|
|
| On
this page I post your e-mail and my response. A running dialogue about
spirituality and popular culture. |
PAGE 13
JANUARY 01-15, 2000
INDEX
TO ALL COMMENTS AT BOTTOM OF PAGE
(Home)
(Contents)
(What's new) (News)
(Store)
(Upcoming Movies) (Current
Movies) (New On Video)
(Videos) (Music)
(Television) (Great
Art) (Spiritual Insights)
(Cartoons) (Humor)
(New Birth) (Spiritual
Direction) (Correspondence)
(E-Mail) (Guest
Book )
(About Us) (Links)
(Technical and Legal)
|
with comments by David Bruce
|
| I receive
a lot of e-mail. I am not able to post all the mail. I have included
a good sampling, however. If the subject is the same I might group
the newer messages with similar older ones. Also, my response
may appear a few days after the original posting. I can't do HJ everyday.
You must include your "name" and e-mail address within your
comment if you want it posted, otherwise it will not be posted (there
is a privacy issue here and we respect that). I do, however, encourage
you to give your "name" and e-mail so others can respond to
you personally. |
| MAGNOLIA
COMMENTS
MAGNOLIA IS SIMPLEMINDED
Subject: Magnolia
Date: Sun, 16 Jan 2000
From: Jonah
UGH! How could you think it was a GOOD FILM?
The story was simpleminded and lame. As one reviewer put it, Anderson's thoughts seem to be on the level of a college dorm room, not a worldly person.
Please do me a favor -- rent HANNAH AND HER SISTERS and compare its subtley to the stupidity of Anderson.
Jonah Falcon
My response: Oh well, I still found it profound.
MAGNOLIA IS THE BEST FILM THIS YEAR
Subject: Magnolia
Date: Sat, 15 Jan 2000
From: Rob roblund@mitsi.com
David, I just saw Magnolia last night, and I had a deeply moving spiritual experience. I don't have any problems with finding the divine in the occasional Hollywood film either. The story was so moving, so urgent, an epic of the human drama. Our need for acceptance, salvation, redemption, and ultimately, our falls from grace and rebellion from righteousness.
Magnolia was the best film I've seen this year. Magnificent!
Cheers,
Rob
http://rob.mitsi.com
MAGNOLIA KNOCKED ME OFF MY FEET.
Subject: Magnolia
Date: Thu, 13 Jan 2000 16:46:09 -0600
From: Don
I saw Magnolia last night and was knocked off my feet. One thing that struck me was the character of the Christian cop; when he's introduced I sorta winced knowing that most blatently Christian characters in movies are usually at best uptight charactures or worse maniacal zealots. This isn't the case at all though and although the character has human flaws he does indeed turn out to be one of the most well-adjusted people in the whole film and indeed with the character of the male nurse one of the most selfless. A gutsy writing move by Paul Thomas Anderson. This is just one point about the movie's greatness . . . A beautiful, sprawling epic about real and contemporary Americans, with a biblical plague thrown in to boot.
My response: I knocked my socks off, too.
|
THE
GREAT DIVORCE IN THE DEAD
Subject: Bring_Out_The_Dead. Depressing but moving
Date: Sat, 15 Jan 2000
From: Kris
I waited to see this film until it hit the dollar theater. I sat through it even though it was tempting to get up and leave at a number of points. (I sat towards the rear of the theater and a number of patrons did leave mid-way through the picture.)
The film was basically an allegorical variation on the opening sections of C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce - a portrayal of a purgatory/hell where virtually every shred of grace, hope and joy is gone. While intimations of redemption flicker in the background, it is a pallid world - even in the rare segments of daylight - where the line between the still living and the dead seems faint: the dead are antagonistic of the living and the living often long to die. Even Frank Pierce's repeated and bizarrely futile attempts to be fired from his paramedic job and his abortive attempt to quit point to a hopeless and joyless trap lit only by his vague memories of the unspeakable ecstasy of occasionally saving a life.
It is a world of self-centeredness and idol worship. Even the coffee shop that the drivers frequent is called "Toro del Oro" - Spanish for "Bull of Gold" - a reference to the Israelites' act of rebellion.
So all the people took off their [gold] earrings and brought them to Aaron. He took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, "These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt." When Aaron saw this, he built an altar in front of the calf and announced, "Tomorrow there will be a festival to the LORD." (Exodus 32:3-5)
The few direct references to God or religion are basically bizarre: a tiny Asian nun rants down a street spouting weird and incoherent warnings and wearing an aborted fetus around her neck, one of the drivers leads a group of goth youngsters in a mock prayer to Jesus to revive their fellow youth who has OD'ed.
A depressing movie, and basically a good image of what (emotionally at least) hell may be like.
Kris Childress
My response: Yes it was depressing. Why the writer censored God in the script is amazing to me. |
TALKING
SENSE ABOUT POKEMON
Subject: Pokemon
Date: Sat, 15 Jan 2000 22:23:23 -0600
From: Jim
Dear David,
Judging from the unreasonable, panic-stricken warnings that some conservative Christians have published, one would think that Pokémon represents the greatest threat to Christianity since Tinky Winky. You have probably heard some of these amazing statements: Pokémon is evil? Pokémon is occult? Pokémon is addictive? Pokémon is forcing our kids to become obsessed gamblers? Pokémon is a blood sport, like cockfighting? and on and on, ad nauseam. Let?s cut through all of the sensationalistic, headline-grabbing statements and publicity stunts; in short, let?s get real!
We live in a world troubled by very real evils -- gang violence, racism, child abuse, battered women, terrorism, school shootings, ruined marriages, broken lives -- yet some people go to great lengths waging a war on fictitious children's animated characters. It is no small wonder that the world ridicules modern-day Christianity! Could it be that those who insist on attacking Pokémon are wasting their time and energy on trivial matters, thereby neglecting the real work that God has called them to do?
For a good introduction to the history of Pokémon and how it was developed, read the November 22, 1999 issue of Time magazine. Pokémon was not created to be a deliberate, occult effort to entrap or enslave our children. A recent article claimed that ?Pokémon is more than just a game, it is a religion.? The same article stated that the ?2.B.A. Master? CD is the Pokémon trainer?s ?Bible.? Come on, give me a break! We are talking about a game, folks! And please do not place
Pokémon in the same league as Doom or Duke Nukem; that is just plain ignorant.
Pokémon has been called (by some) a "blood sport" equivalent to cockfighting. This is blatantly incorrect. Pokémon do not kill their opponents; Pokémon faint and are revived. This feature was deliberately placed in the game from the beginning. There is no killing and no blood in Pokémon; responsible journalists have likened Pokémon to a modern version of ?rock, paper, scissors.? Also, if one watches the Pokémon TV series or the movie from an unbiased point of view, one will see such things as caring, affection, love, and teamwork - all admirable qualities. As for the charge that Pokémon is no different from cockfighting (I will say this s-l-o-w-l-y to avoid any misunderstanding): Cockfighting is real - Pokémon ain?t real!
What about the allegations that Pokémon is addictive and is akin to gambling? If this was true, shouldn?t our children?s hospitals be filling up with addicted, obsessed gamblers? I keep hearing about all these ?obsessed? kids, but where are they? I will concede that it?s possible to become obsessed with a game, but this would represent an aberration, not the norm. Just as with any other game, responsible parents should supervise (and limit, if necessary) their children?s involvement with Pokémon. (Oh, by the way: How many of us collected baseball cards when we were kids? Were not some of those cards extremely rare? We continued to buy packages of baseball cards, hoping to find the elusive rare ones - did that make us gambling addicts?)
If some have made a personal decision to avoid Pokémon (or any other activity, for that matter) - that?s fine. However, when individuals start making proclamations such as, ?This is evil and it?s wrong for any Christian to participate,? - well, those people should do something truly worthy of the name "Christian", and lose that self-righteous, Pharisaical brand of legalism.
Why do so many Christians have trouble understanding the concept of "using one's imagination?" C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein were Christians, and yet they wrote books which told of fantasy worlds populated by all sorts of strange and astonishing beings. Kids are kids for only a short time; let's not deny them the opportunity to dream and imagine.
It is unfortunate that so many people are capable of displaying Christian love only while others agree with their views. When one disagrees and challenges them, these people attack with a vengeance and try to mercilessly beat their opponent into submission. Not exactly the kind of message that Christians should be sending to the world, is it? Why do they continually focus on such things as Tinky Winky and Pokémon, instead of doing something constructive for society, such as helping hurting people? I think it's because Tinky Winky and Pokémon are easy targets which can't fight back because they aren't real. It's much too
risky to confront abuse, racism, marital infidelity, broken relationships, etc. - that would require doing some *real* work for a change.
My recommendation for the anti-Pokemon crowd: Lighten up, buy a Game Boy
and go "catch 'em all!"
Jim (a Christian father of 5 children)
My response: Yes, I agree with you. |
LAWYER
WANTS TO WRITE SCRIPTS
From: Kevin & Bernadette Hayes bhayes@voyager.net
Date: Saturday, January 15, 2000
I am interested in speaking to people who are desirous of talking with a Catholic-Christian lawyer from the heartland who wants to write scripts.
Would you like me to post your request with your name and email?
