Articles, Commentaries, and Other Musings from Preview Editor Phil Boatwright
COMMENTARIES EXPANDED REVIEWS BEST / WORST LISTS BOOK REVIEWS / MISC
A Film Critic's New Year's Resolution
“If a critic hates a film I usually like it.” You have no idea how often I’ve heard that declaration of disdain...		 The Greatest Miracle
It reminded me of the importance of worship and getting ready for worship...		 The Best Films of 2011
Some of these entries made my list for the filmmakers’ courage to address spiritual issues, while others simply marveled viewers with their cinematic complexities...

New Book - It's All Good News: Encouragement for Every Season
My friend and one-time co-worker Lorri Allen has written a thoughtful, uplifting 114-page book meant to encourage those overwhelmed by news headlines and frustrations in their own lives...
AFI’s Master Class – The Art of Collaboration with Steven Spielberg and John Williams
One of the most prolific and influential artistic collaborations in films history – the four-decade friendship and working relationship between filmmaker Steven Spielberg and composer John Williams takes center stage Tuesday, Nov. 15, at 8:p.m. (ET) on TCM (Turner Classic Movies).		 The Heart of Christmas
...reminds us to keep ailing families not just in our prayers, but in our deeds. We need to look after one another. The film makes this clear. What’s more, Christ is centered in the lives of the leads.		 Why These Award-Worthy Films Didn't Make My "Best List"
The following motion pictures were perceptive and entertaining, and would have made my list of favorites from 2011 but for their excessive and dispiriting content.		 Do You Need a TV Guardian?
 “It’s a filter that allows viewers to watch the programming they want… without having to hear the language they don’t want.  That’s different from the V-chip, which just blocks out a program in its entirety if any one part of it is deemed unacceptable.”
West Side Story 50th Celebrates It's 50th Anniversary
Wow, that’s old! If that’s your mindset, let me try to change it with my take on one of the finest movies of all time (arguably, the best musical of all time).		 WOW!!!
Now, baseball movies are as alike as, well basketball movies or football movies. They are constructed with a similar format usually featuring that last second slo-mo swing, dunk or throw. The better ones often provide a metaphor for life.		 The Worst Film of 2011
But here’s the reason it has become my least favorite of 2011. The entire production seems built on supposition rather than fact. As directed by Clint Eastwood, it is cynical in its construction.		 BOOK REVIEW: Jolt! Get the Jump on a World That’s Constantly Changing
Cooke, a linchpin in the media industry, has spent the past three decades helping organizations who have hit a wall evolve and flourish. Whether it was decreased revenue, falling ratings, a dip in donations or leadership challenges, he found that the biggest problems in moving forward were not organizational problems, but people problems.
Horror Films and Teens
Well, Halloween is upon us and if you’ve noticed nearly every cable station has paid tribute to the holiday. Halloween is one of the oldest holidays still celebrated today, and the second most popular after Christmas.		 Have a Little Faith
Hallmark Hall of Fame should teach school for anybody wanting to make movies for television or for those with a message that goes straight to DVD. They hit the bull’s eye with nearly every production, and Have a Little Faith is no exception. 		The Best Films of 2010
Sure, we movie reporters seek payback for time suffered over the past year, but today, let's concentrate on some films that uplifted the spirit, some that gave us pause concerning social and political woes, and a few that were just plain fun.		 BOOK REVIEW: Produced By Faith
Along with co-author Tim Vandehey, Mr. Franklin, one of the youngest individuals in this prestigious of Hollywood positions, has written an insightful and uplifting self-help book about how to successfully reveal your faith at your job.
Horror Movies and You
Thought-provoking horror movies are few and far between. And I'm not sure any of us realize the true purpose or affect of horror movies on our psyches. Don't be quick to write off the "garbage-in/garbage-out" theory. We are bombarded by a great deal of media influence, much of which doesn't feed the soul.		 AND ON TV: A Mile In His Shoes
Though hampered with a small budget, the film is involving and both Schroder and Cain do fine work. It’s a clean film, with only one or two objectionable word...		 The Worst Movies of 2010
Going through the list of over 200 pictures I saw this past year, far too many were found to be “ho-hum” not just by me, but by most of my colleagues in criticism.  A few were jaw-droppingly bad.		 New Book Examines the Christian's Responsibility to Witness Via the Internet
"Like the industrial age before it, the information age has changed our lives in monumental new ways, including how a lot of us are learning about spirituality. Research suggests fifty million people will rely solely on the Internet—indeed the new Roman Road—for their faith-based experiences in 2010".
