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and Special Features
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NEW!!! Classic Horror Film Commentaries Give Insight
The horror film has, however, undergone more transformations than Madonna’s musical career.  In the ‘30s and ‘40s, horror films such as Dracula, Frankenstein and Cat People were actually morality plays, where good was triumphant over evil....
The Adventures of Johnny Tao - Now on DVD
Often, “family friendly” means there’s no cussing.  And sex between the sexes is limited to mooning eyes and a couple of chaste kisses.  But family friendly doesn’t always mean movie quality...
Art and Commerce Collide in Disney's Outer Space
Wall•E is one of the best films I’ve seen this year, but it has a controversy attached.  No, it’s not inappropriate language or furtive sexual innuendo.  Nope, the filmmakers have made it family friendly as well as inventive and mesmerizing.  The problem doesn’t lie in our stars or with the production values, but rather in an eco message that seems hypocritical.
American GIrl Phenomenon Comes to the Movies
Amid today’s narcissistic iPod society, American Girl devotees stand out as supporters of the belief that a caring character is more important than material possessions.  And at last one of their most admired heroines, Kit Kittredge, makes her cinematic debut on July 2.
Archived Articles & Commentaries DVD Reviews
Great Animation Aims at Adults and Children
Recently, a poll was taken on Yahoo spotlighting great animated features.  While most were deserving of such regard, I found several missing from the list.  So allow me to add several that Yahoo Users must have forgot.		 Everything Old Is New Again on June 10th
Some beloved TV shows fail to hold up today.  Others remind us that involving stories can be told without today’s explicitness or vulgarity.
A Critic's Confession
For the past twenty years I have been reviewing films from a Christian perspective - offering the synopsis and content so parents and concerned moviegoers could decide if the new releases were suitable for their viewing.		 Love's Unfolding Dream Comes to DVD
Influenced greatly by his dad’s Little House on the Prairie, writer/producer Michael Landon Jr. has visualized this frontier adventure/drama from the sixth installment of Janette Oke’s bestselling books.
New Narnia Resource Aids Children
The release of Believing In Narnia, a new paperback designed to help children 7 through 11 decipher the secret symbols of Christianity within C. S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia, is set to coincide with the opening of the second movie installment, The Chronicles of Narnia:  Prince Caspian.		 Pearl Diver Comes to DVD April 29th
Wow – a film whose special effects are story, character development and themes (forgiveness and the priceless gift of love) rather than explosions or mutilating monsters.  I was very moved by the film’s incisive themes...
Actors Find God's Grace: Book Review of Grace is Enough
It grieves, it angers, it frustrates.  Indeed, several times I just wanted to put it down rather than read of the horrors people can inflict on one another.  Don’t let that description keep you from examining their book, however.  For I believe the remaining chapters will enrich your spiritual walk.  		John Tesh TV Concert Now on DVD
A spectacular evening of hip-hop (yes, hip-hop!), ballet, lighting and staging effects, combined with the talents of guest performers and young dancers, the show becomes a high-energy, inspiring evening of music and dance for the entire family.
Preview Editor Phil Boatwright's Picks for the Oscars (R)
The 80th Annual Academy Awards will air February 24th beginning at 5:00 PM (PT) on ABC.  Comedy Central’s Jon Stewart hosts.  For the fun of it, let’s see how I do with prognostications.		 Crave Comes to DVD
I saw each episode, with its Twilight Zone-like moral, as a suitable and entertaining vignette for Sunday School or youth group discussions.  The DVD includes a companion guide containing discussion questions and spiritual insights.
Peter & the Wolf: Oscar Nominated Short Film
This charming reworking of Prokofiev’s popular classic tale gives it some 21st century twists and an environmental theme, whilst staying true to the original story.		 Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who (The Original) Comes to DVD
The animated TV classic, a Peabody Award-winner, is now on DVD.  And what a treasure!  This isn’t just for kids.  Genius animator Chuck Jones, who gave us everything good from the Warner Bros. cartoon department, matches the artistry and inspiration found in the author’s book.
What Bugs a Christian Film Critic?
