| On this page I post your e-mail and my response. A running dialogue about spirituality and popular culture. | |||||
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By
David Bruce
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| 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. | |||||
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We are finally catching up on the back log of reviews and comments. Thanks for your patience and understanding.
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| CHRIST
HAS BEEN PREVERTED September 30, 1999. I walked into Sigmata having heard it was high on other peoples' lists', but knowing absolutley nothing about it. I didn't even make a connection to the name, as I am not Catholic. I do not in fact consider myself linked strongly to any Church, even though I was raised in a Christian religious family. This film excited me on it's topic a great deal. It agreed with so many conclusions I have made in my own mind. I have explored alot to do with Christianity and do feel that the teachings of Christ were greatly perverted by the resulting Churches. I believe that the ancient church lied to the masses alot ot sway thing their own way, and this extended even to rewriting the Bilbe, as far as i know. The only thing I need to know from the Bible is that 'God is Love.' I don't see him as the God the churches have described, either. What I have been searching the net for was information on Nag Hammadi, as i am fascinated to know more. I could talk about this all day, it is a riveting subject for me, but I just wanted to say my piece. -Alison My response: I am so glad the film sparked such thoughts in you. I do believe you are on a wonderful spiritual journey! The film is about the fact that Almighty God wants to speak to creation. The point of the film is that the Almighty God would speak through an atheist if the Almighty had to. To think that Almighty God could be silenced for 2000 years by some so-called church officials doesn't fit the nature of God as presented in the film. Can Almighty God be silenced by mere mortals? I think not. Regarding the discovery of the Nag Hammadi Documents, as in the case with many major archaeological discoveries, the find was something quite unexpected. In 1945 an Arab peasant digging in an ancient cemetery for soft dirt to be used as fertilizer, found instead a large earthenware jar. At first he feared to open the jar due to his superstitious beliefs, but the prospect of valuable treasure inside prompted him to break open the container. He found the thirteen leather-bound books, or codices. Some of the documents may have been destroyed, but the discovery eventually came to the attention of those involved in antiquity studies. Practically all the materials reflect the religious outlook called gnosticism, an emerging world view that caused considerable difficulty for early Christianity. Until the discovery of the Nag Hammadi Documents, our knowledge of gnosticism came primarily from early Christian writers who wrote against the movement. Christian writers such as Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, Origen, and Tertullian not only gave descriptions of the teachings of gnosticism, but they also quoted from gnostic writings. With the Nag Hammadi discovery, however, a small library of actual gnostic writings became available for study. The Nag Hammadi Documents represent a rather wide diversity of content. Of special interest are several more clearly defined categories. The materials referred to as "Gospels" are especially important. In this category are such works as The Gospel of Philip, The Gospel of Truth, and perhaps the most important work found at Nag Hammadi, The Gospel of Thomas, which purports to be a collection of sayings of Jesus. These writing teach that God is unknowable and is neither concerned about the world nor has anything to do with it. Knowledge of one’s true self and of the character of the universe is the way to salvation. |
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| A
ROSE AMONG WEEDS September 29, 1999. (Re: Stigmata) I recently was put in an odd position with friends. They wanted to watch this movie and I did not, I assumed the movie would be a stab toward religion and didn't want a part of it. I am a religious person who does not attend church due to my concerns about which church to claim and the people within them. When I sat down to watch this movie, I prayed to God to send me a message from Him that would stand out among all the other "bad" stuff. Although many might see this movie as just another movie with religious misconceptions, I view it as a message. In this day and age we are a world full of people to busy to attend church or some who feel religion is not for them due to past mistakes or experiences. I say take the message to heart, Believe in God, pray, ask for his help and forgiveness. You don't need a church for that. To those who are picking this movie apart, sometimes you can find a rose among weeds-take the message which is good and leave the rest behind. A Believer, Jennifer |
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| BRIMSTONE
IS COMING BACK Septembr 28, 1999. This is to let you know that Brimstone will begin airing new episodes in December 1999 on the SciFi Channel. I am hoping for new production on the 6 scripts wtitten and ready to go. We are all so excited. I spoke to Bonnie Hammer's office at SciFi and this is confirmed. -Barbara |
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| SIXTH
SENSE SANCTUARY September 27, 1999. (Re: Sixth Sense). Your review pointed out several things I saw immediately, except for one- the use and MISuse of Sanctuary. Cole could legitimately run to his blanket-tent for Sanctuary when he was just a little boy terrified of the ghosts. But once Dr. Malcolm suggests the boy talk to them & find out what they want, Cole becomes accountable, and is no longer safe in his sanctuary. The ghost can come in so that he is forced to face her & give her help. This is almost a reversal of Christ's "Harrowing of Hell". The girl-ghost can harrow (plow up, break into) Cole's tent so that Cole can act to release her into the Afterlife. In the process of writing this, I just thought of Cole's tent as paralleling the Tabernacle/Temple in the Mosaic system, and how it was opened up with the ripping of the Veil at Christ's death, when some of the graves also opened in Matthew 27. Thanks, Ted |
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| SHYAMALAN