Horror Films and Women
Some will defend the escapism value of the horror film, while others steadfastly maintain that it is a genre with a demonic impact. Here’s something we should consider: like all living things, the spirit of man needs to be nourished.		 Dolphin Tale Ministry Materials Available
Pastors and Ministry Leaders now have an opportunity to download FREE ministry clips, banners, and sermon guides. 		My Take On The Oscar Nominations
Many of the films listed have incorporated a moral or life lesson, while some seemed to fill out the list as representatives of genres often overlooked by the Academy (Sci-fi and action adventure). Two of the productions came as close to biblical parables as Tinseltown knows how to relate: "The Blind Side" and "Up."		 Elizabeth Taylor (1932-2011)
Like all legends, Ms. Taylor acted in some not so legendary films. But she also made some incredible movies. Here are several of her best.
Your Movie Reporter Spotlights and Sounds Off
This month your intrepid movie reporter found three subjects to explore. Let’s see if I can do it in 750 words (the recommended maximum length for internet columns, I’m told).		 New Film Addresses Faith-Based Concepts
WARRIOR is a film that moves and unites. Though our situations may differ, the story’s emblematic desperation, the characters’ need for love’s healing power, comforts us by film’s end...		 The Best and Worst Films of 2009
Allow your humble movie correspondent to spotlight a few films I believe uplifted the spirit as well as entertained. Before renting them, please read the reviews and the reasons for their ratings.		 John Wayne: Movie Icon, American, and Believer
Now, I'm an unabashed John Wayne fan.  A dangerous statement if you desire to be taken seriously as a film reviewer for there has always been a prejudice by many of my colleagues in criticism toward Mr. Wayne's acting style.  However, most film historians proclaim the Duke to be one of the grandest personas ever to appear on celluloid.
The 7 Deadly Movie Sins
I love movies. They combine the essence of all the other art forms, enabling storytellers to express joy and sadness, nobility and fear, love and hate, passion and romance, and hope and faith, sometimes all in the same film...		 Movie THE HELP Contains Matthew 5:44
What surprised this movie reporter was the film’s positive incorporation of Jesus’ teaching to love those who wrong you.		 The ABCs of Movies - Films That Have Stood the Test of Time...
Here’s a compilation of films that have stood the test of time and those I believe will. 		TVGuardian: New Solution For an Old Problem
Both from artistic and spiritual perspectives, crude, obscene and profane dialogue in movies and on television has devalued the prose, poetry and power of language. And I think this product should be in the TV-bearing home of anyone who identifies himself as a Christian.
The Moosehead on the Wall
The moose head on the wall and other expressions of days gone by now seem antiquated, but movie art is timeless. Each generation of filmmakers has made movie moments that reflect both their outer surroundings and the changeless inner spirit of mankind. Below are a few samples of movies that should not be overlooked...		 Faith-Based Audiences Embracing New Film Warrior
The relationship between Hollywood studios and faith audiences continues with Lionsgate’s forthcoming WARRIOR, an intense glimpse into the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) and a portrait of a family who finds wholeness and healing after devastation by alcoholism.		 The Best & Worst & the Could-Have-Beens of 2007
Though there are several films whose artistic and technical merits have captured the attention of critics and moviegoers, I wanted to choose a few Bests that uplifted the spirit.		  
The Other Moosehead on the Wall (Part 2 of 26 Good Movies – From A to Z)
Last month I wrote a piece entitled The Moosehead on the Wall (26 Good Movies – From A to Z), which concerned the relevancy of older movies and reminded that each generation of filmmakers has made movie moments that reflect both their evolving outer surroundings and the changeless inner spirit of mankind. I then listed several films that substantiated my assertion. I received a great response and thought we might do a Part 2.		 Bridesmaids - A Warning, Not A Review
I have not seen Bridesmaids, so this should not be misconstrued as a review. It is merely a little exposition on R-rated movies meant to amuse. Again, it is not a review, though you could take it as a warning.		 The Best and Worst Films of 2006
Please check their content in my reviews to make sure they are suitable for your family’s viewing...		 Ancient Mysteries Retold Drawing Advanced Praise From Literary, Liturgical, Music and Film Worlds
YHWH: The Flood, The Fish and The Giant, the first volume of the highly anticipated Ancient Mysteries Retold series by American playwright, Paula K. Parker and New York Times Best-Selling British author, G.P. Taylor, is receiving rave reviews and critical acclaim from leading figures in the literary, film and religious communities on both sides of the Atlantic.
