This short video shows the making of our DVD of the Week: The Eastern Bride. It’s a fun video that shows the heart behind the folks making the film, and allows us to hear a bit about making a film in South Africa.
You can buy The Eastern Bride for $6.97 this week at FamilyChristianMovies.com
Our DVD of the Week for February 28-March 6 is The Eastern Bride
The Eastern Bride takes you a journey around the world with Pete de Jaeger, a young world-traveling businessman from South Africa. In his travels, he finds himself at well-known stops along the trade routes of our global economy, East Asia, Africa and the Arab world. Most significantly and relevantly, the film weaves together Pete’s travels in the Middle East and in China, where during the course of business, he finds himself interacting with Christians who are harassed and persecuted by neighbors, government officials and even terrorists. The film reminds us that our global economy is heavily dependent on trade with countries that oppress and sometimes even kill members of their struggling Christian minority groups. With the Middle East in the news so much these days and the rise of China, these stories couldn’t be more relevant.
The production quality of The Eastern Bride is a bit dated, but this can be forgiven when one recognizes that this film was made by Open Doors ministries to tell the story of the persecuted church, not to win any Oscars, and it does tell those stories well. Check out The Eastern Bride, the latest addition to our Family Bargain Videos category. You’ll be able to pray more knowledgeably about the persecuted church.
The Grace Card: A groundbreaking new Christian Film will be coming to US theaters this winter and will be distributed by the folks who brought Fireproof to the masses. We hope to have The Grace Card on DVD some time late in 2011.
MEMPHIS TN – September 9, 2010 – Graceworks Pictures and Calvary Pictures have announced that THE GRACE CARD, a gritty drama that poignantly illustrates that the worst prisons are the ones we make ourselves, will open in theaters on February 25, 2011. Set in Memphis, THE GRACE CARD features Academy Award®-winner Louis Gossett Jr. (Best Supporting Actor, AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN) and centers on the unlikely partnership between two cops: Mac, embittered by tragedy, angry at life and God and everyone else; and Sam, a rising star in the department, promoted over Mac. As Mac’s life nosedives, the tension builds: can he accept grace from a God he abandoned and a man he detests?
“The point is to grab people by the heart,” says director David Evans. Evans is a successful optometrist known in Memphis for his 15-plus years producing Calvary Church’s annual passion play. THE GRACE CARD is his feature film-directing debut—and through Graceworks Pictures, he’s also executive producer. Calvary Pictures is a ministry of Calvary Church in the Memphis suburb of Cordova. THE GRACE CARD will be marketed and released by Affirm Films and Provident Films and distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films, the three companies behind FIREPROOF and FACING THE GIANTS.
Real Life. Real Answers.
As with independent, faith-based films such as FIREPROOF and FACING THE GIANTS, THE GRACE CARD showcases people in unvarnished challenges, confronting what they believe against the hard places in life. How far does forgiveness go? That question beats at the heart of THE GRACE CARD.
THE GRACE CARD assembled a talented crew of Hollywood professionals and dedicated local volunteers. Producer and writer Howard Klausner, a Hollywood veteran, is well known for his script of the Clint Eastwood-directed hit SPACE COWBOYS. Producer John Saunders’ two decades of industry experience includes WALK THE LINE and LEATHERHEADS. John Nasraway, also producing, has a string of credits working with Oscar-winning directors on top-grossing films such as MASTER AND COMMANDER and TERMINATOR 3.
Passionate Support
A small army of 300 volunteers attended Calvary Pictures’ “boot camp” before working on the shoot itself. “I’ve never seen such passion and dedication,” said Deputy Sharon Fox O’Guin of the Memphis Film Commission. From catering to wardrobe to anything needed, these volunteers, many of whom had worked with David Evans on the Calvary Passion Play, turned THE GRACE CARD into a feature-length film.
The people of Memphis also jumped on board. THE GRACE CARD’s full support of local leaders included Memphis police, who allowed use of their logo, badges, and facilities.
Synopsis
THE GRACE CARD
Witness the Power of Forgiveness
Everything can change in an instant . . . and take a lifetime to unravel. When Mac McDonald loses his son in an accident, the ensuing 17 years of bitterness and pain erode his love for his family and leave him angry with God . . . and just about everyone else. Mac’s rage stonewalls his career in the police department and makes for a combustible situation when he’s partnered with Sam Wright, a rising star on the force—who happens to be a part-time pastor and a loving family man. Can they somehow join forces to help one another when it’s impossible for either of them to look past their differences—especially the most obvious one?