Here are three things that spring to mind: overused technical gimmicks, feeble writing, and subversive attacks on our Christian faith.  These irritations were well represented in movie fare this past year.		 George of the Jungle: Classic Cartoon on DVD
There’s only one problem with George of the Jungle.  Once you are reminded of that title song, you can’t get it out of your head all day.  “George, George, George of the Jungle, friend to you and me.”  See, you’re gonna hate me by late this afternoon.
Darkness and Dysfunction Rule the Oscars (R)
Throughout last year, the mavens of moviedom gave us a glut of crude comedies, comic-book action threequels, and special effects that overrode story and plausibility.  But as if to repent of a year’s worth of mediocrity and senselessness, in the waning months studios released the works of filmmakers who attempted to examine the soul of man.  With few exceptions, however, the films that grabbed the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences were those that addressed themes of dysfunctional conscience and the darker nature of mankind.		 Greener Mountains: Now on DVD
Four-time Emmy-nominated director Lee Shallat-Chemel (Gilmore Girls, Arrested Development, Bernie Mac- they give Emmys to those shows?) marks her feature film directorial debut – and it feels it.  Though the director is skilled, the production is limited, feeling more like a Hallmark Hall Of Fame special.
The Best & Worst & the Could-Have-Beens of 2007
Though there are several films whose artistic and technical merits have captured the attention of critics and moviegoers, I wanted to choose a few Bests that uplifted the spirit.  As for the Worst film of the year (its name was Legion, for there were many), I picked several that besides being stunningly awful in their execution also contained negative concepts of Christianity.  And then there were some this year that had powerful messages, but the filmmakers couldn’t manage to tell their story without crude content.		 The Final Inquiry - Now on DVD
Ultimately, the film presents a profound declaration of who Jesus is and the effect He has on friends and foes.
Film Highlights United Methodist College's Debate Team
In 1935, debaters from United Methodist-related Wiley College, a small liberal arts school about three hours east of Dallas in Marshall, Texas, won a national championship match against the University of Southern California...		 Martian Child - Now on DVD
A recently widowed science fiction writer forms an unlikely family with a close friend and a young boy he adopts who claims to be from Mars.
Christmas Movie Naughty or Nice List
Well, it’s that time of the year, again.  You know: When Hollywood celebrates our Savior’s birth with animated mice singing Baby, It’s Cold Outside, and the true meaning of Christmas is eclipsed by the obsession of owning an official Red Rider BB gun.  Read on...		 Desert Bayou - Now on DVD
Tells the story of 600 African Americans who were airlifted out of New Orleans after the floods of Katrina, shipped to Utah and then housed at an isolated military base.  The film examines race, religion, poverty, and the failures of government from the perspective of these refugees.
Happily Ever After - Does It Exist?
This newest release from Disney Studios puts a delightful spin on the happily-ever-after story, with the mean old queen casting the lovely princess into a portal that takes her to a decidedly non-fairytale world – New York City.		 Pioneers of Television - Now on DVD
Take a look back at the nascent days of what was to become the most powerful medium of the 20th century and its indelible impact on America and the world.
Is Jesus A Myth?
The public is bombarded by media fables – with today’s dream weavers using one allegorical figure after another to solve the riddles and frustrations of life. But have these countless humanist illustrations detracted from the legitimate Gospel? Do today’s movie wizards and superheroes trivialize mankind’s true Savior?		 The Odd Couple: Season Three - Now on DVD!
Both Jack Klugman and Tony Randall won Emmys® in the leads, the latter in the final year of a five-season run. `Now if I only had a job,' Randall said at the Emmy gala. The show inspired two remakes, one an animated series portraying the main characters as a cat and a dog, and a 1982-83 version. Running Time: 596 minutes (4 x DVD) S.R.P.: $42.99 ($49.99 in Canada) 4 disc 
Christ-phobia in the Movies
The word “phobic” has crept into our vernacular, attaching itself to any perspective that seems intolerant to the lifestyles or agendas of others. And every group is now defended by watchdogs determined to retool America’s mindset. They want to make sure every group with a persuasion is portrayed justly in the movies...		 It's A Wonderful Life: In Color!
