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SEASON THREE - Movies of the Week
Movie of the Week - Oct 29, 2023
Mr. Church
Written by Susan McMartin
Directed by Bruce Beresford
Stars: Eddie Murphy, Britt Robertson, Lucy Fry, Xavier Samuels, Natascha McElhone, and Natalie Coughlin
Brief Synopsis: “Mr. Church” tells the story of a unique friendship that develops when a little girl and her dying mother retain the services of a talented cook – Henry Joseph Church. What begins as a six-month arrangement instead spans fifteen years, and creates a family bond that lasts forever.
The movie is based on a true friendship from screenwriter Susan McMartin in her life. So with a story like this, there is no other director that can direct heartwarming drama than Bruce Beresford [Driving Miss Daisy] .
What makes this film remarkable is that from the beginning of Robertson’s narration you are introduced into the lives of Charlie and Mr. Church and their unlikely bond. People love stories about two separate characters having a close bond especially if one of them is biased against the other. In Mr. Church, the bond isn’t forced or anything but is very genuine where the food he cooked bought them together. Through the film, we are introduced to the people in Charlie’s life besides her Mr. Church and her mother, from her best friend, to her crush, to even a guy on the bus and they play a good chunk into Charlie’s life story even as an adult. When they are reintroduced into the film when Robertson is all grown up to be a 20 something year old adult, they have their own little character arc subplot of significance that genuinely makes you smile.
There are moments when the film may be a bit Hallmark-ish, but when an emotional scene gets you, it gets you hard where you are literally tearing up.
Themes: Faith, Family, Acceptance, Cancer, Death, Loyalty, Coming of Age, Support, Kindness, and Compassion
Directed by Bruce Beresford
Stars: Eddie Murphy, Britt Robertson, Lucy Fry, Xavier Samuels, Natascha McElhone, and Natalie Coughlin
Brief Synopsis: “Mr. Church” tells the story of a unique friendship that develops when a little girl and her dying mother retain the services of a talented cook – Henry Joseph Church. What begins as a six-month arrangement instead spans fifteen years, and creates a family bond that lasts forever.
The movie is based on a true friendship from screenwriter Susan McMartin in her life. So with a story like this, there is no other director that can direct heartwarming drama than Bruce Beresford [Driving Miss Daisy] .
What makes this film remarkable is that from the beginning of Robertson’s narration you are introduced into the lives of Charlie and Mr. Church and their unlikely bond. People love stories about two separate characters having a close bond especially if one of them is biased against the other. In Mr. Church, the bond isn’t forced or anything but is very genuine where the food he cooked bought them together. Through the film, we are introduced to the people in Charlie’s life besides her Mr. Church and her mother, from her best friend, to her crush, to even a guy on the bus and they play a good chunk into Charlie’s life story even as an adult. When they are reintroduced into the film when Robertson is all grown up to be a 20 something year old adult, they have their own little character arc subplot of significance that genuinely makes you smile.
There are moments when the film may be a bit Hallmark-ish, but when an emotional scene gets you, it gets you hard where you are literally tearing up.
