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Showing posts with label DVD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label DVD. Show all posts

Friday, November 13, 2020

Blog Tour: The Santa Box Movie

Description:

For Kallie Watts, Christmas is anything but merry. For the last five years, the tinsel-strewn holiday has spelled disaster for her family, so when an apartment fire leaves Kallie and her widowed mother homeless just in time for the holidays, it comes as no surprise. There's only one logical conclusion: Christmas is cursed for Kallie. 

When her mother finds a new job in a small California town, Kallie steps out of the moving van and into her worst nightmare: a real-life version of "Whoville", overflowing with holiday decorations and brimming with Christmas cheer. Forced to navigate the complicated ins and outs of her jolly new surroundings, Kallie is shaken out of her gloom one day when she discovers a curiously crafted wooden Santa box on the porch, addressed to her. The moment she lifts the lid, the young teenagers' life is changed forever as she rediscovers the true magic and meaning of Christmas.

Trailer:


Review:

The Santa Box is a cute "Hallmark-like" movie with a good message. Stereotypes are played up (rich cheerleader is the leader of the mean girls; gossipy, rich mom has her nose in everyone's business and people bow to her wishes; etc.), and those stereotypes drive the message home that you need to get to know people to understand and love them. 

The main character is a teenage girl who has been through a very hard time. When given the opportunity to have a Christmas wish granted (through the Santa Box), she uses the wish to help someone else. Her selflessness leads to her being able to have more wishes granted for others. It really was a great reminder to be selfless and see what others need. 

If you are looking for a cute, family friendly Christmas movie, this is worth checking out.

Purchase Links:


Giveaway:

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Thursday, July 30, 2020

Movie Review: Heart of Africa

Heart of Africa is now available on DVD!


Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book



Movie Synopsis: 

A Congolese man runs from a terrible accident and finds himself at a revolutionary camp, where he is told that he has a great destiny. He tries to escape and start a new life by going to another town, joining a new religion, and becoming a missionary. Ultimately, though, he finds himself back in the very place he had tried to leave. He must face his fears and his shame—but also his magnificent possibilities.

Heart of Africa is the first full-length, faith-based film to come out of the nascent Democratic Republic of Congo film movement. After decades of colonial oppression and civil war, the country's scars run deep. Cinema is emerging as a cathartic new medium, and director Tshoper Kabambi is a leader of a new kind of revolution: one driven by stories that he hopes will heal the hearts of his people and the DR Congo.

Review:

I had the opportunity to watch Heart of Africa and enjoyed the presentation. The acting and cinematography were very good. The history of the area is horrific, and the film helped me to appreciate the freedoms and safety I've always been blessed with. 

I hadn't realized so much of the movie would be in a foreign language. I don't mind films with subtitles, but it's good to be aware that you'll need to be focused and not just casually watching or you won't be able to follow a good chunk of the story. 

Giveaway:

Thursday, December 5, 2019

DVD Review:



Movie Synopsis:

Based on the New York Times best- selling novel by Jason F. Wright.

Hope is an aspiring reporter who has had her fair share of tragedy in life. Abandoned at birth, she's grieving the recent death of her adopted mother when her apartment is burglarized of all her possessions. While reporting the burglary to the police, Hope discovers a jar full of money, labeled "Christmas Jar." Shocked and grateful for this act of kindness, Hope discovers that people all over her hometown of Columbus, Ohio, have been receiving Christmas Jars for years during times of need. The jars are always anonymous and always contain different amounts. In this heartwarming Christmas classic, Hope goes undercover to discover the secret behind the Christmas jars, putting into motion a series of events that will change her life, and her community, forever.

Trailer:


Purchase:


Review:

I really enjoyed the novel Christmas Jars when I read it 12 years ago. The details have long since faded, but remembering that I liked it led me to want to watch the new movie based on the novel. It has a very good message about looking beyond ourselves and helping those in need.

Hope didn't want to be alone in her grief and went back to work very quickly. Her co-workers were pretty silly and that was probably something that she needed to not be pulled down by her sorrows. She dreamed of being a writer, and shortly after returning to work she was given the opportunity to pitch a story to her boss and co-workers. She got a green light to move ahead with a story about Christmas jars that had been anonymously given to people around Columbus. I think Hope went into the story with good intentions, but I was bothered by the lies she told in her quest to find the truth. As a family friendly movie, her actions would be a good teaching moment to show the importance of telling the truth (and the burden that comes from having to remember your lies to keep the facade going).