IS BRILLIANT AND OPENS THE AFTERLIFE September 27, 1999. (Re: Sixth Sense). M. Night Shyamalan's brilliant directing and writing has brought one of the most talked about issues to the forefront...the afterlife. I love the way he allows us to interpret the movie. Each of us see something different in it. Through message boards and websites such as this one, we are able to share and discuss our views on the subject of death and the possibility of afterlife. This movie is one of the most discussed movies I've ever seen. The acting is brilliant. The use of symbolism is unparalleled. Oh to be able to read the screenplay. This movie truly challenges the mind. Why aren't there more like this? -Tony |
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| HOLLYWOOD
JESUS IS OPEN MINDED September 27, 1999. Your views on entertainment are refreshing! When I first happened upon your site I was expecting more overbearingly reactionary reasons why everything the media does is wrong. But your open-minded approach to finding spirituality in Hollywood efforts is a breath of fresh air. Thank you! :) My Responses: Thank you for your kind words.! |
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| WHERE
IS THE SEARCH ENGINE? September 23, 1999. Thanks for your wonderful Christian insights and information. But I wonder how many people are like me? A night out at the movies, a friend says, "go see this!" and I'd like some QUICK info from you. why not a simple search engine--so I could type the name in and get your feedback real quick when I don't have much time to ponder the new and upcoming flicks? Just a thought. God bless your ministry! I'm praying for you and your church! -Guy My response: Thanks for the prayers. I appreciate that. The best place to go to first in HJ is the table of contents, It will give you all the movies in HJ! |
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| ABOUT
COMMENTS ABOUT STIGMATA September 23, 1999. Hello... I'm a little disturbed by some of the comments regarding the movie Stigmata. As a Catholic Christian, well, you can fill in the blank. It's saying, with full force, what many anti-Catholics have been saying for years, that the Catholic Church has been hiding the truth, and that there is some sort of conspiracy to hide the true Gospel. Any educated Catholic will be able to tell you that buildings and stone don't make up the church. This is taught throughout the Scriptures, but also throughout the Roman Catholic Catechisms, and Church teaching throughout the ages. Yes, you can have a personal relationship with Christ without many of the treasures that the Catholic Church has within its doors. But the truth is, if the movie were to come out and say that you can have a personal relationship with Christ without the Scriptures, I can see Protestants lining up the streets in protest. If the movie were to say that you can have a personal relationship with Christ without other Christians, without Sunday Services, without titheing, without any outward change of behavior, it may be true, but what a poor excuse for a relationship! All those things that the Catholic Church holds (and may drive some Protestants crazy), all those church buildings, all those rituals, all those saintly devotions, all those 'sacraments' --with proper understandings of their Biblical roots and their pragmatic purposes, feed me with a relationship so deep and dear that it only strengthens my relationship with Christ. God promised a wedding feast. Certainly it is sufficient to have only bread and water for your sustenance, but what joy it is to fully participate in the Full Wedding Feast of God! Tell me with a straight face that this would detract from His Glory. In love, Nick. |
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| FROM
YAHUI IN SINGAPORE September 22, 1999. Hallo, I'm a student from Singapore. Recently, this movie, 'Children Of Heaven', has shown here. Though the movie is not in English, I went to watch it and immediately I love it! The story is simple but touching, especially the last part, screening the race. Yes, I really cannot stop my tears from rolling down my cheeks. This movie has made me realize how fortunate I am to be living in S'pore. This movie has shown us not only the living condition of the people there, it has also shown us the culture of the people. The relationship between the two kids really warms me up. The two kids are really GREAT! They have acted extremely well and deserve the praises. There are a number of scene that I can really feel the dilemmas the kids faced. Is this movie base on a true story? Where can I find more picture on this movie? Yours Sincerely, Yahui '99 E-mail add: romanialover@earthling.net |
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| LOTS
OF RACISM IN SCHOOL September 21, 1999. (Re: American History X) I AM NOT A RACIST, BUT I SEE A LOT OF RACISM GOING AROUND, AND IT'S NOT ONLY BY WHITE PEOPLE. WHERE I GO TO SCHOOL THERE ARE ASIAN CLUBS, AND AFRICAN AMERICAN CLUBS. THERE ARE OTHER RACES IN THESE CLUBS, BUT IF YOU HAD A CLUB THAT WAS CALLED THE CAUCASIAN CLUB YOU WOULD BE CONSIDERED A RACIST. NOTICE HOW WE DON'T LOOK AT THESE PEOPLE AS RACISTS!! THAT IS JUST ALTOGETHER WRONG AND SHOULD BE STOPPED. THAT SAYING THAT SAYS TREAT ALL PEOPLE ARE EQUAL, WELL IT DOES NOT SEEM LIKE IT ANYMORE! IF THIS WAS TRUE THAN THESE PEOPLE WOULD BE RACISTS!!!!!!!! -JAMIE |
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| A
PAGAN VIEW OF THE FIFTH ELEMENT September 21, 1999. (Re: The 5th Element) You and those that have replied to this site have brought up some interesting and thoughtful points about this movie. Some of which I had not thought. I wish to add my perceptions to this site. The first thing that I should note is that I am a Wiccan, which is a pagan religion. As my own personal beliefs somewhat differ from yours and those that have previously posted, naturally, my ideas on the movie differ from yours. In my belief, the pentacle is the symbol of the five elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and at the top, Spirit. Hence, there is already a meaning in Wicca for the fifth element. I feel that Leeloo is a good interpretation of Spirit. She is a divine being, and speaks in the Divine Language, which should be noted is a smattering of many earth languages. Also in Wicca is the belief in both a God and a Goddess. The Goddess is a mother Goddess, and is strongly linked to the earth; indeed, she can be considered as being the earth, otherwise known as Gaia from Greek legend. Most of Wicca, and other forms of related paganism focus primarily on the worship of the mother Goddess, and hardly mentions the God except in relation