Luther Memorial Church - Syracuse Nebraska

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Movie Reviews by Pastor Paul


For Mid Teens and Upper Grades
Flight of the Phoenix Year of Release: 2005 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 7/2005	Rating: **1/2
On DVD and Video. Another remake but done well and with some interesting twists. I appreciate this movie's focus on people who need hope in order to survive and they need each other as well. I found the action and excitement of the film to balance well with the storyline. This movie could be used to show communities or congregations who think their situation is helpless, but that there is always hope if people work together for a change. When you watch this movie you will want to talk about it.
The Longest Yard Year of Release: 2005 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 7/2005	Rating: *
This remake of a somewhat creative approach to football is a lost cause. The original was better and no matter how hard you try some jokes only play once. I am not a big fan of Adam Sandler;he has made some good films, but once again, I was not impressed with his choice. Oh, it makes money and lots of people will see it, but I don't recommend it.
Hidalgo Year of Release: 2004 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 9/2004	Rating: *******
I have always had a soft spot in my heart for westerns and this one did not disappoint me! I found the premise of redemption, overcoming of challenges and what character and integrity mean in accomplishing one's calling. The end never justifies the means and true character and courage are about perseverance and commitment. The story is fun and mostly true. The plot is simple and yet very entertaining, the message is good and I would recommend it to families who have older grade school kids and above. When you watch this movie, I am sure you will want to talk about it.
Laws of Attraction Year of Release: 2004 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 9/2004	Rating: -*
In a time when marriage gets more and more trivialized this movie does it even better. How mature to get so drunk and passionate that you get married and wake up the next morning regretting the whole thing. To be honest I regret they made this movie. Even with some very fine actors in this movie it cannot uphold the premise that marriage is based purely on romantic love. By the way I do believe that love is essential in a healthy marriage but there is more than just romantic love to sustain a marriage. I don't feel very good about watching a movie that doesn't hold the same values that I do about important things in life, such as marriage. If you do watch this movie make sure you explore why movie is a comedy and not reality.
CSI Year of Release: Television Rated: TV-PG CBS Thursday nights at 8pm	Review Date: 8/2004	Rating: *** 1/2
Some people have described this show as fascination for the morbid. I however am amazed at the unique and complexity of the human body. I also love a good mystery as well as the intelligent use of science in doing justice. Yes, this show is not for the squeamish and I would not recommend eating supper while you watch it. But for a program that depends a lot on science and knowledge it makes for some very good television.
Dr. Seuss, the Cat In The Hat Year of Release: 2004 Rated: Rated PG, but should have been rated R.	Review Date: 4/2004	Rating: *Negative star - (Blackhole)**
I hated it, would not recommend and was totally turned off, by the destruction of a truly wonderful children's story and trying to make it into one even adults will like flick. A good story has layers, check out "Shrek" for a movie that has something for everyone. The problem is that some stories just speak for themselves and do not need to be hyped up! If you did watch this movie, let's talk about! If not don't bother!
Radio Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG	Review Date: 4/2004	Rating: *******
This is a wonderful film based on a true story about a teacher/coach who takes on the responsibility of helping a mentally challenged young man to find his place in the world. The story is not quite what I expected, but a very good one. It speaks powerfully about when we help the people who society and the world rejects, we are helping Jesus. Doing so is not easy and there is risk when you take on such tasks, but the rewards are great. When you watch this movie, you can't but help talk about it!
Runaway Jury Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13	Review Date: 4/2004	Rating: *******
This film would not have been one I would have picked off the shelf, if there had been something else. However, now I am glad I did. The premise of the story is about how to rig a jury to get the verdict you want, whether you are in the right or not. There are many twists and turns, I wasn't sure who were the good guys and who were the bad guys until the very end. In our society in which juries, lawyers, judges and the media play a huge role in dispensing justice, this movie makes you think! I would recommend this film to watch and talk about a lot!
