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| Non-Theatrical Releases, Expanded Reviews, and Archives | |||
| Hachi: A Dog's Tale I've seen 'em all, from Lassie to My Dog Skip. I think this one is the best because there's no subplot with the animal saving the family from home invaders or romancing another canine over a bowl of spaghetti. It's a very simple story (though full of poignancy) about a man connecting with a dog. |
Peanuts 1970s Collection, Volume 2 Six remastered Peanuts TV specials will be released together on DVD for the first time on June 1st. Warner Bros. Home Video offers the two-disc set features six primetime animated specials, including one that's never been released on DVD. The set also includes bonus material |
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| Preacher's Kid Certainly the premise is a natural. The makers have tweaked the Prodigal Son parable, updating it by changing the lead's gender, and having the father needing to learn as many lessons as his wayward child. |
Flicka 2 A bit corny in spots, still it's a tried-and-true formula. Both girl and animal struggle with authority, finding something within one another that makes life tolerable. |
The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry Although it played on 300 theater screens and became one of the top 15 grossing independent theatrical movies of 2009, it got by me. Finally, I was sent a screener and was I surprised. It is a very moving, well-made production. |
Four on DVD Four faith-based movies on DVD to pass the weekend... |
| Ice Castles This remake of the 1978 Lynn-Holly Johnson/Robbie Benson romantic drama concerns a teen girl, about to graduate high school, suddenly becoming a championship ice skater. |
Angel and the Badman (2009) The pacing is off, the theme muddled (he seduces her and she is willing to go away with him if that's what it takes), and much of the dialogue is as corny as a B-western-Saturday-morning-serial. But what this film really does is point out the difference between a direct-to-DVD movie actor and a superstar legend. |
The Clique (2008) I understand that I'm not the intended audience, but I found little redeeming about this production. Yes, lessons are learned by film's end (we shouldn't judge someone by what they wear; be yourself; be nice to others), but it's a long trip to those lessons |
Bandslam Much like Disney's High School Musicals, but with more depth. Good music and strong performances. |
| The imposter Solemn, at times downright depressing, but powerful. Though it, like most low-budgeted movies, relies too heavily on musical montages to further the story, it's potent message and sincere performances hold our attention. |
Soldier Love Story Pure escapist romantic fare, this could easily be shown on the Lifetime or Hallmark channels without the slightest editing. |
Expecting a Miracle Though some may have a problem with prayers lifted up to a saint, the film is not about converting us to Catholicism. Rather, it does a nice job of including the need for faith and a reverence for God. |
Miles from Nowhere Certainly not as harrowing or spiritually moving as To Save A Life, the film does go beyond the typical teen angst, addressing the subject of guilt, responsibility and the relationship between fathers and sons. |
| Cold Souls Paul Giamatti (Sideways) stars as an actor named…Paul Giamatti. During rehearsals for Chekhov's Uncle Vanya, he finds his soul growing so heavy under the weight of the material that his whole life begins to suffer. |
Dangerous Calling We've come to accept and expect violent acts in "secular" films, but the blend of B-thriller violent imagery within a story steeped in the message of salvation shifts the tone so drastically that the proceedings never connect with our sensibilities. |
Free Style Aimed at a young audience unfamiliar with productions that have handled teen angst better, Free Style is typical of films sent directly to DVD. There's nothing spectacular about the racing sequences or the musical numbers meant to pump up the action, backup the many montages, and maintain the attention of its adolescent demographic. |
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| The Cove I am not an animal activist, but neither do I believe we should stand by and watch inhumane treatment of any of God's creatures. This film is making a difference and will move you. Now on DVD, with several bonus features. |
The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Season Six Like comfort food, there's comfort TV and Mary Tyler Moore has become an old friend. Mary and Lou and Ted and Rhoda are characters who make you laugh, but are also folks you'd like to know. Even Ted, for while he is a bombastic and buffoonish, he's also childlike. |
Touched By An Angel Inspiration Collection “Touched By An Angel” was created and produced by Martha Williamson, a devout follower of Christ, who felt privileged to offer the viewing public a spiritually themed drama. Just as importantly, she and her dedicated crew were able to witness to the Hollywood community. |