to the Goddess. Leeloo, therefore, can not only be interpreted as a Jesus figure, but also as a Goddess figure, as she is of primary importance to the universe. On the other hand, the evil force, known in the movie as Mr. Shadow, can be interpreted as being anti-spirit. One of the biggest problems many Pagans face is that we are often called devil-worshippers, even though we do not believe in the devil. A reason for this is that devil-worshippers also take the pentacle as their primary symbol. However, they use the inverted pentacle, with spirit being replaced by anti-spirit. Good, by evil. It is like the Swastika, which in many cultures is a symbol of good luck. However, reverse it and tilt it slightly, and you get the symbol that Hitler and his Nazi's took. It is the same as what would happen if Mr. Shadow occupied the center of the temple when the elements were activated. The central tenet in Wicca goes: "And it harm none, do as thou wilt." This is not always possible, however, and often harm must sometimes come to one so that more may be saved. In the same way, Leeloo wishes only to serve life, but sometimes has to harm others (i.e. the bad guys) in order to complete her mission and save all life in the universe. Also, many Pagans, myself included, do not believe in the forces of ultimate good, or ultimate evil. We do, however believe in the forces of order and chaos. Sometimes what is chaotic may appear evil, and sometimes what is ordered may appear good. Perhaps it is not the struggle between good and evil that is portrayed in this movie, but the struggle between order and chaos. The reason why order is to win in this movie is so that life can continue. If chaos were to win, destruction would follow. However, many Physics theories predict that chaos and randomness will win with the heat death of the universe. It is only through order, that being the use of the Big Crunch theory of the death of the universe, that life can be reborn. With regards to this order/chaos interpretation, I am reminded of a series of Stephen King books. He wrote (and is still in the process of writing) the "Dark Tower" series of books. Just about every book of his either contains a reference to the Dark Tower itself, or a reference to one of the places mentioned in the series, or a reference to another book. This Dark Tower exists on all worlds, and is where the struggle between Random and Order takes place. The Tower may not be a physical structure on every world, but is most of the time considered as being in higher dimensional status with regards to the world. For example, all of our human experience takes place on the first level of the tower, being the first level of sentience. This is mostly unrelated to the Fifth Element, with the only relevant info being that it is a story of the struggle between order and chaos. Thank you for taking the time to listen to my side of this. -Omnipaul@nmt.edu Paul Padilla, P.O. Box 2089, Socorro, NM 87801 http://members.theglobe.com/omnipaul |
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| JESUS
WAS HUMAN TOO September 17, 1999. (Re: Last Temptation of Christ) The traditional definition for the person of Christ is "fully human, fully divine." Most of the popular "Jesus" movies are heretical in that they portray a Jesus who is human only in body, not "fully human." Yet those films will never get protested, despite their heresy, because Christians prefer a Christ who is more divine than human. But when a movie comes along which errs on the side of Jesus' humanity it is "attempting to destroy Christianity." Heaven forbid we present the public with a Jesus they can actually relate to! There were some obvious theological flaws in the movie. According to orthodoxy, Jesus' divinity and humanity were not in conflict, 
whereas the Jesus of Last Temptation is torn in two. Yet, the movie presents
a Jesus which many people who have been pushed out of the Church can relate
to. If this image of Christ can succeed in bringing people into relationship
with Christ in ways where the Church has failed, then who is really the
one destroying Christianity?-Andy My response: I totally agree with you |
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DO
ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP? September 17, 1999. Your wonderfully insightful review of Blade Runner has caused me to ponder some possibilities I hadn't previously considered. When "the created" meets and kills "the creator", might this be a reference to "Death of God" theology in which God has in effect been killed by God's creation, humanity? If so, the transformation of Roy into a Christ figure would be representative of the individual taking the place of God, which is also a part of "Death of God" theology. I would have to think this through further to see if there's anything to that, but I am convinced this movie is not only about the nature of humanity, it is also about the nature of God the Creator. My love for this movie caused me to read the book "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" (the title of which suggests that Deckard himself is a Replicant). Consequently I have become fascinated with the writings of Philip K. Dick. If you appreciated the theological questions raised in this movie, check out Dick's writing. Much of it is dated, but it is still some of the most thought-provoking stuff you'll ever read! -Andy |
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CALL
TO MINISTRY September 17, 1999. A few years ago I began to feel a call to the ministry. I couldn't believe God would be calling me. I was not worthy to serve in such an important position. I shared these feelings with my Pastor who replied, "You're not! None of us are. But God calls us anyway!" The Apostle is such a powerful reminder of the ways in which God can use us in spite of ourselves. I was moved to tears more than once. I hope and pray that I never make such terrible mistakes as Sonny made, but I am also humbled by the knowledge that I may never make as much of an impact on people's lives as he did. All I can say is "Thank God" Hollywood rejected this film so that they didn't have an opportunity to ruin Robert Duvall's inspired vision! -Andy My response: I really liked this film. It moved me to the core. I think you are right about Duvall making this film. It did make it better. |
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| MORE
ON DOGMA
LOOKING
FORWARD TO DOGMA DOGMA
TAKES GOD SERIOUSLY CATHOLIC
LEAGUE IS INTOLERANT |
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SITH
CONNECTION TO REVELATION'S 1000 YEARS.