The Core Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13	Review Date: 2/2004	Rating: **
The world is thrown off its axis and is losing its magnetic pull, something must be done or the end of the world is near. Hey, I didn't make this up that is the premise of this movie. Despite a dumb story, I enjoyed the movie, maybe I needed to check my brain at the door before I saw this film, but the whole idea is that human beings probably screw up creation (that is a no brainer) and now we must fix it. Boy, talk about a God complex. When you watch this movie, remind yourself that some movies are just for fun.
The Haunted Mansion Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13 for adult situation, scary creatures and animated violence.	Review Date: 1/2004	Rating: **
Eddie Murphy does better in movies where he is a voice over than he does in real life. Yet I must admit that I like this one better than the last film he starred in. However a movie based on a ride is no less enjoyable than some movies I have seen in the past and this one does well. The film is a bit weird, but this movie is not about deep thoughts or epic scenes, see the first two movies for that. But to be entertained and for a life after death encounter, check this one out! When you talk about this movie try not to scream too loud.
Lord of the Rings, Return of the King Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13 for violence, scary creatures and intensity.	Review Date: 1/2004	Rating: ***1/2
The king returns long live the movie epic as the last of the Lord of the Ring trilogy comes to the screen. There is not lack of action, story, special effects and just plain great fantasy fiction. The depiction of good versus evil, the struggle to be human against inhuman creatures, how love and faithfulness can overthrow the mighty and how even the little guy can make all the difference in the world. When you watch this movie, take time between applause to talk about it.
Master and Commander Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13 for language and military violence.	Review Date: 1/2004	Rating: *******
This is the kind of movie that a guy like me loves. I have read all the books, the Hornblower series, all the books by Alexander Kent and now the O'Brien saga, with "Master and Commander". This movie is exciting, historical, well written, well acted and makes for great entertainment. The story is about leadership, loyalty, perseverance and courage, all qualities that are admirable. I found myself very involved in the story as well as the lead character. This swashbuckling tale is not a pirate movie, but a naval saga of iron men and wooden ships, a great sea yarn told well. When you go to this movie you will want to talk about it.
It Runs In The Family Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13 for adult situation, sexuality and language.	Review Date: 1/2004	Rating: **1/2
I was very much impressed and encouraged by this film that tackles family issues, real people problems and the struggle to be a family in a world that isn't very helpful to staying together as one. The entire Douglas family is involved in this one, Kirk, Michael, Cameron and Diana, all good actors, which makes for some interesting discussion when it comes to what is a healthy family versus a perfect one. After you watch this one on DVD or video talk about it.
Holes Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG	Review Date: 11/2003	Rating: ** 1/2
As my 7th graders told me it helps to read the book first and then the movie will make more sense. I agree! This is a cute family movie about risk taking, perseverance and keeping the hope alive, when the world seems to be going down the tubes. The search for a treasure in a field is an illustration that Jesus uses in regards to Salvation. But like the diggers in this movie a realization that the search for a treasure can be as important as the treasure itself. When you watch this movie you might just want to talk about it.
Hollywood Homicide Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13	Review Date: 11/2003	Rating: *
This had some very fine actors with not much of a story line or plot. Had some very humorous moments but comedy can only go so far in a movie that isn't necessarily a comedy. The two detectives played by Harrison Ford and Josh Hartnet really were not all that invested in being policemen, one sold real estate on the side and the other was an actor teaching yoga. I wonder about what these men really felt called to do with their lives and their lives reflected the situation, maybe that was the point, but it lost me. So when you watch this movie, ask yourself what was happening here.
The Italian Job Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13	Review Date: 11/2003	Rating: ** 1/2
This movie was fun to watch, well acted and has some things to say about honor, sin and what really is important in life. I thought the movie down played the stealing aspect of this film a little too much. In fact it made it ok if you stole from someone who stole things. I guess the old adage there is no honor among thieves could debated in this movie. An interesting statement made by one of the characters; "Trust the person, but not the devil within." Interesting but fun movie, so I am sure you will want to talk about it.