Paramount Home Video has just released a 2-disc collector's set, which includes a documentary on the making of the film and a special tribute to Frank Capra narrated by his son. Plus, the box set has both a brand new color version, as well as a restored black and white version (both in pristine shape).
Hallowed Be Thy Name - I attended the press screening for the highly anticipated action adventure SPIDER-MAN. While it was extremely entertaining and replete with positive messages, it also threw away Jesus’ name on two occasions. For me, it was like hearing fingernails on a chalkboard. Flywheel: The Director's Cut
Flywheel became a film festival favorite where it won numerous awards, including Best Feature Film at the 2004 Christian WYSIWYG Film Festival, the Bronze Crown at the 2004 ICVM Crown Awards, and Best Screenplay at the 2004 Sabaoth International Film Festival.
Who Is Phil Boatwright? - The "authorized biography" of Preview Editor and all-around good guy, Phil Boatwright.

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey
With positive messages, including a respect for God and Christ (prayers are spoken, church is attended and the main characters acknowledge the birth of Christ), and engaging performances, it is one of the best seasonal films I’ve seen in a while.
Secrets Of A Film Critic - A tongue-in-cheek interview of Phil Boatwright, Editor of Preview OnLine. Not for the faint of heart. Thou Shalt Laugh: The Deuce
Due to the success of Thou Shalt Laugh, (it has outsold every other Christian comedy DVD), bells and whistles have been added to the funny sequel, Thou Shalt Laugh: The Deuce.  Host Tim Conway is the bell.  Saturday Night Live veteran Victoria Jackson is the whistle.
"Make Thee An Ark" - An expanded review of Evan Almighty with comments from director Tom Shadyac and star Steve Carrell. Evan Almighty Comes To DVD
It’s a production that embraces kids and adults alike with its humor and its message. What’s more, Evan Almighty may cause discussion among children and their parents concerning Noah and the flood or forgiving people who have wronged you.
ArkALLMIGHTY Launches Across America
Get On Board! - Good Deeds Ministry inspired by summer blockbuster, Evan Almighty, kicks off May 1st		 DVD Alternatives For The Family
Now, there’s no way I can find films devoid of everything objectionable. I have tried, however, to collect a list of films that entertain, and in many cases send a positive message to your children about friendship, compassion or responsibility.
The Best and Worst Films of 2006 - Please check their content in my reviews to make sure they are suitable for your family’s viewing. Here I would like to focus on films that especially moved me with spiritual or uplifting themes. 3:16: Stories of Hope
Lucado’s new film addresses needs and shares with the world what many have not been able to find, no matter where they have searched.
Spiritual Awakenings in the Movies - Occasionally, a motion picture comes along that conveys a profound concept significant for Christians. Allow me to suggest a few films – young and old – that aided in my spiritual growth. Gumby Essentials
For his big anniversary close-up, the one and only Clayboy gets a makeover!  For the first time, Joe Clokey, Art Clokey’s son, has used the original film to digitally re-master each episode from the classic TV series.
New Distribution for Christian-Themed Films - Whatever the reason, films with Christian themes are popping up sporadically at your nearby cineplexes. But it’s not just well-meaning Christians making these movies and struggling to get distributors. The Odd Couple: Season Two - Can two divorced men share an apartment without driving each other crazy? That was the perfect premise of THE ODD COUPLE: THE SECOND SEASON, now available on DVD in a five-disc set that includes all twenty-three hilariously witty episodes.
Did Jesus Prefer Chicken or Beef? - Although The Da Vinci Code is declared fiction by both author and filmmaker, the combined efforts of those artists have resulted in taking the spotlight off Christ’s divinity. Or at least that was a strategy attempted by forces beyond the writer and moviemaker. The Ultimate Gift - The filmmakers attempting the blending of technical and artistic achievement with an infusion of spiritual subject matter often appear simplistic, like toddlers taking first steps.
Black History on Film - In celebration of Black History Month, allow me to point out some films featuring African-Americans that have taught as well as entertained. The Fugitive, Season One - Named one of the 50 best shows of all time by TV Guide, the gripping drama THE FUGITIVE Season One, Volume One arrives on DVD for the first time ever on August 14, 2007 from CBS Home Entertainment and Paramount Home Entertainment. 