 September 17, 1999. I loved The Phantom Menace enough to see it three times. Each time I found there were things I had missed before, especially biblical references. One reference I caught the third time through was a connection between the Sith and the book of Revelation. When the Jedi council are presented with the possibility that the Sith have returned, Yoda responds that it is impossible, the Sith have been gone for a thousand years. It wasn't until hearing this three times that I made the connection to the mention in the book of Revelation that Satan will be bound for a thousand years (the thousand year reign of the Jedi) and then let free to cause more havoc (enter Darth Sidious). I can't express how great it is to have a movie which is immensely entertaining and causes me to reflect on the Bible at the same time! As far as the Virgin Birth reference, I don't understand why some people get so worked up over that. During the time of Jesus, stories of virgin births were common, and were a way of expressing in a story the great significance of a person. All you need to do is look at Mediterranean literature of that period to realize that. So George Lucus picks up on a common theme of religious story telling and uses it to evoke thoughts about the significance of Anakin Skywalker. He is after all writing a myth. I say if Lucus can entertain millions of people and cause them to reflect on spirituality in the same movie, may the Force be with him! -Andy My response: Thnks for this observation for the 1000 years. I had not noticed it. |
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MORE
ON BLAIR WITCH
BLAIR
WITCH TOTALLY MADE UP |
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| RAPTURE
IS MIND BLOWING September 15, 1999. THE RAPTURE (1994) Dir. Michael Tolkin, starring Mimi Rogers & David Duchovny, as a wild debauched couple who meet during a one-night stand, come to the Christian faith & join a church focusing on Christ's Return, which Mimi takes totally out of context with tragic & mind-blowing results- Have ya seen it? Except for the early scenes of blatant sin, it could almost be shown to church groups. The ending stunned my friends & I into silence when we first saw it. One amusing thing- the "Christian" characters speaks a "Christianese" that does not quite make sense. It's like reading instructions 
originally written in Japanese & translated roughly into English-
otherwise, a stunning & provocative film-Ted My response: I want to review this film in Hollywood Jesus. It's just a matter of time. Thank you for your comments. |
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| LOTS
OF JOANS September 15, 1999. Mira Sorvino as Joan of Arc????? Isn't she a BIT anti-waif? I think Mila Jovanovich is a bit TOO waify, but Leelee Sobrieski was PERFECT! -Ted |
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| NOAH'S
ARK ON TV BRILLIANT, NO NEED TO BE UPTIGHT! September 15, 1999. So many good things have been stopped due to inaccuracies. Ok, so what if Noah's Ark wasn't completely true? That is what poetic license is for!! The fact is that it was a BRILLIANT movie. How can people that believe in God be so judgmental on people that try, and make GREAT entertainment for the world? Would you rather that they make violent or 
pornographic movies for us to view? Someone has taken a great story and
put it into a movie. Who are we to judge that wonderful type of creation?
At least the movie was down to earth, humourous and interesting. This
is what makes people want to be involved in something. I know myself,
although not accurate, the movie made it's point, it got me thinking.
My opinion. Live and Let live, believing in God and bible stories is not
about putting others down and criticizing them, it is about congratulating
them on their efforts. The movie still got the same morals across that
the original bible stories have, so ask yourself a question? Are morals
better put in a fashion we cannot understand, with literature that can
bore some of us to tears, or better off being put in a down to earth,
well made movie with a few inaccuracies? I enjoyed it and thought it the
best mini-series I have ever seen! The makers were creative, and as far
as I thought, this is what God intended us to be, not judgmental dictators.-Leicia McDaniel My response: Yeah, you are right! It was good that they did the film. |
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SUPERMAN
ISN'T BLASPHEMOUS September 13, 1999. I think that some of the responses have been a little uptight here; ) As you mentioned, this story was originally written many years ago. I don't think it is blasphemous to say that a couple of writers decided to write a story about a character that displayed many "Christ-Like" qualities, and decided to infuse many parallels to the story of Christ himself. I believe that the similarities were quite intentional and striking(particularly the names)...and the probable intention was to keep it vague enough for public consumption. I bet they would have smiled about the film being accepted as mainstream with most(including myself) not consciously picking up on their wonderful nod to the saviour. even on it's surface, Superman is the story of a good man. I don't know if it was mentioned, but it could also be noted that Superman was essentially without sin. Now this is arguable, of course, but he was not of our world so he was not built with the sin nature that plagues us.I guess I just wanted to express that I thought it was silly to criticize something with such an obvious good-hearted intention. It should be stressed to those that criticize that the creators NEVER stated that this was the story of Jesus to be taken literally. Just a wonderful modern story with some symbolism and direct references to Jesus and hi greatness. When we pick out stuff like sexuality etc. 
we are forgetting that this was made into a modern story for entertainment
as well. Anyway, thanks again for your site and great observations.Jason Bazar My response: I totally agree with you. |
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| DEEP
BLUE SEA DISAPPOINTING September 13, 1999. I have been restricting my movie viewing lately, because so many of the movies are filled with things I shouldn't be watching or hearing. But I broke down and went to Deep Blue Sea. Overall, I was disappointed. There were a few scares, and a predictable 'Jaws' ending, but the acting was sub-standard, the computer generated sharks were lacking realism, and the plot was nothing I haven't seen before. I was encouraged that L.L. Cool J. was cast as a Christian, and even relied upon for prayer. But as usual, Hollywood had to tarnish his image by causing him to use much profanity (even perverting Scripture with profanity!), and turning to alcohol or pornography during the film. Whenever Hollywood slips and portrays a Christian in movies, the enemy makes sure to sling mud all over him. If it's a rainy day, and you've seen all the other movies out (or videos) then watch this one. Otherwise... -Michael Wade |
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| WHADAYATHINK? September 13, 1999. Hello again: I don't know if you have ever reviewed or have an opinion about "The Last Temptation of Christ." If so, what did you think of the film? When it was first out, I know a lot of video stores refused to carry it. I am curious. I have viewed your sight this past month. It is excellent! Many of your reviews are better than other columnists (newspaper/magazines). My best to you & your family, -Karen My response: I plan to have a review up in time for Easter on this film. I believe it is an important film. And, thank you for the kind words. |