Luther Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13	Review Date: 11/2003	Rating: *******
I enjoyed this movie because, hey I am a Lutheran and I am a pastor, so what do you expect. However as a person who watches a lot of movies, I like this movie because it was well made, pretty historically accurate and had stars in it who were mainstream. I watched it with the 7th and 8th grade confirmation class and for the most part they enjoyed it as well. I think that this version of Luther's life gave modern audiences a better look than the last movie about Luther made in 1956. Some would comment it could have been done better, but I will not cast stones, it is a good movie and one that Lutherans should watch and yes, should talk about.
Bend it like Beckham Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 9/2003	Rating: *******
Currently this movie is in selected theaters but will be out on DVD and VHS next month. This film is made by an Indian, British and Irish production company who knows how to make a story that transcends culture and race. The movie shows the struggle of a young woman to live out her dream of being a world class soccer player. She desperately wants to use the gifts that God has given her but has to fight stereotypes in both her family and culture. I would recommend that every teenage girl should see this film. When you watch this movie you will want to talk about it!!!
Daredevil Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 9/2003	Rating: * 1/2
Another comic book hero movie, let's see, how many does that make? Possibly one too many and yet this movie is both fun and visually good. The plot is taken right out of the comic book, so if you seek depth, go fill your bathtub with water. But the concept is good and how a handicap can be turned into an advantage has powerful symbolism. If you watch this movie for deep meaning and insight you will be disappointed, if you watch this film for fun, special effects and some easy on the eyes actors, you will be more than happy. In other words some movies are just entertaining and don't have much of a message. When you watch this movie, talk about other movies as well!
The Emperor's Club Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 9/2003	Rating: *******
I had heard some not so positive reviews but eventually decided to watch the movie and form my own opinion. I enjoyed the movie and liked what it said about ethics and the teaching vocation. (So much for critics!) The story is a good one and any of you who have a love for teaching, a passion for learning or just want to see some mighty fine acting, this film will be a good choice. I appreciated the emphasis on integrity versus success, honor versus status, and loyalty versus selfishness. I would encourage you to watch this movie and talk about it!
The Hours Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 9/2003	Rating: **
This movie is not the feel good movie of the year, it is however a well written, well acted and well directed film that powerfully shows the struggle of depression and the people who love them. I watched this film in the theater; men had a hard time relating to the movie whereas women found it easier to understand. This is not a chick flick by any means, but it does help to understand the feminine viewpoint. This is a dark movie where hope and light are hard to find. However, after you watch this movie you will need to talk about it!
Gangs of New York Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 8/2003	Rating: **1/2
This film also takes place prior and during the Civil War. This overlooked historical drama shows the violent struggle of Irish immigrants who come to this nation seeking a better life. The scenery, the cinematography, acting and directing are all very good and tell this compelling story of people who seek justice in an unjust world. This film is not for everyone and it is not a feel good movie. But after watching it you will want to talk about it.
Gods and Generals Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 8/2003	Rating: **1/2
This movie is the prequel to "Gettysburg". The special effects are excellent and the commitment to historical detail is very good. The story line is a good one if a bit long. Since history is not a very favorite subject of many people, some of you will not find this movie very exciting at all. But there are few times in American history that our nation was in jeopardy of destruction, it took great courage and endurance to persevere through the early defeats of the Civil War to come to ultimate victory. This movie highlights the men and women who gave their all for what they believed. When you watch this movie I hope you will talk about it.
Moonlight Mile Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 8/2003	Rating: **1/2
Lost and grief are the hard realities of living in a broken and sinful world where people we love can die on us. This is the basis for the powerful film about mourning those we have loved and lost, living our lives fully despite the pain and knowing that after Good Friday there is Easter. I really appreciated the handling of this not so easy subject. Not often does a movie do well when it deals with the struggle of finding ones life again after losing the love of our life. I would recommend this movie to those who have lost someone dear and are struggling to find light and hope when it seems that both are gone. When you watch this movie you will need to talk about it.
