Movies

There were a few movies that I recently watched which were worthy of some note:

• Ring the Bell - This movie featured a musical star-studded cast of Christian artists:  Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Matthew West.  Although, only Casting Crowns sang in the movie.  It  was really neat what ringing the bell represented - a person making the decision to put their faith in Christ.  It was special to see the main character coming to the point in his life where he made the decision to ring the bell.  But, the character that made the biggest impression on me was Scooter, who chose to not pursue a professional baseball career which it was clear that he would've done well in, but instead chose to run a ranch started by his missionary parents to help troubled and orphaned youth.   He treasured the moments whenever any of the youths would "ring the bell".
• Beautiful Dreamer - This was a very touching movie with a beautiful love story.  I liked the Grandpa character, who was there to support the main characters throughout their lives.
• A Warrior's Heart - This is another one of those motivational sports-related movies.  Still, it's always good to see the positive change in a character through their growth.   The most touching scene in the movie was when the main character finally gets to the point where he is able to "talk" to his deceased father and show that he has become the player that his father wanted him to become.
• Lake Effects - The movie itself is just okay; but, I really liked the character in the movie who was the professor on sabbatical, had written the book bearing the title of the movie, and was working as lake patrol.  It was really heartfelt and touching when he professed his love for the main character.  I also like the portrayal of the love and support of small town America.
• A Mile in His Shoes - This movie was a pleasant surprise.  There was often clear reference to God, prayer, and Scripture.   At one point, the main character made a neat analogy using stars, that when the night is darkest, that's when the stars shine brightest.  And I love that so much wisdom came out of his mouth even though he was autistic.  He encouraged his coach when he said his son was looking down from heaven, he gave a great prayer before the final game, and he showed great courage and determination in finishing the game though faced with his attacker.

17-Jul:  Touchback - This was a really moving story.  I expected it to be one of those motivational sports-related movies; but, it also went deeper than that.   The main character was faced with finding out what is really important in life.  All the scenes with the mother were so touching, especially when the college coach said that she would be proud of her son if she watched a game; and she said "I already am".  The movie shows the importance of doing our best, doing what is right, and having heart; and most of all, that having people we love and care for is a big part of what makes life special.

18-Jul:  Dreamer - This was an excellent movie, and even more so, being inspired by a true story.  It was wonderful how the dreams of the young girl with the horse were able to bring the whole family together and heal the brokenness, even in spite of all the adversity they faced along the way.  The actors all did a great job of telling the story beautifully, especially Dakota Fanning.

19-Jul:  Unconditional - We watched this for our small group movie night, and one of the people in my group said that this may have been the best movie she has ever seen.   I might not place it at the very top; but it is definitely close.   It was well made, inspirational, touching, and acting was convincing.   This movie makes me think about how I can make an impact in the lives of others and help others.

25-Jul:  A Greater Yes - The acting and cinematography were average; but, the movie was based on an inspirational true story.   It was touching and of course, had many tear-filled moments as we watch the main character fight cancer and eventually lose the battle against cancer.  Yet, it was motivational to see the lives that she touched and the changes she inspired;
Stand Strong - The DVD cover doesn't seem to reflect so well what the movie is really about.  When I first saw it, I immediately thought of some tough physical battle the person had to fight and stand strong in.  But, after watching the movie, it is really about a family's struggles and growth as they had to deal with and climb back up after hitting financial rock bottom.  The movie itself is just a little above average, but it has a good message about stewardship and keeping the eternal perspective.

26-Jul:  God's Country - This movie is somewhat typical of the genre.  It has a nice story, above average acting, okay filming.   It was interesting to see Gib Gerard act, after finding out who his parents are.

12-Aug:  Home Run - The film quality was fine, and so was the acting.  I like the overall story; and the clear message that faith in God is what was needed to truly overcome sins and addictions.  And it was nice to see the positive change in the main character as the movie progressed from beginning to end.  However, the story seemed a little "slow" and didn't hold my complete attention.   But still, it was a generally good movie.