Themes: Faith, Family, Acceptance, Cancer, Death, Loyalty, Coming of Age, Support, Kindness, and Compassion
Movie of the Week - Oct 22, 2023Jesus RevolutionWritten by Ellen Vaughn, Greg Laurie, and Jon Gunn
Directed by Jon Erwin and Brent McCorkle Stars: Joel Courtney, Joanathan Roumie, Kimberly Williams-Paisely, Anna Grace Barlow, Kelsey Grammer, and others Brief Synopsis: (Recommended Viewing for 18+) Based on Greg Laurie and Ellen Vaughn's book of the same name, the movie tells of the Jesus Movement and its growth in Southern California during the early 1970s. Inadvertently, Laurie meets a charismatic street preacher and a pastor who open the doors to a church to a stream of wandering youth. What unfolds is a counterculture movement that becomes the greatest spiritual awakening in American history. The Jesus Movement was a Christian counterculture revolution that emerged in the late '60s and exploded across the country in the early '70s. Born out of the burgeoning hippie sub-culture, the movement wasn't just restricted to disillusioned flower children. Young people from around the country left their traditional church settings and joined fellow "Jesus Fanatics” in the many communes along the West Coast. Themes: Faith, Family, Acceptance, Jesus Christ, Fear, Drug Addiction, Embracing Joy, and Truth |
Movie of the Week - Oct 15, 2023Blue MiracleWritten by Julio Quintana and Chris Dowling
Directed by Julio Quintana Stars: Jimmy Gonzales, Dennis Quaid, Anthony Gonzalez, Miguel Angel Garcia, and others Brief Synopsis: The recently released Netflix movie, Blue Miracle, has surprised audiences with its heartwarming story set in the unlikely world of competitive fishing. The film follows a group of children and their guardian as they enter a fishing contest in a desperate attempt to save their orphanage, with the assistance of a washed-up boat captain. The star-studded cast, including Dennis Quaid and Jimmy Gonzales, has received praise for their performances. Blue Miracle is inspired by the incredible true story of Team Casa Hogar, a group of amateurs who won their first-ever fishing tournament and selflessly donated all their winnings to their orphanage. Facing the aftermath of Hurricane Odile, the team's victory brought hope and much-needed funds to Casa Hogar. Although Captain Wade Malloy, portrayed by Dennis Quaid, is a fictional character, the emotions and triumphs depicted in the film highlight the power of determination and resilience. Captain Malloy, according to History vs Hollywood, is a heavily fictionalized representation of Ernie Cossio, an individual who runs a successful charter fishing business. The film also neglects to include certain real-life events, such as Venegas' near exclusion from the tournament due to a car accident shortly before. In discussing the incident, the actual Venegas expressed belief in God's intervention, stating that God ensures his participation in the tournament and his blessings are wholehearted and complete, never partial. Themes: Trials, Faith, Family, Friendship, Love, Community Service, Courage, Integrity, Hope, and Trust |
Movie of the Week - Oct, 8, 2023ExtraordinaryWritten by Scotty Curlee, Cheryl McKay
Directed by Scotty Curlee Stars: Shari Rigby, Leland Klassen, Karen Abercrombie, and Kirk Cameron Brief Synopsis: Based on a true marriage journey, Extraordinary tells the amazing story of ultra-marathon runner and college professor David Horton, his wife, Nancy, and their attempt to finish their marriage race well. Although proud of his incredible athletic accomplishments and the impact he has on his students, David's family continuously pays a high price for his years of competitive running. Following his open-heart surgery and irreparable damage to his knees, Nancy is ready for Dave to hang up his racing shoes for good and focus his boundless energy on their family. Instead, feeling called by God to "inspire people one last time," Dave sets off for a 2,900-mile race across America. Themes: Marriage, Faith, Family, Friendship, Love, Community Service, Courage, Integrity, Hope, and Trust |
Movie of the Week - Oct 1, 2023Divine InfluencerWritten by Susannah Eldridge, Claire Yorita Lee, and Suzanna Niles