The Hulk Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 8/2003	Rating: *
Currently you will find this movie in the theaters and it is doing well, primarily for the special effects and Jennifer Connolly. Here is the movie in a nutshell, you have man who acts like a two year old who throws a temper tantrum, but this two year old is as strong as a 1,000 men and is green. Like David Banner the man who turns into the hulk, as a movie critic you will not like me when I get angry! I love comic books and comic book heroes and the hulk is clearly one of those, but can't filmmakers do better than this. It is not that this movie is bad, it really isn't, but that there seems to be no new creative force in movie makers today. Gee, let's make a movie about Spiderman since Batman did so well and how about the Dare Devil since Spiderman did so well and well you get it. What is really mean and green in this movie is the obscene amount of money that the producers of this film are going to make over a not very creative film!
Antoine Fisher Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13	Review Date: 7/2003	Rating: ********
I seldom give four stars for a movie, but this one gets that rating plus a two Kleenexes. I was not only impressed with this powerful story of a young man who is very angry at being abandoned as an infant. But I was won over by the excellent acting and the remarkable way in which this story of family, love, forgiveness and redemption is told. This film is not for kids under age 13 years, in fact it might be a little much for those in Junior High. However, I found themes in this movie that everyone who watches this powerful movie will want to talk about!!
Door To Door Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG	Review Date: 7/2003	Rating: *******
This made for television true story is about a handicapped man who overcomes his physical and emotional struggles to become one of the best door to door salesmen in the nation. This story of hope, endurance and faith is a story all of us could watch and gain something important. This is a family movie but not the real young, their attention span won't last, but 3rd grade on up would be able to comprehend and relate. I know that when you watch this movie you will want to tell others about it.
Drum Line Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG-13	Review Date: 7/2003	Rating: **
Fun movie for teens, has a good rhythm and you can dance to it! The story is a little weak and I really wasn't all that impressed by the lead character. I guess I am showing my age, but he is an arrogant snot, talented yes, but really a pain. Yes, there is forgiveness and redemption here! Yes, there is a happy ending! Yes, teenagers will like it! Yes, there is some thing in this film to talk about and yes, I will give it two stars.
Finding Nemo Year of Release: 2003 Rated: Rated PG	Review Date: 7/2003	Rating: *** 1/2
This is the summer's best movie and I have no doubt that I will be buying this one when it comes out on video and DVD. What a great film about a parent's love, how on our journey of life we meet strangers who help us, find friends we never knew we had and how life truly is an adventure. I loved the animation, the one-liners and visual humor is wonderful, and the creativity of Pixar and Disney makes this film truly an animated classic. You don't even have to watch this movie with kids to have something to talk about!
To Kill A Mockingbird Year of Release: Classic Rated: Rated PG	Review Date: 7/2003	Rating: *****
In remembrance of the late actor Gregory Peck who recently died and to look at what really makes a hero, watch this wonderful movie. I know it is in black and white, but the story is timeless and I always get choked up at the court scene. There are few movies that have this quality of story, and superb acting. I highly recommend revisiting this movie if you have already seen it and to watch it if you have not. This one will make you want to say, "why can't they make movies like that anymore"!
Catch Me If You Can Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 6/2003	Rating: ** �
This true story of a young man who at age 19 years is able to con people into believing he is a airline pilot, an emergency room doctor, and an assistant state's attorney general all the while writing millions of bad checks along the way. The sin of his life is living it as a lie and eventually the truth does set him free to live the life that he desired and God wanted him too. By the way you will find the Lutheran question quite funny. This is a movie that when you watch, you will want to talk about it.
Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 6/2003	Rating: *** 1/2
Once again a sequel but by far not a diminishing one of the grand scale of the story or of the first movie. I was once more brought into the world of Middle Earth and found the moral struggle between Good and Evil a powerful morality play. I don't recommend this movie to small children it has some very scary creatures and violence. I really did enjoy this movie a lot, it is still in the theaters but will be out on DVD or VHS on August 26th. After watching this movie you will definitely want to talk about it.
X-Men 2 Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 6/2003	Rating: *******
Here is a sequel that is better than the first one, with more plot development and better special effects than before. There are clear religious and faith statements with a new character named after a German Lutheran pastor of the Reformation I was very much amazed and entertained by this comic book turned movie. There is a great deal of violence and this movie is not for little kids or even middle grade schoolers, it is rated PG-13 for a reason. When you watch this movie in the Theaters you will want to talk about it.
Blue Crush Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 5/2003	Rating: **
Girl power is in and this plays to that desire in girls and young women to the max. However the guys will like it because of all the girls in swimsuits. This is almost a Xena goes surfing story and the film does a good job giving you the feeling of the wildness of the ocean and the wildness of the human heart. I found this move ok, but teens might find it more interesting and you will want to talk to them about it.
The Wild Thornberrys Movie Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG	Review Date: 5/2003	Rating: ** 1/2
This kids movie is based on the Nickelodeon series by the same name. Our heroine Eliza is challenged by the environment, poachers and family who don't always fully understand her passion to help make a difference in the world. I enjoyed the movie's theme and music although the style of animation isn't my cup of tea. However kids will enjoy this and the message is positive. So when you watch this movie with the family, talk about it.
About a Boy Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 4/2003	Rating: **1/2
This movie is a coming of age story, but not in the manner you would guess. The boy in this movie is really a man who needs to finally grow up and take responsibility for his life and care for those he loves. This movie points out the difference between child like which is good and childish which is self-centered and immature. I would recommend this movie to anyone who knows children or knows people who act like children. When you watch this movie, talk about it.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 4/2003	Rating: *******
Once again our boy Harry discovers more about himself and who his friends are and who are not. The story follows the book very well and for Harry Potter fans this is a delight. This movie is scarier than the first and the PG-13 rating is because of that. I like the new characters, but miss the giant friend Haggret. I enjoyed this movie and you will too. Comes to video on 4/11. When you watch this movie you will want to talk about it.
The Body Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG	Review Date: 4/2003	Rating: *******
Starring Antonio Banderas and Jacob Jacobi is a powerful story of what ifs. What if an archeological team discovered a tomb of a rich Jewish man from the First Century A.D. and in that tomb was a body of a young man who had been crucified and had his side pierced and had worn a crown of thorns and you could trace his death to between 30-33A.D. How would the Church react, how would Israel respond and what would the enemies of Christianity do. This is an interesting tale that challenges the faith of many and makes the movie viewer ask questions of themselves. I highly recommend this movie for its thought provoking style as well as its very historical approach. When you watch this movie you may not stop talking about it.
Four Arrows Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 3/2003	Rating: ** �
This movie is a remake of two older movies that were taken from a story by Rudyard Kipling. This period place takes place in the Asian sub-continent of India, Pakistan and Afghanistan during the high water mark of the British Empire. The story is about what is considered courage, how do we measure heroes and are there things worth fighting for. All are very timely themes and have some fine young actors as well as epic scenes. You will definitely want to talk about this movie after watching it.
Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG	Review Date: 3/2003	Rating: ** �
Once again we have a remake and not a bad one at that. I was impressed with the special effects as well as the empowerment of kids. Although I do get a bit upset when kids come across smarter than adults, especially parents. However overlooking this, the whole family ages 7 and above can enjoy the movie. I would look at the issues of creation (God's role) why it is good that children have fantasies and does technology always solve the problems we encounter. When you watch this movie with your kids, you will want to talk about it.