Memorial Day: The Best War Movies
With this list of films, we attempt to pay tribute to those who gave the last true measure of devotion. Thank you veterans and those now serving in the military.		 Was I Too Rough On the Soul Surfer?
I stand by my review, which analyzed the picture for what it was, a “lite” version of an extraordinary life, but my reason for this second look at the film is to clarify that my candid comments weren’t meant to be a signal to stay away.  It would be a mistake for moviegoers not to see Soul Surfer. 		And the nominees are... rated R
The awards ceremony will be held on February 22nd, 2009. Hosted by Hugh Jackman, the live show will begin at 5:30pm (PT) on ABC

What Has Become Acceptable to Christian Moviegoers?
A Five-Part Series by Preview Editor Phil Boatwright

PART ONE: "Franky, my dear, I don't give a damn..."
PART TWO: What Hollywood Demands of You
PART THREE: Pretty Girls in the Movies
PART FOUR: Hollywood's Worst Offense - And Ours?
PART FIVE: Where to write – What to write – Is writing enough?
New Hollywood Heartthrob is a Christian
With a Beatles haircut and a voice that lulls the birds, 16-year-old Justin Bieber has taken the music community by storm (not to mention most teen and preteen girls). So much so, Paramount Studios has given young Mr. Bieber his own movie, Justin Bieber: Never Say Never.		 The Bureau Attempts to Adjust God's Fate
Are we in charge of our lives, or are decisions made for us long before we consider them?  Do we control our destiny, or do unseen forces manipulate it?  These questions come directly from the press notes of the film The Adjustment Bureau, a romantic thriller starring Matt Damon and Emily Blunt.		 Best Films of 2008
At the end of the year, the studios bring out their big guns; the pictures they hope will garner prestige and award attention.   Most of these are not on my list.  The reason? Though that’s where you usually find the best acting, directing, etc., all too often these films dwell on negative aspects...		 Christian Comic Reaches Out to Prisons and Missions
 I first became aware of Michael Jr. by viewing “Thou Shalt Laugh 4,” the most recent in a series of standup comedy DVDs featuring Christian performers...
What to Expect From Summer Blockbusters: NOISE
Though many of these films are well made, thrilling and even contain a positive message or two, overall, they are chaotic in their execution. Some aren’t so good, with the special effects designed to mask a deficient story or minimal character development. The Bard said it best in Macbeth. “It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.”		 The Rite Movie About Demonic Possession
The Warner Bros release The Rite is a spine-tingling chiller about demonic possession. So, should we be going to such a film? Read the content below before deciding, but here is why I don’t think we should simply write this one off as a mere Hollywood horror fest.		 Darkness and Dysfunction Rule the Oscars (R)
Throughout last year, the mavens of moviedom gave us a glut of crude comedies, comic-book action threequels, and special effects that overrode story and plausibility.  But as if to repent of a year’s worth of mediocrity and senselessness, in the waning months studios released the works of filmmakers who attempted to examine the soul of man. 		 Veteran Character Actor Becomes Hot Property
Everything old is new again. After more than thirty years in the business, Danny Trejo is an overnight success. The star of the funny but decidedly adult action/spoof Machete, is now being sought after by every filmmaker in the industry.
You and Horror Films
The enduring roller coaster proves that people of all ages like to be scared – so long as there's really nothing to fear.  Well, the horror genre has lasted throughout the history of movies, with just that agenda – to scare the Sweet Tarts out of us.		 The Narnia Code - now on DVD
In addition to the simple story layer and the layer of obvious biblical parallels, Ward demonstrates that each Narnia book "declares the glory of God" by digging deep into Lewis's love of medieval astronomy. 		Oscar Recap
EXCESS, according to Webster's New American Dictionary is "the amount by which one quantity exceeds another; an instance of intemperance." Well, nobody knows how to do intemperance quite like producers of the Oscar telecasts		 Frank Sinatra
I will remember Old Blue Eyes not as the archetypical saloon swinger, but as a man who faced life, tasted life and certainly enjoyed life. His victories were so innumerable, they overshadowed the defeats, but everyone, including the rich and famous, has life challenging moments.
