherless child, I could relate to much of the emotion, characters and story as Grenier explores the possibility of getting together with his own father. This is a tribute to his filmmaking and storytelling abilities. I found myself wondering though, can others follow along, and can they feel the emotion? That question haunted me for some time because this is a part of the search for the fatherless child; the need to be understood and appreciated for who they are. Fathers bring a heritage and history, as does mothers. Grenier is honest in his search, not only for the potential for good, but the potential for bad, whatever the results though regarding his own reunion, will come knowledge. The knowledge obtained isn’t just for Grenier, it is for all of those that care to know him better.

The irony of reviewing this film at the time I did is the close association to Fathers Day and the reality that I had just written an article relating to Fathers Day and the need of children in discovering and knowing as much as possible about their parents, including their fathers. Shot In The Dark supports that concept and it is beautiful to see it portrayed on screen. I can’t help but think back to my own article on the subject and the need to know not only as much as possible about our earthly fathers, but also about our Heavenly Father. It is in the exploration of knowing a loving God, who calls himself our Heavenly Father that I found my own place of peace and satisfaction. That is a place all of us can search for and discover. That isn’t to say our roots aren’t important, but in knowing our Heavenly Father, no matter where we are at, we will know and experience a perfect and loving father, despite the nature of God so many present. Many will choose to see God as a vengeful God, but the relationship I have through his son Jesus is what enables me to know the ultimate love that is possible. I have stated before, while I have never known an earthly father, I am blessed that I have gotten to know and have a relationship with my Heavenly Father. While Grenier may not come to the same conclusions I did in my own search, we certainly shared the same feelings and desires in the journey.

While I have seen little of Grenier from an acting perspective, I have found myself having a real appreciation for his directing talents. Just as in Teenage Paparazzo, it is hard to find anything negative with this documentary. As documentaries go, it is quite well done, enlightening and entertaining. Unlike some documentaries, most viewers will find this worth watching. There is something else I appreciate about the DVD, and that is the abundant number of special features.

This is a product well worth not only watching but owning. The viewing of this will likely help everyone who sees it whether having the best relationship with their father or not but it will also help those who know someone who has an estranged relationship with their father. In a world where people need real friends, friends who care and understand, A Shot In The Dark, although almost 10 years old is a refreshing taste of water to those who have lived similar lives. With each individuals need to understand and know their own roots, this will be a beneficial documentary that not only helps the person, but also, those who care.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGV3Iiw9uUs


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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 subscribe to my blog

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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

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

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

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

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Mary Jane Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Page

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Hall Pass on Blu-ray

Bobby and Peter Farrelly are two brothers that seem to have a knack for making what many consider obnoxious and obscene movies. They also have a knack for making movies that some consider modern day parables. There is a new movie on DVD, Hall Pass that fits both of those criteria and while it reminds me a great deal of the feelings I felt with the movie The 40-Year Old Virgin, there are enough unique attributes to it that I expect the DVD release will attract a growing audience.

The premise of Hall Pass is quite simple; two married couples have over their years of marriage gotten caught up in the monotony of marriage, including sex. There are the consistent wondering eyes from two husbands, Rick, played by Owen Wilson and Fred played by Jason Sudeikis. Rick’s wife Maggie, played by Jenna Fisher has grown cold towards her husband. While she has fallen into suburbia, complete with the kids and nice home, she has obtained many of her dreams but has become cold in the bedroom. Rick has wondering hormones and desires his wife sexually. Fred on the other hand is married to Grace, played by Christina Applegate. Grace is similar to Maggie; the difference is that Fred has found some dangerous solutions to his problems. While he thinks he is pulling things over on Grace, she is fully aware of his actions.

One night during a poker game Maggie over hears on the baby monitor the ‘guys’ talking about getting hooked up with other women. The wives later decides with the advice from a friend to give the guys a ‘Hall Pass’, or a one week exemption from marriage. They can do as they wish, no strings or questions attached for the week. What neither of the couples realizes is that not only does a Hall Pass constitute freedom for the husbands, but also for the wives. In the exploration for freedom not only are their some funny moments but also poignant moments regarding relationship and marriage.