Sweet Home Alabama Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 3/2003	Rating: *******
You can never really leave your past behind and how it affects your future is the theme of this romantic comedy. A successful New York fashion designer must go back home to Alabama to tie up some loose ends before she gets married. Upon her return home she remembers why she left the South, but also finds out that coming home has a powerful draw to her life. The themes of love lost and regained, the weirdness of family and the history of our lives are all a part of this fun movie. Watch this with a friend or spouse and talk about it.
Tuck Everlasting Year of Release: 2003 Rated: PG	Review Date: 3/2003	Rating: *******
What if you found the fountain of youth and could stay young forever. How would it affect your life and those you love? Could eternity as a young man or woman be heaven or hell or somewhere in between? All of these questions are taken up by this magical movie. There is romance and conflict, family and rebellion. There are some excellent actors in this unique tale of what ifs and fantasy that make for a very good movie. When you watch this video you will want to talk about it.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 2/1/2003	Rating: ** �
This wonderful independent film is a comical but somewhat true story of a woman who finds unconditional love. In return she gives the man she is to marry her love and her gift of family. Well most of the time it is a gift, the other times it is just plain crazy. In other words welcome to the family. I found this movie, funny, creative, spiritual, insightful and no it is not just a chic flick. Hey when you and your spouse, boy or girl friend or your family sit down to watch this movie you will want to talk about it, that is after you stop laughing.
Minority Report Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 2/1/2003	Rating: ** �
What if there was a way that you could predict how people would act. In fact you could anticipate a crime even before it happens and arrest them. Sounds good doesn't it. But what about free choice and what if this method of predicting the actions of people is not fool proof? Such is the premise for this action filled movie, starring Tom Cruise. The idea is intriguing and the special effects are great, but the script struggles a little bit. Hey but it is still a decent movie and you will want to talk about it.
Signs Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 2/1/2003	Rating: *******
You know, I wanted to see this movie because Mel Gibson wears a clergy collar. Mel is an Episcopal Priest whose wife has been tragically killed and he feels he has lost his faith in God. Now comes the really interesting part, there are crop signs in his corn field and soon these signs are all over, then there is the real possibility of invaders from another planet. Sounds weird, but it works and it keeps you on the edge of your seat most of the movie. I like science fiction, but it is not a prerequisite to like this film. You will definitely want to talk about it.
Dragonfire Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 1/1/2003	Rating: �
This movie is "Dragonheart's" evil twin. By the way "Dragonheart" is an excellent movie, but we are reviewing this one. Despite some good actors this is an only fair to poor movie. The premise is weird, dragons are like a virus and take over the world. It's as if dinosaurs returned, with wings and breathed fire, like I said a weird story line. But here are where guys are going to love it, there are warriors who blend high tech weaponry with dark age combat and well you get a sci-fi, fantasy, action adventure, car chase, boy gets girl, slays dragon, futuristic period piece. In the words of Forrest Gump, "That's all I have to say about that!". Watch it at your own risk.
Ice Age Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG	Review Date: 1/1/2003	Rating: ** �
What if back in those ancient times of the Ice Age over 10,000 years ago, animals were the smart ones and humans were shall we say dumb animals? Add the global catastrophe of a mass of ice covering most of the world and you have the setting for this very funny movie. Once again these are computer animated characters, but the voices of a number of well know stars adds a real interest. The humor catches you on several levels and adults will like this movie as much as the kids. The theme of animals helping the less fortunate humans is a wonderful turn around and makes this movie unique. When you watch this movie, make sure you talk about it.
K-19 The Widowmaker Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 1/1/2003	Rating: ** �
This nearly true story of a Soviet Union nuclear missile submarine, its crew and captain who must do everything humanly possible to complete their mission while trying to stay alive. This is no easy task considering the poor design and manufacture of the sub plus the challenges of an American Hunter Killer Task Force. Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson star in this action adventure that is light on plot but big on action and suspense. Don't watch this movie alone and by all means talk about it.