Every day, we have the opportunity to rebuild relationships and heal deep wounds by extending and receiving God’s grace. Offer THE GRACE CARD … and never underestimate the power of God’s love.
Based off of true events and the book, Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy, the DVD Amish Grace gives an account to the terrible, tragic event when a man not a part of the Amish community, goes to an Amish school house, shoots 10 and kills 5 Amish school girls.
As I watched Amish Grace (release date is September 14, 2010), I found myself crying quite uncontrollably, but for more reasons than the fact that these innocent children lost their lives so heartlessly. It was the response of the Amish community that really grabbed hold of my heart and touched me and changed my perspective on what it means to forgive.
Some of the events and the characters of Amish Grace were fictional, but it was obvious that the characters in the DVD were not far off from the people they were representing. You learn that the Amish community wants nothing in the way of their relationship with God and their ability to be like Christ. This is why very soon after the man came and killed their children and himself, the people of the Amish community reached out to the man’s wife and offers her not only forgiveness, but offers her their support and their help in any way that she and her children needed. They recognized that yes, they had just gone through a hard, terrible loss, but she had too!
Although the attitude of the Amish community was forgiveness, not every one of them could achieve it. Actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley portrays a mother who lost her eldest daughter to the school house killings and unlike her husband, she could not extend the same grace and forgiveness. She was consumed by the hurt, which transformed into anger that she could not let go of. Her character, Ida Graber, may have been fictional, but was a character that we could all relate to.
As mentioned in the DVD, Christ justifiably deals with punishment, and it spoils our hearts to hold anger against others who may have wronged us. As you watch Amish Grace, prepare your heart to witness a undeserved tragedy, but also prepare your heart to see what it means to forgive and let go of the hurt and anger, no matter the offense.
After viewing Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls, I was thrilled to find out that The Science Museum of Minnesota was hosting The Dead Sea Scroll exhibit! My husband and I could not pass up the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the scrolls-scrolls that are the oldest copy of the Bible that date back to the time of Jesus! This was the perfect thing to follow-up what I had learned from the Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls DVD!!
The tour of the exhibit began with a short explanation of when these scrolls were found as well as a bit of what was going on at the time that they were discovered. It then proceeded with a hand held audio tour guide that explained the history of the Sadduces, Pharisees and the Essenes who were once in disagreement about how the Jewish laws should be kept. The tour proceeds to show the importance of this- that one group wrote things down while the other group verbally passed down these beliefs. Some were written in Hebrew, some in Aramaic and others in Greek. In the Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls DVD, Dr. Frank Seekins teaches words of the ancient Hebrew language, and shows how it is a language that used both pictures and letters and that one “word” can have so much meaning!
The tour really built up your understanding of what you were about to see (the actual Scrolls were the last part of the tour). They first laid the foundation of why these scrolls were written. Then they showed you the lives of the people at that time and showed artifacts that were 2,000 years old! And once you saw the familiar objects such as bowls, plates and cups, you realize that these people are no different than we are today and that the words written on the Scrolls 2,000 years ago are just as important now as they were then!
And although I felt that the tour gave a good introduction to the remarkable discovery and the value of the Dead Sea Scrolls, I was happy to have watched Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls beforehand. There was a lot of reading and a lot to take in during the tour that is also described in Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls with a little more history which helped me see a glimpse more of how big God really is!
Since the early 90s, the Dove Foundation has had an incredible influence on Christian families by setting up a rating and reviewing system that helps Christian Consumers to make choices about what films to watch with their families. For example if you check out their review for Bella you’ll see that it is “Dove Approved: Suitable for Ages 12 and up,” but if you visit the review for the recent hit “Robin Hood,” you’ll see that it’s “Not Family Approved” and it details the reasons why. Other films may be “Dove Approved All ages” like the Christian Comedy “Angels Love Donuts.”
As a seller of Christian DVDs, we’ve been greatly blessed by the ministry of the Dove Foundation. Their ratings and evaluations of Christian films have, in many cases, helped us as we ask the question: “What Films should we sell?”