One of the things that make Hall Pass work is the Farrelly Brothers know how to make an audience laugh. They provide quality direction that has most everything working. From the quality of acting, to lighting, and from the soundtrack to the editing process it all works. The excellence of the brothers seems to be their ability to get real life moments into a movie while at the same time addressing real life issues. Many of those moments are gross, yet, funny. There is also the ability to develop characters in unique situations that add to the enjoyment of the story.

One of the things I have liked about the Farrelly Brothers over the years is their ability to not only develop their primary characters, but also their ability to have memorable minor characters in a move. Here we see each of the primary characters develop in such a way that while we are laughing at their experiences we care about the situations they are in. I found myself caring so much that I was talking to the screen, (one of the benefits of watching the DVD.) While there is humor in each character there are some funny moments that come about as a result of the minor characters. Included here are some wonderful bits by Richard Jenkins who plays the part of Coakley, a legendary womanizer, and Derek Waters who is hilarious as Brent.

Many are offended by movies of this nature, including the methods used in telling the story. I am not so put off by it because like it or not, the bottom line is important themes are being addressed with people who may not get those themes any other way. There are so many levels of spirituality addressed in a Farrelly Brothers movie that it is hard to figure out where to start. I will touch on one I felt strongly about in the movie.

In Hall Pass there seems to be a level of distrust which exists in many marriages and relationships. In that place one comes to a place where one forgets about things that are important, such as the love and trust that should come about in a meaningful relationship. All through the movie we see individuals who have forgotten about relationship. There are distractions, sometimes even good distractions like children that take one away from their original love. Another problem comes when the focus of what is important is placed on self as opposed to those around you. It is when one takes their eyes off of the one that is to be loved, and focuses on self that trouble ensues. Unfortunately, that is the way it is in life. I am reminded in my own faith of the need to love my God with my all, and to love my neighbor as myself. It is in the way I love others that I ultimately love God, and in that place, find God’s love for me. For many that love starts at home.

I have to admit, there are many laugh out loud moments in Hall Pass. I liked the characters and I liked the story. I know many will take offense at the material. There are times, as is the norm with their films, that some of the things portrayed on screen are either on the border of being offensive, or clearly crosses the line. There are some crude moments that for even me were difficult to watch, especially in the extended cut of the DVD. I liked the movie though and think it is one worth watching if one can be okay with the crude moments. For many, just as I think the brothers intend, there are ample thought provoking moments that can lead to good, meaningful discussions.

As to the DVD, while worth owning, it still falls somewhat short in some of the features I look for. There is an extended cut of the movie that is even cruder than the theatrical version and a few special features including a deleted scene and a gag reel. The transfer for Blu-ray is quite nice and there is a nice soundtrack which accompanies the movie. While this isn’t the best Farrelly Brother movie, it is still entertaining and enjoyable. If bothered by sexual content, discussion, and portrayals, it likely isn’t for you, but much like The 40-Year Old Virgin there are some really good themes that will have an impact on many watching this movie.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvqbOPX3wBs

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

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

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

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 subscribe to my blog

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

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

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

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

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

Donations to 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

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To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

A Cold Day In Hell

A tagline on a DVD box can catch your attention, and ultimately sell the product. I recently had the assignment of reviewing the DVD A Cold Day In Hell and the taglines had me pretty excited about the review. Mr. Stuart Alison from Independent Film Quarterly had a couple of dynamite sounding tags on the product. “3:10 To Yuma Rides Up Next To True Grit.” And “The Best Film Michael Madsen Has Starred In Since Reservoir Dogs.” These make it sound exciting doesn’t it? After reading these tags and then watching the movie, I had two prevailing points of view. If the rest of Mr Alison’s reviews were of this nature, he needed to quit doing movie reviews as he is depriving the public of truth. The other was this, if horribly bad films often turn into cult classics, A Cold Day In Hell just became the leading contender for the all-time classic cult western.