No Greater Love I was moved by the film's message and the sincerity of its cast. Many of my Christian colleagues in criticism have lifted No Greater Love up as "powerful" and "thought provoking." I can agree with those DVD jacket quotes. |
| Six: The Mark Unleashed Not rated, this preachy Armageddon-themed action drama concerns a group of freedom fighters attempting a prison escape in order to bring down the ruthless “Leader,” who has outlawed Christianity |
The Book of Ruth: Journey of Faith I praise the film for its desire to teach us concerning facing responsibility, putting others before ourselves, the need for faith, and for reminding us that second chances can come. But reading the book of Ruth would take less time and stir the spirit far more than sitting through this screen adaptation. |
Hey, Hey, It's Esther Blueberger The coming-of-age scenario is fodder for movie studios. They know there’s always a new generation of preteens going through the changes of childhood to adulthood and always a set of parents attempting to deal with the ordeal. This one is charming, mainly due to its cast, especially the kids. |
Love Finds a Home Now look, I tear up over Hallmark Hall of Fame commercials, so don’t let the expression “chick flick” cause you to label me a chauvinist. But I have sat through the entire made-for TV/DVD “Love” series by Janette Oke and my conclusion is that the screen adaptations are more suited to feminine sensibilities. |
| Uncross the Stars Miss Hershey, in keeping with the flower-power, free-spirit philosophy of her youth, instills in her character a contempt for structured religion, preferring a one-with-nature creed over worshipping with others in church. |
A Greater Yes How rare to find a drama that avoids cynicism while showing respect for the intelligence of its intended audience – teens. It’s even rarer to find a dramatic production that holds the attention of older viewers as well as that of the intended audience. |
The Complete Love Comes Softly Collection Now On DVD They are films that entertain and leave you with a lift (like Earl Grey). Great for sharing with a friend, and if the big game isn’t on, you might even get your guy to sit, sip and view along with you. |
CHRISTMAS CLASSICS…A list of great Holiday films now on DVD Grab some popcorn balls and enjoy these fun, festive holiday features! |
| A Miracle Movie About A Miracle Those involved in the production have a right to feel good about their work and hopeful about the future. This film will remind people that with just a little effort, we can open the door for miraculous change. |
In the Blink of an Eye Taut, unnerving and strangely captivating, it’s a low-budgeted movie with a profound message. Sound performances, and by film’s end the viewer is left with the feeling that the subject should be discussed with believers and the film should be shown to those unaware of biblical prophecy. |
The Christmas Clause No one sets out to make a bad movie. Or so I’m told. However, my wrath pours forth because of the mystery of why this film got made in the first place. The themes have been expressed in countless Christmas classics. Nothing new is being said. |
Touched By An Angel Inspiration Collection, Plus Hope and Holiday Editions “Touched By An Angel” was created and produced by Martha Williamson, a devout follower of Christ, who felt privileged to offer the viewing public a spiritually themed drama. Just as importantly, she and her dedicated crew were able to witness to the Hollywood community. |
| The Perfect Gift Made by the same filmmakers/stars/crew who gave us Clancy, this production is also church-friendly. |
Thou Shalt Laugh 4 It’s a pleasure to be reminded once again that comedy can be used to edify as well as entertain. And that wit is always more satisfying than the I-can’t–believe-I-just–saw-that shock factor. |
As We Forgive A moving story of reconciliation between survivors and perpetrators of the 1994 Rwandan genocide... |
Clancy This family aimed, faith-based drama focuses on Clancy Miller, an abused 12-year-old who runs away to keep from getting taken away by social workers. |
| The Mary Tyler Moore Show Season 5 USA Today called it “One of the best shows ever to air on TV.” I must agree with that assessment. |
New Version of Henry Poole is Here Is Powerful and Profanity-Less! This movie was released in 2008, but Anchor Bay Entertainment has just released a family-friendly version by taking out the curse words. |
The Lost and Found Family The production presents its themes with relevance and clarity: caring for others in order to help you through your own ordeals, centering prayer in the middle of ordeal and never counting out God, and seeing the pain of others masked by hostility. |
The Star of Bethlehem From the producer of The Passion of the Christ comes a revelatory documentary concerning the world’s most famous star |