Directed by Shari Rigby Stars: Lara Silva, Jason Burkey, Jesse Metcalfe, Micah Lynn Hanson, Rebecca Koon Brief Synopsis: Here is a movie featuring solid acting with engaging leads, Lara Silva (The Chosen) and Jason Burkey (The Mulligan). Their characters play an important role in the story, and the movie emphasizes that, with God's help, people can change for the better. The premise of the story revolves around Olivia, a materialistic girl who hasn't quite grown up yet at 29. She sells clothing and does video sales pitches, but spends too much money and relies on her parents for help. When Olivia makes an online comment that her boss dislikes, she is fired, which creates an awkward situation as her close friend Kimberly (Sarah Stipe) is the owner's daughter. Kimberly offers Olivia a temporary place to stay at her home, but the situation changes when Olivia's negligence endangers Kimberly's pets. Olivia's parents have reached their limit with her behavior and decide to cut her off financially, urging her to finally grow up. They express their love, but also set boundaries. Despite her flaws, Liv also finds herself at a homeless shelter, the Harvest Rescue Mission, where she reunites with an old acquaintance named Ryan who manages the mission. They share some funny and touching moments, including a connection through their high school memories. Themes: Faith, Integrity, Testimony, Friendship, Influencing Others, Community Service, Courage, Prayer, Hope, and Trust |
Movie of the Week - Sept 24, 2023An Unlikely AngelWritten by Rebecca Rogers
Directed by Durrell Nelson Stars: Jillian Murray, Robert Amaya, Aaron Mees, Sam J. Jones, Brittany Goodwin and Delyla de Castro Brief Synopsis: Janie, a young professional wife, and soon-to-be mother, faces a life-altering accident that changes the course of her life and affects her loved ones. When she awakens from the crash, she’s an outsider in her own family and questions God’s love and her purpose. Through her personal crisis, she is assisted and advised by an angel in the guise of a rideshare driver. Will she follow his guidance and find her way back to happiness? Themes: Faith, Integrity, Family, Work-life and home-life balance, spiritual discipline, Courage, Prayer, Hope, and Trust |
Movie of the Week for Sept 17, 2023Big George ForemanWritten by Frank Baldwin, George Tillman, Jr., and Dan Gordon
Directed by George Tillman, Jr. Stars: Khris Davis, Forest Whitaker, Jasmine Mathews, Sullivan Jones, Lawrence Gilliard, Jr,, and others Brief Synopsis: Big George Foreman: The Miraculous Story of the Once and Future Heavyweight Champion of the World is based on the remarkable true story of one of the greatest comebacks of all time and the transformational power of second chances. Fueled by an impoverished childhood, Foreman channeled his anger into becoming an Olympic Gold medalist and a World Heavyweight Champion, followed by a near-death experience that took him from the boxing ring to the pulpit. But when he sees his community struggling spiritually and financially, Foreman returns to the ring and makes history by reclaiming his title, becoming the oldest and most improbable World Heavyweight Boxing Champion ever. Themes: Testimony, Forgiveness, Grace, Mercy, Success, Friendship, Boxing, Faith, Trials, Racism, Poverty. |
Movie of the Week - May 21, 2023A Question of FaithWritten by Ty Manns
Directed by Kevan Otto Stars: Kim Fields, C. Thomas Howell, T.C, Stalling, Richard T. Jones, Jaci Velasquez, Gregory Alan Williams, Renee O’Connor, Jeff Rose, and others Brief Synopsis: In 'A Question of Faith,' Pastor David Newman, restaurant owner Kate Hernandez, and construction contractor John Danielson lead separate lives, unaware of the interconnectedness they share. Pastor Newman, dedicated to his church but often neglecting his family, faces a crisis of faith. Kate Hernandez's daughter, Maria, who frequently texts and drives, causes a tragic car accident that claims the life of Newman's young son, Eric. Simultaneously, John Danielson grapples with the possibility of losing his own daughter to a terminal illness. Thrown into a whirlwind of despair and loss, each character must confront their own faith and make choices that will shape their futures. Pastor Newman struggles with resentment and doubts, while his wife and parents encourage him to embrace forgiveness and Christian love to find healing. Maria is sent to a juvenile detention center, leaving her parents questioning their faith. Michelle, a young singer, collapses during an audition, adding to the turmoil. As the three families navigate their individual challenges, a series of events unknowingly brings them together, forging unexpected connections. In the face of tragedy, they discover the power of love, forgiveness, grace, and mercy. The narrative explores themes of faith, racial prejudice, the consequences of texting and driving, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding organ donation. Themes: Love, Forgiveness, Grace, Mercy, Church Family, Friendship, Teaching, Cultural Differences, Racism, Texting While Driving, Organ Donation, and Community. |
