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 Boxis 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.
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.
July 24th is Pioneer Day in Utah. In between parades, barbecues, and fireworks, I highly recommend that you take your family to see The Fighting Preacher. This is the latest film by Utah favorite, T.C. Christensen, and it opens Wednesday.
I had a blast at the premier last week. I didn't know the story about Willard Bean, and was fascinated to learn about him and his family. The Beans had such great faith to accept the mission call to Palmyra, and even greater faith to not give up when they were hated by everyone in the town.
The serious moments were broken up by humor (some a little over the top, but a good fit for a family show).
It's cliche, but I laughed and I cried. This really was an enjoyable film.
Movie Synopsis:
Utah’s own award-winning producer/director, and master story-teller, T.C. Christensen, once again weaves a tale of action, romance, comedy, and drama in this heartwarming story of a couple that overcomes all odds. It is truly a David versus Goliath story, as two people take on an entire town filled with hatred. After 24 years in the community, they eventually become loved and respected by one and all.
In the tradition of Christensen and Remember Films, who brought you 17 Miracles, Ephraim’s Rescue, Love Kennedy, and Cokeville Miracle; this new film brings elements that make the audience laugh, cry, and most importantly, cheer the underdog.
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.
I am grateful for the opportunity I had to watch Jane and Emma, a new film depicting the relationship Jane Manning had with Emma and Joseph Smith in the 1840s. The main setting of the film is one night; however it has many flashbacks to show the relationship.
Jane was portrayed as a very faithful woman who believed that she and her family should join with the main body of the Church in Nauvoo, Illinois. When they weren't allow on a boat due to the color of their skin, they walked hundreds of miles to reach their goal. They were welcomed into the Smith's home and Jane developed an unlikely friendship with the couple.
This was a very touching movie. I've read quite a few things about the early members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but I wasn't familiar with Jane Manning or her relationship with Emma and Joseph. I loved that there was such a strong friendship between the three-that the color of Jane's skin wasn't an obstacle like it was for many during that time in history.
A few scenes where Jane was mistreated really tore at my heart. If you are a crier, make sure to have a tissue handy. Jane's continued faith given her many challenges was very inspiring.
The film is about an hour and a half and is rated PG.
Are you looking for something to do this weekend? I'd highly recommend heading over to a theater near you to watch Little Women. No, I'm not referring to a repeat showing of the '94 version with Winona Ryder and Christian Bale. Debut director Clare Niederpruem has co-written a modern-day remake of Louisa May Alcott's novel and it opens nationwide tonight!
We had the opportunity to attend a VIP screening of Little Women this week, and the film exceeded my expectations. When I hear Indie film and shoestring budget, I don't picture a movie like we saw. The script, acting, cinematography, set design, and music all worked together for a high quality film. The modern-day makeover worked very well with this classic story, and the message of love and the importance of family showed through.
For any criers out there, be sure to have some tissues handy. The story line follows the original quite well, so it should come as no surprise that there are some tear inducing moments.
The film is rated PG-13 for some thematic elements and teen drinking.
LITTLE WOMEN—starring Lea Thompson (BACK TO THE FUTURE) —brings the same sisters to a new generation to celebrate dreams, family and unconditional love. LITTLE WOMEN also stars Sarah Davenport as “Jo”, Melanie Stone as “Meg”, Taylor Murphy as “Amy”, Allie Jennings as “Beth”, Ian Bohen (Teen Wolf) as “Freddy”, Lucas Grabeel (High School Musical, “Family Guy”) as “Laurie”, and Bart Johnson (High School Musical) as “Papa March”.
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.
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.
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.
Even with Christmas around the corner, for the Buckley boys, payback
almost always wins out over brotherly love. That is until the four
brothers join forces against a common adversary – the Hagbarts – the
meanest bullies at their school. But now Mom has decided that the
Buckley family is going to “Elve” the Hagbarts this year for Christmas.