| Every Second Counts Rated PG, this new to DVD family drama from Hallmark Channel concerns a teen cowgirl coping with her family’s financial difficulties and her desire to go to college. |
Gospel Hill We must listen to that still small voice, our conscious, which can so easily be overruled by self-desires, resentment and fear. |
The Soloist Film critic Shawn Edwards called it “Powerful and Inspiring!” Preview On Line’s Mary Draughon says, “…But much more important is the film’s recognition of the value of all individuals and reflects God’s love for all his children.” |
Matchmaker Mary ... the DVD is certainly family friendly and will no doubt be appreciated by little girls, especially those seeking ways of bringing bickering parents to a peaceful resolve... |
| Tokyo! This anthology of three short films by different filmmakers deals with themes of transformation, anarchy and rebirth. |
They Call Me Bruce? Like Plan Nine From Outer Space or the films of Paulie Shore, this cult film would be best enjoyed with friends who have had more than just a few brews. And since we shouldn’t be using alcohol to excess either spiritually or physically, there’s no way rational, sober people could find this entertaining. |
Love Takes Wing Another in the series of Janette Oke novels, I enjoyed this film adaptation above the rest. While it does still contain the soap-opera-ish sentimentality found in the previous editions, the other qualities balance it out, making it something the whole family can view – even dads. |
The Mystical Adventures of Billy Owens My nephews, eleven and nine, thought the film was just okay. Parents, however, well, this would be a good time for you to do your taxes. The special effects are chintzy, the acting minimal. |
| Forever Forever is a poignant meditation on relations between the living and the dead, and the immortal power of art. |
Dog Days of Summer A dark thriller with an inspirational message about a mysterious stranger promising a small community a big undertaking. His Pied Piper, Music Man ways beguile most of the locals, but two small boys see him as the Boogieman who came to town. |
A Second Look At Despereaux This “once upon a time” fairy tale has all the ingredients children love: a beautiful princess, adventure, danger, and villains overcome by the heroic deeds of a tiny mouse with big ears and even bigger heart. |
A Greater Yes How rare to find a drama that avoids cynicism while showing respect for the intelligence of its intended audience – teens. It’s even rarer to find a dramatic production that holds the attention of older viewers as well as that of the intended audience. |
| Not Easily Broken The black version of Fireproof, Not Easily Broken’s message has to do with the sanctity of marriage. Come to think of it, there are several positive messages in the film, including loyalty in marriage, the need to keep God centered in the marriage, the need to be vigilant concerning negative forces upon a marriage, and doing what’s right. |
Gooby The unknown cast does a credible job, but what really moved me was the brave yet sensitive presentation of spiritual beliefs. The way the Holy Spirit affects the life of the main character surely will send a message to even scoffers that there must be something other than the mental and physical aspects of life. |
The Heart of Texas Produced and directed by Emmy winners Blake Pilgreen and Mitchell Wright, this new to DVD documentary addresses loss and redemption. And here’s why you should see it… |
Faith Like Potatoes The unknown cast does a credible job, but what really moved me was the brave yet sensitive presentation of spiritual beliefs. The way the Holy Spirit affects the life of the main character surely will send a message to even scoffers that there must be something other than the mental and physical aspects of life. |
| Come What May And the onslaught begins. Fireproof and Facing the Giants were surprise hits, so now other churches and schools are finding the inspiration and some financial backing to push for the rebirth of the Christian film genre. |
Treasure Blind Cloud Ten Pictures and Koch Entertainment have just released the Newsong Films church-made film on DVD... |
And on DVD... Three films to check out on DVD this weekend... |
The Robe Based on the Lloyd C. Douglas novel, the episodic costume drama concerns a Roman centurion who wins Christ's robe in a dice game. Soon his life, and that of his slave, is changed as they discover Jesus to be the Savior of the world. |
| Disney's High School Musical 3: Senior Year The worldwide blockbuster that thrilled kids of all ages is now the entertainment event of 2009.. |
Movie Commentaries DVD audio commentaries are the best thing to happen to movies since Bogey and Bacall. Thus sayth the movie buff. For a film critic, commentary tracks are a great source of information, with a capacity to generate sensitivity toward those who make movies. But film commentaries can also serve you. |