I think this would be a good fit for those who love Hallmark-type Christmas movies. The acting is pretty good, and the cinematography is very well done. It has some serious moments (I cried a few times), but it has a pretty light feel for the bulk of the story.

Giveaway:

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Thursday, June 6, 2019

DVD Blog Tour: The Trial of Porter Rockwell

The Trial of Porter Rockwell

Now Available on DVD

Movie Description:

Based on the True Story

When former Missouri Governor Lilburn Boggs is shot by an unknown assailant, rumors quickly spread that the Mormons are responsible for the attempted assassination of the controversial politician. Never a friend of the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Boggs had four years earlier issued the infamous extermination order that pronounced, "Mormons must be treated as enemies, and must be exterminated or driven from the State."

Rumors gain new momentum when recently excommunicated member John C. Bennett implicates the Prophet Joseph Smith and Porter Rockwell in the crime. Though these accusations are vehemently denied by Joseph and his supporters, arrest warrants are issued for the Prophet and his protector. Joseph's warrant is dismissed; however, Porter Rockwell, not yet thirty, is arrested. After spending nine months in jail, Porter is finally brought to court for a grand-jury hearing to determine if there is sufficient evidence to indict him—a hurdle the state of Missouri must clear to proceed with a full criminal trial. This taut courtroom drama brings to life the friendship of Joseph and Porter and the original story behind the larger-than-life, legendary Porter Rockwell.

Review:

My husband likes to tell us that he's related to Orrin Porter Rockwell-early "Mormon" bad boy, so I couldn't resist the opportunity to review a film about him. Sadly, my husband was out of town when the chance to watch came up, but my daughter watched it with me and we will watch it as a family soon.

I knew that Porter and Joseph were close, but I just thought of Porter as a rough character who was the prophet's bodyguard. The film included a little bit of backstory that explained when and how they met. This shed light on the friendship that the two had.

The bulk of the film is about the trial against Porter Rockwell for the attempted murder of former Missouri Governor Lilburn W. Boggs (don't go into it thinking it will be about much more of Porter's life). There was a lot of hatred against those associated with Joseph Smith, and it was fascinating to see witness after witness discredited.

I thought the film was well done and the acting was good. It was just under 43 minutes, and worth watching.

Oh, and my daughter pulled up the family tree and verified that my husband is, in fact, related to Porter Rockwell.

Trailer:



Tour Giveaway:

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Tuesday, March 12, 2019

DVD Spotlight: Jane and Emma

Now Available on DVD
Jane and Emma

Movie Synopsis: 

JANE & EMMA is based on the life of Sister Jane Manning, one of the first black Mormons. She returns to Nauvoo to find that Joseph Smith, her prophet and friend, has been assassinated. Jane spends a ceaseless night with his widow, Emma Smith, sitting watch over the body of the prophet as a whirlwind of loss and confusion leaves them wondering how either one of them will be able to move forward. Through the long night, Jane wonders if the prophet’s promise to extend the blessings of eternity to her has died along with him. The film explores the possible events of that night, including Jane’s endeavor to remain amongst the Mormon people and Emma’s struggle to cope with her heartbreaking loss. Poignant issues of racism and polygamy threaten to break their bond of friendship. In the end, will Jane and Emma have the courage to follow the path each believes they must take?

Movie Trailer:


Purchase: 


Monday, December 17, 2018

Christmas DVD Blog Tour

Are you on the lookout for some Christmas movies to watch with your whole family over the next week or so? I had the opportunity to watch two the other day that are family friendly with great messages.


Tour Giveaway:

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The Christmas Apron

Purchase Links: Amazon | Seagull Book

Movie Synopsis:

The children in Millie’s family can’t wait for Grandma to arrive with her special Christmas apron. According to tradition, each grandchild will write down the gift he or she wants most in the world, and then slip that wish into the apron’s pocket. Then, on Christmas morning, those wished-for gifts will be magically waiting under the tree. But then eleven-year-old Millie overhears her parents: the family can’t afford gifts for all the little ones. She pictures the disappointment on her siblings’ faces: nothing to open on Christmas morning. Is Millie willing to sacrifice her own whole-soul wish so that someone else’s can come true? Full of tender emotion and delightful surprise, this story reminds us of the miracles that unfold when we think of others before ourselves.