The Christmas Project is a heartwarming comedy the whole family will
enjoy.
Trailer:
Review:
The Christmas Project is a feel good movie about loving your enemy, and doing good to those who hurt you. And most importantly, overcoming your negative feelings toward that person when you serve them. It is told from a young boy's point of view, and takes place in the 80's. The styles were funny (especially the girls' hairstyles and accessories-ah the flashback). I particularly enjoyed that it was filmed in a town I used to live in (at least parts of it were filmed there).
I had hoped to watch this with my kids so I could include thoughts from the target audience. Sadly busy schedules didn't allow for us to squeeze this in before my review was due, so I watched it by myself. It is definitely a movie I would be comfortable with my kids watching though, and I hope to make the time to watch it together soon. There is some bullying, but nothing depicted so severely that I think they'd be upset. It also has quite a bit of humor throughout the movie.
It might be a bit early for some people to be thinking about Christmas, but it's definitely worth keeping in mind to watch with your families when you are in the mood for a Christmas movie.
Free Screening:
If you live in Utah there will be a free screening at the Jordan Commons Megaplex on November 1st!
Go to the event Facebook page for more information and to reserve your free tickets.
Young Samuel and little Mary are intrigued by the man called John the Baptist, but they can't take the chance of staying in one place long enough to listen to his message. On the run from Roman soldiers, the brother and sister must do whatever it takes to survive. But when they meet a kind woman at a well, she introduces them to her son, Jesus—and their meeting forever changes the children's lives.
Trailer:
Andrea's Review:
Come Unto Me is a short film with a good message and one worth seeing, especially this time of year when we are reflecting on the Savior's life and the sacrifice He made for all of us. I can't recall seeing any Biblical depictions of Mary and Jesus when He is an adult, so I enjoyed seeing their loving relationship portrayed. I suppose I haven't thought much of Mary past His childhood, so her outgoing nature in the film wasn't something I had in mind, but she was very kind and helped children in need. She was a good example. She and Jesus brought out the best in the children.
I watched Come Unto Me with my kids, and although my son's interest wasn't held, my daughter thought it was good. The consensus was that the acting was ok.
Tarah's Review:
I actually watched this with my 5 year old and my 3 year old. I wasn't sure what to expect from this movie, but I figured it ought to be safe for my little ones :) My 3 year old was excited every time Jesus was in a scene and she yelled out "That's Jesus!" every time. My 5 year old was actually more involved than I expected her to be, and she watched the whole thing quietly, sometimes asking a question here or there. I actually wish my 7 year old was home to watch it. I think it's a great video for young children preparing for baptism. The script was written in such a way that it's easy for children to understand and it tells lots of stories that they hear in the scriptures.
I don't know if it's because we are preparing for Easter, or if it was watching my littles watch this, but I was really touched by this story, and will definitely be showing this to my older ones when they get home from school. It would make a great FHE :)
Rorie's Review:
This was a perfect video to watch on Easter Sunday. I sat down with my whole family to watch it. My two youngest (age 4) didn't pay a whole lot of attention, although they did comment "That's Jesus!" "That's Mary!" so they were paying a little bit of attention. My 8 year old really enjoyed the movie and said that he liked all of it, especially when the kids returned things. My husband and I agreed that we really enjoyed the simpleness of the message, and how everyone, from a young child to an adult could relate to and understand the message. We also liked how Mary, the mother of Jesus was the one giving the message.
Overall, this was a movie that I would like to keep in my library and watch over again with my kids. I think that as they watch it more often, they will get more and more out of it.
Mormon Tabernacle Choir give exclusive access to “Singing with Angels” movie
Salt Lake City (February 18, 2016) The world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir immediately recognized by their familiar sight and angelic sound are starring in the upcoming full length movie, Singing with Angels. Although the choir has been featured in documentaries and concert DVDs this is the first time they have participated in a story-driven movie. The full choir is shown in multiple scenes depicting rehearsals and performances. Several choir members fill important roles within the movie.