Movies for the 12 Days of Christmas Compiled by Santa’s little helper, Phil Boatwright Grab some popcorn balls and enjoy these fun, festive holiday features. |
Uplifting Films For Troubling Times Here are a few films featuring characters enduring and triumphing over hardships. I’ve also thrown a few that will make you laugh. In fact, those three listed contain the most laughs per frame I’ve found in the movies. |
| Tinkerbell Disney’s famous fairy gets her own story and children get a real treat. The full-length CG animated movie is filled with adventure, magic and even a sprinkling of pixie-dust. |
Thou Shalt Laugh 3 The phenomenon began back in 2006 when producers Hunt Lowry and Jonathan Bock took a step of faith and brought forth the proposition that the world was ready for comedy of, by, and for Christians. |
EXpelled EXpelled: No Intelligence Allowed will be released on DVD Tuesday, the 21st of October. Worth seeing, with added features including a message from Ben Stein on how we can have a say concerning the teaching of intelligent design in schools. |
Prince Caspian The endearing novel by C. S. Lewis has the Pevensie children facing a perilous mission and a greater test of their faith and courage. |
| The Case For Faith Journalist Lee Strobel investigates two of the most emotional objections to Christianity, which have become barriers to faith and are confronted by believers and skeptics alike: Why is Jesus the only way to God? Also, read Preview Editor Phil Boatwright's interview with Mr. Strobel. |
Cloud Ten Pictures Present... The folks who produced the Left Behind series now offer three new DVDs. |
The Sensation of Sight Well received at film festivals, this well-mounted production is an offbeat drama about man’s search for meaning amidst the ache of despair. |
Apostles of Comedy With the success of the Thou Shalt Laugh DVD releases, the marketplace has seen the light – there is room for Christian comedians. The Apostles of Comedy: The Movie blends interviews and testimonies of stand-ups Ron Pearson, Anthony Griffith, Brad Stine and Jeff Allen (also featured in Thou Shalt Laugh). |
| The Adventures of Johnny Tao 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... |
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. |
Love's Unfolding Dream 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. |
Classic Tale Ballet Shoes This family presentation concerns three orphaned sisters who overcome adversity. They strive and sacrifice in order to see their dreams come true, while at the same time learning to put others first. |
| John Tesh TV Concert 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. |
Crave 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. |
Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who (The Original) 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. |
Pearl Diver 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... |
| Greener Mountains 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 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 Final Inquiry Ultimately, the film presents a profound declaration of who Jesus is and the effect He has on friends and foes. |
George of the Jungle: Classic Cartoon 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. |
| Desert Bayou 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. |
Pioneers of Television 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. |
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). |
Martian Child 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. |
| 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. |
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. |
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. |
Evan Almighty 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. |
| 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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
| 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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
| 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. |
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 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. |
Saving Sarah Cain It has a made-for-TV feel, and some may refer to it as the homogenized version of Raising Helen, but it has merit, mainly due to metaphorical theme…one where youngsters are torn away from the life they know and must adapt to a new world. |
The Christmas Blessing Replete with themes concerning the loss of loved ones and looking out for others when you’re hurting, it tells its story well, engaging viewers with fine performances and a savvy mixture of gentleness and sincerity, which helps make it enjoyable for the entire family... |
Thou Shalt Laugh In an era when laughs are so often mined from anatomical & scatological riffs, here comes a refreshing and, glad to add, funny alternative. Thou Shalt Laugh is a new DVD featuring humorous observations by several stand-up comedians who share more than just the ability to tickle the funny bone – these guys (and gal) are also Christians. |