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| STIGMATA
-PROFOUNDLY MEDIOCRE September 12, 1999. Dear David, Was interested to read the review of the Blair Witch Project and gratified to see my early submission was "spot on" with the general consensus that this profoundly spiritual film had a bizarrely godless core. I would like to make a brief (hopefully not too cheeky) suggestion and then go on to my response to "Stigmata", which I saw the other night. My suggestion is that you edit submissions from readers for spelling and punctuation. Many of us are not that conscious of our writing on the net, but that would give your page a bit of "polish" and make some of us look less like dolts. (Editor: I do minor edits, but I don't catch everything).  Stigmata:This was a profoundly mediocre film. As someone who has studied some of the "alternate" gospel accounts, it seemed like a lame attempt to dramatize the lack of acceptance of these non-canonical accounts of the life of Christ. Some of the dialogue sounded straight out of the Jesus Seminar. The basic synopsis is that a young woman is inadvertently given the rosary of a mysterious priest who died in Brazil. The old priest's church is the site of various miracles (particularly a statue of Mary weeping blood) being investigated by a priest from the Vatican. Upon receiving this rosary, the young woman - a professed atheist - begins to experience a bizarre stream of visions and agonizing wounds to her body. These are stigmata - literally the wounds of Christ (wrists and feet pierced, back lashed, brows pierce as if by a crown of thorns, etc.) The Vatican priest/scientist who investigated the church in Brazil (not knowing the connection) investigates this young woman's reported problems. What ensues is a mishmash of "divine" revelation, clearly demonic activity and the revelation of a revolutionary "fifth gospel" that the Catholic Church has "suppressed" through political intrigue and excommunications. As a Protestant, I get tired of the awe with which Hollywood sometimes views the Church of Rome. In the case of the alternate Gospel accounts, both Protestant and Catholic scholars generally reject them as flawed, un-historical and written by people with no contact with Christ. (The Jesus Seminar is very marginal.) Trying to look at this film as objectively as possible, I can't see it as anything but a dramatization of a demonic attack on the church (universal, not just Roman Catholic), and a rather inept one (both the attack and the dramatization). A few quick examples: the young woman's experience (played by Patricia Arquette) is reaching the press, but she never seems to be hounded by reporters. The priest, who's stigmata she is "channeling" was reported to be a profoundly holy man, yet some of his actions seem evil. The cardinal (I believe that was his office) who is actively "suppressing" the "fifth gospel" tries a rather banal exorcism on the woman. When that is unsuccessful - because, presumably, the spiritual forces are too powerful - he attempts to strangle her. There is, however, one oddly bright moment. One excommunicated Catholic shares that the "Church" is not wood and stones, not priests and rituals. He declares that he can know the risen Christ personally without any of that. To that I say, "Amen" and you don't need a new gospel account, either, there's more than enough of the Savior in the four New Testament gospels. Kris Childress |
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| TWO
BOOKS GOING TO PRESS September 12, 1999. Hi, I am a writer of inspirational books under the banner of HEARTWORKS. As yet I haven't formally printed my books but have 2 samples of my works called TALES OF ANGELS and AND THEN ONE DAY YOU MAY FIND ONE MILLION BRIGHT YELLOW SUNFLOWERS GROWING IN YOUR HEART (Whew!) The first is a compilation of illustrated stories, or should I say stories inter woven with angelic graphics. The second book is illustrated inspirational text. Peter Stein heartworx@hotmail.com HEARTWORKS PO Box 3118 Bellevue Hill NSW 2023 Australia 
 |
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WINGS
OF DESIRE. September 12, 1999. Hello! My name is Ray and I am a senior in High School. I am doing a comparison between Wings of Desire and City of Angels. I found that Wings of Desire is very hard to understand (for me anyway). If you could help me out in anyway it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and please get in touch. Sincerely, Ray My response: Both films are about the wonderful life we have as humans. I will be doing a review on Wigs of desire soon. Please check back in a month or two. Until then, here is a mini review: 1) angel longs to be human, (2) becuse he has fallen in love with a human woman. 3) He literally falls and becomes human. 4)Note the key line in this frame: "There is no greater story than ours." In other words, value your humanity it is a precious gift. |
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| CINEMA
CULTURE AT BAPTIST COLLEGE GROUP September 11, 1999. FYI: Cinema culture check. Your web site indicates your interest in movies. I thought you might be interested in a new activity I have started with the college Sunday school class at Winterville (Ga.) First Baptist Church. In an effort to heighten our awareness of how the culture can subtly change our attitudes about moral issues and how it can affect our relationship with Christ, we are meeting periodically to view a recent movie and critique it from a Biblical perspective. We examine the message of the movie, including its plot and characters, and we examine the medium itself, including the use of language, themes, sexual content, violence, etc. I have used various web sites as sources for information. They provide background, insight and ideas for questions. With that as the background, here is a report on our first such screening, held 
Sept. 10. We selected The Sixth Sense
as the first movie. Three of us compiled about 35 questions about the
movie. These were divided among those who attended the movie before they
saw it. Then afterward we met for pizza and discussed the movie, along
with a handful of people who had seen the movie earlier and chose to meet
us after the screening. Following are most of the questions we used, but
just to sum up, the consensus was as follows: The message: The Bible makes
it clear that there are spiritual forces as work, that there is spiritual
warfare going on between angels and the heavenly host against demonic
forces. As such, there is much we do not understand or know about such.
However, we felt in general that the premise that ghosts of dead people
are floating around is not supported by scripture.However, as pointed out by Philip Spitzer on at christiananswers.net, a witch used by King Saul summoned the prophet Samuel from beyond the grave (1 Sam. 28:11-20). Writer/director M. Night Shyamalan says, “... It's reality based fright. It comes from the fears of real people, real children and real adults; fears of loss, the unknown, of having a sixth sense about what lies beyond and fears of not understanding those intuitions.” But Jesus gives us hope and courage. The medium: This movie was told without excessive violence, only a mild swear word, just a small bit of alcohol use and only a hint of nudity. Religion was a theme of the movie, but no one in the movie seemed to have a grasp of a real relationship with God. I didn’t mention it at the time, but we can assume that the movie believes that psychotherapy from the grave is better than a life-changing relationship with Christ? Following are the specific questions we asked as we critiqued this film. By the way, we plan to do this again Sept. 24 with a viewing of The Matrix. 