A recent article in the online newspaper “STLToday” outlined the recent growth of the Dove Foundation’s influence and their plans to unveil a more comprehensive set of seals that will help discern between different Christian films, more and more of which are featuring content that is definitely not suitable for all ages; namely films like To Save A Life, which have a strong Christian message, but also feature content that some Christians may find objectionable.
As the article says…
The success of Christian films inspired a new generation of Christian auteurs who have since introduced variety into the Christian film market. Fans of Christian movies can now choose between squeaky-clean evangelistic efforts like Sherwood Films’ “Fireproof,” about a firefighter’s marriage, and “Facing the Giants,” about a football coach’s trust in God, and grittier fare, like this year’s “To Save A Life,” about teen depression, suicide and bullying; and “Preacher’s Kid,” about domestic violence.
The latter two films “have some rather graphic scenes in them of inappropriate sexual behavior, drug and alcohol use and violence,” Rolfe said in an interview. “However, they also have very powerful stories of redemption through Christian faith.”
I encourage you to check out the entire article here.
Written by Guest Writer Dana Chaffin
Letters to God, an inspiring faith based film, opens in theaters April 9, 2010. The story is extremely touching, inspired by a true story, and the hope beyond the movie is unstoppable. The message is about hope and trusting God, no matter the circumstances. The production is high-quality with an outstanding cast and crew. It is produced by David Nixon (Facing the Giants, Fireproof) and written by Patrick Doughtie, the actual Tyler’s father.
The Story
Letters to God is the heartwarming story of a young boy’s battle with cancer and how he touches the lives of those around him. Tyler Doherty (Tanner Maguire) is an 8 year old boy diagnosed with a rare brain cancer. He writes letters to God asking Him to help those around him deal with his cancer. He explains that his letters are like texting your best friend.
Tyler sees the stress his mom, Maddie (Robyn Lively) is under trying to run the family after his father passes away. He unselfishly asks God to help his mom laugh again. He is concerned about what his family and friends will do after he is gone. Not once does he complain or question why he has cancer. The postman Brady McDaniels (Jeffrey Johnson), going through his own battles with alcohol abuse and a bitter divorce, receives the letters. He is confused with what to do with the letters at first, but finds himself on a mission for God.
Beyond the movie
Letters to God is more than just a movie; it is a movement of hope. The official website, www.letterstogodthemovie.com, offers a multitude of information and encouragement. There you can watch the movie’s trailer, find theaters showing the film, preorder the soundtrack, find resources about cancer, and write your own letter to God.
Letters to God is a powerful film of how one boy moves those around him to look to God for answers. It is very well done with an experienced cast and crew. Although the film tackles the issue of a young boy with cancer, the message is of hope. God can use any situation to bring people into a relationship with Him, even a young boy’s letter. See the movie, visit the website, and join the movement of hope!
Letters to God comes to Theaters nationwide
April 8, 2010
Dana Chaffin is a Christian freelance writer who has published many articles on sites like: faithwriters.com, christianmediaalliance.com, and extantmagazine.com. Passionate about Christian film, her desire is to get the word out about Christian movies to as many people as possible. Email signgal@faithwriters.net
Review by Guest Writer Dana Chafin
On January 22, 2010 To Save a Life opens in theaters nationwide. This exciting Christian film confronts many teen issues. New Song Pictures gives viewers a touching story that will certainly change the way they see people. The story is inspiring and the way it deals with the issues the characters face is remarkable.
To Save a Life is the story of a teenage boy, Jake (Randy Wayne), who must make the choice to do what is popular or what is right. In the past he made the choice to be popular and it cost him a friend, literally. Now he will not let that happen again. Jake must also decide what he believes as far as God. A youth pastor, Chris (Joshua Weigel), comes into Jake’s path and he has a very unique, but effective way of dealing with the teens. Jake’s faith is tested by many difficulties, but the final outcome is inspirational.
To Save a Lifediscusses difficult topics such as suicide, cutting, divorce, teen pregnancy, dating, partying, drinking/drugs, depression, abortion, adultery and more. Although it is very tastefully handled, parents and leaders should know. This is a very moving film that will help adults to understand what our teens are facing and teens to see what their actions towards others could be saying.
To Save a Life is a powerful movie. It is a great film for any teen, parent, youth group, etc. I do want to warn there are some topics that might be too mature for younger kids; however most teens are aware of these issues. Today many teens are faced with issues and situations similar to those discussed in the movie and this film may be just what is needed, to save a life.