Movie of the Week for May 7, 2023Sun MoonWritten by Sydney Tooley and Susan Isaacs
Directed by Sydney Tooley Stars: MacKenzie Mauzy, Justin Chien, Madison McLaughlin, Michael Jong-Quin Huang, Jason Burkey, Leanne Morgan, and others Brief Synopsis: Kelsey's vision for her future is shattered when her fiance leaves her at the altar. Kelsey attends a church service after being betrayed by her love, and responds to a mission call to teach English in Taiwan despite her struggles with her relationship with God. Kelsey's journey in Taiwan is filled with personal challenges, including her strained relationship with her family and her fear of getting too close to anyone. She gradually develops a close bond with her fellow teacher, Horace, as they teach each other their native languages and discuss deep and meaningful topics, including the role of God in their lives. The movie raises important questions about the nature of God, how he operates in our lives, and how to manage our emotions in difficult times. Ultimately, the film encourages discussion around the faithfulness of God in the face of grief and loss. Themes: Season of Singleness, Faith, God’s Love. Integrity, Romance, Church Family, Friendship, Teaching, Cultural Differences, Taiwan, and Community. |
Movie of the Week for April 30, 2023LifemarkWritten by: Alex Kendrick, Kevin Peeples, and Stephen Kendrick
Directed by: Kevin Peeples Stars: Kirk Cameron, Raphael Ruggero, Rebecca Rogers Nelson, Alex Kendrick, Justin Sterner, Dawn Long, Marisa Hampton. Synopsis: David’s comfortable world is turned upside down when his birthmother unexpectedly reaches out to him, longing to meet the 18-year-old son she’s only held once. With the encouragement of his adoptive parents, David embarks on a journey of discovery that leads to a staggering truth from his past. From executive producers Kirk Cameron and the Kendrick Brothers—creators of War Room and Fireproof—comes LIFEMARK, inspired by an incredible true story that celebrates the gift of life. LIFEMARK recently received a PG-13 rating from the Motion Picture Association for “Thematic Elements.” Because the true story that inspired LIFEMARK revolves around the decision a woman makes while in an abortion clinic, the movie shares her experience. Nothing shown or discussed is graphic. As with any movie, we would suggest parents watch the movie for themselves to decide what’s best for their family. |
Movie of the Week for April 23, 2023Play the Flute Written by: Rich Christiano
Directed by: Rich Christiano Stars: Brett Varvel, Sean Ormond, Kennedy Tucker, Clint Howard, Fred Grandy (Gopher on Love Boat) and Loretta Swit (from MASH), Terri Conn, and others. Synopsis: A story about Brandon Cobb (Brett Varvel), a new Director who takes over a youth group that’s filled with spiritual apathy. As he tries to motivate his students to get serious about their relationship with the Lord, he finds himself in an uphill battle. Although discouraged by their indifference, Brandon sticks to his calling of boldly sharing the truth of God’s Word. What happens next is something Brandon and his students will never forget. |
Movie of the Week for April 16, 2023Pride: A Seven Deadly Sins StoryWritten by: Felicia Brooker
Directed by: Troy Scott Stars: Keeya King, Stephanie Mills, Thomas Miles, Lucia Walters, and Jaime M. Callica Executive Produced by: TD Jakes, Derrick Williams, and Shaun Robinson Synopsis: The story of Bertie, an aging matriarch and reality television star whose carefully constructed world starts to crumble–like the baked goods that catapulted her to fame–when family secrets are brought to light. To see the truth and salvage her legacy, Bertie must let go of the pride that estranged her from her late college-dropout daughter. A pride that prevents Bertie from seeing her son Gabe as the thieving opportunist he is and her granddaughter Ella as just a lost twenty-something trying to build up her life after some missteps–not someone to hold in contempt. Pride brought Bertie up the climb, but it also made her blind–it’s time for her to see or face the consequences. |