Review:

The Christmas Apron is short, just 26 minutes, but it has a very touching message about being selfless. It is during wartime (I think World War II), and not only are families affected by having loved ones gone serving in the war, but there are shortages everywhere and money is tight. Millie loves ballet and has finally progressed enough to move on to pointe shoes; however, getting them for Christmas would take a miracle. She sacrifices her own wish to ask for a gift for her sister instead.

This is a short, sweet film. I loved how Millie was learning from the example of her father who was always serving those in need around them. She was able to see the benefits of thinking of others first.

Christmas Break-In

Purchase Links: Amazon | Seagull Book | Deseret Book

Movie Synopsis:

Today was supposed to be one of the best days ever for nine-year-old Izzy Rush. But now, on the last day of class before Christmas break, she has been left alone at school. To make matters worse, the biggest blizzard this town has ever seen is blowing and snowing full force. Which is why three bumbling crooks on the lam decide to take shelter in the seemingly empty school. When Izzy discovers that the criminals are holding her friend Ray, the school custodian, she decides it’s up to her to save the day. But what can a nine-year-old girl do? You’d be surprised!


Review:

This movie took me back to days long ago when my sister and I went to see Home Alone in theaters. The line at our small town movie theater was out the door and down the street (I'd never seen that happen before). The humor in that film hit the spot for a ten-year-old.

Christmas Break-In is like Home Alone except at a school. There's a significant level of cheesiness, inept criminals, and forgetful parents. It's clean and has a good message about the importance of family. I really liked the kindness of Ray, the school custodian/ Izzy's guitar teacher, and the concern of Izzy's older teenage brother.

As adults, you may get a kick out of seeing some familiar faces. Danny Glover plays Ray, and Denise Richards plays Izzy's mom.




Tuesday, July 17, 2018

Blog Tour: Trek DVD

Reviews * Giveaway
 
Trek: The Movie

Andrea's Review:

I had the opportunity to take my 14-year-old to see Trek in theaters earlier this year, and it was such a fun experience. It's not unheard of for the acting in films like this to leave much to be desired, but I was pleasantly surprised by the good acting. The cinematography was also excellent. It seems a little cliche, but I laughed and I cried. It really was the "feel good movie of the summer" for me.

Once the DVD was released I brought my family together to watch it. There is a lot of humor, but there are also touching, tender moments throughout the film. My daughter was going on Trek and I thought it'd be fun for my son to get a general idea of what the kids do when they go.

Being a show about LDS youth going on a church field-trip of sorts, I was bothered by the inclusion of a swearword (or possibly two-I only noticed one, but one of my kids said there was another one). It was mild as far as swearing goes, but I'm never a fan. And, honestly, we saw a pre-screening when we went to the theater, so I was hopeful that it wouldn't make the DVD. Keep that in mind if you are planning on showing your younger children. Also, there's a scene with an injury that might make some uncomfortable, and some kissing (although those scenes were typically humorous).

I would happily invite my 14-year-old and 11-year-old to watch this with me again.

Tarah's Review:

LDS movies are kind of hit and miss for me. They seem to be either really good, or really bad in a cheesy I really can't watch this anymore way. So I wasn't really sure what to expect with Trek. I was mostly intrigued because I've never been on a Trek. They started doing them in my home ward after I was out of Young Women's. I've always wanted to do one, and so I was super curious about the movie.

Because it was an LDS movie I assumed that I could watch with my whole family. I didn't worry about my 5 year old watching it with me. My other kids were in and out the whole movie, except my 7 year old. She watched the whole thing, and I'm pretty sure she liked it. She was crying and trying to surreptitiously wipe her tears, and I had to laugh because I was doing the same thing right next to her! I will say, however, that I was super disappointed with the swear word I heard in the movie. Why? What was the point? What did it add? I got me thinking that maybe I shouldn't be letting all my kids watch this, and that made me sad. I wanted it to be a family movie. When I watch a church movie I don't want to have to worry about the content.

I was expecting the focus to be more on the actual trek, but it was more of a personal redemption story. I liked that. A little sad that the actual trek part was kind of glossed over, but what can you do? Yes, it was a little cheesy. Yes, some of the characters were over the top. But all in all it was a cute movie with a good message.