Warmly, David Bruce
From: Kevin Hayes" bhayes@voyager.net
Dear David:
I am stunned by the rapidity of your response! God bless you! Indeed, do so! Further, I would also like to advise of a quick way to see if I'm simply blowing smoke, or if there is some substance involved. Curious parties may discover the quality of my writing--and see an example of the character of its content (pun intended?). My novel "Kickland" is finished and has been critiqued by several non-elite heartland newspapers and magazines. More about it can be readily found www.amazon.com . I have many more ideas in mind, and I would prefer to write scripts in the future. But, I need contacts. We are a visual age, and my desire is to provide quality, morally entertaining material.
Best regards,
Kevin Hayes bhayes@voyager.net
1210 W. Hyde Rd.
St. Johns, MI 48879
ph. (517) 224-6105
My response: I encourage anyone interested to contact Mr. Hayes. |
HUMANS
CREATING HUMANS -UNCOMFORTABLE WITH IT.
Subject: thoughts on bicentennail man
Date: Sat, 15 Jan 2000
From: Judy
i'm a 46 year old woman,and I just wanted to say that my husband and I went to see bicentennial man and I came away from it with this thought, only God can create man and man recreating man just made me feel unconfortable,and the length they went to make him human I thought were ungodly.I think this movie is not something children should see.
Thank you for letting me voice my opinon,
Judy
|
IT'S
REAL, THE BLAIR WITCH IS REAL
Subject: Blair Witch Project IT'S NOT MADE UP ,,, TO ALL THE A**HOLES THAT THINK IT IS. ITS REAL...
Date: Sat, 15 Jan 2000
From: ANTONE-S7@webtv.net (ANTHONY STAMPS)
To: BlairWitchProject_E-mail
IT TOTALLY SURPRISED ME. all the people, that thought the B.W.P.Horror, wasn"t real. im shocked. how can anybody that believe in GOD and the bible, believe that wasn"t real. who all saw the documentory not movie.and believe in THE BIBLE and don"t believe it"s true. i was TERRIFIED when i saw it. seeing those three kids go through that nightmare, was unbelieveable if i hadn"t seen it myself. didn"t anyone who saw it see it was something evil that was stalking them. the sounds of kids screaming at night, the tent looking like someone had surroundeed them and tried to crush it on them, with them in it. when they found that place where the trees had been made into symboles and things hanging from them. i knew it was something of pure EVIL. if only josh hafn"t cursed the name of GOD. i think things might have went another way.. he was the first to have something happen to. im not saying GOD did that to them, but they didn't even pray for GOD to save or help them. but cursed GOD'S name. then when he disappeared a daylater heather found the thing outside the tent took it opened it, and found a piece of josh shirt wrapped around piece"s of his bone"s, still bloody. and she didn"t tell mike. so she knew josh was dead, but kept answering to his voice. that was calling them. she should have told mike what she found. all the snswers to this will be answered one day by GOD.feel GOD one day wiill answer all unanswered question , when THE LORD recreate and make all things new. and satan and his evil foe"s pay for all the, heartache and pain, death and unrulingness he has caused. for thousands of years. thats what the blairwitch is, an evilspirit that will one day have to answer to every death and heartache it caused.. because i believe in GOD,who is the DEVINEJUDGE that will judge the wicked. but even though josh cursed the name of GOD. i know GOD LOVE"S, him and josh w/ both mike and heather will be in the NEW KINGDOM on earth w/GOD. to all the non believer"s, that think the b,w,p was a phony cheap madeup movie. why don"t go tell the families of the missing three kids, it"s all fake. and watch the pain on their face when they probly say, if it"s fake then where is their three missing children, and better yet ask a minister what do he think about what happened in those woods, if he"s he"s a real man of GOD, and really believe"s the BIBLE, he"d tell the non believers to read the BIBLE and the book of revelation or the certain parts of daniel and then ask their self what do they think the blairwitch is because i already know, i hope you know.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL+ +
believers and non believers |
HJ
HARD TO READ
Subject: End of an Affair. Hey, love this web site!
Date: Thu, 13 Jan 2000 15:32:23 -0600
From: Carol
I really appreciate what you are doing. Just wanted to let you know that sometimes, the pages are hard to read - for example, the end of the affair pages made my eyes water.
Thanks. I will continue to pray for you and your ministry... |
REVIEW
OF TOY STORY
Subject: TOY STORY 2 REVIEW
Date: Thu, 13 Jan 2000
From: Mark Storm storm@ruralnet.net.au>
Hi there!
It's been a while since I wrote a review of a movie for Hollywood Jesus, because it seems that there are far too many good reviewers out there! Bother and blast... they always beat me to it!
Anyway... many of the reviews pretty well point out the obvious messages of most of the more prominent movies screening lately. Eg; End of Days is a strong reminder to us all that faith in Christ is founded upon the realisation of PERSONAL redemption - and that our relationship to Him should begin and continue henceforth from that perspective. Only when the character played by Arnie realises that, is he able to find strength to resist evil.
Moving on.
TOY STORY 2
There is a wonderful, beautiful old piece of wisdom; "To thine own self be true!" Toy Story 2 shows how apt this ancient apothegm is for everyone. Of course, we all have to first of all learn what our true selves are, don't we, before we can be true to it!
Woody learns this the hard way. When offered fame beyond his wildest dreams (to be an exhibit in a Toy Museum in Japan) the lure and glamour of it all go right to his head! Who can blame him? Wouldn't any one of us think the same way if we suddenly discovered that we had a t.v. series and comics and the whole shebang all based upon ones self?
And if we had been through what poor Jesse had been through; once loved, included in every game, favoured... only to be later ignored, and then sold off... and left to rot in the bottom of a black pit... wouldn't we feel betrayed and hurt and ready to jump at the chance to be celebrated again?
The hunger for fame is symptomatic of the deeper hunger for love and appreciation; it seems to be very much a sad indictment of America's corroding values, that so many Americans ache for transient fame. How timely is this movie!
But when the toys realise that being a static object in a museum, a frozen entity, an icon, means really to be as good as dead... then Woody suddenly realises what life (for a toy, anyway!) is all about; being loved, included, wanted and enjoyed.
Do any of us really want to be an icon? An object of fame? A forever frozen snapshot of a past era? Who wants to be kept in a glass case, valued only for their nostalgia value?
In a film with a lot of beautiful moments, my heart sang when Jesse learned that Woody's owner has a little sister: "A little sister!?" she shouts, triumphantly. "Well why didn't you say so!?"
Gee... what a tough choice she has to make. One can imagine her thoughts; "Gosh... let me see now, do I want to be a glass case, forever a fragment of history... ? Or do I want to be part of the game of life again; with all it's strife, and joy, and fear, and sorrow and wonder and beauty?"
This is a choice?!!
Buzz Lightyear learned it in the first installment of Toy Story; you're a toy. Woody re-learns it in the second... Jesse never really forgot it.
We're not toys... but like the characters in Toy Story 2 we are meant to take life for all it is; laughter, pain, sorrow, joy, wonder, grief, loss,
triumph... the whole package.
To thine own self be true. Would we really be happy with any great Toymaker and Owner who made it any other way?
My response: Thank you for this very insightful review I will post it in Toy Story. |
JEWISH
CONCERNS
Subject: Green Mile Jewish concerns
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000 23:06:31 -0600
From: Jeff
As a Jewish believer in Jesus as the Messiah, I applaud you for the sensitive and powerful way you responded to the person who believed that Hanks represented the Jews. It makes me appreciate the people who make this web site happen all the more.
My response: And thank you for your kind words. |
SECRET
RAPTURE
Subject: Omega Code. Hello
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From:SV
hello David,
I enjoy your website very much because, unlike some other Christian sites I've been to, your's doesn't horribly judge and put down all movies that don't agree with Christianity. Beside all this, there is something which is strange and puzzling to me. On your Omega Code Review, on the Visitor Comments section, the second comment made by a woman named Violet entitled SECRET RAPTURE CAN DISTRACT PEOPLE FROM TRUTH is a very bizarre and confusing comment. I'm not talking about the review itself but her view on the rapture and its non-existance. I've been taught, by the Bible, that the Rapture is a very real event which will happen soon. And I have seen a mention of this in the Bible, although I do not remember where. Please explain to me what she meant by Secret Rapture and it's basic non-existance. Thank you. Keep up the good work.
My response: Violet doesn't question the rapture. Afterall, the Bible does speak of a rapture as you say. The question is: is it secret or open? |
BETTER
THAN HOLLYWOOD BABYLON
Subject: Hollywood Jesus
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From: James Randall Babb
Dear Bruce,
I enjoy your Hollywood Jesus site very much. A much better alternative to "Hollywood BABYLON" I must say. Keep up the good work!
Sincerely, James Randall Babb. :o) (o:
My response: Thanks |
SUNDAY
NUDITY
Subject: Thanks
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From:S. SHAWIAK
Thank you so much for your insight on today's movies. My brother-in-law works at a movie theater and often times I feel convicted about watching certain things; my husband does not. However, we get lots of opportunities because my brother-in-law gets us in free.
We saw "Any Given Sunday," and I wondered what you thought. Was the nudity
even necessary?
My response: Welcome to the post-Christian world. |
ABOUT
CAROLYN IN AMERICAN BEAUTY
Subject: American_Beauty. Carolyn
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From: Miranda
I have to agree that American Beauty is one of the most powerful films that I have ever seen. It really lays bare the desolation in which so many people live today and shows us how far we far when we don't have God in our lives.