Harry Potter vs. The Kingdom of Narnia
I've been fair in my critiques of the Harry Potter film series, calling one "A masterpiece of technical craftsmanship and a brilliant example of rudimentary storytelling." So, if I say to you that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part I is the most tedious time-taker I've watched this year, understand my reaction is not solely based on a Christian-bound prejudice toward the world of magic, black or otherwise.		 Like Dandelion Dust
So-called nightmare adoption scenarios are rare in the real world, but one is set to play out on the big screen Sept. 24 when Like Dandelion Dust, based on a Karen Kingsbury best-selling novel, releases nationally.		 Genre Greats
It’s a bewildering age, a time of posthaste change in our culture by those who think all reformation is progress. And for many people seeking solace at the movies, only to be blitzed by crudity or mediocrity, the frustration mounts...		 Sci-Fi Book Contains Biblical Truths
’m not normally a Sci-fi book buff. I begrudgingly followed the search for Frodo’s ring, and like Narnia’s Pevensie kids, I needed to know what was on the other side of that mysterious closet.
NARNIA NIGHT! A Free Event for Pastors and Their Congregations
As part of the worldwide release of The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, 20th Century Fox and Walden Media have created an exclusive event just for churches – Narnia Night.		 Unanswered Prayers Coming to Lifetime
The film explores the themes of marriage, family, community and second chances with love, asking "Did I let the one I loved get away or is she right in front of me?"		 Worst Filmsof 2008...and Some Might-Have-Beens
Going through the list of over 200 pictures I saw this year, I found that most received only two out of four stars.  Most of my colleagues in criticism seem to agree with that assessment.  While no one would admit to liking mediocrity, still it seems to dominate the motion picture art form.		 Where Is She Now?
Kathy Garver played elder sister Cissy after appearing in The Ten Commandments (1956) and The Bad Seed (1956)...
OPERATION NARNIA: FANS TO TRANSFORM
SHOE BOXES INTO GIFTS OF HOPE
In Narnia, it was always winter and never Christmas until Aslan arrived with hope. In the same way, simple shoe box gifts filled with toys, school supplies and hygiene items can bring hope to children around the world by reminding them they are loved and not forgotten. 		Moments in Utopia
There are seven marvelous moments that dwell nicely in my memory from a recent visit to the set of the Robert Duvall/Lucas Black upcoming film, Seven Days in Utopia. Those moments have affected this man's soul...		 Genre Greats 2
More recommendations from Preview editor Phil Boatwright.		 DVD Parties
Once a month, send out a note to friends telling them of a video, excuse me, DVD you have chosen to run the following Saturday evening.  Pick out a favorite of yours, making sure it is one that both entertains and edifies.  After all, you will be seeing many of the previous night’s guests seated on your church pew the following morning.
Film Critic Asks, "Should I Relate to Moviegoers?"
"Like the industrial age before it, the information age has changed our lives in monumental new ways, including how a lot of us are learning about spirituality. Research suggests fifty million people will rely solely on the Internet—indeed the new Roman Road—for their faith-based experiences in 2010".		 16 to Life Opens in Limited Release
Though not as shallow as many teen comedies, 16 to Life has a touch of Porky's crudity, and lacks the whimsy of Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Those attempting to develop their spiritual walk may find it superficial and misleading. Those of a more secular nature may also find it depthless.		 100 Voices: A Journey Home
100 Voices is a compelling and moving musical documentary that uniquely highlights the rich history of Jewish culture in Poland.		 Do You Need A TVGuardian?
"It’s a filter that allows viewers to watch the programming they want… without having to hear the language they don’t want.  That’s different from the V-chip, which just blocks out a program in its entirety if any one part of it is deemed unacceptable."
Casablanca and the Christian
Hopefully, after this full-out explanation of my love affair with this, the second best film ever made (IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE gets my vote for best film), those who have an affection for the film will see what I'm trying to do when I recommend it.		 The Most Important Film of the Year
It's the end of a hard-worked week, you want to empty your mind at the local theater, and you spot the "Waiting For Superman" ad in the entertainment section of your paper. Alas, it has little to do with the superhero from Krypton.		 Ramona and Beezus and Aslan and the Public School System
Though Hollywood is a land of great creative opportunity, it is also one that can eat away at the soul. But, make no mistake, there are people, and companies, determined to enliven the heart, while also respecting the teachings of the Bible. One such multimedia entertainment company is Walden Media.		 Do You Love Movie Scores? Check This Out!