I connected recently with independent filmmaker Chad Stembridge on Twitter. He mentioned that he’d be watching the Christian DVD “Faith Like Potatoes” and he graciously agreed to review it for us.
Chad Stembridge is a 19-year-old homeschool graduate and an aspiring film storyteller. Visit his website http://stembridgemill.com/blog or follow on Twitter http://twitter.com/stembridgemill .
I’m not sure what I was expecting before watching Faith Like Potatoes, but whatever it was, I didn’t get it. This film is definitely not your typical Christian film.
Faith Like Potatoes follows the true story of Angus Buchan, a South African farmer whose life is dramatically changed after meeting God. I have to be honest — there were some moments, especially before Buchan’s conversion, that left me wondering “Okay… where’s this going?” But like I said, it’s not a typical Christian film. It was refreshingly different and creative, plainly showing the progression of changes God can make in a man’s life when he gives himself to Him.
Great films make people think. Faith Like Potatoes did just that. The primary message of the story, of course, is faith — trusting God no matter what, even when circumstances are more than impossible. Angus sums it up perfectly when he states: “The condition for a miracle is difficulty, however the condition for a great miracle is not difficulty, but impossibility.”
The story of Angus’ strong faith in God got me thinking about how often Christians in America miss out on God’s blessings because of self-sufficiency. Instead of trusting God to heal sickness, we turn to a realm of doctors and drugs to fix our problems; Angus saw God raise a person from the dead. Instead of trusting God to protect the framework of our lives, we worry and stress ourselves out making our jobs and finances secure; Angus saw God protect his crops by sending a downpour of rain in the driest season of the year. It makes me wonder: what would I see God do if I were to trust Him in everything, believing the promises from His word with a child-like faith?
Aesthetically, the film was beautiful. The landscapes of South Africa and Zambia were gorgeous, camera angles carefully thought out, color and lighting quite well done. The film had plenty of eye candy for those who love good cinematography!
Faith Like Potatoes isn’t a perfect film… But then, what film is? I highly recommend it for viewing by both Christians and non-Christians alike.
Thanks Chad!
If you’ve seen this film, please leave your thoughts in the comments.
The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry opens in theaters across the country this weekend. It’s not coming to Minnesota, but fortunately I had a chance to watch a review copy this morning and was delighted by this God-centered, high-quality Christian film. In case you haven’t heard, The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry is the latest independent Christian film to be rolled out in American theaters and hopes to share in the widespread appeal that was enjoyed by Fireproof last fall. The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry is being promoted through Christian leaders in every community showing the film.
The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry is unlike any Christian film I’ve seen. Most of it’s uniqueness comes from it’s being set in 1970. The film really takes one back in time to a simpler world where neighbors knew one another, helped one another out, and children grew up fishing, walking downtown, going to diners and reading their Bibles. Below is the official synopsis:
Best buddies Dustin (Jansen Panettiere), Albert (Frankie Ryan Manriquez), and Mark (Allen Isaacson) are twelve year old boys looking forward to a summer of fun in 1970. When Dustin mows the lawn of seventy-five year old Jonathan Sperry (Gavin MacLeod), a man he has seen at church, a unique friendship develops. What happens the rest of this summer is something Dustin and his friends will never forget!
The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry is a lovely film that will encourage your faith and challenge key areas in your life as a believer. The need for positive role models and mentors in today’s world is so great; this film shows how the simple act of mentoring young people can impact lives on a deep level. The film also shows sharing one’s faith and loving one’s neighbor as key, normal parts of the Christian Life. These qualities are modeled perfectly in Jonathan Sperry and his little disciples. I found myself motivated anew to share my faith, love my neighbors and mentor younger believers.
The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry opens this weekend in hundreds of theaters in almost every major market in the US. I want to encourage you to check for a theater and go out to see this film this weekend. I promise that in doing so, you will be entertained and stimulated in your faith. You will also be helping to send a message to cinema owners, film producers and major studios that Christ-Centered Christian Films can do well in the mainstream market. As a fan of Christian Film, one of the greatest ways you can support the industry is to watch this film in the theaters this weekend.
If there’s not a theater near you, it’s not too late to bring the film to your community. You may be the one God has set aside to book a theater in your area.
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