Band of Brothers Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 11/2002	Rating: ********
Directed by Tom Hanks, produced by Steven Spielberg and written by the late historian Steven Ambrose. This HBO series based on the story of Company E of the 101st Airborne Division during WWII is a powerful study in history, warfare and how to be human in a very inhuman situation. I would encourage anyone interested in history, anyone who had a father, grandfather or other relative who fought in WWII or a young person who wants to know about true patriotism and what these young men did to protect our nation. This is a film series you will want to watch and talk about.
Spiderman Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13 for violence and adult situations	Review Date: 11/2002	Rating: ** 1/2
Well, I like comic books, but I don't necessarily like movies that are made from a comic book. In this case, they did a pretty good job of taking our superhero to the big screen. The classic good versus evil is in this movie, but there is also the flawed hero theme and the struggle for our guy to open up and share with the woman who loves him. Yes, another superhero afraid of commitment. The special effects are great, Toby Maguire is very good and Kirsten Dunst does turn Spiderman's heart. I would recommend that real little kids not see this one, too mature for them. But teenagers and those adults who like a comic book superhero will enjoy both the story line and the special effects. When you watch this movie you will want to talk about it.
Star Wars - Episode 2 Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13 for violence and adult situations	Review Date: 11/2002	Rating: ** 1/2
If you haven't seen Yoda fly, you have got to see this movie. This film is considerably better than Episode 1 and the special effects are truly incredible. The story line shows our Anakin Skywalker entering into young adulthood, for parents of teenagers his behavior is no big surprise. You can see where the movie is going and then it throws you for a curve. I found myself rooting for Obi Wan and wanting to send young Skywalker into in-school suspension. But the bad guys are really bad and of course, the battle between good and evil is the main theme of this episode. I know that you will want to talk about this movie after you see it!
The Count of Monte Cristo Year of Release: Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 10/2002	Rating: ***1/2
This is a remake, based on a book by Alexander Dumas. I wasn't sure what this would be like, the last time this was made into a movie Richard Chamberlain was in it and it wasn't very good. This time the filmmakers got it right. I was very impressed with the effort to stay true to the book, the powerful religious and faith issues involved and the struggle to be a moral ethical person in a time where morality was a joke and betrayal was the norm. James Cariezel, a true life devout Christian plays our hero who is betrayed by his best friend, played by Guy Pierce. The Cariezel character is thrown into prison where he loses his faith but gains a new friend who is also a priest played by Richard Harris. This drama, action and clearly morality tale of faith and fate makes for a very powerful and enjoyable movie. When you watch this film you will want to talk about it. ***1/2
The Scorpion King Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG-13	Review Date: 10/2002	Rating: **
For older kids and guys who like action thrillers: The "Rock" stars in this prequel to the Mummy movies. "The Scorpion King" is like "The Last of the Mohicans" meets "Gladiator" while trying to be "Conan the Barbarian". In other words not much of a plot, not great acting, but a fun guy movie that doesn't say a lot. I would say that because of the violence and adult situation that it gets its rating for a reason. Yes, there are pagan gods and yes, there is wizardry and magic, but these are not to be taken too seriously and yes, I would watch it again, well because I am a guy! I don't know how else to explain it, but us guys know what I mean. I am sure you will have a deep conversation once you have seen this movie, whether it is about the movie I can only guess.
Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone Year of Release: 2002 Rated: PG	Review Date: 06/25/2002	Rating: *** 1/2
This film based on the popular Harry Potter books is an excellent book to movie transformation. The special effects are great and the child actors do a wonderful job. The story is about Harry a 12-year old orphan who finds out that he is more than he appears. For Harry is a powerful wizard and eventually ends up in a school for wizards and witches. The movie follows the story very closely and it is a good one. Harry must find his way among his peers, deal with teacher's expectations, the discovery of his talents and becoming comfortable in his own skin. Sounds pretty normal to me. For those who are afraid of the possibility that this film will encourage witchcraft, I say to them watch it with your children. Also check out C.S. Lewis one of the great Christian writers of our time and his Namia series.

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Luther Memorial Church 2008