Trailer:


Message from Alan Peterson, Director of TREK The Movie:

It’s exciting to anticipate the DVD/BluRay release of TREK, the movie. Being with audiences in theaters is the fulfillment of any director’s dream.  But, the reality of independent film is that you can’t get a movie into enough theaters so that everyone who wants to, can see it.  July 3rd is a day that lots of TREK fans have been waiting for.  Now, everyone can enjoy the laughs and lessons of TREK whenever they want.  One of our goals in producing the movie was to create a story that would honor the wonderful tradition of this hands-on experience unique to our faith.  Trek provides a critical chance to connect with our past. Why is this important?  I’ll let Elder Russell M. Ballard explain:

"I have a deep conviction that if we lose our ties to those who have gone before us, including our pioneer forefathers and mothers, we will lose a very precious treasure. I have spoken about “Faith in Every Footstep” in the past and will continue in the future because I know that rising generations must have the same kind of faith that the early Saints had in the Lord Jesus Christ and His restored gospel.” (General Conference, October 2017, The Trek Continues!)

It is too easy to forget what our pioneer ancestors sacrificed for their faith and for our good. I hope families can sit down together and share the movie and talk about how grateful we should be for the men, women and children who marched into the unknown following a prophet of God so long ago. And, I hope they will talk about the challenges they face today as members of the church as we march forward into the unknown.  Do you feel like Tom and wonder where God is?  How do we connect with Him? What do we do when we feel weak and alone? Hopefully, TREK helps us know that our Heavenly Father is there and that He cares.



Giveaway:

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Purchase:

Tuesday, April 4, 2017

DVD review: Story Tellers: an Evening with Colorful Characters

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/8191eMZoJJL._SL1500_.jpg 


Description:

One cold night in the Utah Territory, three opinionated men, seemingly by chance, find themselves sharing a campfire as they tell tales, swap insults, and expound on their personal beliefs and philosophies. However, one of the men is not there by mere coincidence. Join Porter Rockwell, Mark Twain, and J. Golden Kimball for an entertaining and intriguing evening with three of the most colorful characters of the Old West. 

Rorie's Review:

I read the description of this DVD before watching it, so I knew what to expect, but I still went into it thinking there would be a story line or a plot or something, so I kept waiting for that to happen. Just be aware, this is not that kind of a movie. It is exactly as it says: three men sitting around a fire, telling stories. Once you accept that, this is an enjoyable movie. 

I thought the all of the actors did a good job, but I really liked the one who played Porter Rockwell. I enjoyed all of the stories that they told as well. And their sense of humor made my husband and I laugh several times. Probably not a movie that kids would sit through, but my husband and I enjoyed it.

Andrea's Review:

My first impression after turning this movie on was that I loved seeing some familiar landscapes. The inclusion of Bridal Veil Falls caught my attention, and I was very impressed with the cinematography. I loved the fall colors!

I’m not sure how they came up with the idea for this, but it made for an entertaining movie. I am familiar with all three characters, but didn’t know much about J. Golden Kimball. It was fun learn a bit more about him. I enjoyed the interaction between all three characters, but my favorite was definitely Porter Rockwell. While on the whole it’s a pretty light movie, there are times with high emotion. I really liked the ending where we learn why one of the men wasn’t there by happenstance. His reason added to his character.

This is a clean, entertaining movie that I'd watch again. 

Trailer:

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

DVD Review: Christmas Dress

Christmas Dress

Description:

It’s Christmas Eve, and Leland Jeppson’s hope is gone. Struggling to get by in their rustic homestead, he had at least wanted to give his family a special Christmas. But with a blizzard blowing in and the train bearing their gifts nowhere in sight, it seems Christmas is just one more thing they’ll have to do without. But as dusk falls, the Jeppsons’ packages unexpectedly arrive at the post office in the not-so-nearby town. Half-blind Postman George Schow is hesitant to brave the storm, but his son, Sidney, will stop at nothing to bring Christmas to the Jeppsons—and ask their daughter, Ellen, to the New Year’s Eve dance. Now it’s up to father and son to battle fierce elements in an attempt to deliver a Christmas miracle. Don’t miss this heartwarming reminder that while God helps those who help themselves, sometimes He does so through others.

Trailer:



Review:

A family in the 1920s has hit hard times, and there is little hope they will have anything for Christmas. But one young man takes it upon himself to help deliver packages that were delayed by the storm.