Questions relating to the message: What does the movie say about death,
dying, and the afterlife? How does this fit with the Christian view of
these issues?When did you first realize what the big twist was? (There is a big twist at the end of the movie). Do you believe in ghosts? How about demons? How about Angels? Do ghosts exist? what does the Bible say? Do you believe that dead spirits walk among us? What does the Bible say about spirits? What does the movie say, if anything, about other 'sixth senses' (i.e., woman's intuition, being able to read people's minds, etc)? Do you believe in a sixth sense? Do the living have a duty to prevent some of the tragedies that the movie deals with? If so, what is that duty? The movie takes place during Halloween, what symbolic meaning could this have? Notice the use of shadows and reflections in this movie. How does that add to the story? Notice the use of doors and windows, as symbolic entrances to other dimensions and realities. Can you think of other movies where this technique has been employed? What symbolism is use in this movie? How does this movie deal with the concept of “sanctuary”? How does the Bible deal with the same concept? Look for the color red. What does it symbolize? Jesus said, “And the truth shall set you free.” How does that apply to film? Questions relating to the medium: What is it about this movie that has made it so popular at the box office? In one word, how did this movie make you feel? In general, did this movie have a positive, neutral or negative portrayal of religion? Are their Christians in this movie? How are they portrayed? Is this a realistic movie? Was this story told in an appropriate manner? Consider the use of special effects, language, nudity, sexuality, violence, etc. Did they enhance the movie’s effectiveness or story? Was this movie made by Christians? What positive elements are present in this film? Notice the language. Is it crude, appropriate, realistic, edifying, etc.? What is the sexual message of this movie? Are drugs and alcohol used? In what way? Should we look for Godly morals in a Hollywood movie? -Blake My response: I wish I could attend. thanks for thanking the time to right and please stay in touch. |
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OTHER
CHRISTIAN SITES ARE MORALISTIC September 11, 1999. I am so glad to have found your excellent movie site. That review of "Pi" was really something. I agree with you that too many (all?) of the other "Christian" movie review sites are moralistic rather that Christ-centered. I haven't' looked through your entire site yet (just found it 10 minutes ago), so I don't know if you reviewed "The Winslow Boy" or not. Check it out if you haven't seen it yet. I am a big David Mamet fan. Have you read his little book "On Directing Film" . It's essential reading for anyone interested in how and why good filmmaking works. -David Nethery |
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| KNOW
ANY AGENTS? September 11, 1999. hello...a friend passed along your website...very interesting...are you familiar with any Christian agents in Hollywood regarding screen plays or even the music industry? I dabble a little bit in writing lyrics and am working on a screen play and if I had somebody I could possibly submit them to I might take it a little more seriously...thanks! Bob H. My response: No I don't know of any. But, why not attend the City of Angels Film Fest this November at the Directors Guild in Hollywood CA. Lots of good Christians in the biz there. |
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| THE
OMEGA CODE September 11, 1999. Hi there. I don't know if you are aware of this upcoming movie, so I thought I'd pass along the news. A big budget Christian production, The Omega Code, will be released in theaters nationwide on October 15th of this year. You can check out their website at: http://www.theomegacode.com hope this is helpful :c) Brian |
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POWDER
IS A GAY CHRIST It is interesting to see how much we transform God into our own image. In certain pieces of Mexican religious art, for instance, Jesus is draped in the red white and green of the Mexican flag. The western version of Jesus--the long haired bearded hippie Jesus--is markedly Anglo, while the true Christ was middle eastern. Etceteras. We would all feel much more comfortable if God were more like ourselves, so we adjust him to fit ourselves. Instead of the other way around. This is so in the film Powder. The protagonist is obviously a meld of writer/director Victor Salva and Christ. The biggest indicator of this is the not so latent homosexuality found in Powder. Watching the scene where Jeff Goldblum first touches Powder I couldn't help but imagine the scene to be similar to another incident in Salva's life, perhaps in his childhood, or more aptly in his adult life as well. It is said that every character a writer creates is just a fraction of his/herself, and in this scene Salva was both the student and the teacher. The other, more out of place, incident of homosexuality was in the long look at a boy showering. Where did that come from? I was all ready to write off the scene between Goldblum and Powder as a little sensitive, but after the shower scene...G. A. Y. Not only did Salva create a gay Christ, but he also twisted the concept of salvation--which is another symptom of this tendency to mold God into our own image: we like our own plan for how the universe works, thank you very much. Unlike Christ who talked of a real spiritual death for those who denied him, Powder preached a gospel of vague transcendental nirvana for all, and it tickles too!. Ultimately I think the movie was flawed by its attempt to push transcendentalism via the guise of a Christ like figure. josh forbes p.s. This is my first time on the site, and I really like it. Keep up the good work. |
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| JOE'S
TOP 10 MOVIES FOR TEACHING BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES September 9, 1999. 1. Braveheart: You can teach freedom in Christ, having a firm foundation for what you believe in, or how "All men die, but not all men live!" The list goes on! 2. Dead Poets Society: You can teach "Gather your rosebuds, while ye may!" Carpe Diem, O Captian, my Captian. There is so much there! 3. Episode 1 The Phantom Menace: Like I even need to explain? 4. Star Wars Trilogy: May The Force "God" Be With You! Never tell me the odds, There is no try, do or do not! This ain't no cave? 5. The Godfather I: Loyalty to the Father! God has made us an offer we can't refuse! 6. Tombstone: The part towards the end when Johnny Ringo wants to have it out with Wyatt, just like Satan wants to have it out with us! But instead of meeting up with Wyatt, Doc Holliday (Jesus) shows up and fights our battles for us! Satan is shaking saying, "My fights not with you!" Doc (Jesus) replies, "Oh I beg to differ, we started a game we never got to finish, for BLOOD, remember?" SAY WHEN! 7. The Karate Kid: The importance of spiritual discipline. 8. Scent of a Woman: Loyalty, the importance of spirit, and walk by faith not by sight! 9. Serpico: Integrity, perseverance, and the whole undercover thing! Don't be an undercover Christian! 10. Sergant York: Watch it if you don't know what I'm talking about! |