Profanity in the Movies - What's the Big Deal? - Most critics reward movies for their technical and artistic qualities, while at the same time ignoring the effect of movie content on the culture. This may be shortsighted, for words vocalize our foibles and frailties and nobilities. They articulate views of beauty, humor, and meaning. Bullrider - Bullrider documents the victories, defeats, athleticism, camaraderie, courage, heart and faith of famous cowboy athletes who openly profess their love for God in stadiums filled with 15,000 screaming fans.
Manners, Respect, and Family Return to Movies - Courtesy, civility and family togetherness are foreign to many due in part to a lifetime of media choices. Indeed, you’ll find very few movies or TV shows that cultivate these qualities. Hidden Secrets - I remember thinking when The Big Chill was released, how interesting it would be if there was a Christian version about old friends reunited and coming to grips with life’s challenges. Evidently writers Shawn Paul Murphy and Timothy Ratajczak thought so, too.
Walden Media - A Beacon of Entertainment Hope - Hollywood can be a dark place, a land of great creative opportunity, but also one that can eat away at the soul. But, make no mistake, there are people, and companies, determined to enliven the heart, while also respecting the entreaties of the Bible rather than ignoring them. Just Like The Son - Director Morgan J. Freeman keeps the action lively and injects some tender moments, but he’s saddled with a low budget and a faulty premise that reflects an age governed by mixed morality messages. We live in a time and culture where laws seem more like suggestions. And that seems alright with this production.
Film Rating System Creator Jack Valenti Dies - Retired in 2004, Valenti headed the MPAA for 38 years, having faced both defenders and detractors caused by the rating system’s problematic nature. True Grit: Special Collector's Edition - As a kid, I read True Grit by Charles Portis. Even then, I knew no one could play Marshal Rooster J. Cogburn, but John Wayne. And for years I have excitedly awaited the arrival of a “making-of” documentary.
The Second Coming of The Passion - Packed with several commentaries, including a first ever with director Mel Gibson, it also includes enlightening “making of” segments and the alternative version of the film, Passion: Re-Cut. The Nativity Story - When the green light was lit, Bowen and Godfrey searched for the chosen director and found that person to be Catherine Hardwicke (Thirteen, The Lords of Dogtown), who jumped at the opportunity to tell Mary and Joseph’s story. Turns out, the talented director has a solid place in her heart for Christian values.
Little Robots: Reach For The Sky - Creative and lively, Little Robots: Reach For the Sky gets a thumbs-up from 6-year-old David. It probably wouldn’t be Uncle Phil’s choice to bring along to a deserted island, but it was fun watching something with my nephew that was both nurturing and entertaining.
To Catch A Thief: Special Collector's Edition - I use this film as an alternative to a lot of caper films of today due to the fact that although the lead character had been a thief, he now sees the error of those ways. But even more than that, my suggestion comes from the fact that it is one of the most elegant movies ever made.
Christy: The Complete Series - Christy’s experiences among the proud people of the unrefined back country force her to grow up quickly and to learn the value of strength, determination and faith. A collection the entire family will love, “Christy” The Complete Series is presented on four double-sided discs and features all 19 episodes.
Always Will - First-time director Michael Sammaciccia brings a creative parable to DVD with his tale of a high school nobody and his equally unseen buddies who, as a practical joke, dig up a time capsule previously buried by their elementary school.
Family Affair (The TV Series): Season One - Family Affair Season One debuts on DVD from MPI Home Video on June 27. The box set contains all thirty episodes from the first season on five discs, plus never-before-seen bonus features. Produced by Don Fedderson (My Three Sons) throughout its five-year run (1966-71), it was one of the first TV shows to air in color.
The Waltons - The outstanding cast also included veteran actors Will Geer, Ellen Corby, as well as Ralph Waite and Michael Learned as John and Olivia Walton. The show also featured John Ritter as Reverend Fordwick. The success of the series opened the doors for future family-pleasers such as Eight Is Enough and Little House on the Prairie.