The most profoundly distrubing character in the moving was not so much Lester the Molester, but his wife Carolyn played by Annette Bening. She was so hard and seemingly untouchable, obviously to cover up her fragility and emptiness. Plus, the way Bening chanted "I will sell this house today" sent chills up my spine. It scared me more than "I see dead people" probably because not many people see dead people, but we see Carolyns everyday, mowing down their insecurities and brokeness with their raging ambitions, and laying waste to what's really important in the process.
On another note, your review of Dogma has convinced me that it isn't the seething caulderon of blasphemy that many people proclaimed it to be. I'm probably too late to catch it in the theatres, but I intend to put it on my rental list.
Thanks. Please keep up the good work
Miranda
My response: Yes the Carolyn character was chilling in its reflection of driven professionals. |
GREEN
MILE IS 5 STAR MOVIE
Subject: The Green Mile
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From: Todd Wade twade@scriptpro.com
First and foremost, thank you for all your hard work and HARD THOUGHT. All too many people would just see a movie and see only a movie, without thought of real life applications. Thanks to you, I have a much greater awareness of the representations in movies.
Now, about the Green Mile: An absolute 5 star movie (although I agree that Shawshank was better) I agree with everything HJ said, with STRONG emphasis on his warnings about blaming the Jews for Christ's death. What I have a hard time with is the notion that Stephen King actually had all of these things in mind when he wrote the story and advised on set. I read everything he writes and I believe it is safe to say he is less than a strict follower of Jesus. Which sets up a certain quandry for me... Yes, we can derive entertainment and spiritual strength from this movie. Yes, the messages it sends are good and uplifting. But is it a good thing to be so hightly supportive of a movie made by a man whose primary goal is not to uplift the name of Jesus, but to use the life of Jesus as a platform to make something great for himself? I am not trying to sound elitist. I am as guilty as anybody of allowing myself to be entertained by movies/activities that are selfish and not very God-minded. But if I am to be honest with myself, I have to examine whether or not I am being true to God by doing so. I would definitely be interested in hearing a biblical slant on this thought.
Todd Wade
twade@scriptpro.com |
WRITER
WANTS INPUT FROM SIMPSON FANS
Subject: The Simpsons
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From: Mark I. Pinsky osopinsky@aol.com
Dear David,
Last August I wrote an essay for the Orlando Sentinel about God, faith and spirituality in The Simpsons television series. It was dramatically counter-intuitive, finding all three treated quite favorably. The piece was widely reprinted around the country via the Knight-Ridder-Tribune News Service. I am in the process of expanding the piece to book length, along the lines of Robert Short's The Gospel According to Peanuts.
I'm interested posting this message in order to get reactions from your list, particularly anything they may know about the show and the faith journey of The Simpsons' cast and staff (writers in particular).
Some people may remember a piece I did about five years ago along the same lines, examining the "Disney Gospel'' in the company's full-length animated features. That essay was also reprinted in a number of Christian publications.
Many thanks.
Mark I. Pinsky
Senior Reporter/Religion
The Orlando Sentinel
osopinsky@aol.com |
POTENTIAL
FOR GOD AND SATAN
Subject:Pokemon: It certainly has our attention, doesn't it?
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From: HNZG@aol.com
Thank you for sharing many views on this subject, and allowing many people to give theirs as well. As far as the "entertainment industry" goes, there are many ways in which we can enrich our lives as well as draw our lives away from God too. Looking at movies and the such in a biblical perspective is to be commended, but of course one has to remember that HOLLYWOOD and JESUS aren't really a pair that should be joined together. (Unless, of course, you are looking for a clever name for your website!!) Here are my thoughts on using movies and games and entertainment for God's glory and to learn about Him. God wishes for us to live our lives in accordance with His Word so that we may love Him and grow to be like Him, so that others may as well. Satan wants only one thing: the exact opposite! He knows his fate so he will do anything, ANYTHING, to take us away from a God-centered life. Whether it is entertainment, recreation, money, you name it, Satan will use it as a tool to create doubt, strife, and weakness in our lives. That is truly what the Devil intends for our lives. As long as we remember that Satan is not in the business of building up the world in order to introduce the ANTICHRIST as much as he is in the business of tearing Christians down, our perspective will be opened up further. And isn't that what this website is all about? to keep us informed
as to what is going on out there!!! PS and BTW:: Those who believe that "Whatever is not of God is of the Devil!" should throw away their TV's, VCR's, and every fiction book in their house! God understands that we live IN the world, but we do not have to be OF the world!
With respect and peace to all
JERRY HNZG@aol.com
(You may submit my email address, for those who wish to respond) |
THE
TOM HANKS CURSE
Subject: Green Mile
Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000
From: Brian blueshagcarpet@hotmail.com
I had noticed that several of the comments on the web page asked about why the Tom Hanks character was cursed by JC. This part of the movie reminded me of a myth I heard when I was little. It was that the centurion who crucified Jesus was condemned to walk the earth forever. I believe he was supposed to ponder what he had done (or some such thing). As far as I know, this story is not remotely biblical, but it is not an uncommon idea. In fact, the Zena: Warrior Princess series uses a character similar to this. It seems to me that the Tom Hanks character in the Green Mile may be a spinoff of this myth. Also, I was wondering about the thing JC said at the end, "He kills them with their love for each other, and it happens every day all over the world." Is HE the devil? Is it our love for each other that makes us think we don't need Christ? Any comments would be welcomed.
blueshagcarpet@hotmail.com
brian
** feel free to post my e-mail along with this comment, if you choose to use
the comment. thanks
|
REVIEW
ON PLEASANTVILLE
Subject: Pleasantville My thoughts
Date: Tue, 11 Jan 2000 12:13:17 -0600
From: Jon Perrin jonp@xtreme.org
David,
I just found your site today and enjoyed it. I appreciate someone who decides to translate (post-) modern culture rather than hide from it. I have written an article on Pleasantville. It can be found at www.xtreme.org/devos/pleasantville.htm
Feel free to use part or all of it.
Thanks for the insight,
Jon Perrin |
WHEN
WILL HOLLYWOOD SEE RELIGION DIFFERENTLY
Subject: thoughts on cider house rules
Date: Tue, 11 Jan 2000
From: Tim
Just wondering if you all have seen cider house rules or not. I've been reading Michael Medved's book Hollywood vs. America and this movie really made his point about Hollywoods propensity at alienating it's Christian audience. I saw the "rules" as symbolic of the Bible and Christian morals in general. Delroy Lindo's character's comment on the fact that the poeple who wrote those rules don't live here is a reflection of Hollywoods feeling that the Bible and Christianity's morals are outdated and for a different time. One specific way they attack that is through the ongoing debate regarding abortion. Tobey Maguire's character is shown to have to overcome the chains of his instilled values of pro-life in order to really acheive self-worth and purpose. When oh when will Hollywood stop treating religion as a barrier a person must get around or work through? I appreciate all the work you are doing in the name of the Lord. May God bless you all. Tim |
GUTS
TO TALK ABOUT JESUS
Subject: Hello
Date: Mon, 10 Jan 2000
From: Emily
Hello,
My name is Emily Wamsley.
I just wanted to say that I think that this is a good way to get people into Jesus . My teacher was on this site today when we where in class . I was surprised that you have one on line . Not very many people have guts to talk about Jesus .
Emily Wamsley age 12 |
BRILLIANT,
DISTURBING AND REFLECTIVE
Subject: Talented_Mr_Ripley. Ripley Review
Date: Mon, 10 Jan 2000
From: Harry Bleattler hrbiv@email.msn.com
Some thoughts on the brilliant and disturbing "Talented Mr. Ripley." The movie is well cast and I applaud Matt Damon's willingness to take on such a complex and risky (career-wise) role. The movie is rife with themes of narcissism, identity crisis, gender confusion as well as the living of life in the false self. On the surface, these issues seem to rest on the shoulders of Tom Ripley (Damon). But he is not the only tortured soul on the screen. Indeed, all of the central characters in the story, in one way or another, with these issues: Dickey is running away from responsibility and parental expectations by drowning himself in a hedonistic lifestyle; Marge is looking to Dickie for happiness despite his philandering and inability to emotionally connect with her on a regular basis; Freddie is an arrogant womanizer and drunk who is out to protect his small circle of American friends: the young, rich and indolent. Meredith seems to be a lost soul who craves connection to anyone other than her ever-present family. All of them, with the exception of perhaps Peter, are running from themselves. Tom, however, is the only one who resorts to murder in coming to grips with these issues.
I felt that the movie subtlety and tastefully dealt with the underlying homoerotic tension of Ripleys' character especially in his "co-dependent" attraction to Dickie. The issue, though, was not about sexuality--that was simply a surface manifestation of the deeper issues with which Ripley had to confront. But, as a I left the theater I thought, who among us has not felt the sting and pain of being attracted (platonically) to a charismatic figure, whether of the same or opposite sex, only to find that person out of reach, unable to connect with us where we need it. This is ultimately an issue that transcends sexuality: the desire to connect with another, particularly with one who seems to embody those attributes that we seemingly lack in our own selves. To what length would we go to have that friend?
The last scene in the movie is at once horrific and heartbreaking. It was no surprise to me to find out that the theme song of the movies was entitled, "The Song of Cain." This is not a movie about a sociopathic, homosexual killer, it is much more than that. I think that if we are honest we will all see a little of bit of ourselves in Tom Ripley.
Harry Bleattler
You can include my email address |
MOVED
BY LOST SOULS
Subject: Lost_Souls. To write what is thrilling about this movie.
Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2000
From: Valentina
I am very moved by this movie that is going to come out in theaters. |
LOVES
REVIEW
Subject: I loved your Star Wars Episode I section.
Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2000
From: Josh
Hi my name is Josh. Please withold my email address because I don't want to get any spam. My favorite part of your site was the Star Wars Episode 1 section. I'm glad to see some actual Christian insight into film reviewing. You know , I'm also glad to see Christians, like myself, that enjoy the Star Wars saga. Usually, when you find Christians talking about Star Wars, they are usually very paranoid about it and say that it is an abomination unto the Lord Jesus. This is not true. I believe that there are some very good Christian viewpoints in Star Wars. Another problem with some Christians that are paranoid about Star Wars is that they say that Anakin is mocking Christ and the Jedi and the Jedi Council are the Pharisees and that Lucas is saying that the Pharisees were right and that Christ was wrong. This is not so because I read somewhere that the Jedi Council and the Jedi represented
defenders of royalty such as the Three Musketeers. Also I agree what you said about Anakin having to have a father and that it said nothing in the movie about a Virgin birth. Plus, here's five more points that prove that Anakin is not a mockery of Christ,
1. George Lucas said he believed in God, but did not plan for the Force to represent the God he believes in because he feared that it would be somewhat of a mockery to God and the Bible, hence even if Anakin was conceived by the Midichlorians, he wouldn't represent the Son of the one true God.
2. Before Anakin Skywalker became Darth Vader, he had a son and a daughter with Amidala, Did Christ get married on Earth and have a son and daughter or any children for that matter? I don't think so.
3. In the calendars and literature I've seen about Anakin Skywalker he is called the chosen one with lowercase lettering, not the Chosen One with uppercase lettering such as Christ.
4. The Jedi Council believed that Anakin was the chosen one, the Jewish Religious Council denied the Christ was the Chosen One.
5. You know the prophecy that relates to Anakin being the chosen one who would bring balance to the Force, well there were Jedi before and after him that brought balance to the Force and there were prophecies about them also.
I think that you're site is great, but I have just one more thing to ask of you, Could you please tell me if George Lucas is a Christian or not?
God Bless and may Christ be Saviour to all,
Josh
My response: George Lucas was baptised in the Luthern Church in Modesto, California, as a baby and was raised in a Christian Family. I do not know the place that Jesus has in the life of George Lucas. |
ALLEGORY
OF JEWS
Subject: Green Mile curse on "Tom Hanks character"
Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2000
From: Keith
I was told about this website this morning after going to church, and so I got home and checked it out looking to see what it said about "The Green Mile" One person commented saying why was "Tom Hanks" cursed by John Coffey even if not on purpose. I took it as an allegory of the Jews, who crucified Jesus. Yes, they have not as a whole turned to Christ yet, but one day a remnant or a group of them will be saved.
Well in the end the old man (Hanks) said one day he would die and he knew that but not yet. Maybe it was a look at the Jews blinding to the truth and then one day some of their eyes will be open to Christ. That was just one of my thoughts.
Keith (from South Carolina)
My response: I understand the comparison between the Tom Hank's character and the people in Jesus' day that led him away to be crucified. But, I believe you are dead wrong about implying that the Jews were responsible for the death of Jesus. The Tom Hank's character would better fit the gentile Roman soldiers who were the actual executioners of Jesus. The Hank's character was a believer in J.C. as was the Roman centurion at the foot of the cross who said, "Surely this was a righteous man" (Luke 23:47). It is important to remember that no ethnic group is responsible for the death of Jesus. Our Jewish sisters and brothers have suffered so much through the years due to this erroneous charge. They have been falsely accused, uprooted, put into prisons, tortured and killed. The Jews did not kill Jesus. Our wonderful Jewish friends are innocent. Jesus was Jewish, his disciples were Jewish, and the majority of the New Testament was written by Jews. Christians owe the Jews a great debt of gratitude. The death of Jesus came at the hands of a few wicked Gentile and Jewish leaders of that day (Acts 2:23). Technically, it was God who killed Jesus (Isaiah 53:4). In Christian doctrine, we believe that "he was pierced for our transgressions" and he "died for the sin of the world." In other words we all -all of us- put Jesus on the cross.
I need to say something more here. To believe that the Jews, as an ethnic group, are responsible for the death of Jesus is heretical and racist. Please, I beg of you to put such thinking aside. Such ideas have proven to be very dangerous and lethal. There is too much hate in the world. God has a special love for the Jewish people. To speak against the Jews is to speak against Jesus. Please talk to your pastor, s/he will help you understand. |
REGARDING
NICK'S DOGMA LETTER
Subject: Dogma in response to that other guy...er, NICK.
Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2000 18:24:26 -0000
From: yuffieK yuffie.kisaragi@virgin.net
I haven't read all the reviews yet, but this was the first one that annoyed me enough to write anything...
"BELIEVES DOGMA IS ANTI-CHURCH
Subject: Wasn't funny, inept storytelling, muddled message
Date: Mon, 29 Nov 1999
From: Nick"
"As a social commentary, the film is entirely muddled. On the one hand, it mocks efforts to present Christianity in a more relational context (hence, the exaggerated "Buddy Jesus" in denying the cross). That point is good, but it runs counter to the filmmakers clearly pro-choice viewpoints"
No it doesn't... explain yourself.
"along with other wishy-washy doctrines ("it doesn't matter what faith you have as long as you have faith"). In other words, Kevin Smith is saying that you gotta incorporate the hard stuff to swallow, but not if it's stuff you disagree with! Shallow-shallow-shallow."
Well so what? why should you follow a religion in which you do not believe? theres nothing shallow about following your own faith, and doing what you believe in
"Lastly, I am terribly disappointed in Hollywood Jesus' response to the film's protesters. These are brothers and sisters in Christ, who care deeply for moral content, and yes, many of the protesters HAVE SEEN the film, or read the screenplay, which is as good as seeing it. (Disagree? complain to your English teachers that you can't study Shakespeare until you see it performed in class each and every time!)."
As an occasional film-maker, this p*ssed me of beyond measure
theres a world of difference between seeing a film and reading the screenplay - this is why films have DIRECTORS. If there was no difference, then anyone could have read the screenplay and come up with, shot for shot, an identical film. Do you think this would happen if everyone in the world was given the screenplay? no, we'd have billions of completely different interpretations.
ok, thats all
oh, and feel free to put up my email address |
SURPRISED
BY REVIEW
Subject: CITY OF ANGELS review
Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2000
From: Chris
I was quite surprised by your somewhat positive review of CITY OF ANGELS. When I saw it, I thought that if Satan wrote a movie script, he would have written the one for that movie. Talk about PR for fallen angels! Angels know God more perfectly than we do now--why would they ever choose to be human (if they could)?
I was also troubled by the overall morose demeanor of all of the angels in the movie. They looked glum for the most part, very sad as they go about their duties. This is contrary to what we know about angels.
As a Catholic (and a devotee of your web site), I thought your review would say something to the effect of, "What a depressing movie. St. Michael, pray for us!"
God bless,
Chris
My response: I don't think there was an attempt here to make a biblical movie. It's a statement about the significance of being human. |
SHAWSHANK
BAPTISM
Subject: Shawshank Redemption Baptism
Date: Sat, 8 Jan 2000
Tomorrow is the first Sunday after the Epiphany, western calendar. Traditionally we celebrate the Baptism of Jesus on this date. I am using as a film clip the scene Where Andy is crawling through a sewer pipe to escape. The scene ends with Andy standing up and with eyes and arms stretched heaven ward. And the water of the rain washing him clean. What a marvelous image of what Baptism does in our lives. It is the Cleansing Bath and that is what we will celebrate tomorrow. As we renew our Baptismal Covenant. When I first saw this movie in Birmingham Alabama. I was impressed with the symbolism of the film. I do not care that the Warden is a jerk -- all have fallen short of the glory of God, even we Christians. A great film that is inspiring
Jonathan W. Smith
Trinity UMC, Amherst NY
trinintyumc@pcom.net
My response: I would love to be at your church when you run this clip! |
THE
CHRIST FIGURE IN COLLEGE
Subject: Dead Poets Society
Date: Sat, 08 Jan 2000
From: Shannon
Hi.
I've just stumbled onto your website and thought it was wonderful! Thank you. My question to you is about Dead Poets Society. What do you think of the main character, John Keating (Robin Williams), as a Jesus/Christ figure? As well, what about his students being the disciples (of sorts)?
I am a university student who is about to complete a religious studies course of Religion in Popular Culture: Religion in Film and we have been asked to choose a movie where we can see a Christ figure and the idea that this Christ figure resolve a human dilemma. From what are humans resolved, to what are they resolved and how is this resolution made possible through the Christ figure?
I would appreciate your thoughts and comments on the above, if possible.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Shannon
My response: Yes he would be a Christ figure. The issue is "place." John incarnates with his students and changes their lives forever. He gives them place. |
ROBIN
WILLIAMS AS A CHRIST FIGURE
Subject: Dead Poets Society
Date: Sat, 08 Jan 20000
From: Shannon Matt
Hi. What do you think of this film? Does Robin Williams portray a
Christ figure? You're ideas and input would be most helpful.
Thank you.
Shannon Matt
My response: Yes see above. |
TRANSFORMERS,
AND THE JETSONS
Subject: I confess I'm not really religeous but I have a question.
Date: Sat, 8 Jan 2000
From: PMD
I know you are doing your reviews in a spirtual sort of way but I'm now confused on what you actually consider the film in artistic quality.
And if you did like the film I can recommend:
Transformers the movie (I would've add rugrats but I know you already reviewed that)
Jetsons the movie
(If that is OK with you)
My response: I can not do every film. I will try to do more animated film in the future. I am a great fan of animated films too. |
SOMERSBY
IS ABOUT SACRAFICE
Subject: My Top Films
Date: Sat, 8 Jan 2000
From: Kbowman
One film not mentioned was Somersby. Mainly because the main character sacrafices his life for the good of the community. |
ABOUT
BAD LANGUAGE
Subject: Green Mile. Language...Bad?
Date: Sat, 8 Jan 2000
From: Mark
I must say that I engoyed this movie emensly, and I have just a brief comment to make in respose to all the people who say tat the language in the movie is "bad", or "Raw" well think of the scenerio this way. Movies are supposed to be a reflection of reality are they not, and I think that the language in this movie, was perhaps even tamed down from what it probably would have been in that setting. People we complain if a movie is not "real" yet we also complain if it is too "real" only we seem to put different twists on it if it is too real. Anyways I would highly recommend this movie to everyone and everyone who has the capacity to understand it (obviously not 7 yr old children). Well that is my comment, and the next time that you see a movie that is perhaps too vulgar, think what it would be like in real life, remember movies are a reflection of reality, not a reflection of how many Christians would like it to be. All round excelent movie...Language included.
-MARK
My response: I could not agree more. |
ABOUT
ANGELS
Subject: very curious
Date: Sat, 8 Jan 2000)
From: Michelle
Hi im writing just to ask you if you think that angels in many films place a great impact on the way Christians believe in and if creating these films make up our mind on whether they do exist?
maria
My response: To some degree, yes. |
GREEN
MILE WAS INCREDIBLE BLESSING
Subject: Green Mile. Hanks alot
Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2000 23:05:49 -0400
From: Lisa boitano@bright.net
from: Lisa
I just got back from seeing "The Green Mile" and I must first say that it is an incredible blessing to have this website to turn to to hear others thoughts and to mull movies over with some brothers and sisters in Christ. I too would like more feedback about why Hank's character was cursed (unintentionally) by Coffey. I just don't get that!! My only explanation to myself is that Stephen King himself doesn't fully understand God's tremendous power to forgive the truly repentant---which in my opinion Edgecomb was.
Also, does anyone out there have an opinion about what was coming out of Coffey's mouth or did I miss what it "literally" was supposed to be. I know figuritively it was evil but was it just flies or were they supposed to be tiny demons???
A couple other thoughts: The movie contains 3 executions. Two men who were guilty of crimes and one wrongly condemned. This reminded me of the two thieves on either side of Christ the day of his crucifixion. It is also interesting that at the end we are returned to the prison which we find has been remodeled into the retirement home (with green mile still intact)--still a place where people seemingly come to wait to die.
I truly appreciate movies like this in my career as a youth worker. I can lecture and point to scripture but movies like this (even if I need to edit some content) are so powerful. I have always been a fan of movies with "layers". The Green Mile is added to that running list of mine. Again I am thankful to Hollywood Jesus for pulling quotes and providing a forum that aids me as I prepare meetings that use these worldly works of art for a kingdom purpose.
I would welcome dialogue on this and other films.
You may include my email address. |
ABOUT
THE ROSE PETALS
Subject: American_Beauty
It's a veritable posthumous documentary on suburban angst -- guest directed by Sigmund Freud. ;-)
Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2000
From: Bill
The movie is, as you have pointed out, about how such vile things as lust, envy, et cetera almost 'drive' the lives of what would be a normal 'statistic' sort of family.
The image of the disembodied rose petals confused me at first -- my mind wandered to the Ancient Romas, and how they would use rose petals for a multitude of purposes, such as cooking, bathing, et cetera. But it occurred to me that red roses, the symbol of love, had been deprived (dare I say 'raped'?) of their petals. Now, we've got mangled, disjointed, incomplete roses -- a symbol of the lust that Mister Burnham seems to cast on Angela.
It intrigued me that Mister Burnham seemed more concerned with lusting after this girl, than the actual act of having sex with her. It reminded me of a quote by Sigmund Freud, the Austrian psychoanalyst: "The priority that the man's mind places on sexually arousing objects [think: objectification of women that arises from lust] sinks the instant it becomes readily available."
"Bill" |
PAUL
ANDERSON IS THE BEST
Subject: Magnolia
Date: Fri, 07 Jan 2000
From: DeNon
Just saw the film today. As long and sprawling as it is, it is also intricate, thoughtful and powerfully moving. Paul Anderson may be the best American filmmaker of his generation. Not to spoil the film, but why did you make no mention of the "plague" that falls upon the San Fernando Valley? Not only do all of the characters we encounter need to be "let go" (Exodus 8:2 (!?!)) of their past (and regret over it), but God Himself wills it. A truly tremendous film.
DeNon |
WONDERFUL
FAMILY TIME DISCUSSING GREEN MILE
Subject: Green Mile
Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2000
From: Price
Wonderful movie! My husband, two teen sons and I all loved it. We had a wonderful time after the movie discussing all of the hidden meanings. An innocent man, condemned to die for the sins of another....loving,kind & tenderhearted with the power to heal and raise the dead....ultimate judgement of evil.
There have been some comments about would Jesus have condemned Percy to a life of insanity. My take on that part of the movie is that Jesus will someday stand as judge, and evil will be punished in a place of lasting torment where there is " weeping, wailing and knashing of teeth". Sounds like a mental hospital to me.
I have told everyone I can think of to go see this movie. As a matter of fact, we will be seeing it again this weekend with our entire extended adult family.
please do not use my email address |
HOLLYWOOD
JESUS RECOMMENDS FILTH AND TRASH
Subject: Pokemon Clarification of Mrs.Christian
Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2000
From: Mrs. Christian II
I am not the Mrs. Christian who wrote the first letter on Pokeman. I inadvertently used the same name, which was my error and I apologize. I stand by my statements. You asked the original Mrs. Christian if she was a member of a group who held solely to the King James Bible. I don't know the original Mrs. Christian, but as for myself, I agree with her viewpoints and I use the New American Standard Bible. I want to mention also that am saddened to see your approval of the filthy movies R-rated movies of today. The filthy language is not something we should be listening to regardless of how good the acting is. We are to guard our minds against such things and also the exploitation and degradation of sexual subjects which is an affront to the Lord. Would you invite Jesus to accompany you to an R-rated or even a PG-13 rated movie? To sort through the filth and garbage hoping to find some bit of redeeming value is ludicrous for a Christian. We only need to go to the Word of God and wholesome entertainment, what little there is available today. To promote this filth is an abomination to God. I exhort you to search your heart on this matter. Hollywood is nothing but a pit of iniquity these days for the most part. We gladly support and go to the rare movies that are wholesome entertainment. Pokeman may be G-rated, but it promotes the obsession that children have with this occultic craze. It is a tool of satan and should be avoided. The devil is clever and will use all sorts of ways to get his way. As stewards of our God-given resources we do not pay money to see unwholesome entertainment and do not wish to pollute our minds with the garbage. The Word tells us that in everything we do should be of honor and glory to God. Going to see filth sure doesn't bring honor to Him. I believe that especially in these times we as Christians need to be extra vigilant and inform ourselves and commit ourselves to leading pure lives so that we can be a light in the darkness.
Respectfully submitted,
Mrs. Christian II
My response: Thank you for clarrifing the Mrs. Christian thing.
Movie reviews are not recommendations. I recommend very few of the films I review. I do recommend some R rated however. I think you are right in supporting only the films that you can appreciate. In terms of searching my heart, I am fine, thank you for your concerns. May God continue to bless you as a concerned and caring mother. |
JESUS
WAS SEXUAL
Subject: I just read your Superman thing
Date: Fri, 07 Jan 2000
(This is part of a private note, so I will post only this important portion)
About the person who commented on the Sexuality of Jesus. My belief that Jesus was fully human / fully divine, and consequently fully sexual. Sex is more than an act, it is an integral part of identity, human identity. Conversely who could deny that God is PRO-Creative? |
POKEMON
AND CARD FEARS ARE BASELESS
Subject: Pokemon "Chuckles"
Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2000
From: James Berg
**Please withold my email address. I dont want to get more spam than I already have :) **
Hi HolleywoodJesus,
First, I must say that im not a religious man, nor do I wish to debate theology to a great extent. I just wanted to point out a few things, and comment on a few.
I was led to your site from a most surprising source, a humor site called Portal of Evil. Your site was on their top 10 "To visit" site ;) (http://www.portalofevil.com/ if you are curious)
I personally find it absolutely mindboggling that seemingly rational, literate adults put so much stock in games, and particularily gaming companies, as being things of the Devil. I personally played the game Dungeons and Dragons, playing first when I was 5 years old, and playing a great deal until I was about 15. Since then, ive played computer games, card games (Magic: The Gathering particularily), and similar entertainment-driven pasttimes. Each of these, i feel, has made me a better person, and not turned me from the precepts of God (Which to me is basic "goodness"). From games such as D&D, I learned to read, write in a literate and entertaining manner, and was exposed to teamwork, leadership, and problem solving.
It seems that some of the proponents of "these games are bad" viewpoints believe that these games all resolve around rituals where we sacrifice chickens to Satan, or cackle gleefully while we commit acts of murder and rape. To 99% of the playing public that i have ever met, and thats covering a "lot" of people, they are simply an intelligent, mentally stimulating pasttime, comparable to chess or Trivial Pursuit. The vast majority of the anti-gaming folks that I have met or read about found their beliefs without actually ever playing the games, or even having a clear idea of what they are about.
The person that emailed in, "R P B", didnt even have his/her facts straight. Wizards of the Coast did not develop dungeons and dragons, TSR did. Specifically, a man named Gary Gygax did, and founded TSR. WotC later bought out TSR, as it was struggling financially, and needed a company with broader marketing possibilities to turn it profitable. It is things like this that irk me. When you are drawing your conclusions with erroneous facts, and then portraying them to others as being truth, you are furthering your cause, and viewpoints, with information that is tainted with falsity.
Having said that, how does playing a card game or Dungeons and Dragons bring you further from God, and closer to the Devil? In every game I have ever seen or heard of, in over 10 years of gaming, the group of players fought valiantly *against* an evil foe. They protected the innocent, and furthered the causes of justice and general "goodness" I have yet to see a clearly presented, rational argument for why games such as these are inherently evil. When a man picks up a knife, he can use it to stab another. He can also use it to cut meat for his family. I feel the same applies to any activity, including games such as these. The evil does not lie in the game, it lies in the people playing the game.
My uncle, who is a religious man, got me into these kinds of games, and he has enjoyed them for decades. His younger daughters both enjoy computer games, and the like, and I have watched them grow up moulded in part by the things they have learned from them. If anything, it has instilled in them, and me I suppose, an inherant knowledge that one must fight against evil to prevail. That fight need not always require violence. Many times it is simply a matter of choosing the right thing. Do you return a wallet, or keep the money inside? Even small things, Do you pay the $2.25 bus fair, or keep a dime when you know the driver will never notice?
A final comment. I still find it upsetting that people would spend so much time worrying and obsessing over such things as a card game, when our world is plauged by such greater troubles and problems. If I ever choose to have children, I would rather spend my time with them warning them against the dangers of things such as drugs, gangs, and diseases. "Now Bobby, I dont want you playing any of this evil Nintendo stuff! You know very well that Mario is the embodiment of You-Know-Who" Call me a narcissist, but it just doesnt make sense to me ;)
James, 19yrs
Vancouver, Canada
My response: Thank you so much for sharing. I appreciate your time. |
DOGMA
IS BAD FILM MAKING
Subject: Dogma
Date: Thu, 6 Jan 2000
From: Chris Richards
what is all the fuss about this movie? Kevin Smith has proved that he can't direct once more and any signs of wit are completely absent from the dialogue-this movie may attempt a tongue-in-cheek celebration of christianity/religion but instead makes religion and believers look like idiots. BUT any and all argument aside; this movie is simply a very poor example of shallow american cinema. |
RIPLEY
IS A WASTE OF TIME
Subject: Talented Mr Ripley. save yourself and wait for video
Date: Thu, 06 Jan 2000
From: Norie
this movie was a waste of fine actors. matt damon has done some good movies in the past three years even though he doesn't have to stretch too far out of his normal twenty-something attractive single white male persona. in this film, however, he plays a psycho who the audience doesn't get to know at all. he is a mystery and he is sick. you can't even tell if he is a heterosexual or not, let alone why he does anything that he does. wow, this movie just had some scenes and some dialogue and then he started killing people and then the credits started to roll. i don't know if we needed to know that love and obsession were so powerful as to cause someone to go insane. i think that this movie is more of an example of how a person's world is completely wrapped up in self pleasure. everyone in this movie was just looking out for number one and it got old. it just depresses you and it makes you think that it would really suck to live a life like he did with no hope for always. this movie did not deal with any big pictures or world views (which, it doesn't always have to), so it should at least entertain, which, in my opinion, it did not.
-zac parsons |
POINTING
TO THE TREE
Subject: Sleepy Hollow The Tree
Date: Thu, 6 Jan 2000
I wonder about the comment made concerning the tree. "It seems to be a gateway between two worlds." Also, when the horseman made his last descent the arm of the villianess was left, with finger pointing in the direction of the tree. This was the last frame before the obvious transformation in the films view of the world. What do you think?
My response: Interesting comment. I'd have to see the film again. |
ADVOCATE
DOES NOT ADVOCATE SEX
Subject: Devils Advocate Wonderful Portratal of Sexuality!
Date: Thu, 06 Jan 2000
From: Matt
This is a brilliant film! Though some parts contain unnecessary nudity. Unlike other movies where the sex would be gloriefied, the show does a wonderful job of giving the feeling that such acts are immoral and wrong. |
CULTURALLY
RELEVANT
Date: Wed, 5 Jan 2000
From: Kris
I really enjoy this site. It made me cry to see people being culturally relevant with the gospel.
God Bless,
Kris |
HOW
ABOUT A REVIEW ON RAPTURE?
Subject: You should cover/review "The Rapture".
Date: Wed, 5 Jan 2000
From: Ron
I found your web-site from a link at the Internet Movie Database. I thought your review (along with several others) of The Last Temptation of Christ to be right on the mark. It is truly a wonderful, thought provoking film that everyone with any spiritual sense (Christian or other) should view and discuss.
But I was surprised to find that you have failed to include the 1991 film by Michael Tolkin - "The Rapture", in with your reviews of older/classic films. This is also a VERY thought provoking film that everyone should see. It too opens the doors of discussion about faith and what "could" happen one day at the end of time.
Have you never seen this film, or is there some reason for not including it in with your selections? If you haven't seen it, rent it the next chance you get! A review/discussion of it truly does belong with your other critiques (just take a look at some reviews/comments from the IMDB to see what I mean).
Thanks, and when I get the chance, I'll add my .02 to some of your "visitor comments".
Ron |
CIDER
HOUSE ROCKS
Subject: Cider House RULES MAN!!
Date: Wed, 5 Jan 2000
From: Jon
Dear David,
On New Year's Eve I went out and saw "The Cider House Rules", seeing as I am 16 years old and cannot get into any of the plethora of R-rated films out right now, and I already saw Toy Story 2 which totally rocked! So, "Cider House" was pretty much one of the only films left. I am so glad I saw it!!! If you haven't yet, you really should!
I saw two main biblical themes in this film. First, there was a real prodigal son story. I found myself first trying to follow the film thinking it was about one thing, then later about another thing, but the film came together for me in the last scene with the reading from "David Copperfield". I found myself rooting for Homer in the first part, then going "What are you doing Homer?!" in the next, then relieved at the end.
Secondly, the movie is a great lesson about the consequences when you chuck the established rules and try to follow your own. This is both literal and symbolic in the film. I think that's all I'll say about it, though, because I don't want to ruin the whole plot for you.
Anyway, it was a very good film with great acting, writing, etc. I hope it gets an oscar nomination. It is a film that really keeps your emotions in knots and shows you that nobody is all good or all bad. It shows humanity as it really is.
You must see this film! I don't think you'll regret it!
-Jon, a disciple of Jesus Christ |
FANTASIA
IS NOT IN NEW ORLEANS
Subject: Fantasia No Show
Date: Wed, 05 Jan 2000
From: Milo
I live in New Orleans and we are not getting Fantasia 2000 because of Disney's exclusivity clause to screen it. Just wanted to express how much that bites! Go see it again for me and all the other animation lovers in N.O. |
JACOB'S
LADDER HELPED ME
Subject: Jacobs Ladder Hope Springs Eternal
Date: Wed, 5 Jan 2000
From: Kim
This movie strikes a very deeply-felt personal chord with me. I have lost two people very close to me in the space of the last two months. Both were uncertain in their spiritual beliefs, and both died having while under the very disorienting influence of morphine-derivitives. Having said that, I must say that Jacob's Ladder gave me a very comforting reminder that God is in control (indeed, I feel his influence in my decision to check out the video and see the movie again). Through all of Jacob's confusion and fear, he had moments of hopeful breakthrough in which God touched and reassured him! Finally there is that total glorious peace when he joins his son and ascends to his eternal home!
This laid aside any fears I'd had for my loved one's salvation. It made tangible a vague feeling I had: God knows our hearts, and His timeframe is not fathomable. He can reach us and bring us through to reconciliation in a heartbeat, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. That may seem presumptuous to many but it's comforts me.
As an aside, check out the short film "An Occurence at Owl Creek Bridge", which most assuredly influenced the makers of Jacob's Ladder. It's a film many of us saw in high school, based on the Ambrose Bierce short story, and has just recently been made available on video!
-Kim
Glory to God. |
YOUTH
NEED ADULTS AND GREEN MILE GOOD TEACHING FILM.
Subject: Green Mile I can't stop talking about it!