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GREAT
NEW SITE ON PRINCE OF EGYPT September 9, 1999. David, It's been many months since last we corresponded. Encouraged by friends, I did additional research to prepare some educational materials. With them, teachers can use selected scenes from the film as triggers to teachings on various texts which inspired the PoE creative team. While working on some educational materials for Prince of Egypt it occurred to me that an interactive web site would be another great way to present the information--after all, your pages on The Prince of Egypt are great! So I got to work on the concept. You'll find the result at: http://free.prohosting.com/~threads Teachers can use selected scenes from the film as triggers to teachings on various texts which inspired the PoE creative team. I'd like to invite you to come in and explore. I also welcome any comments, suggestions and criticism you might have. If you know of any others who might benefit from the site, please inform them. Thanks! Scott E. Meyer email: se-meyer@nwu.edu  Development Research phone: 847-491-8381 Northwestern University fax: 847-491-7095 Evanston, Illinois 60208 My response: I love what you have done Scott. I will recommend it to everyone. |
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| PASTOR
TO PASTOR Hello Pastor David: Ran across your web site this afternoon. Truly great and concept is excellent ! I know it is an "eye opener" for many. I pastor a small church in King City, California. Would appreciate a visit to my WORDS FOR COURAGEOUS LIVING http://www.thegrid.net/ncarlson Messages changed daily. -Neal Carlson |
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| SIMON
BIRCH = RELIGIOUS SCHMALTZ September 9, 1999. Re: Simon Birch. ONE LINE SUMMERY: I nearly threw up! I have to say that most of the films that I have seen at the cinema, I have enjoyed to some degree. Not so Simon Birch! This kind of industrial strength religious schmaltz far exceeds that of "The Cross and the Switchblade", "Michael" and "Almost an Angel". I have read the original novel and this film destroys it completely, turning a sound source material into a two hour episode of "The Waltons", with more terrible, overt moralizing than the human brain can cope with cope with. It's awful! There should be a law against films this bad! -Eddie Turner tedurner@yahoo.com |
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| MORE
COMMENTS ON THE SIXTH SENSE
SIXTH
SENSE AND HJ SUPERB IDEA |
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| WELCOME
CHANGE FROM FORENSIC GOREFESTS September 6, 1999. (Re: The Sixth Sense). I am a filmmaker/writer I have not been this freaked out after seeing a movie since The SHINNING this type of cinema is definitely a welcome change from forensic gorefests. -Duane Soebagio |
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| SIXTH
SENSE AGAIN September 6, 1999. (Re: Sixth Sense) I wouldn't of seen the movie - except my son (age 16) wanted to go. So.... off we went. I enjoyed the movie and then at the end BAMB... you're hit with the surprise. So now I want to go see it again and see all the signals I missed throughout the movie. Play it again Sam. |
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| SIXTH
SENSE THOUGHT PROVOKING September 6, 1999. Hello: This evening I saw Sixth Sense and now know why it is the number one movie the past four weeks. Strange to read a review after seeing the movie. You are right, there is much to discuss after viewing the film. By the way, Cole Sear is nine years old as noted on Malcom's writing pad. The film was excellent and thought provoking, particularly the scene near the end with Cole and his mother (in the car). You have done a fine job reviewing this terrific film! Kariann |
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| MATRIX
CAN OPEN DOORS September 6, 1999. David, I am hoping that the movies like the Matrix will help open the door for people to receive Jesus Christ. I hope some day to be able to write some of those movies. Blessings Robert McLin http://www.io.com/~rmclin |
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| ABOUT
THE BIBLE SERIES September 6, 1999.I'm looking forward to this new Bible movie. I hope they take time to study the bible first. I too started watching Noah's Ark but I had to stop because there was so much inaccuracy in it that it made it very uncomfortable to watch. They had people such as Lot living at the same time of Noah. Hello! Obviously someone thought that Noah's story needed some more excitement. I guess the end of all civilization wasn't enough. PS I found your site by reading Sept's Christianity Online Magazine. Keep up the good work. Mercyshine |
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| IN
CHRISTIANITY ONLINE Hi David! I opened my Christianity Online magazine to GOD ON THE BIG SCREEN...thought it was an interesting title for an article, and then I saw the picture and the name - HEY, I KNOW THAT GUY! :-) Great article - thanks for your ministry! Our love to the family! God bless! Cathie Pinto www.mandiepinto.com |
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| GREAT
FOR SUNDAY SCHOOL September 5, 1999. Great! I teach a Jr Hi Boys Sunday School class using a curriculum called "Reel to Real"...... with much the same context as your website. Suggestion: lesson plans... keep truckin! soli Deo gloria |
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| DOGMA
IS JUST ENTERTAINMENT September 5, 1999. I would just like to remind many of the catholic/christian individuals who are offended to see anything outside of their own little perfect world (and therefore find the movie DOGMA offensive) that they are not being forced to watch the movie. they are not being asked to embrace its morals, and they are not being forced to like it. It is simply a movie put out on the market to ENTERTAIN!!! That is the whole point of movies! I personally can not wait to see this movie! I was raised catholic, but I have found over the years that it is far too set in not letting people enjoy their lives. People have become so wrapped up in the DOGMA of the catholic church, that they have forgotten the main reason that God sent Jesus (if you believe the story): and that was to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.......not to pick at every little thing people do to find something wrong. thank you, and now I will step down from my soap box and let someone else have a turn............. Alex Neumann |