I have gathered an eclectic list of movie scores over the years and am now offering them for sale. Even as a kid, I took very good care of my musical collection. No fingerprints, a special record dust cloth used each time the album was played, record needles were replaced frequently, etc. Hence, my record library is filled with very satisfying and still playable music.
Movies - Are They Good or Evil?
If you don't remember the time, your grandparents will. I'm speaking of an era when movies were a no-no. Like wearing makeup and playing pool, the good Christian wasn't supposed to go to motion pictures. Nowadays very few preach against movie-going. Maybe they should.		 A Shark Attack Was "Part of God's Plan"
Remember around six years ago when we heard of the surfer girl who lost her arm to a shark? Just about everybody I've spoken to can recount that news event. Her name is Bethany Hamilton and after hearing the details of her story, it sounds more like a Hollywood movie. Indeed, it soon will be.		 Teens and the Movies (Part 1)
I'm often asked to suggest DVDs for teens. Here's the predicament; not only do I have to find quality films that might amuse those of a generation behind me (well, two generations behind me), I also have to search out movies that don't contain something that someone will find offensive. (Try doing that.)		 Film Rating System Creator Jack Valenti Dies
Retired in 2004, Valenti headed the MPAA for 38 years, having faced both defenders and detractors caused by the rating system’s problematic nature.
Troubles? You Think You've Got Troubles?
 Each of us seeks the cottage with the white picket fence, that restful abode by the shore where love is present and strife is beyond the sea...		 Amish Grace coming to TV March 28th
"Amish Grace" airs Sunday, March 28th, at 8pm ET/5pm PT on Lifetime Movie Network, Lifetime's sister network. Watch it. Even if I'm overly zealous in my praise, it ain't going to hurt ya. Going to church when it's on? Record it		 Teens and the Movies (Part 2)
Part two of my predicament: today's high schooler is courted by movie studios predominantly with two film genres – the teen comedy and the sci-fi adventure. Alas, the teen comedy is usually full of crudity and often wit found sophomoric to even sophomores.		 Actors Find God's Grace: Book Review of Grace is Enough
It grieves, it angers, it frustrates.  Indeed, several times I just wanted to put it down rather than read of the horrors people can inflict on one another.  Don’t let that description keep you from examining their book, however.  For I believe the remaining chapters will enrich your spiritual walk. 
 

Letters to God Offers Hope
While dealing with a sad reality, the script does contain humor and uplifting themes. What's more, it addresses a subject seldom discussed – children's reaction to their lives ending so quickly.

 FAMOUS LINES FROM FAMOUS MOVIES…When Dialogue Was the Special Effect
Often today's films abandon story and character for instant gratification designed to numb us for the moment. Indeed, with the onslaught of computer-generated effects and ear-piercing digital sounds, moviemakers sometimes pulverize rather than entertain.		 Walden Media - A Beacon of Entertainment Hope
Hollywood can be a dark place, a land of great creative opportunity, but also one that can eat away at the soul.
A Note From Your Reviewer
The wonder of movies is that one picture will reach one person, while completely mystifying another. A film critic is merely giving an opinion. But as my purpose is not to promote a movie, neither is it meant to condemn.		 Pearl
Set in 1920s rural Oklahoma, PEARL is the true story of Pearl Carter Scott, the youngest licensed pilot in American history.  Mentored by world-renowned aviator Wiley Post, Pearl first pilots a plane at age 12 and becomes a commercial pilot and local barnstorming celebrity before she reaches adulthood.  As she finds love and becomes a wife and mother, her two greatest passions collide.		 Uplifting Films For Troubling Times
Here are a few films featuring characters enduring and triumphing over hardships. I’ve also thrown a few that will make you laugh. In fact, those three listed contain the most laughs per frame I’ve found in the movies.		  
Horror Films and Christians
 ... tales of conflicted wolfmen, alien space monsters, zombie flesh-eaters, and other vile things that go bump in the night have found a new following – women.		 EASY A Spells Doom For Christians – Or…
We Christians have a lot to answer for, because we don't always do what the Lord teaches us. Unfortunately for us, being human often makes us look hypocritical to nonbelievers, this foible of the human nature leaving us vulnerable to many moviemakers.		 Movies Celebrating Jesus' Sacrifice
Good Friday and Easter, along with Christmas, are the most blessed events to occur for mankind. I thought I might mention a few DVDs that portray the significance of Jesus coming to Earth, and His sacrifice for the whole world. You may have heard of most, perhaps seen some. All are worthy of an extra viewing. 		 