Date: Wed, 5 Jan 2000 11:12:07 -0500
From: Jon Price JPrice@stfrancispotomac.org
I would first like to comment on the idea that this movie would have an adverse affect on young people. I am a youth pastor, and I am tired of hearing people try to put the blame of youth violence on movies and music. Yes, I do agree that these things (not this movie) do have a motivating factor, but the blame should be put on us as adults. The answer isn't to sit and condemn our culture, but instead we should be equipping young people to be discerning (Christ was not against the culture, he was in the culture). We as adults need to be involved in young people's lives! If they had caring adults in their lives, who helped them process things like movies and music, I believe we would not be having this discussion. How many of you who condemn what our young people do are in a mentoring relationship, or volunteer in your Church's youth ministry? Many of you would say that young people should not see this film. I disagree. Just because a film has an R rating doesn't mean you should not go see it. I believe that many PG-13 rated films are sometimes worse than many R rated films. Our young people aren't naive. They hear language much worse than what was in the movie, every day. I would go as far as to say that we should encourage young people to go see this movie. What a powerful tool for explaining the gospel! People connect with movies, especially young people. It's one of their favorite hobbies. We need to use this to our advantage (just like Paul did in Athens). If you believe that God is sovereign, then you believe that He can even use an R RATED movie to bring people into a relationship with him. Here is an example. As I was leaving the movie, I was listening to a group of young people discuss what they had just seen. One girl didn't like it (she was still crying minutes after the movie was over). When asked why by her friends, she said: "I don't understand why he had to die." If I had known this girl, it would have been very easy for me to talk to her about a God that loved her so much that he died for her. If that doesn't convince you, start asking non-believers what they thought of the movie, and I bet they will open the door for you to share with them a story that is even better than the one they saw on the screen! Now that I'm off my soap box, I have some of the same questions that B.J. has. Would you please post your response, or write me?
In His Service,
Jon Price
-You may post my email address. I would like to dialogue about this subject. |
SOME
INSIGHTS INTO COFFEY AND PERCY
Subject: More on Green Mile
Date: Tue, 4 Jan 2000
From: VCL
In response to BJ, I heard the statement as "He killed them with THEIR love for each other." And I believe he was indeed referring to the murder of the two little girls. The murderer (I won't identify him for those who have yet to see the movie) threatened each with harm to her sister if they told or cried out, so their love for each other kept them from getting help, caused them to cooperate and thus got them killed. That was my interpretation. I also believe Coffey was especially hurt by this because instead of using their fleshly desire for self-preservation, the murderer used their love -- the ultimate perversion.
I loved this movie too. But I have to say I'm with Mike Craig on the transfer of evil (or "disease") from John Coffey to the guard. Coffey deliberately held it until he was near Percy. I can't see Jesus doing that or endorsing it either. (Incidently, a more conservative Christian review indicated that an "evil supporting character receives his just punishment.") Was it just, if it was meted out by Coffey rather than God. Was it Coffey's call to make? After all vengeance is God's.
BTW -- as much as I like Tom Hanks and Michael Clark Duncan in this movie, I think Doug Hutchinson, who played Percy was absolutely fabulous. He's not a good guy -- but he plays Percy's weasel-iness to utter perfection. I hope he gets some acting nods as the award season progresses.
From: VLC
(please don't post my e-mail address) |
ANAL
SEX AND CHRISTIAN PORN?
Subject: Dogma. Eelco for real?
Date: Tue, 4 Jan 2000
From: Greg
Is Eelco van Kappen for real? I just have a few questions about his/her post: How many times did s/he mention "anal sex" in his/her email? And how does s/he know anything about the film if s/he hasn't seen it? And could someone please explain where these Jimmy Osmond references are coming from? Why the "Christian rap" references? And what in the world are "Christian porn movies"? I seriously hope this is a joke....
By the way, I have only heard a few negative things about Dogma in passing, but after reading this page, I'm anxious to see it. I am a Christian and want to see what it's all about for myself instead of going on and on about stuff I know nothing about and/or have heard from other people (and I promise if I send a review I won't mention "anal sex" at all!) |
PHILOSOPHY
IN BICENTENNIAL MAN IS HORRIBLE
Subject: Bicentennial Man. personal comment....
Date: Tue, 4 Jan 2000
From: Straight Up Youth Ministry
Well, I first say thanks for spending your time to create a resource for people to access so freely. I just suggested parents look up this site in a newsletter I send monthly to all the parents of students in our ministry.
As a Youth Pastor, some people may think I should stay more current with trendy movies and what-not, but after recently taking my wife to see Bicentennial Man I once again came to the conclusion that 99% of movies are simply a waste of time.
Now, I'm not some old stickler, I'm simply a 25 year old red-blooded male saved from sin and wanting to follow Jesus. The students in this youth ministry know that I, for the most part, will never watch any movie over a PG rating. Maybe that's too black & white for some, but PG-13 says that a little language or a little nudity, a little gore and violence is okay - NO! That's not what God says in His word.
Anyway, my thought on this particular movie is thus: Yea, sure it has the potential for some good questions and whatever, however, the philosophies there within are horrible. How could I ever recommend students watch a movie that teaches principles so clearly contradicting to the word of God? What about the scene where the robotic engineer describes sex as "going to heaven"? And, why sure, Andrew should have the ability to have sex, we wouldn't want to deny him that. I'm not saying sex is bad or dirty, you know what I mean. In a marriage sex should be incredible, God designed us to enjoy each other that way, and it's great. My point is simply that the movie, with a PG rating, is supposed to appeal to those family friendly folks out there and yet it still teaches our kids to laugh at swear words, that God is a foreign concept, and sex out of marriage is great.
To wrap it up, even though I had a two free movie passes to go, I feel like I wasted them and my time.
Jeff Bower - IN. |
CHRISTIANS
SHOULD NOT GO TO R RATED MOVIES
Subject: Magnolia. How can you recommend this movie?
Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2000
From: Mrs. Christian
I will not go to a movie that contains filthy language, sexual content, etc. If is rated "R" we will not go see it period. I generally will not go see even a PG-13 film because it will most likely contain the f-word or other profanities and vulgarities, etc. The only movie I will consider seeing is a PG. We are to be careful what goes into our minds and listening to this filth can and does pollute the mind. Sometime, somewhere we as Christians need to take a stand and not waste our money on these films. But professing Christiams continue to go to these movies and search for some redeeming value. Would you feel comfortable buying Jesus a ticket to an R rated movie? If you want to hear profanity, etc. head for any number of dens of iniquity in the community and it won't cost you anything. Our society is in a moral downslide and one of the contributing factors is the entertainment we as a society participate in whether it be in the movie theater or at home on HBO. Please get on your knees and ask for God's wisdom before you ever recommend such trash and filth again.
Respectfully in Christ,
Mrs. Christian
My response: What a wonderful commitment you have to purity. It is somehow refreshing to know you are a person so committed to such discipline. May God bless you!
In terms of Magnolia as "filth and trash" --you have many words for a movie you have not seen. This is not a good quality, dear heart.
As for R rated movies: When I go, I buy two tickets one for Jesus and one for myself. We watch the film together. Afterwards, we go out for coffee and talk about the film. We have some great conversations. For me Jesus is a 24-7 event. I always invite Jesus along, no matter where I go.
Below you will find a letter from an agnostic who was touched by the R rated movie Dogma. And a Chinese Buddhist writes of crying during the Christ story in R rated Powder. To me, this is God at work. This is light in darkness.
I am still curious, aren't you part of a King James only group that feels it's part of the only true Christian church? God's blessings on you and your family, Mrs. Christian. |
POKEMON
LEADS TO THE OCCULT
Subject: Pokemon
Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2000
From: Mrs. Christian
I believe that you are falling into the trap of trivializing the impact of this occultic phenomenon. Any exposure to the occult plants a seed and opens the door to future dangers. The impact may not show immediately and may lie dormant for years, but the influence of the occult does have an impact whether it is through playing around with a ouiji board or being hynotized for entertainment. God has instructed that we are not to have anything to do with the powers of darkness but rather to expose them. We have a responsiblity to protect our children because they are naturally going to want to be a part of the craze and they will feel peer pressure to do so. I pray brother that you will realize that this will have an impact at some time on our precious children. We must not be paranoid, but rather be wise and earnestly seek the Lord's direction. It shouldn't be how far can we push the envelope but rather how safe can we keep our children. We live in a world that is increasingly evil and satan is pulling out all the stops to capture the hearts and minds of children and young people. We must be wise as serpents and gentle as doves. Jesus was extremely protective of children and I do not think that he would want them to take part in Pokeman. I would rather err on the side of caution rather than risk harming a child and I hope that you will take these words to heart. You are responsble for those you influence. The Pokeman fad will surely pass, but the hidden effects of it will remain for a long time and who knows what it could lead to.
In Him,
A Sister in Christ
My response: The light is always more than the darkness -John 1. Dear Mrs. Christian, why do you put so much attention on what you see as darkness? "Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, if there be any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." -Philippians 4:8 |
DOESN'T
LIKE TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL
Subject: Touched By An Angel
Why don't they ever mention Jesus?
Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2000
From: Mrs. Christian
Touched by an Angel does fill the bill for a clean-cut warm fuzzy story and a welcome relief from the trash such as Ally McBeal. However, from a Christian standpoint, it is an affront to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. His name could not be mentioned because it would be offensive to some. God is safe for all,but to mention Jesus would not be acceptable. Jesus is the only way to God - unless one receives and acknowledges Him as Saviour, there can be no relationship with God. To imply otherwise is to do a disservice to unbelievers and is a deception. Touched by an Angel encourages the tendency by some in our society to become obsessed with angels and even worship them. This is also an insult to God and our Saviour. To lead anyone to believe that they can have a relationship with God without Jesus in the equation is so wrong and that is why I although I too desire to see more family-oriented programs, cannot feel good about this program.
Sincerely, Sher
My response: This is your third letter today. In the first you blast R and PG-13 movies, in the second you blast G-rated Pokemon. And now you trash Touched By An Angel. This must not be your day. My heart goes out to you because you are living in a post-Christian era. The world will never measure up to your standards. It must be difficult for you to live in this world. So, I have a gift for you: A gift of promise. -Psalm 23! "...Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." There you go. I even did that in King Jimmy English, your favorite, just for you. May God grant you peace.
|
AGNOSTIC
TOUCHED BY DOGMA
Subject: Dogma I'm impressed
Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2000
From: Mischa
I am suprised and impressed at you view of the movie. I saw it 2 days ago with my friends. They are agnostic, and I probably am too. Not only was it funny, but is was a religious catharsis. It touched on everything and makes you think.
Thanks for the class.
My response: Your welcome. And thanks for the kind words. I am curious to know if Dogma made God more real for you? I would love to know more of your interaction with this important film that the both of us enjoyed. |
ABOUT
THE POSTER
Subject: Shawshank Redemption. Pin up poster
Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2000
From: THEART
After leaving his cell through the hole in the wall, how did the guy put the pin up poster back so neatly? Robbins is 6'5"!!
My response: It's only a movie where story comes first, not small details concerning a poster. |
DON'T
EXPECT MOVIE TO MATCH BOOK VERBATIM
Subject: Lord of the Rings Movie
Date: Sun, 02 Jan 2000
From: Richard Boyd
I too am anticipating the new movie. I have read the books dozens of times, and although I would stop short of calling the trilogy a parable, it is obvious that Tolkien's Christian roots show through.
One word of caution however. Each of the volumes of the trilogy is a rather deep and detailed novel by itself. And, many of you are fans who (like me) have read the books so many times that you can quote whole passages verbatim. (Don't you wish you knew the bible as well?)
Don't expect the movies to match the depth of the books. they can't! Unless each of the three movies runs 3 hours or longer, some stuff is going to get left out!
By the way David, I just found your site. It's wonderful!!!! I teach video production at a local college, and you can be sure that each of my students will be hearing about Hollywood Jesus.
Thanks,
Rick Boyd |
FINDING
LIGHT IN HOLLYWOOD JESUS
Subject: Dogma. thanks
Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2000
From: Mindy H
dear hollywood jesus:
thanks for your objective view of "dogma". i am so exhausted from reading negative reviews from people who haven't seen the movie. it's great to read a review from someone who looks for light in everything and looks at a film's message, as opposed to damning films for reasons like how the message is presented.
i thought you might enjoy an item from the
http://newsaskew.com/november99/
(November 1999 Archives) about halfway down the page, in the update from november 14, 1999, there's a transcript of a www board post from kevin smith, beginning with the heading "kevin posts on dogma, more..."
i'm sending this to "private dogma" since i don't know whether you'd like a link to another site on the page, but if you feel it's relavent and you'd like to post it, go right ahead. the guys who run news askew are from my hometown, and i read them faithfully and would love to get them some extra press. also, i submitted your review to their "news and reviews" page. again, since i like your site, i tried to get you some press. i hope you don't mind. the entire review list can be found
http://www.newsaskew.com/dogmarc/press.html hollywood jesus is fairly close to the top of the list. anyway, i hope you enjoy the links. have a wonderful day, and god bless.
*mindy hildebrand*
My response: Thanks Mindy, I appreciate you. |
CHINESE
BUDDHIST LIKES POWDER
Subject: Powder
Date: Sun, 02 Jan 2000
From: Chan
Hi; I'm vyee from Malaysia. Being a Chinese; staying in a country where Islam is the official religion; studied in a Convent school for most of my life and being a Buddist myself; I have the chance of appreciating different religion than most people.
I cried during most part of the show because it strike a chord deep down. I've found the show has more Buddhism than christianity connection in it. As Buddhism emphasis a lot on compassions not only to human being but to all kind of living creature as well. Buddism also emphasis energy transform (reincarnation, reciprocation), and how an enlightened one can understand everything in the world (ability to use 100% of the brain). I cried also because i see how most ignorant mortal behaves. Rejecting, humiliating or killing others that is greater or better than them; only to proof that they are more superior and in control. I see the show as how an unknown/unfamous Great Being will be treated in an unhumble society; whether that Great Being a Jesus, a messenger or a Buddha.
My response: I agree. There is something very profound about the Christ story. It truly transcends all religious and cultural boundaries. I am curious to know what you think of Christ. I understand there are many connections between the Buddha and the Christ. Have you found this to be true? I invite your response, after all, its not everyday I have the wonderful opportunity to correspond with a Buddhist in a Islamic country that knows about Jesus. This is a rare treat for me. May the Great Being's richest blessings be on you. |
POKEMON
AND THE ANTI CHRIST
Subject: Pokemon Does Pokemon bring in antichrist?
Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2000
From: R P B
Hello again, You asked me if I seriously believed if Pokemon really would bring in the antichrist? However, you missed entirely what I was referring to, or if you didn't you appeared to make us all believe you did. What I said was that these kind of fads over and over again generation after generation, just like most all of the things that you referred to (rock-n-roll, Beatles, etc.) would some day as the bible says, make people get worse and worse, bad things becoming good and good things becoming bad. And, God said He would give them (people of the world) over to a reprobate mind. No I don't believe that -Pokemon- will bring in the antichrist, but these are just the kind of things that the devil has always used to keep us occupied when God has actually been trying to get ahold of us all of our lives. However, we keep jumping from fad to fad and missing the genuine eternal relationship with the Creator of this universe that we could have been having in place of some temporary insignificant fad. The antichrist will do the same kind of thing. He will occupy our time, continue to deceive our minds, promise us everything and not be able to deliver a single thing, then the fad is over until he can find something else that we or our kids think looks good.
When Jesus Christ was tempted, He was only tempted as we are today in three areas. The pride of life, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes. These were also the same temptations that Adam and Eve were tempted with. However, the difference between Christ and them is that He used The Word of God to ward off the devil. If you noticed, since Christ didn't give in to the devil, he left Him alone. We too can do that as a Christian, through the power of the Holy Spirit by quoting and memorizing scripture so we are prepared for when those temptations come. To many of us as the bible says are ignorant of the devils devices and don't recognize them when they are in plan sight. Why is this do you think? Because the dirty rotten devil is always keeping us occupied away from the Word of God with the hustle and bustle of the things of this world. The company that has made this game (Wizards of the Coast) and the other games that they make should be all the red flag we need to recognize that this is not the best thing that we or our kids should be involved in.
RPB
My response: Your points are well taken. I still find it hard to believe that Pokemon is part of a path to satanic conquest of the world. I know little about the Pokemon cards. The movie however, is a good example of Christ's death and resurrection in a very boring sort of way. I think I would rather call attention to the light in the darkness, rather than throw stones at the darkness. We view the world from different points of view. I see the God story in everything, you tend to see the work of Satan. Oh well, I do appreciate your faith, and commitment to a holy life that avoids evil. My God continue to bless you. |
LOVED
HORSE WHISPER
Subject: Horse Whisper. I love this movie:
Date: Sat, 01 Jan 2000
From: Amber
hello! my name is amber! I love this movie!!! I love movies with horses. I thuoght it should allot about hard work! And How a horse whisper is a true hero! And heals there pain! So you know a web page on what a horse whisper is?
My Response: Check out the "OFFICIAL SITE" link on the review page. |
TOM
RIPLEY IS A TROUBLED MAN
Subject: Talented Mr Ripley. Saw it twice. Loved it twice.
Date: Sat, 1 Jan 2000
From: Kelly-Shane-Pickell
First off, happy new year! Second off, wow, what an amazing movie! Matt Damon was awesome (as always). Matt Damon was what drew me to the movie the first time. The plot twists, characters changes, and story line was what made me see it again two days later. It's a movie that leaves you thinking. It's not wrapped in a nice pretty package--but either is Tom Ripley. It all started from a lie; pretending to own a jacket that wasn't his. Funny how easily a lie can snowball. This movie shows us the trouble we can get into for not being honest about who we really are. It also shows us how dangerous one's temper can be. Tom Ripley falls in love and love is a very powerful force. When his crush begins to ignore him and hang with other friends, Ripley gets jealous. Funny how strong jealousy can be. His love, his jealousy, his emotions, they all overwhelm him, and he acts from his flesh, not thinking about what he's really doing. He does some bad things. He gets him self in a boat load of trouble. To counteract the sinking problems, Tom has to again be someone who he's not. And he's pretty convincing. Every time I would whisper "Why'd you just do that? You screwed up!" I learn that he knew what he was doing. He was a smart man. A talented man. A troubled man. A lost man. I don't understand the mind of Tom Ripley. I don't know why he did the things he did. I do feel sorry for him. And I feel sorry for those he bumped into. I wish things had turned out differently. I wish he had never lied. I with he would have been happy being who God created him to be. I don't care if he's gay or straight. I don't care if he's rich or poor. I just wish he would have been who God made him, instead of wrapping his life around so many lies. But at least it made for a very engaging movie.
- Kelly Pickell [kpickell@email.com] -=- http://www.gayvegan.com |
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