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| HJ
CLASSIC FILMS ARE CLASSIC? September 4, 1999. Your "classic" movie list does not contain any of the works of Buster Keaton, Orson Welles, D W Griffith or Fritz Lang. Why is this? My response: It's just a matter of time. I will do those films too. HJ is only a year and a half old. Most of the so called classics in HJ are not. You are right. In a few months there will be true classic film review section. It's just a matter of time. |
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| WHERE
IS FREE WILLY? September 4, 1999. Just wanted to let you know that you have a fantastic and sorely needed website. I look forward to watching it grow even larger! As a Christian and a member of the producing team for the "Free Willy" trilogy of films, I would love to hear your take on the messages in the film and post them in the video section. Please keep up the good work! Because He Lives, Mark Marshall My response: It's just a matter of time. I will do those films too. |
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| KUDOS
ON
SIXTH SENSE REVIEW September 4, 1999.Kudos to you on the insightful review. And Super-Kudos to you for not spoiling the wonderful plot-point at the end! eric bramlett in Naperville IL |
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| DO
YOU REVIEW MUSIC? Hi Dave, I'm the guy that put up the "I hate the NBC Noah" WEBPAGE. We just finished a music video for Things of This World", and hope that it will air soon. Do you do reviews on music videos? We hope to have a QUICKTIME version on our website also. In Christ Dan Laskowski NANOSECOND CyberPOP Music My response: No, not yet. But soon there will be a music section in HJ. And, yes I would love to experience your music video. |
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| MOVIES
FOR GROUP DISCUSSION September 3, 1999. Dear Dave, Your "use" of contemporary media culture to turn mind and hearts to the Gospel and Jesus is fantastic. Post-modern people don't and will not listen to traditional presentations of Christianity. Not that the Gospel has lost any of its power...for many it just needs to be "reframed" to highlight its timelessness. Background: I am a pastor that has been convicted that most churches, even those that make a pretext of doing so, don't reach the "unchurched" or "unsaved." Soooooo, beginning October a small group of us is starting a new "church" that will not be a "worship service" with the traditional singing and sermons but will use movie clips, "secular" music, drama, multimedia in various forms, "a message from our Sponsor" without religious code words and an opportunity for feedback...all in 55 minutes max and held at a local hotel ballroom. OK, so now here's the question: Is there any "source" to use to shortcut the process of finding appropriate movie clip material (anywhere from a few minutes to 10 plus) and perhaps also music (not religious). Oh, the name of the church? Grace Way Community. Harry Krueger My response: I wish there was a reference source for film clips on various themes. There is no such source. However, there will be such a section in HJ for this in the near future. Many have asked me about this. Also, I agree with you about churches in general. They fail to be culturally relevant. |
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| DOING
MOVIES AT CHURCH September 3, 1999. Dear David, Just stumbled across your site. Awesome! I am a pastor of a church in Kansas City, MO. We're affiliated with the Willow Creek Association, about 5 years old and meeting in a high-school. We do a lot of "media" integration in our Sunday services. In fact, just yesterday I just finished plans a four-week series for November called "At the Movies", using four films to present various aspects of the gospel: 1. The Truman Show - God loves us, but we go our own way. 2. Titanic - disaster happens (now and in eternity) when we rely on our own strength and goodness 3. Saving Private Ryan - God loves us too much to let us wallow, so he launches an incredible rescue attempt through Jesus 4. Forrest Gump - our response to His rescue is to receive Christ and begin a life of childlike faith and trust in our Heavenly Father. Your site is a Godsend in terms of resources and critical thinking on these issues. We'll be using it a lot! Thanks and God Bless, Rick McGinniss P.S. I was really impressed at the work you and your wife have done as detailed on the "about us" page. I think Jesus must be pretty proud of you guys! My response: May God bless you in your ministry of helping people. I would love to attend your November series. I am glad I can be of help to you. Please keep me posted as to how things progress. |
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| DOGMA
IS GETTING RESPONSE
HATES
DOGMA AND GAYS 'GOD'
IS NOT ABOVE EXAMINATION My
Response: Michael, I can't thank you enough for your comment. You say
exactly what I feel. They are reactionaries. I plan to fully support
the film. I, too, believe that question and examination is necessary.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Michael's response |
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| NEW
WAYS TO COMMUNICATE September 1, 1999.I am a pastor always looking for new ways to present the gospel, and looking for ways to tie what the congregation sees in films to the gospel. I read about you in Christianity Online. Thank you for doing this, and God bless you. Scott Fairchild |
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| COLOR
NEEDS TWEAKING IN HJ September 1, 1999. This is my first time to your site, and I like your analysis and visual critiques of the movie Sixth Sense (which I have not seen). I was disappointed though with the color schemes used in your site. The overuse of color (and weird color combinations like yellow on red) make it really hard to read. Perhaps just a little tweaking on the color scheme could really make this an incredible site. --Louis Nemec, New York State Theatre Education Association NYSTEA: http://www.nystea.org NEMECS: http://members.tripod.com/lhnemec (New site) My response: Yeah, you are right the colors did need to be tweaked. I'll try to stay away from red and yellow combinations in the future. In fact, I have eliminated the red and yellow combination from the Sixth Sense page. Thanks for the suggestion, they help! |
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| Your
Comments. Post your thoughts for all to read. Please include your "name." I will not post your e-mail address unless you want me to. CLICK HERE Comments_E-mail Your
Private Comments. Hollywood
Jesus News Letter |
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