Family Friendly Films Aren't Always
Over the past several decades, the media has simmered society in a stew of moral ambiguity, excusing their offenses with “Hey, it’s only a movie.”		 Words Are What We Live By
With the recent opening of director Judd Apatow’s Funny People, filmgoers are once again bombarded by raunchy situations and words that make the ears bleed. I amend that statement. Words that used to make the ears bleed.		 Movie Valentines for Guys to Give to Their Better Halves
Right off, let me state, fellas, your lady should feel you’ve used a few more of the little gray cells than usual when looking for ways to acknowledge Valentine’s Day. Here’s a suggestion...		 New Movie Inspires Hope
...a picture that will build a bridge of hope between the faith-based community and the secular community, using prayer to provide hope to cancer victims and their families around the world.
Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience
The JONAS BROTHERS head to the big screen—in Disney Digital 3-D™—in a high-energy Walt Disney Pictures rockumentary feature film event from director Bruce Hendricks		 Angels and Demons: Angelic or Demonic?
At a recent press junket held in Rome where a few exterior scenes were filmed (actual Vatican locales were meticulously reproduced in CA), I was able to interview the cast and director of Angels and Demons, as well as Dan Brown himself.		 Black History on Film
In celebration of Black History Month, allow me to point out some films featuring African-Americans that have taught as well as entertained.		 Who Is Phil Boatwright?
The "authorized biography" of Preview Editor and all-around good guy, Phil Boatwright.
Is This Day Better Than YesterDay?
Great science fiction always has a prophetic parable at its core.  With either satire or irony, good science fiction can cause audience members to leave the theater not just exuberated by roller coaster thrills, but uplifted by thought-provoking concepts.		 New PBS Miniseries: Little Dorritt
One of Charles Dickens' greatest love stories also has the timely theme of chronic debt and financial collapse.		 Movies for the 12 Days of Christmas
Compiled by Santa’s little helper, Phil Boatwright. Grab some popcorn balls and enjoy these fun, festive holiday features. 		  
Where Do We Draw the Line?
A respected friend of mine won’t support a film starring John Travolta due to his association with Scientology.  And because of her stand, she’s perplexed as to what to say when her children are begging to see the new Disney animated movie, Bolt, which stars Travolta. 		 Coming to TV - The Least of These
 Faith in Christ is slyly portrayed in this mystery/drama....		    
Are Movies Signalling the End Times?
Ever since the Garden of Eden, the soul of man has been under attack.  At no other time in mankind’s evolution, however, has God’s written direction been so disavowed by such powerful mediums - that of television and the motion picture.		 A Fluffy Romantic Comedy With Firm Values
Renee Zellweger and Harry Connick, Jr. star in the romantic comedy New In Town. And I’m pleased to report that there’s something more to this odd-couple coupling than found in the usual banal January fare.		    
What Bugs a Christian Film Critic?
Here are three things that spring to mind: overused technical gimmicks, feeble writing, and subversive attacks on our Christian faith.  These irritations were well represented in movie fare this past year.		 Little Kids and Big Subjects
Marley & Me is being advertised with a poster containing nothing but a cute puppy.  And the trailer gives the impression that the film is another slapstick comedy aimed at family. Furthermore, we’re led to believe, because of all the previous movies about frustrated folks and unruly dogs, that this will be merely holiday season escapism.  And it is - mostly.  But it’s far more. 		 Star-Struck Reviewer
I was somewhat star stuck at the recent press junket for Brad Pitt’s new movie, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a fantasy/drama about a man who ages backwards.  No, not at meeting Brad Pitt.  He wasn’t even there.		  
Great Animation Aims at Adults and Children
Recently, a poll was taken on Yahoo spotlighting great animated features.  While most were deserving of such regard, I found several missing from the list.  So allow me to add several that Yahoo Users must have forgot.		 Once Upon a Time Adam Sandler Made a Family-Friendly Movie
While most film studios floundered around, trying to pawn off their mistakes during the first three months and then believing all anybody wanted to see during the summer were films from comic books, Disney Studios remained true to its founder.		    