In looking at this movie technically, I honestly don’t know where to start. I could simply say that virtually every technical aspect was horrific and among the worst I have seen in many years. Let me be brief here as I want to be respectful in my review. This movie had some of the worst acting, set design, costuming, plot, continuity, and virtually every other aspect of filmmaking in a movie I have ever seen. I could go into so much detail here such as contemporary houses in a western scene, the usage of bad wigs and poor make-up in such an amateurish way that I am personally amazed at how this movie received the funding it did to be made. One would wonder if it was the intent of the director to make a bad movie, but you just don’t get that feel.

The story line in A Cold Day In Hell is so hard to follow that I am still in a state of confusion trying to make sense out of it. While Michael Madsen is in the movie, I am trying to figure out his role other than a name actor in an independent film. He is in so few scenes; you are never quite sure what his role is other than a sort of dishonest Marshall. There is virtually zero development in his role other than to provide a name to the movie. The closest thing to character development is in the role of Tether played by Ronald Bumgardner and his daughter Savannah played by Kimberly Campbell. Tether is a long range shooter who left home after the death of his wife. He has moved from place to place and he is now searched out by his daughter. It comes to be that as their relationship starts to develop, he realizes the need to come back to reality to provide defense to his former town. There is a land baron, in the disguise as a banker who intends to wipe the town out for financial gain. He has had others killed for their failure to give their land and property over to his band of outlaws. Tether comes to the rescue with shootouts and fights that resemble nothing like we have ever seen before. There is such a bad display of filmmaking including non exploding explosives during one scene where dynamite is shot with a rifle that one has to wonder, ‘What was this director thinking?’

My faith tells me at times to beware of a thief who would come in the night. Sometimes in life we have to be warned of those who would take advantage of us. This movie, its quality is one that unfortunately takes advantage of the viewer who would either rent, or purchase it. There is an admirable concept on the need to look after those who are weaker, but this story is done in such a poor way that I for one think more about how the consumer who purchases the movie will be taken advantage of than I am the characters in the movie. I am also reminded though of reviewers who for whatever reason will give a quality review for a movie no matter how bad it is. I have always found it critical to watch all of a DVD when reviewing it, what special features exist, (for this one, they are virtually non existent) what is it like from the start to the very end of the credits and so forth. I owe it to those who are spending their hard earned dollars to either rent or purchase a film. I have purchased movies before because of the taglines; I may have at least rented this one as I love True Grit and 3”10 to Yuma. I would have been even more disappointed had I done so. A Cold Day In Hell is a perfect reminder that when in doubt as a consumer, check things out before putting the money on the table. There are far too many people who have limited funds and just as there those who will take advantage of others in regards of finance, there are movies that will take advantage of the consumer. The Western is a loved genera; many of its viewers include older citizens on a fixed income. My faith also tells me to watch out for, to help and look out for the interests of orphans and widows and those in despair. This movie also reminds me of another concept that drives my faith, which is to do all I do with all of my potential. Unfortunately, the 1.5 million dollars spent on this movie was a waste of money that could have been spent in more effective ways.

This may be the worst movie I have ever seen, it is certainly the worst western I have ever seen. There is virtually nothing positive I can say about it. It is that bad, and being that bad almost makes it worthy of cult status. I could have a lot of fun with people watching it in a cult series; I just can’t imagine that people would watch it enough to memorize the lines which would make the mocking of the movie fun. Of course the same could have been said about other films that were bad, who knows what would and could happen here.

Personally, I feel as if I was robbed of my time watching A Cold Day In Hell. In no way that I can think of would I sit down to watch it again, even if you paid me. Now of course I may take the offer of pay if in a dark theater, with ear plugs in, and the potential to take a nap, at least then I would have a dream that would have some level of plot, and if really bad, the potential to forget and not remember. I wish I had a good western to recommend for you, unfortunately, this isn’t it. I hope you don’t find out how right I am.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M9EOPVjLV14


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.

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

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 subscribe to my blog

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

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

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

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

Email: mike@furches.org

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

Donations to 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