This is a short film with a heartwarming message that depicts the true meaning of Christmas. Faith helped the family persevere and it also helped the deliverers reach their destination.

If you are looking for something to help remind your kids about the true meaning of Christmas, Christmas Dress would be a great film to show them.

Purchase:


Friday, December 16, 2016

Movie Review: The Last Descent


The Last Descent 

Synopsis:

When John Edward Jones climbed down into Nutty Putty Cave in November of 2009 he wasn’t prepared for the adventure a head of him. As he explored a lesser-known area of the cave, he slid down into a narrow impasse 10 inches high and 18 inches wide. Stuck upside down for over 28 hours, John was left with few options but to call for help. The unique topography and geological makeup of Nutty Putty cave created intense difficulties for the rescue team that risked everything to save John’s life. Over 150 feet below the surface and the end of over a thousand feet of tunnels, a unique friendship is formed as John and his rescuers share their lives, loves, losses and dreams. As the rescue attempt proceeds John unfolds the turns in his life that show what is most important, and he tells the story of a love worth risking everything for.


Review:

I'm a big fan of a happy ending, so when I was given the chance to review The Last Descent (a film based on the true story of a failed rescue attempt) I was a bit hesitant. However, my curiosity won out-I knew there must be more to this film than just depicting the loss. When the DVD arrived I started second guessing my decision to review it, BUT I am really happy that I took the time to watch this beautiful film.

It is definitely sad, but not a crushing, depressing sadness. There are scenes of joy and light throughout the film (mostly through flashbacks), and the way it ends actually feels hopeful and happy.   

When the credits were rolling I had some questions. A day later I'm still thinking about the movie (and isn't that a sign of powerful art-when you keep thinking about it?). This is based on a true story, but obviously with over 127 viewpoints (at least that many people were involved in the rescue attempt), it does take artistic license. I wanted Aaron (the lead rescuer) to be real, and I wanted to know more about him. He's a composite of many rescuers; however, I'm left hoping that both through the actual event and this film that peoples lives were (or will be) touched.

The Last Descent is a film worth watching.

Statement from the Jones Family:

 “John will always be remembered for his genuine love of his family and friends, passion for adventure, goofy sense of humor and unwavering faith. The heroic acts of the men and women who worked tirelessly to free him will never be forgotten. We hope that those who view the movie are inspired to live and love selflessly, and are comforted knowing that hope can be found in the wake of tragedy.”

Giveaway:

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Purchase:

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

DVD Review: Just Let Go


Movie Description:

Henry Ian Cusick, Emmy Nominee, as Chris Williams in the true story "Just Let Go". After surviving a drunk driving accident that killed his pregnant wife and two kids, Chris Williams struggles to 'just let go' and forgive the young man who caused it.

As we begin the New Year, this message of forgiveness is an important reminder, that forgiveness can bring peace to your soul. “It has allowed a terrible tragedy … to be turned into, in many aspects, a tremendous blessing. That has been one of the most fascinating things to experience,” Williams said in a interview with the Deseret News. “To see the lives blessed since the crash, it has been overwhelming how many positive things have come from it.”

Andrea's Review:

The tears started flowing almost immediately as Just Let Go began. It is a heart wrenching story (one that I was familiar with). I cannot imagine the pain that would come from having any loved one killed, not to mention having more than half of your family killed by a drunk driver. Chris' story is really amazing. It made me ask myself what sort of things I hold onto. Certainly nothing even remotely close to Chris' situation, and he was able to let it go. Why do I hold onto an unkind word or action? This is really a great movie to help put the important things in our lives into focus. It also is a reminder of how fragile life is.

This movie was very well done. The acting and cinematography were excellent, and I would highly recommend it (have tissues handy!).

It is rated PG-13. There are a couple of mild swear words, and some blood from the accident scenes.

Rorie's Review:

Don't start watching this movie without a box of tissues nearby. I never ended up sobbing throughout it, but I think had I been watching this movie without my kids coming in and out, that would have been different.

I had seen the previews for this movie, and I think I remember hearing about the story when it initially happened. Throughout most of the movie, Chris seems to be living in a fog - just going through the motions, but not really living, due to the grief caused by losing his family. I can't even imagine that kind of pain, and I also can't imagine being strong enough to forgive the person who destroyed my family.