New Show Deals With Obesity and Faith
Television gets knocked a lot for programming that does any and everything but uplift the spirit.  There are, however, exceptions – you just have to do a little treasure hunting. 		God On Trial to Air on PBS November 9th
In this poignant drama, a group of prisoners at Auschwitz place God on trial for murder and collaboration.  		Fluffy Movie Has The Right Stuff
Make no mistake, it is fluff.  Fluffy fluff.  It is, however, the kind of fluff that entertains and teaches an often overlooked audience – the wee ones.		  
Classic Horror Film Commentaries Give Insight
The horror film has, however, undergone more transformations than Madonna’s musical career.  In the ‘30s and ‘40s, horror films such as Dracula, Frankenstein and Cat People were actually morality plays, where good was triumphant over evil....		 Art and Commerce Collide in Disney's Outer Space
Wall•E is one of the best films I’ve seen this year, but it has a controversy attached.  No, it’s not inappropriate language or furtive sexual innuendo.  		American GIrl Phenomenon Comes to the Movies
Amid today’s narcissistic iPod society, American Girl devotees stand out as supporters of the belief that a caring character is more important than material possessions.  And at last one of their most admired heroines, Kit Kittredge, makes her cinematic debut on July 2.		 Something Good This Way Cometh
For a change, there’s some dynamic entertainment hitting the movie theaters and DVD shelves...
A Critic's Confession
For the past twenty years I have been reviewing films from a Christian perspective - offering the synopsis and content so parents and concerned moviegoers could decide if the new releases were suitable for their viewing.		 New Narnia Resource Aids Children
The release of Believing In Narnia, a new paperback designed to help children 7 through 11 decipher the secret symbols of Christianity within C. S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia, is set to coincide with the opening of the second movie installment, The Chronicles of Narnia:  Prince Caspian.		    
Is Jesus A Myth?
The public is bombarded by media fables – with today’s dream weavers using one allegorical figure after another to solve the riddles and frustrations of life....		 Peter & the Wolf: Oscar Nominated Short Film
This charming reworking of Prokofiev’s popular classic tale gives it some 21st century twists and an environmental theme, whilst staying true to the original story.		   The Second Coming of The Passion
Packed with several commentaries, including a first ever with director Mel Gibson, it also includes enlightening “making of” segments and the alternative version of the film, Passion: Re-Cut.
Film Highlights United Methodist College's Debate Team
In 1935, debaters from United Methodist-related Wiley College, a small liberal arts school about three hours east of Dallas in Marshall, Texas, won a national championship match against the University of Southern California...		 Christmas Movie Naughty or Nice List
Well, it’s that time of the year, again.  You know: When Hollywood celebrates our Savior’s birth with animated mice singing Baby, It’s Cold Outside, and the true meaning of Christmas is eclipsed by the obsession of owning an official Red Rider BB gun.  Read on...		 Happily Ever After - Does It Exist?
This newest release from Disney Studios puts a delightful spin on the happily-ever-after story, with the mean old queen casting the lovely princess into a portal that takes her to a decidedly non-fairytale world – New York City.		  
Christ-phobia in the Movies
The word “phobic” has crept into our vernacular, attaching itself to any perspective that seems intolerant to the lifestyles or agendas of others...		 Hallowed Be Thy Name
I attended the press screening for the highly anticipated action adventure SPIDER-MAN...		    
Did Jesus Prefer Chicken or Beef?
Although The Da Vinci Code is declared fiction by both author and filmmaker, the combined efforts of those artists have resulted in taking the spotlight off Christ’s divinity...		 ArkALLMIGHTY Launches Across America - Get On Board!
Good Deeds Ministry inspired by summer blockbuster, Evan Almighty, kicks off May 1st		   Secrets Of A Film Critic
A tongue-in-cheek interview of Phil Boatwright, Editor of Preview OnLine. Not for the faint of heart.
New Distribution for Christian-Themed Films
Whatever the reason, films with Christian themes are popping up sporadically at your nearby cineplexes...		 "Make Thee An Ark"
An expanded review of Evan Almighty with comments from director Tom Shadyac and star Steve Carrell.		   Spiritual Awakenings in the Movies
Occasionally, a motion picture comes along that conveys a profound concept significant for Christians. Allow me to suggest a few films...
Manners, Respect, and Family Return to Movies
Courtesy, civility and family togetherness are foreign to many due in part to a lifetime of media choices. Indeed, you’ll find very few movies or TV shows that cultivate these qualities.		     Profanity in the Movies - What's the Big Deal?
Most critics reward movies for their technical and artistic qualities, while at the same time ignoring the effect of movie content on the culture.