“This is epic,” said Brian Brough, the film’s director and producer. “Working with the choir has been amazing. We spent weeks reading through true stories that choir members sent us, evaluated each story, and found the ones that could be told on screen and would best fit the story we wanted to share.”
On March 11th, 2016, be among the first to see the production from Candlelight Media, Singing with Angels, on the Silver Screen. The film opens in Utah first and will then expand to other areas. Filmed on location at the Tabernacle on Temple Square and in conjunction with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the movie masterfully unites the true and inspiring stories of the choir with the fictional character of Aubrey.
Through a great collaboration between Candlelight Media, filmmakers, and the choir led by president Ron Jarrett, Singing with Angels is entertainment wrapped in the universal language of music from the iconic Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Along with beautifully woven storytelling and directing, “Singing with Angels is about the journey of one woman who dreams of joining the choir and finding strength through trials and challenges in life,” explains writer Brittany Wiscombe.
The film is much more than discovering what it is like to be in the choir, “Singing with Angels is a wonderful, inspirational movie. Good for the soul, and uplifting entertainment,” shared one viewer after a special pre-screening in Orlando, FL. For entertainment that can be shared and enjoyed by the whole family, don’t miss Singing with Angels, in theaters March 11.
Movie Trailer:
Cameron & Julie's Review:
Going into this movie, we had very little idea of what to expect. We knew that it was about the experience of a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, but other than that, we did not have much more expectation.
We both left the movie very inspired and more than ready to recommend it to others. While her participation in the choir was what the movie is centered around, the real message of the story turned out to be how she deals with difficult life situations that many of us go through. We found ourselves laughing, crying, and ready to cheer at times.
It jumps back-and-forth in time and at the beginning of the movie if you're not prepared for that and miss the signals of what time they are in, it can be a little bit confusing. But when you know that you need to watch for that, it isn't any problem at all.
We would also recommend this for anyone that is familiar with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. It's interesting to learn of the process that it takes to be a part of the choir and also to get a little insight of what they do.
In summary, this is a movie that will leave you feeling inspired by one who realized her dreams, had to overcome very difficult challenges, and kept an eternal perspective throughout the entire process.
To learn more about the movie or to find locations to watch Singing with Angels visit the official website.
It all starts with one little seed of love."The Miracle Maker is coming!" Everyone in the tiny hamlet is excited when they hear the news that the renowned man of wonders is coming to their village. But the humble traveler who appears isn't what anyone expected. They were looking forward to someone magnificent who would change their lives. But it seems this man can barely take care of himself, let alone fulfill the dreams of others. However, miracles can come in all shapes and sizes-and sometimes from unexpected places.
Trailer:
Review:
The Miracle Maker is a cute family film that focuses on hope and kindness. It has the feel of a Hallmark movie-the story and acting doesn't compare to big budget Hollywood films, but it is well done. I watched it with my family, and it was fun for us to pick out actors we've seen in other similar films. It was also fun that the main town scenes were filmed in a location near where we live.
If you are looking for a feel good holiday movie appropriate for the entire family, give the Miracle Maker a try.
This beautifully shot, contemplative film transports the viewer to the stunning countryside of Nepal. An inspiring story written and directed by Utah native Rick McFarland, and filmed almost entirely in Nepal, Highway to Dhampus follows the headmistress of a small orphanage in Nepal who is visited by a rich British socialite attempting to fix her public image through charitable acts. A providential chain of events is set in motion that affects everyone involved, and ultimately, each character discovers their own reasons to change for the better.
Trailer:
Review:
Highway to Dhampus is a touching movie that keeps you thinking well after the credits have finished rolling. It's not like most movies out there that are jam packed with attention grabbing scenes. The pace is slow, and viewers need to be somewhat invested to follow the story as portions of it are subtitled. I didn't mind that though. It kept me engaged and I was able to appreciate the messages that serving others helps you come to love them, and even the
seemingly small things we do can make a difference and touch hearts.