It amazes me that Chris was able to work through the pain and finally forgive. What an amazing example to all of us. Even though most of us will not have to go through something so tragic, we can choose to let go of so many other things that cause us pain and bitterness.

Thursday, March 5, 2015

Short Film Review: He Knows My Name


Description:

Little Rebekah is fascinated by the man her neighbors call Jesus and she wants to hear all he has to say. But her mother, Sarah, wants Rebekah to keep her distance from the man some call Master and others label a heretic. Sarah has heard rumors that some factions wish to harm Jesus of Nazareth. But Rebekah is persistent, and one day she brings Jesus home to meet her mother and grandfather—a simple act that will forever change all their lives.

Review:

I had the opportunity to watch "He Knows My Name" with my family for our Family Home Evening this week. I thought the short film was very well done, and I really liked that the focus was on the faith of a child. When we study the scriptures, we read that Jesus loved little children, but otherwise there isn't much mention of children. I think that can make it a little hard for children to relate to and understand the scriptures. But, this film did a great job with creating a relatable situation for children.

Pre-Order a Copy from Amazon, just in time for Easter.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Blog Tour: God Bless Us, Every One! by John Rhys-Davies

 *Review*


 God Bless Us, Every One! 
The story behind A Christmas Carol
as read by John Rhys-Davies

Book Description:

As Charles Dickens dipped his pen and began to write the classic tale A Christmas Carol in the autumn of 1843, the spirit of the story captured his heart and mind in an extraordinary way. Dwindling sales of his previous books had resulted in a desperate financial situation for Dickens, who had used much of his income to support worthy causes and needy family members. But the book which he had intended as a quick solution to his problems turned out to be much, much more.

This beautifully illustrated volume tells the story behind the writing of Dickens's most famous work and reveals how he discovered the spirit of Christmas for himself with a little help from his own literary characters.


Andrea's Review:

God Bless Us Every One! is a wonderful story with beautiful illustrations. I enjoyed reading about how A Christmas Carol came to be.

It is a bit too lengthy of a read for young children, but the accompanying DVD is fabulous. It's not very long and the music and flying characters were great to hold my kids' attention.

I know it's barely November, but it has me excited to the upcoming Christmas season.

Rorie's review:

You actually get three reviews from me - mine and my two oldest children. :)  Both my kids said that they enjoyed the story although I could tell that their attention was waning, especially my 6-year-old. The story was good, but I think the author used a lot of big words that were over the kids' heads.  I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to watching the DVD with my kids as well.

Joey's review:

I liked how part of it was made up and part of it was true. I liked how the author wrote the letters at the beginning and end to help explain what the book was about.

Braden's review:

I liked how he (Dickens) learned more and found out that some poor people were happy with what they had, and had Christmas in their hearts. I liked how the title says "God Bless Us" in it. I didn't like that it wasn't all true.

Tarah's Review:

While I don't think my kids would particularly be interested in this book (but they may enjoy the CD and we might add it to our things to read/watch before Christmas), I thought the true parts of the story were really interesting. I wish the authors had more of that in this book, instead of rewriting a part of A Christmas Carol.
I enjoyed how it talked about noticing others, and not dwelling too much on our own problems, how joy can be found in any circumstance. It's certainly easier said than done, but something we should probably all strive for.


About the Author:

John Rhys-Davies is one of modern cinema's most recognizable character actors, best known for his role as the ax-wielding dwarf Gimli in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. He has gained widespread fame on British television and received an Emmy Award nomination for his work in the television miniseries Shogun.

About the Illustrator:


Brandon Dorman is the illustrator of the New York Times bestseller The Wizard. His work has appeared in children’s books and on numerous covers, including the Fablehaven series and The Candy Shop War series.

Title: God Bless Us, Every One!
Author: John Rhys-Davies
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: September 2014
ISBN: 1609079280
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

DVD Spotlight: Saints and Soliders: The Void

Spotlight * Giveaway


 Saints and Soldiers: The Void
Now Available on DVD

Purchase
 
Amazon | Deseret Book

Plot Summary:

Germany, May 1945, the twilight of WWII. On a final mission deep in the Harz mountains a U.S. tank crew discovers a platoon of Germans, including three infamous Panzer tanks, preparing to ambush allied supply trucks.

Before the war, Sergeant Jesse Owens, was a product of segregation and racial discrimination. Forced by law to ride in the back of the bus and disenfranchised from the political process. As the Germans bear down on the Americans, Owens fights the Axis powers for a freedom he and his fellow African American soldiers have never felt.

With a deadly game of cat and mouse quickly unfolding, Owens and his predominantly white tank crew find themselves out-gunned and out-manned by the German Panzer tanks. Several in Owens’ crew are reluctant to put their faith in a black tank driver despite their dire circumstances. With tension and fear beginning to manifest Owens knows they must put aside their differences to stop the enemy from their deadly plan. Knowing that a victory over the Nazis means a victory for racial justice, Owens and his men find a way to work together to save hundreds of lives in a desperate battle against the greatest odds they have ever faced.


Trailer:


Giveaway: 

One Literary Time Out follower will win Saints and Soliders: The Void on DVD. Enter to win via the Rafflecopter below.
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Thursday, December 5, 2013

Blog Tour: Home for the Holidays DVD/CD


Summary:

As seen and heard by more than 80,000 people in the LDS Conference Center, Home for the Holidays is the live recording of The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s 2012 Christmas concert. This year’s release features internationally acclaimed TV personality Tom Brokaw and Tony Award–winning Les Miserables tenor Alfie Boe.

The Choir also welcomed surprise-guest Gail “Hal” Halvorsen, the renowned Candy Bomber of World War II. Together with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square, these three special guests delivered an unprecedented excitement to the stage that brought all in attendance to their feet more than once during the night.

Hailed as the performance that “may have topped them all” (Catherine Reese Newton, The Salt Lake Tribune).

Review:

I've heard about what great programs the annual Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas concerts are, so I jumped at the opportunity to review the DVD/CD of last year's concert. The performance was very well done. The choir and orchestra sound excellent, and the guests they had really made for a great show. I particularly enjoyed the story about the Candy Bomber. It is such a touching story, and the presentation narrated by Tom Brokaw brought tears to my eyes. It was a joy to see Hal Halvorsen, 92-years-old, sporting his original uniform and getting around so well! I also really liked Alfie Boe's performance of Bring Him Home. This presentation is definitely worth watching and/or listening to.

Tour Dates:  December 2 -13, 2013
Title: “Home for the Holidays”

Purchase: Amazon (DVD) | Amazon (CD) | Deseret Book (DVD) | Deseret Book (CD)
 

DVD Trailer:

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Blog Tour: Studio C, Seasons 1 & 2

   
Studio C

Seasons 1 and 2 of the hilarious BYUtv sketch comedy series, Studio C, featuring Whitney, Mallory, Jason, Matt, and the rest of the cast pulling out all the stops with two full seasons of enough rip-roaring hilarity to make you spit milk out of your nose. Travel back to the moment it all began and watch some of the very first Studio C sketches, plus two never-before-seen features! Includes popular episodes featuring
  • Presidential Shoulder Angel
  • Facebook Friends Song
  • Flirting Academy
  • Captain Literally
  • The Center for People That YouTube Made Infamous
  • Candy Land Character Conference
  • Bollyside
  • Dana’s Dead
  • And many more!
Special Features
  • Exclusive Feature: “Just Jeremy Date”
  • Exclusive Sketch: “Substitute Miss Frizzle”
  • Season 2 Outtakes
Studio C is a hit sketch comedy series that the whole family can enjoy. Like the popular TV show Saturday Night Live, the cast performs original sketches that parody American culture and the hilariously awkward moments of everyday life; but with a refreshingly wholesome yet hilarious spin. With their huge fan-base and increasing popularity, Studio C aims to produce clean, family-oriented comedy for a national audience.

Review:

It isn't often I'm asked to review a TV show on a book blog, but when the opportunity came to review Studio C, I jumped at the chance. Has anyone been able to check it out? It's a show on BYUtv and it's in its third season. Basically it's like Saturday Night Live, but clean (although, never having really watched SNL I'm not exactly sure that's a good comparison, but that is what I've heard it described as from family members who love it). If you ever think, "Boy, there is nothing good on TV anymore" (in which I would agree with you) then check out Studio C. It's something you can watch with your whole family. Granted, your kids may or may not understand the humor, but if they do it isn't something you have to be worried about. Some of the episodes you will find more hilarious than others. A lot of it depends on your own experiences. One of my favorites from the first season had a guy and girl's perspective about what happens on the doorstep after a date. Give two episodes a try and see if it's your type of humor.


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