Movie of the Week for April 9, 2023Praise ThisWritten by: Murder Ink (Jana Savage, Brandon Broussard, Hudson Obayuwana), with revisions by Tina Gordon and Camilla Blackett
Directed by: Tina Gordon Stars: Chlöe Bailey, Anjelika Washington, Tristan Mack Wilds, Quavo, Birgundi Baker, Crystal Renee Hayslett, Loren Lott, Jekalyn Carr, Koryn Hawthorne, Drew “Druski” Desbordes With the Quickness Recommended Viewing for 18+ Synopsis: In a new cinematic musical event set in the world of Atlanta’s competitive gospel youth choir praise teams, a young woman with dreams of being a musical superstar is forced to join her cousin’s struggling underdog praise team in the lead up to a national competition. A take from the New York Times states: ‘For an aspiring pop star from L.A., heading to the South to sing about Jesus might feel like a detour. But that’s where Sam, played by the R&B singer Chloe Bailey, finds herself to at the start of the musical comedy “Praise This.” After the death of her mother and a struggle to set herself straight, Sam is sent to Atlanta to stay with her aunt, her uncle and her peppy, God-loving cousin, Jess (Anjelika Washington). Jess introduces Sam to her praise team, a scrappy competitive gospel group run out of a local, ramshackle church. When Sam and Jess are caught at a party, Sam is forced to join the group, a punishment that, no great surprise, allows her to open herself up to a new life, and to God’s grace. As Sam reluctantly leads her team through a national gospel singing competition, the film, directed by Tina Gordon, takes the “Pitch Perfect” template — an underdog singing group beating the odds — and gives it a modern Black gospel twist. Themes: Faith, Spirituality, Gifts, Temptation, Peer-Pressure, Morality, Family, Redemption, Forgiveness, Friendship NOTE: Columbia Records has released the official soundtrack album for the musical comedy Praise This. The album features the songs from the film performed by cast members Chloe Bailey, Druski, Quavo, Crystal Hayslett & others. Harvey Mason Jr. serves as the project’s executive music producer. The soundtrack is now available to stream/download by clicking the link and any other major digital music services.
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Movie of the Week for April 2, 2023The Case for HeavenA captivating and compelling documentary that helps people address humankind’s biggest fear: death.l
Directed by Mani Sandoval Stars: Lee Strobel, Mani Sandoval, John Burke, Steve Caballero, John Steingard, Francis Chan and Luis Palau. Brief Synopsis: Christian heroes come in many forms, and one modern day, real-life Christian hero is "The Case For Christ" author Lee Strobel. His story of transforming from an atheist journalist to a Christian apologist has been told through hit books as well as the popular movie also titled, "The Case For Christ." Today Lee offers a new documentary that investigates Near-Death Experiences and presents evidence for Heaven and Hell. Discover “The Case for Heaven,” by New York Times best-selling author Lee Strobel as he uses the same evidence-based and systematic approach to build a case for an afterlife. Based on his book “The Case for Heaven”, this documentary is a captivating and compelling film that helps people address humankind’s biggest fear: death. It includes interviews with best-selling author John Burke, world-renowned pastor Francis Chan and the late Evangelist Luis Palau and others. Themes: Faith, Spirituality, Documentary, Near-Death Experiences, Research |
Movie of the Week for March 26, 2023Heaven SentWritten by Karen Abercrombie and Tara Lynn Marcelle
Directed by Joanne Hock Stars: Karen Abercrombie, Jemarcus Kilgore, J. Leon Pridgen II, Charlene Tilton, Michael J. Patterson, Maurie Moore, Elizabeth Byland and Gary Dourdan. Brief Synopsis: The new romantic comedy shares stories of three couples at different stages of life and is a journey through finding love, hope and joy after loss. Elise, a grandmother hurt by her past, and Patrick, a widowed pastor, have closed the door on love. But with faith and a little help from technology, will their live-streamed romance find a way? Themes: Marital Difficulties, Power of Prayer, God’s Love. Romance, Church Family, Friendship, Faith, and Community. |