I didn't recognize any of the actors, but I thought they did a good job. I also appreciated the cinematography.
This is a clean film that I would recommend.
Highway to Dhampus Awards:
Best Dramatic Feature at the Heartland Film Festival
Best Feature Film and Best Lead Actress at the Madrid International Film Festival
Best World Showcase at the SoHo International Film Festival.
Last week I had the privilege of attending a screening of The Cokeville Miracle, a film that is being released in theaters on June 5th. With several survivors in attendance, the experience was quite emotional. Not only was the film well done, but it has a wonderful message about seeing miracles in our lives.
It is not unusual for me to cry during movies, but the tears I shed watching The Cokeville Miracle were not solitary. Throughout the film I heard many others crying. I was really impressed by this film, and can see why it won an Audience Choice Award.
Cokeville is only about two and a half hours away from the small town where I grew up. It hasn't ever been on my radar before, but I was able to relate to the people. I think it's a sign of a good movie when I have a desire to learn more about the actual event.
I believe in miracles, and have seen them in my own life numerous times. If you are looking for an uplifting film, be sure to find a theater where you can watch The Cokeville Miracle.
This Saturday, May 16th, marks the 29 year anniversary of the hostage crisis. Spend time that day with the people you love. #seemiracles
From T.C. Christensen comes The Cokeville Miracle, the remarkable true story of a town facing a terrible tragedy, and the Sheriff’s investigator who struggles with his faith as he gathers evidence that defies easy explanation.
...
Cokeville Wyoming, a town of just over 500 people that sits near the Utah-Idaho border, is not known for much beyond it’s strong family values, but in 1986 Cokeville made national headlines when a madman and his wife entered the elementary school with guns and bomb. They gathered over 100 children and teachers into a small room, and made a demand: $200 million dollars for the lives of the children—but then the bomb went off...
The Cokeville Miracle is not just the story of a hostage crisis, or a terror attack on American soil. It is not just the story of a bomb that could have destroyed an entire generation, and ripped a town apart. The Cokeville Miracle is about what happened instead. How did a bomb that should have leveled the room take only two lives that day, the madman and his wife? Each child, each adult who made it out of that room has a story to tell. Follow the Sheriff’s investigator Ron Hartley as he pieces together the evidence, including stories of prayer and divine intervention from multiple witnesses. Gather the evidence and decide for yourself. Do you see coincidence, or do you see miracles?
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.
In the early 80’s the legendary Manchester United football manager Sir Matt Busby helps a wayward boy fulfill his dream.
Having lived with football all his life and survived the tragic 1958 Munich plane disaster in which 8 of his promising young players were killed, Matt, still haunted by the ghosts of the “Busby Babes” comes out of retirement for one last coaching challenge, to transform a young group of scallywags into a dream team to compete for the upcoming Manchester United Football League Cup.
A funny and touching family film, Believe tells the story of how Matt is finally healed, while continuing to inspire generations of dreamers and leaving the world’s greatest football team as his legacy.
Review:
I'm usually up for a feel-good sports movie, and Believe sounded like something that would be appropriate for the whole family. I'm happy to say that I wasn't disappointed. The main lesson of believing in yourself is a great one, and the acting and overall production were very well done.
I was intrigued right from the beginning with the young boy, Georgie, running away from the two adults through the shopping area. One of the adults, Sir Matt Busby, is played by Brian Cox. I've seen him in a few other movies where he always played a bad guy, so wondering if he was going to be the bad guy again was doubly intriguing.
At the risk of sounding cliche, I laughed, and I cried. I would definitely recommend seeing Believe. You might occasionally have a hard time understanding the thick accents, but there's no problem understanding the message of the film. I really liked the portrayal of loyalty, honesty, and faith in yourself and those around you. Trailer:
