On this page I post your e-mail and my response. A running dialogue about spirituality and popular culture.
Hollywood Jesus

PAGE 9 -NOVEMBER 1-16, 1999
INDEX TO ALL COMMENTS AT BOTTOM OF PAGE

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David Bruce

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.
E-mail and Comments:
8 MM?
Subject: Review of 8mm?
Date: Tue, 16 Nov 1999
From: Tom Hooten

I found you through the CT article. You're doing a great job.

I notice that you do not have a review of 8mm. This film deals with a disturbing subject, but I found the underlying messages to be in line with the Christian themes of redemption and the realization that we all need a savior. Any hope of having a review of this one?
Tom Hooten
My response: I haven't seen the film ...yet!
GABRIEL AND PI
Subject: Tie-in
Date: Tue, 16 Nov 1999
From: Jonah

In the Prophecy, Gabriel says:
"Study your math, kids. Key to the Universe."
That's a tie-in to the movie Pi. :)
Jonah
My response: Clever, you are.
ABOUT THE TACKED ON ENDINGS OF FILMS
Subject: Devils Advocate. Endings and other films
Date: Tue, 16 Nov 1999
From: Jonah

Not to give anything away, but the ending was in reality a tacked-on "happy" ending; who wants to have a movie end with someone killing himself? The ending ruined the parable of the story -- if you recall, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari's American release was framed in a tacked-on story to let the audience feel "good" it was all just a dream. It was not; rather, it was a metaphor for Germany's chaos at the time.
Same here. Yes, yes, there is that "the sin of pride" ending, but didn't it feel like a semi-cop out.
Speaking of movies in which the character kills himself at the end, try the movie "Videodrome", by David Cronenberg, starring James Woods and Debbie Harry, about a network producer of a small UHF channel who constantly seeks the most depraved programming. It is rife with religious metaphor ("Long live the new flesh!").
Additionally, try out "Tron", starring Jeff Bridges, which is openly about the Roman gladiatorial oppression of Christians, set inside a computer. Humans are the program's "Gods", called "Users". The ending shot is remarkable, as it makes the statement that we are the programs serving under our own God.
WHERE IS RAPTURE AND GODSPELL?
Subject: The Rapture
Date: Tue, 16 Nov 1999
From: Jonah

Where is "The Rapture", with Mimi Rogers, which is essentially a retelling of the Story of Job?
You should obviously include "Godspell", Stephen Schwartz's musical version of the Book of Matthew as well (Lynn Thigpen's first movie.) Note Jesus wears a Superman "S" on his chest (tie in to Superman (1978).
My response: It is all I can do to stay current. Maybe after the New Year I can do these films. They are all very good.
JOHN CARPENTER'S VAMPIRES
Subject: How about?
Date: Tue, 16 Nov 1999 07:04:20 -0500
From: Lyn

>Consider the John Carpenter film Vampires: violence aside, there's something appealing about the idea of a Papal squad dedicated to seeking, engaging and purging evil. James Woods' portrayal brings a weird purity to the very rough - but consistently warring - avenger. Plus his friendship with his tainted partner, although offering grace, never mediates judgment. Would love to see your input.
My response: I can not review all films. Maybe this one some day. Stay tuned.
DEEP BLUE SEA
Subject: my comment for Deep Blue Sea
Date: Tue, 16 Nov 1999
From: Meret

"Deep Blue Sea" is at first sight a very bloody and thrilling movie which will make you avoid any kind of water deeper than one foot for at least ten years. But at second sight this movie is surprisingly spiritual! Just look at the scene with the cook who overcomes the beast with a cross (you got to see it yourself!). In another scene a desperate prayer brings hope and makes the survivors pluck up courage. The picture that impressed me most was when Dr. McAlester jumps into the water in a pose like Jesus on the cross with her hands slashed to lure the shark and save her friends. For everybody whose nerves are not too weak this movie sure is worth a look.
My response: Oh my, you think like I do!
THE RAPTURE FILM
Subject: The Rapture
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999
From: Cedric

I am wondering if you have seen the movie called "The Rapture". I found it very thought-provoking. There are reviews out there on this movie.
All the best,
Cedric Armstrong
My response: I have seen it. And I will do a review in the future.
ZEFFIRELLI'S JESUS
Subject: Jesus of Nazareth
Date: Sun, 17 Oct 1999
From:Terylee)

I was curious why you have not discussed the importance of the Jesus of Nazareth film (produced by Franco Zeffirelli in 1977). It has been proclaimed to be the most accurate portrail of Jesus' life in film. Do you agree?
~Terylee
My response: Yes, it is a well researched film. Jesus is not very Jewish, however.
SOCIALIST AND ANTI-CHRISTIAN ON MATRIX
Subject: The Matrix review
Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999
From: Paul Atreides

Although I'd like to make clear that I'm ferverently socialist and anti-christian, I decided to see if the Christians were able to lift up their blindfolds and have a good long look at objective reality. Unfortuantely, I was somewhat dissapointed that you only went half the way. The religious metaphor has been completely examined and observed, but the question not asked was "How is this being used within the film?". My hypothesis is that of a Socialist Metaphor. This can be supported by several points. First off, it starts in the subconcious.. and the true battle is within ("reality is what we make of it"). This is profoundly anti-christian, in biblical mythology, reality is the dictum of saints and apostles, and if we do not follow their teachings we reside in a 'hell'. This movie views and uses christianity to communicate the socialist metaphor to the masses. The name of the rebel's ship is taken from a Babylonian King who conquered Israel (center of the religion being discussed here). Further more, Neo himself goes against the messianic theme in the battle rather cunningly without giving away from the underlying field of thought. Instead of being that of an omniscient diety, neo is your average human being with the power that *anyone* else has if he only realizes his own potential. This self-realization (which can be linked to daoist teachings) goes against the slave-society christianity presents. Notice as well the 'red dress' scene, where morpheus tells neo that some of the slaves (to the machine, or corporations, another link) "will even fight to protect this". There are further allusions to the corporate machine, the police enforcing the will of the social elite, exploiting the energy (literally in ths case) of the populace. The final episode in the anti-corporate sentiment is the final song by Rage Against The Machine, called 'wake up'. It should be noted RATM are a very anti-christian band, and as well anti-corporate (the theme of this movie suggests the line 'one corporate nation, one state religion'). The topic of 'wake up' (rack by RATM) is how corporations (as well as religion) control people and manipulate them, and attacks ignorance (christianity causing the greatest ignorance humanity has ever seen). This movie, is of course, subjective.. and people will make what they want out of it. The casual Nietzsche fan, for example, will say that this is both socialist *and* christian (a rather inane arguement), and use the movie to argue the messiah dominating sheep anti-christian anti-socialist metaphor (anti-christian being backed up with logical arguements, anti-socialism being mere ideological preference without reference to strong attacks). I would suggest that people examine how this metaphor is being used, because it sure isn't being used for christianity, but against it and capitalism (again, humans as a commodity). I would welcome you to e-mail me with your comments and criticisms (as i'm sure many of you will come out with as you try to contemplate the fact that your religion is only one subjective interpretation of objective reality).
I've decided to use an alias, also from another book with profound messianic themes.

Paul Atreides,
rise@obscurity.org
REVIEW OF NELL
Subject: Beaucoup de remerciements--Review of video -- NELL....
Date: Sat, 16 Oct 1999
From: Adam & Kelly

That's "many thanks" if you don't know French.
Blessings to you and your family. I read about you in Christianity OnLine. Wow, you have quite a work. May the Lord God be glorified in this.
Well, right after I read about you in CO, my wife and I rented the video NELL. "Nell" is about a young lady who has lived secluded, away from civilization, in the woods her whole life. Her mother has died and she lives completely alone now. She would be an "enfant sauvage" which is French for "wild child."
This "enfant sauvage" (wild child) represents our former self of sin and death which was put to death by Christ. All the signs are there in the film. At this point in Nell's life, she is totally afraid of light (/life in Christ/). She won't go outside in the daylight at all. The only one who leads her out into the light is the male doctor (Great Physician - Jesus the Savior).
Interestingly, at this point, she does bear (as we all do before salvation) the image of God and a knowledge of her waywardness and need for redemption however incomplete. She mumbles some bits from the Scriptures that her mother used to read her about evil. The male doctor (Great Physician) helps her to interpret what this evil is and to put it into an intelligible language.
The Holy Trinity makes its way into this film also. The Holy Spirit is the female doctor. God the Father is the judge is who later pronounces her acquitted after she is only able to communicate to the court through the male doctor (Jesus Christ) (incredible parallel there!! It's even theologically correct. We're are deaf, dumb and blind in God's court without the intervention and inter- mediation of Jesus, the Christ.)
When she becomes introduced to the new life of civilization, she is jolted, "thunder-struck" (to use the words of the secular band, AC/DC). Now, that she is in Christ, God's grace in her struggles against her former habits of sin- fulness (old self). She wrestles with this when she stoops to lifting up her shirt in the bar. Of course, the male doctor (Jesus Christ steps in and stops the parade of sin).
At the end of the film, she looks longingly at the daughter of the two doctors who studied her. The little girl reminds her of her twin sister with whom she used to play so fondly. The director of the film spends a long time focusing on the slowly changing expression on her face. Why does the director take this much time? It seems excessive except that you see her expression change from one of longing or missing the pleasure (of the early childhood/of the former life of sin and misery) to one of understanding that this life is past and faded in light of the glories of Christ.
In Christ,
Adam Spurgeon Zens
Editor, Locust & Honey
http://www.locustandhoney.com/
ABOUT MARY MOTHER OF JESUS

A LETTER TO NBC ABOUT MARY MOTHER OF JESUS
Subject: Mary the Mother of Jesus
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999
From: Lisa Meeks
Dear HollywoodJesus.com,
The following is a letter I wrote to NBC about how I feel about this movie. Please do not use my e-mail address, but as for the rest of my thoughts - feel free to let others know how rotten this film was!
Sincerely,
Lisa Meeks

Dear NBC,
I am writing in utter disgust at your recent movie,"Mary & Jesus"! It was one of the most poorly written movies I've seen. There were so many misquoted Bible verses in it, that I lost count. If your going to make a movie on facts that are already written down, you could at least copy the quotescorrectly! There were even words added that our Lord NEVER said! The quote that,"Women should be able to guide because they raise the sons," is the exact opposite of what Christ said. Women were to remain SILENT in the house of God & their husbands were to answer any questions they had.
Second, there were several instances where Mary was given the credit for coming up with something Jesus had said! Including the idea that His parables were just stories she had told him as a boy! That is absurd! Jesus was GOD! Mary was human! She did not give God his ideas for parables. To think that is to make God sound like an idiot. Which brings me to my next point:
The film made Jesus & the Disciples look like completely wimpy morons! None of them seemed to know what to do next unless they asked Mary! Knowledge of that culture makes this impossible! Men did not wait for, ask for, or depend on a woman's advice, even if she was blessed of God!
They also put Mary into scenes she never was in, like the baptism scene. Jesus had LEFT home ALONE. Again, He was not the "skirt-clinging, momma's boy" they were trying to make him appear to be! In the same scene, they have Him acting like he JUST started to feel like he had a calling to do something. He is GOD! I think God would know what He had come to do. It would not be like some new idea just popped into His head here. He knew His reason for coming - to save us! This movie only proves our need of that salvation, since we keep messing up what God did & trying to put ourselves in His place. We are His servants, He isn't ours!
Sincerely,
Lisa Meeks & Constance Meeks

REALLY STINKS
Subject: NBC Movie: Mary Mother of Jesus
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: Rafael

I saw the NBC Movie: Mary Mother of Jesus and I think that this movie realy stinks. This movie is a distortion of the New Testament and Insult to every Christian.

LA FEMME IS GREAT
Subject: It is the best on TV
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999 10:12:24 -0500
From: cjkettel
Organization: Resources

I think La Femme keeps you on your toes. You can't watch it from the middle of the show because the ending is always a twist. I usually pretty good at predicting the ending of films, but Nikita throws me most times. I have seen all the reruns. When will the season begin?
lady_one999@hotmail.com
ABOUT AMERICAN BEAUTY

GAY PEOPLE ARE SAMARITIANS
Subject: American Beauty
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999
From: Kenneth

As much as I like your review of American Beauty, I have to point out one error. The most human person in the film is not the camcorder boy, but the gay couple who are neighbours to the main characters. They are shown to be the most pleasant and sincerely neighbourly people in the film, a far contrast to the focus characters.
You can read this in a biblical sense to since gay people are the modern equivalent of Samaritans in the original connotation to too many people today. They are a group who are regarded as basically foreign and despicable by so called Christians. While this couple is not a position to help the lead character much, they do seem to act like an oasis for him to talk with people who honestly nice to him. Thus in affect they are modern Good Samaritans in a biblical sense in that they are outsiders who are truly fit Jesus' definition of a neighbour in their actions.

ABOUT BROKEN WORLD
Subject: American Beauty is about beauty and redemption in a broken world
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: Mark Christensen
It seems to me that the point of American Beauty is not, as you seem to suggest, the quiet (or occasionally loud) alienation of the Burnham family. Certainly desperation to achieve real human contact is a central theme of the movie. But it is more complex than you seem to suggest.

Lester's desire for Angela is lust, but it's not just about sex. It's about making a connection. So, when Angela reveals herself to him sex becomes irrelevant, even petty, next to the fragile beauty of that moment.

In the next scene, we discover that some of Lester's desire for Angela arises out of a desire to connect, however peripherally, with his daughter, Jane's, life. Of course, Lester's desire for Angela paradoxically becomes another wedge driven between Lester and Jane. And it is precisely this kind of jumble of good motives and bad, run through a broken mind which characterizes the motivations of Lester
and the rest of the characters in the movie.

Strangely enough, what started out as lust, rage, and alienation, ultimately is transformed in the final moments of the film. Lester, at least momentarily, transcends the limitations of his small and broken world and responds with tenderness and compassion when Angela exposes her true self to Lester.

And it is only in light of this moment and its aftermath that I disagree with you. For, while the film is about the alienation and loneliness inherent in a broken world, it is also about compassion, redemption, and beauty. And they are strangely bound together throughout the film - when XXX talks to Jane about filming a dead homeless woman's corpse, he says "when you see something like that, it's like God is looking right at you." And that, I think, is the point of the film: in the midst of the depravity of modern American life, there remains profound and transcendent beauty. And more than that, the beauty we find inside of this broken world points to something or someone above all of this petty inhumanity.

HOW ABOUT ANGELINA JOLIE?
Subject: The Virgin Warrior
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: Gifted

mira sorvino is way to prissy to be joan of arc.......
how about Angelina Jolie? tough and beautiful
MORE ABOUT DOGMA

LIGHTEN UP, GOD HAS A SENSE OF HUMOR
Subject: Dogma
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999
From: John

OK I'm setting here scrolling along this page and reading everyone's views on this movie. and I don't understand some people I can understand that some of the people who have written have had I very bad run-in with religion and to you I say has a Christian who has had the same experience has you is that you did not see God living in front of you as you should have, all of man kind has falling sort of the glory of God. We are not perfect but we can be made perfect in the one who is called Jesus. Now true there is a lot of church going people out there who wouldn't know a Good laugh if it hit them like a Mack truck then there are the few like me who love a good hard gut busting laugh. God most defiantly has a sense of humor a lot of people need to lighten up and live I have not seen the movie yet but plan too and I have that right to see it or not see it I even have the right to walk out if I want to the ponit is don't let someone push you away from knowing God if you have Questions ask, seek and find, if the cross is offensive find another voice. but don't let hypocrite people push you away from knowing Jesus hey he Died for them too ya know OK who's next on the soap Box
John

DOGMA IS DEEPLY REVERENT
Subject: Comments about Dogma
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999
From: Brian
Organization: Boston College

Having just seen Dogma, I must say that I was entirely pleased. The film is deeply reverent, while not at all restrained. Does it poke fun at the Catholic Church? Certainly. Does that mean it is "making fun" of the Catholic Church? Not at all. It takes religion and Catholism very seriously, even when using it for comedic ends. In the end, it raises some very interesting questions of faith which may do much to reinvigorate the spirituality of many viewers. It engages the movie-goer in spiritual and religious themes and never resorts to cheap insults and serious heracy.

One scene I found particularly intriguing was when Alan Rickman's angel, already frustrated at having to explain admittedly arcane Christian mythology, remarks that people only seem to care about religion if someone's made a movie about it. Certainly, some blatent self-referenciality, but meaningful nonetheless. What Kevin Smith is hoping people to care about is the re-examination of faith. While the voices he employs may seem unorthodox, that is quite the point. Some of the most meaningful spiritual comments come from sources like a stripper, a Jewish abortion clinic worker, a pair of fallen angels, and a disenchanted Catholic. Not to mention the unlike prophets, Jay and Silent Bob. The film walks the fine line between religious mockery and religious propoganda, to produce something which provokes introspection without ever telling you to. I would recommned this film to any free-minded Christian and particuarly Catholics. Despite all you may have heard, this is a film which is quite reverent and very funny.
-Brian S.
Boston, MA

LL COOL J DOES PSALM
Subject: Deep Blue Sea
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999
From:Psalm

Dear sir,Is it true in the film Deep Blue Sea that preacher Dudley ( LL Cool J )
often pray from Psalm ?
Thank you very much.
My response: Yes, it is true.
ABOUT THE MESSENGER

APPLAUSE BROKE OUT
Subject: The Messenger
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: Sheryl

My husband and I went to see The Messenger and we thought it was great! While the first half was exciting and action packed, the second half was more interesting as Joan faced her accusors and her self doubts. What thinking Christian has not had doubts?? If you never question/think about your faith, then how "real" is it? The final scenes of this movie are shocking when Joan is burnt at the stake, but it is a powerful ending and it makes you wonder...."Do I have the courage to take the ultimate stand for my faith?" I liked how Joan's relationship with God was manifested by the visitations in her cell...at the end she/Jesus (depending on if you think she was delusional or not) absolved herself without the help of the church leaders. This speaks clearly to a personal relationship with God----one where you do not need a pastor, reverend, or priest to interceed on your behalf. I have read the reviews also, and I was so surprised to hear how negative they were. When the movie ended, the theatre-goers (and it was packed) were completely silent.....stunned....and then applause broke out.....I think people were applauding Joan's courage and faith. I believe that people will like this movie more than critics expect...

RECOMMENDS THE MESSENGER BECAUSE...
Subject: The Messenger
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Paul Harmelink

I have just returned from seeing "The Messenger, the Story of Joan of Arc".

I recommend seeing it for these reasons:

The movie portrays a women who is driven by what God wants, not what we want. She adopts the verse "If God is for us, who can be against us." If you live by the above statement, many things in life will work against you. This film shows that struggle too. What are the struggles with yourself of knowing what God wants you to do, versus what others or you want to do. Be careful what you ask God to do, he may let you do it! God CAN perform miracles regardless of our screwups! This does not bash the church. It tries to tell history. A rare thing in movies today.

I also caution some people on these grounds:

The movie is rated R for some very realistic scenes, not gratuitous but real violence. This is a war in the 1400's after all. Language is also frank at times (although not tolerated by Joan!!!) One scene, while little is shown, the impact and emotion is shockingly felt. For some the pace of the movie can be compared to being a pilot: hours of slow movement, followed by seconds of
blinding speed. Overall it does work just fine. There is interpretation of events and some people hate that in a movie. Sorry, you have to think sometimes.

Finally (as anyone who knows me) why else to see this:

Directed by Luc Besson (Fifth Element, the Professional, la Femme Nikita), and starting Milla Jovovich (Fifth Element) The photography is stunning. (see attachment) The camera is literally in the thick of things for all action shots! Music score is right on, blend of classical, conventional orchestra and synthetic melodies.

Acting is moving. Milla Jovovich is riveting as Joan; Dustin Hoffman, John Malcovich and Faye Dunaway are the big names, but there is not a bad actor I can recall! Overall very educational about the times, and life of a figure in history and Christianity. Trial dialog is almost verbatim from the original transcripts.

While I cannot give it the "Simon Birch" seal of approval, this is a movie that helps you examine your faith and who is first in your life.
--
Peace, Paul Harmelink
"Not my will Lord, but your will be done."

LIKE THREE CARTOONS
Subject: This is a movie? Inspector Gadget
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: Thomas

IG plays like 3 surgically attached cartoon episodes. We arrived slightly late and were surprised at how quickly this thing was over. Maybe if they had used the trailers for commercial breaks it would have had a more authentic TV feel.........
REMAKE OF CLOSE ENCOUNTERS
Subject: Stir of Echoes thoughts
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: Jon Zuck frimmin@exis.net

Stir of Echoes and The Sixth Sense, Armageddon and Deep Impact, The Matrix and The Thirteenth Floor, Seven Years in Tibet and Kundun. Hollywood is definitely going through a twin movies phase, and one twin is usually much, much better than the other. In my opinion, the Sixth Sense was definitely the one to see of the "little boy who sees ghosts" pair, but I'm sure that many would disagree with me. Stir of Echoes actually *is* a horror movie, while The Sixth Sense was really something unique, and truly special. But for those who prefer horror, Echoes is definitely the pick.

My take on Stir of Echoes was that it's basically a remake of Close Encounters as a horror film. I found myself cracking up at some of those references throughout the film, although I was the only one in the theater laughing! Consider: man has strange experiences, man becomes obsessed with understanding something previously out of his belief system, man becomes obsessed with a tune, man digs up his garden while his wife leaves him with the kid. The child, by the way, bears a strong resemblance to Barry in Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and looks like he could've been the same actor a few years later. And as with Barry, boy is totally unphased by the strange experiences that freak out the adults around him.

Its worth seeing on video, but save your shekels till them unless you're just crazy about the genre.

Jon Zuck
http://surf.to/frimmin
MICHAEL IS OZ
Subject: Michael
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Phil

Michael is a retelling of the wizard of OZ
Tornado at the Beginning
Dorothy with a Dog
Hurt looking for a heart
Etc.
STRAIGHT STORY
Subject: Straight Story
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Phil

I really enjoy your work. I am a United Methodist Minister at a large church in Atlanta GA and use your site as part of a Faith and Film group we have. Please recommend The Straight Story to folks - a plodding journey of hope. Check this out. http://www.unomaha.edu/~wwwjrf/ Welcome to The Journal of Religion and Film.

What are you going to do with Dogma?

I had to see Fight Club twice just to get all the nuance of the story.
MORE ABOUT DOGMA

APPOLOGISE FOR OTHER CHRISTIANS
Subject: Dogma comments
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Peter

As a committed Christian, I'd like to appologise for all the other Christians out there who bash this film sight-unseen, or who think that It ought to be censored or not released. I think it's a case of the vocal 10% giving the rest a bad name. I found some of the material in this film to be quite funny, and disagreed with some of it. I'm not, however, threatened by the fact that someone released a film that doesn't agree with my worldview. Christians ought to see movies like this in order to see how others view religious faith, after that they can draw their own conlusions (nobody's make them believe what this movie asserts). doing this allows them (myself included) to address pop-culture intellegently, and not in an ignorant or reactionary manner. Besides, people have a right to watch what they want, whether I agree with what it says or not.

Pete Law

IGNORANT COMMENTS HURTFUL
Subject: Dogma and Reactionaries
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Adam

I am a baptised catholic that, in my waning teenage years, has become rather agnostic. My father worked at AIDS Action Committee and I know many gay men and women. I am an avid fan of Kevin Smith movies, especially the characters that harken back to my old flirtation (750+ comics) with comic books. I see Dogma as examining and questioning Kevin Smiths belief system, which I understand to be Catholic. When I became avid of telling people I was an atheist, it took a major examination of my own beliefs to realize that God could exist, and would be a loving man OR woman. Ignorant comments made without a screening of Dogma are personally hurtful, and with each over reaction it becomes harder and harder for me to realize that the vast majority of Catholics are not as ignorant as the zealous and vocal minority. The over-reactionaries are a disservice to all people.

Adam

THINKS DOGMA IS PORN MOVIE WITH ANAL SEX
Subject: Dogma is a blasphemous movie, won't anyone think of the children?
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: van Kappen"

People will no doubt call me intolerant but I hope Kevin Smith burns in hell for his blasphemy. I haven't actually seen his movie yet but it seriously offends me all the same because he is mocking christianity (and also I hear that there is a lot of anal sex in it), which is UNACCEPTABLE, REPREHENSIBLE AND IRRESPONSIBLE. Won't anyone think of the children? Haven't their innocent minds been poisoned enough by gangster-rap, nipple-peep shows and hard-core porn movies (featuring anal sex)? Why won't anyone give christian rap-music a chance? As soon as a product features jesus it becomes un-hip all of a sudden. I admit Christian porn movies are making a come-back recently, but overall Jesus our lord is getting the short end of the stick. Whatever happened to little Jimmy Osmond? He was entertaining to me and I am sure the youth of today would enjoy his act tremendously if they would only give him a chance! HE DIDN'T NEED ANAL SEX OR PUBLIC AUTHORITY-UNFRIENDLY MUSIC TO ENTERTAIN! Shame on you Kevin Smith!

"ME AGAIN", THINKING DOGMA IS ATHEIEST PROPAGANDA
Subject: Dogma. Me again! (In favor of Jimmy Osmond, against Kevin Smith and his atheist propaganda)
Date: Sun, 14 Nov 1999
From: Eelco van Kappen

Hello!

Me again (the one in favor of Jimmy Osmond and against Kevin Smith and anal sex). I forgot to post my name! It's Eelco van Kappen from the Netherlands. It's "Van" and then a new word "Kappen". Eelco is my first name! When will my anti-Kevin Smith views be posted on your site do you think?
My response: They are now!

MORE ON DOGMA

SEEMS LIKE A PRETTY GOOD MOVIE
Subject: Dogma
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: "D. McCall

I have yet to see it, but to me, Dogma seems like it would be a pretty good movie. (I would have reservations though about the supposed amount of swearing coming out of the characters that I hear there is in the movie.)

Possibly why much of the catholics are banning this movie:

I believe that the main reason they don't want to have the movie around is similar to the reason that they don't teach the book of Daniel or Revalations anymore. In the Daniel and Revalations, everything seems to show the Catholic religion as being under influence of Satan. They wouldn't want their members to doubt the importance of the catholic church, and so they hide or boycott anything that could make them look bad or question their practices, such as this movie could. (If I were one of the most important influences in the world, and a movie that would poke a small amount of fun at my expense, telling people I was not the greatest thing ever, then I would probably be against that movie as well.)

I hope everyone will see this movie just as it is...a movie...It's entertainment, and should be taken into consideration as such. I would hope god would not say "You saw Dogma...I banish you to hell!"

Judging.

So many of us judge each other and tell each other that because of something we do, we're bound to hell. To some, if we eat Pork, we are going to hell... to others, we look at an attractive person of the opposite sex, and say, "gosh he/she's pretty", we are destined to hell for lusting. Instead of pointing the finger, we need to also look at ourselves, and refrain from judging as much as we can. God loves us unconditionally, and as long as we refrain from basic immorality, and study his word, we will not just be good christians, but good people.

Again, I plan to see Dogma soon, and I hope it is as good as it sounds.

DOGMA IS HEART FELT FILM ABOUT FAITH
Subject: Dogma
Date:Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Jonathan Cotleur

Hi. Thanx for offering me a forum through which to voice my opinion. I hope it isn't too lengthy. Well, here it goes:

I saw "Dogma" today. I was expecting a biting satire that I'd defend nonetheless. What I got was a heartfelt (yes, heartfelt) film about faith. I can't fathom how those few detractors who have seen this movie have criticised its "foul language" - this was, by far, Smith's tamest movie. It was hilarious, well-performed and profound. It was different from Smith's earlier works, but at the same time stayed true. Any self-respecting Christian will devour this flick. It is the most moving story of faith I've ever seen. Did it make fun of the Church? Possibly. I wouldn't even go that far. All it did was make light of it. It voiced things we're all aware of. It felt almost like stand-up in that way - humor dependent on familiarity. You laugh because you've thought of this stuff before. You laugh WITH your fellow Christians, not at them. You're not laughing AT anyone. This movie will convert more people than "The Ten Commandments" or "Jesus of Nazareth" ever did. As for the Catholic Church being the only institution Hollywood feels comfortable making fun of nowadays, that's completely irrelevent. Because Smith isn't a Hollywood conveyer-belt scripter. "Dogma" is a film he scripted before he ever even broke into the business. He makes his living on these films. He's not kicking off his shoes and letting the easy money roll in. So how about giving him the benefit of the doubt. See the movie.

Jonathan Cotleur

GAY CHRISITIAN LIKES HOLLYWOOD JESUS
Subject: nice surprise
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Joe

David,
I was surfing the net this morning and came across your site. At first I though, "uh oh, a Christian movie review site." My experience with so-called Christian movie reviews have been a real let down. They seem to be nothing more than a "isn't-Hollywood-godless" attack, blaming the movies for every social and spiritual ill.
As a Christian myself this would always disapoint me. Ever since I was a child films have captured me, and I always left the theater asking really deep questions about God, life, the world, and my place in it. As I grew older, I never understood people's comments that "there's too much crap out there. Hollywood doesn't make good movies anymore." I kept saying, "Yes they do! Have you seen..."

So you can imagine my retiscence when I came across your site. I first checked out your review of the "Sixth Sense". I really liked your pointing out things I hadn't caught (like the symbolism of the doors and the shadows). "Wow!" I thought, "this doesn't sound like those other Christian
sites." So far so good. But I knew the real test was to come. "Tarzan," I said flipping through your index, "Where's Tarzan?" As a gay Christian, I knew that the true obnoxious-Christian test could be found in Disney.

What another surprise! When I read your comment to the individual who was asking people to avoid Tarzan for Disney's support of gay rights, my heart really was lifted. Thank you. Thank you for helping others (and reminding me) that Christianity is NOT synonymous with bigotry, intolerance, and fear. And that Christ's table has room for us all. Not to mention that Christian film reviews can be intelligent!

Thanks David. Keep up the good work.
God bless
Joe
My response: Thanks for the kind words Joe.
MORE ON DOGMA

DOGMA IS A HILARIOUS ODE
Subject: Dogma
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Chris Irwin

First of all, I am a devout Catholic. I'm also a big Kevin Smith fan, I saw DOGMA, and I thought it was a hilarious ode to faith and not at all sacrilegious! I think that the Catholic League is being very unreasonable about their accusations and I'm sure most of those picketers haven't even seen the film. So to the rest of you who have said that Catholics are unreasonable, not all of us sign 50 petitions everyday, and some of us actually DO have a sense of humor!
-Chris Irwin

THOUGHT PROVOKING THEATISE ON FAITH
Subject: Dogma. Seeing dogma really made me think about the nature of faith
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Bry

Do not listen to the so-called critics who villify this film without seeing it yet. Dogma is one of the most thought provoking and interesting treatises on the nature of faith I have experienced in years. For the first time since my confirmation nearly ten years ago, Dogma has made me ponder and reexamine my faith and relationship with God.

I was raised Catholic and for years, I was like Linda Fiorentino's Betheny character, going to Mass out of habit more than inspiration, bored out of my skull. I hated the conservative political views of the parish priest and generally felt alienated and frustrated. I had never heard "God's calling" as my Grandmother put it and wondered about the existence of God at all. That is why I loved Dogma. The characters were like me: imperfect, silly, and vulger at times. Some of them (like Bethany) had even renounced faith all together, just as I had.

But Dogma is about seekers. Seekers for faith Seekers for knowledge.Seekers for a purpose in life. All wrapped up in Kevin Smith's hilarious and irreverent script.
Is it blasprmous? No. Heretical? Perhaps to the most....Well..dogmatic of Catholics. But they dont watch films anyway. So if you are of an open mind I highly reccommend Dogma. It is a most entertaining...and, yes spiritual experience.

DEVOUT CATHOLICS MOCKED
Subject: Dogma
Date: Sat, 13 Nov 1999
From: Christopher

All of this saying that Dogma is intended solely as entertainment is.. I know that most of you who are for Dogma are most probably not Catholics. So lets say this : A movie is made. Its content is releasesd on the net. You read it.. Your pretty devout. In this script their are numerous instances of YOUR faith being mocked, YOUR religious figures being mocked, etc. What would you feel? More importantly what would you do. The movie is obviously biased, but since it is not biased against you do not care and further mock those who are upset because their faith is mocked.

BTW: How does Kevin Smith get of as being a "devout Catholic" if he attends another church? Whoever came up with this idea needs to brush up on their concepts of Catholicism.

Christopher
cml_777@cajun.net

HAVE YOU SEEN THE FILM
Subject: Dogma Have any of you even seen the film?
Date: Fri, 12 Nov 1999 11:53:13 -0500
From: Doug

To those of you jumping upon the anti-Catholic sentiment "bandwagon", i must ask: Have you seen the film? (Released only today) Or are you relying upon ignorant opinions of others who have not seen the film either as a basis to form your uneducated opinions? Is it so hard to actually seek knowledge on your own and think for yourselves? Or perhaps it is that you are soo insecure in your own foundation of Belief that a mere glimpse of anything outside of its tiny world view would cause your temple of cards to crash down around you. Those who are secure in their beliefs generally welcome debate and are able to tolerate the beliefs of others. The basic plot of this is is after all a descendant of jesus saving the world from destruction. Hmmm, sounds rather christian to me. Think I will go see the film anyway.
doug

SIMPLE PLAN IS TERRIFIC
Subject: Simple Plan
Date: Fri, 12 Nov 1999
From: JT
I was very surprised to learn that I was to be the first person to review this movie. I found it to be one of my favorite movies of all time. It reminded me very much of Treasure of the Sierra Madre, another great film. A Simple Plan seemed to be even darker than the previously mentioned film and made better use of visual symbolism. I also greatly enjoyed the winter landscapes, as they remind me of my homestate, MN, which I recently moved from. I found the acting, writing, and directing in this movie to be superb. The message is clear and well-presented. This is definately a movie I would recommend to anyone. Avoid it only if you are disturbed by "depressing" movies. Nevertheless, I think it is a very powerful and entertaining in its visuals and a very important and relevant story.
RON MAXWELL SPEAKS
Subject: Joan of Arc/The Messenger
Date: Fri, 12 Nov 1999
From: Joyce
I will let Ron Maxwell give his review...and I ditto, I will be glad when his project comes out that will finally be AUTHENTIC to the core!!
Joyce
"THE MESSENGER"
Dumbed Down Dame.....
My response: Thanks Joyce for sending this in. I have posted it on The Virgin Warrior page.
MORE ON THE OMEGA CODE

BIBLE CODES ARE TRUE
Subject: The Omega Code
Date: Fri, 12 Nov 1999
From: Shaun Zemke

I agree with Bruce that the film takes may of its prophetic interpretation from Hal Lindsey. I also happen to know that there are dozens of scholars who agree with Lindsey and have subsequently written their own books that have somehow eluded Bruce's limited radar. I don't agree with ALL of Lindsey's interpratation, but he, himself, doesn't encourage total faith in his reader. He only makes the attempt to give the unbeliever an "I-told-you-so" record of events validated by the Bible. Oh...and David...the Bible Codes have NOT been proven to be untrue. More to the contrary: with every criticism, there exists a factual mathematical rebuttal that all but knocks the skeptic flat on his uneducated butt!!! How dare you attempt to deceive potential readers into disbelief with such a flat, biased, blanket statement like "the Bible Codes have been proven untrue!!!" Just because this particular movie was poorly constructed does not automatically give you license to spew assumptions about mathematically proven and documented research that has been unfortnately ignored by those secular skeptics who have stamped "false" on their own definitions of what they THINK the Bible Code researchers claim. These pseudo-scientific skeptics talk of voluminous works and length lending to the findings....nowhere near the truth! The bible Codes are based on low intervals, small areas of text, relevance to the surface text (e.g., 26 names of trees found in Gen. 2 where Eden is described). That cannot be found in anything else, but nevertheless ignored....I'm sorry that I have to constantly be bombarded by factless unscientific assumptions, and I'm sorry that you, David Bruce, have decided to believe the lies instead of searching for the truth....OK, the movie is below average in terms of the potential the human imagination can produce, but, then again, the truth of Christ has not exactly captured the attention of the social majority, either!!!
-Shaun Zemke
My response: Running the code program works with Tom Sawyer revealing similar "revelations" as with the Torah. What can I can? It's bogus.

TWO THUMBS DOWN ON THE OMEGA CODE
Subject: The Omega Code Two thumbs down...
Date: Thu, 11 Nov 1999
From: Brian Teegardin
This movie gives evangelical Christianity a bad image simply because the movie itself is so poorly done. You just can't squeeze 7 years of tribulation in a story line into a few hours without giving the audience a severe case of whiplash, which this movie did. The plot needed to be much tighter; the acting was bad to terrible, (Michael York was alright, but his character was flat), and the writing was worse yet. Now I personally do believe in the 7 year tribulation thing, and that we may be headed there sometime in the future, possibly even next century. But the Omega Code has made me the laughing stock, and it's lack of depth, coupled with fringe-extremists who say that the world will end on January 1st 2000 or whenever have given faith a bad name and a good setup job for a great big 'I told 'ya so' from atheists everywhere next year.
Brian Teegardin alias 'RayfordSteele'

Sorry, I meant that Michael Ironside's acting was good. Everything else was flat. Of course, I do already know something of the storyline...

People writing rapture stories have this overwhelming problem, how to make the bad guy interesting, and still keep him as the anti-Christ. Do you give him some 'good qualities?' How do you not keep from demonizing a demon?

Brian Teegardin
alias RayfordSteele

HJ ATTCKS THE OMEGA CODE ...INTERESTING
Subject: The Omega Code
Date: Thu, 11 Nov 1999
From: Ken
It is interesting that you attack "The Omega Code" but use secular films
to teach Jesus...
My response: I know. It's sad. Why did I do it?

OMEGA CODE GREAT
Subject: The Omega Code
Sat, 6 Nov 1999.
From Mary Ann:
I went to see the movie today. Took my son and his girlfriend. The movie is great! I believe it had them thinking when we left. They were engrossed in it. I prayed God would use this to bring them to him. I highly recommend it........
MaryAnn in Illinois. Please do not use my email ID.

OMEGA CODE IS NO CODE
November 1, 1999. My husband and I saw this movie (Omega Code) and were shocked to think it had been billed as either Christian or "soul winning". At no time did this movie make a difference between Christians and non Christians with regard to their final destination (heaven or hell) if they followed the Antichrist. There was no mark, no clear message of salvation, and indeed the name of Jesus was used only once in this film when the star, being attacked by demons, cried out "Jesus save me". This was a cry made for deliverance from "trouble" not an actual cry to the Lord for salvation from sin. I can see no purpose for this film other than to make TBN,or whoever produced the film, money. What little scripture that was quoted was quoted out of context and applied to the wrong persons. Even someone knowing their bible would have a problem following this film and finding Jesus in it. To bill it as a tool for salvation is a joke. I would not recommend it to Christians or the unsaved.
Let us not forget that there is no CODE in the bible anyway. The bible is plainly written so that all may know and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. I am attaching a review I did of The Omega Code that I sent to various Christians and Christian Lists.
Sincerely, Dorene E

APOLOGETIC APPROACH
Subject: Dogma
Date: Fri, 12 Nov 1999
From: Brian

I'm a big fan of Kevin smith's work, not necssarily because of his views but because of his approach. Regardless if he is aware of it or not, Kevin's perspective in all of his films have been an attempt to supply his audience with incite on the subtle ironies and humorous mannerisms of a world full of people who, by choice, do not see past their day-to-day preconceptions and hurried judgments. He uses comic books and sci-fi to communicate his sense of general understanding of life as people's individualized constructs in the ultimately absolute truth of God and His Truths.

I, myself, am a Reformed Chrstian who sees Smith as a potential reformist almost as relevant as Martin Luther, who was not just a "protestor" of Catholic dogma but moreover a man in search of the Absolute Truths of the Gospels instead of the uneducated, non-Biblical deviations found in the Heirarchical Roman Catholic doctrine and its inherent "indulgences" of man-made rules and judgment. Smith is a self-proclaimed Catholic, reverant to Christ and protestant of Catholic dogma. I personally encourage the search for the truth found in this movie, but I am disappointed in the lack of Biblical foundation with which it is based. As much as I respect Smith's attempt to dispell the numerous dogmas of the Roman Catholic church, I fear that he is only serving to create more modern and politically correct dogmas that will serve to only increase the skepticism of those who blindly believe that the Bible is fiction. I would recommend this movie but with one word of precaution: the opinions of Smith's in reference to Theology are soley based on his attempt to "reform" Catholicism and NOT the truths of Christianity. If anything, Kevin is a few steps away from realizing the truth of the Apologetic or Reformation of the Christian Church firmly rooted to its original intent: not persecution, but glorification of Christ and His Sacrifice for our sins.-Shaun Zemke
DO NEVERENDING STORY
Subject: a suggestion
Date: Thu, 11 Nov 1999
From: Lisa
I've really enjoyed your site, and the thoughtful reviews of current films. I would like to suggest for review one of (if not the) my favorite films of all time, _The Neverending Story_ I first saw it when i was about 12, and loved it for the imaginative fantasy elements. As an adult I still love it and find it very thought-provoking, i.e. the "swamps of sadness" scene(the importance of hope) and the scene where Bastian confronts the "creature of darkness"... (Unfortunately, the sequel was not nearly as well-done, a fact i find even more disappointing as i read the book to find that the story actually does continue) But I digress... Anyway, i would like to see a review of this film-- I heard once that Madeleine L'Engle said whenever she had something to say that was too hard for grownups to understand, she would put it in a children's book. and in a way that seems to be the idea in the Neverending Story as well...

Lisa

My responses: Maybe I will do this film someday. Thanks for the kind words.

NOT A MOVIE, BUT A GLIMPSE OF LIFE
Subject: Children of Heaven
Date: Thu, 11 Nov 1999
I wept throughout this entire movie. It was extraordinary! I wish that it be included in every school curriculum for THE lesson on values, love, and loyalty. The child actors were amazing...hardly seemed like a movie but rather a glimpse at life. Can this most beautiful film be rented anywhere or will it ever be for sale? I have so many I want to have see it!
AUSIE SAD ABOUT BRIMSTONE
Subject:Brimstone
Date: Thu, 11 Nov 1999
Australian fans who are sorry to think this good production is to be ended so soon suggest you film down here and lower costs, chase Aussie evil....surely Yankees haven't cornered the market? Time slot has been a problem here too - 11pm Monday !!!
Golem and Ariella
INSIDER GOOD, NEEDS TO BE SHORTER
Subject: The Insider
Date: Wed, 10 Nov 1999
From: Arthur
Thot the Insider was an good movie that if it were 30 minute shorter, it would have been at least 30% more effective.

For me the weakest part ot the film was the on-off relationship between Wigand and his wife after he reveals he has been fired. She reacts, harshly, but ,in the circumstances, perhaps typically. Then it appears they have reconciled, resolved their differences and developed a close and loving relationship again. Bang ,suddenly and without dramatic development, the wife and children are gone.......It did not appear realistic but smacked more of a juice job to pick up the pace at this point. It did begin to lag at this point. But their real world confrontation would have been a much more effective and honest device. Although the cinematography seems to have won critical acclaim,too many scenes were artificially dark. Sometimes, in trying to depict mood thru lighting , it is very easy to overdo it and destroy the mood sought.

arturo
HJ OPENED EYES:
Date: Mon, 08 Nov 1999
From: Danny
HELLO, I HAVE TO SAY THAT I LOVE MOVIES AND THIS WEB SITE HAS OPENED MY EYES TO SOME OF THE MESSAGES THAT IS SOMETIMES RIGHT IN FRONT OF US BUT WE ARE TO ENGULFED ABOUT THE HYPE WE GET LOST IN WHAT THE FILM MIGHT ACTUALLY BE ILLUSTRATING. I FOUND YOUR SITE WHILE DOING RESEARCH FOR PAPER IN MY THEOLOGY CLASS AT ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY IN SAN ANTONIO. THE TOPIC OF MY PAPER IS "PORTRAYAL OF RELIGION IN MOTION PICTURES" I WANT TO WRITE A PAPER THAT WILL EXPLAIN THE WAY RELIGION IS POTRAYED AND HOW IT CAN AFFECT SOMEONE MY AGE, A YOUNG MIND
EASILY INFLUENCED BY ANYTHING AND EASILY TO QUESTION MYSELF ABOUT MY FAITH. I WOULD LIKE TO GET A HOLD OF A FEW CURRENT FILMS THAT PORTRAY RELGION IN A POSITIVE MANNER AND A FEW THAT PORTRAY RELIGION IN A NEGATIVE MANNER.IF YOU HAVE SUCH A LIST I WOULD LIKE TO GET A HOLD OF ONE AND IF YOU CAN'T MAYBE YOUCAN POST THIS AND HAVE READERS REPLY TO ME.
My response: Try Dogma, The Messenger, Rosemary's Baby.
SILENT MOVIE IS BEST
Subject: "The passion of joan of arc"
Date:Mon, 8 Nov 1999
From: Heidi
Funny -I was just flipping through the channels when on a turner movie channel I saw "the passion of Joan of arc" was on. Since I read about that here- I decided to check it out. I can honestly say- Its the only silent movie that has ever made me cry. If Ron Maxwell patterns his movie after this - I think it will be the best movie ever done about her life. It seemed to me to show her true spirit and love for God. heidi
FREE THINKERS UNITE
Subject: Dogma
Date: Mon, 8 Nov 1999
From: Matt McConchie
FREE THINKERS UNITE...if you want to.
Well, Dogma is less than 5 days away now, and I can't stop jumping up and down. I have been a huge View Askew fan for MANY years now. I do have one question. God is apart of us all? Am I wrong to believe this? If so, then discount what I am about to say. But if that is true, then that means that God is one diverse dude. Why everybody protesting this movie has to speak for Jesus, God and Walt makes me personally sick. If God didn't want this movie to be made, it wouldn't have happened. Maybe the intent is for it to open the eyes...Who knows...maybe the second coming is Kevin himself. Wouldn't that just turn things upside down? My point is that you never know. You can't rule out
something because of faith. You can't rule out something because of spirituality. All you can do is accept it, and define it in your life. I hope I am met with a protest. I hope I get to talk to some of these people because I will offer to buy a ticket or two just to make sure that they are enlightened to what they are protesting.

The bible has been translated from many different languages, and if I recall, is the depiction of the same event, from 12 different people. An they all tell a different story... Hmm...sounds like a book of fiction to me. A good BOOK... The only teaching I ever got from reading the bible is not to live my life by a book... to open my eyes to the world around me and view it for myself.

I am done. Post my e-mail address if you like, use what you want. I am sorry if I have offended in any way. I an not a fan of organized religion...I feel it makes people out of cookie-cutter molds.

--Matt McConchie.
THE MOST STUPID MOVIE
Subject: Blair Witch
Date: Sun, 7 Nov 1999
From: Carlos
this movie was the most stupid movie that i have ever seen in my life. when i was going to rent it i seemed it was a good and scary but it wasn't it was the opposite. then when we where watching it we all fell a sleep i thin even i could do a movie like that or even better then that with out having the skill that u guys got. we all thinking that instead of doing that movie u guys should do something better then what u guys did and com up with better things
HISTORY LESSONS
Subject: Joan of arc- the virgin warrior
Date: Sun, 7 Nov 1999
From: Heidi
I had heard about the new Joan of arc movie - (The Messenger) and was exited about it, because I've studied her. But even before I've seen the movie- I've heard things he's put into the movie that NEVER were in history- Like the rape and killing of Joans sister..... never happened- just more hollywood glitter - ( Was he just trying to make it look like she did it for vengence?) And a sword didn't just fall out of the sky- she herself found it at the church. My favorite book is Mark Twains Joan Of Ark. He studied her for 12 years, went to France and England to look at records- And he concidered it his greatest and most important work. (I was happy to see that Ron Maxwell mentioned this book!!!) And the voices and angels she saw were not only male- they were female- these were things joan said- They are in the records anyone can read!!!

Theres so much more I want to say on how she's been taken apart by someone who looks like he hasn't done his history lessons - But I'll leave it to someone who's studied her much longer than I have- for 6 years he's been in france and elsewhere- looking at records, etc- he also made the movie Gettysburg- and I don't know when, But He's doing a movie on Joan of arc- which he's planned for years - with Mira Sorvino- Who in my mind (if you see the right pictures of her) looks more like Joan than Milla ever could ( Though I must say she is quite pretty, Just doesn't look the part- I have heard she does a good job in the movie. although joan had dark hair, not blonde, or all the other colors her hair was in the film... I've heard its symbolic-her hair- but does he really know who joan was- or is it just some strange twist on her story? Ron Maxwell has some exellent points about the movie that I'm sure you've already read. (since I've read about it on your site) I am waiting patiently( or should I say impatiently!!!!) for his version- It sounds like he wants to make it the way it should be-not just for glamour and glitter- But for her spirit- her devotion, and for the incredible person she really was. (PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE- keep me informed on any of the latest info on his project on her!!!
heidi
WATCH SPOILERS
Subject: Just discovered your site!
Sun, 7 Nov 1999
From Tom:
I just discovered your website through an article in Christianity Today. I appreciate the approach you take to movies. Please be careful not to ruin the ending for me. Revealing that Mr. Burnham was murdered in the end revealed too much.
My response: So sorry, at least I didn't say who did it.

15 YEAR OLD CATHOLIC LIKES DOGMA
Sat, 06 Nov 1999.
Subject: Dogma
From John:
As a huge fan of all of Kevin Smiths movies, I must say that I find the idea for his new movie somewhat strange, in that the theme is so different from his other ones. Not that I have anything against it, I plan on seeing it the first day it's released. What I am against is an organised religious protest of the entire thing. Now, I believe the church has every right in the world to protest, as it is their constitutional right (in America at least, don't know about some other countries) but I do think that the Catholics are making much to big a deal out of it. Born and raised a catholic for all of my 15 years, I recently turned to agnosticism precicely because of such things like this. When are they going to understand that not everyone thinks like them? In fact, I've found most people don't think like them, weather they care to admit it or not. Frankly, I think they should just butt out, they have no place in saying what movies people should see. Catholics are famous for focusing on certain groups (gays,jews,even women in general at one time) to perhaps draw attention away from the fact that their religion contains so many contridictions it's increadible. This is by no means an assult against christians and catholics, whom I think hold ideals everyone should follow..themselves most of all. In closeing-and I think this is the most important point in my whole rant -IT IS A MOVIE! Who cares what people say in a movie? Who cares what people do in a movie? Are you going to condem the Devils Advocate because it portrays Satan as a rather likeable fellow? Or what about Dana Carvy playing the Church Lady on SNL? So what if it mocks you? I don't know of one Jewish comedian that doesn't make the occasional Jew joke,and no one does this type of thing to them. The fact is, religion is so increadibly easy to make fun of I'm suprised it isn't done more.
John Reck IV
Comments or flames are welcome at darkclerik@hotmail.com Also, please excuse my spelling..heh,my spell check is broken.
BLAIR WITCH STUNK
November 7, 1999. (Re: Blair Witch) All I can say is that I am glad I waited for the video to come out so I could rent the movie. Saved a bunch that way. This movie truly stunk. My wife and I started counting how many times the F word was used. If they are planning for sequel you can count me out.
SOME THOUGHTS ON SHAWSHANK
November 6, 1999. (Re: Shawshank Redemption) I love this movie but am amazed that Christians critique this movie in such a similar fashion as the surrounding culture. So I'm gonna do a little rebuttal to make my point :) I saw little true redemption going on, I would say it was "Synthetic Redemption". Now it has been years since I saw the film but I remember what I thought was the pivot point in the movie. That was when the "fundie" warden visits Andy in his cell and picks up the Bible that he had given Andy. And Andy had even memorized some scripture (something out of John I think?) But alas, Andy only has scripture on his
lips (perhaps to please the warden and assure his own survival?) and not on his heart, (albeit he really does seems like a nice guy who does some cool stuff for the prison) as he missed the narrow gate entirely! He proceeds to embezzle the wardens corrupt money by rearranging the books and merely uses the Bible to store a pick for his worldly escape. I think Andy totally sells out. He comes into jail as an innocent and becomes corrupt while in jail. He then takes things into his own hands when he sees that the warden won't free him. So Andy ends up in Mexico physically, but has had no encounter with God. I was really hoping that if Andy had encountered God via scripture, he would have stayed in prison as salt and light. He would have shown true freedom via transformation rather than mere escape to Mexico. He could have had a ministry in prison so prisoners would be set free even if they are in jail for life. I know I'm talking pie in the sky for a Hollywood flick but it amazes me when Christians claim Andy as a messiah figure when he really missed the whole shebang! God wants to change our hearts, the worldly approach is to rearrange creation (i.e.; change location, gain status etc....) so we don't have to repent! The redemption Andy portrays is the way of worldly redemption. He relies on his wits and works. And he ends up in Mexico, not heaven! If Stephen King meant his movie to reveal what I've just discussed on purpose, I'd say this is an incredibly subtle and brilliant film. But I really think King probably thought Mexico was redemptive, which makes the film a fine but predictable affair, the ol' "noble man overcoming hostile circumstances" theme. From a sentimental point of view, you can't help but fall into the "eye for an eye" motif and want to cheer for Andy, I can understand that. But for me, after the Bible scene I mentioned above, the movie was a disappointment of sorts since it became apparent that Andy was going to go the "salvation via works" route. LOL.. It really could have been a profound movie if Andy had stayed in prison as a "prophet/healer" rather than bailing out. That would have been true sacrifice and true freedom. It would have made the audience think rather than just cheer. It could have been a profound movie, instead it was just "warm and furry". It is one of my favorite movies tho. But it concerns me when Christians proclaim the wide gate as the narrow gate and miss the narrow gate altogether. Shouldn't we be "seeing through" what the culture throws at us as a "messiah"? We gotta stay on our toes, and encourage one another eh? This is a great web site. Thanks for the chance to give opinions and feedback!
My response: Ahh, just take it for what it is: A secular film with spiritual overtones. That's all. It was never intended to be the gospel message.
WHAT ABOUT SEX?
November 5, 1999. Mr. Bruce,
I am a 15 year old homeschooled guy from upstate New York. I was just writing to thank you for your site, and for the thoughts you have provoked thorough it. Though i lean more to the Indie side of filmaking your reccomendations have made me see some great mainstream films. I don't mean to be a bother, but could you put a little more about the sexual content in your reviews? Hey, I'm 15 and a guy and I'm trying to avoid films that feature lots of nudity and sex. Such as the film "Being John Malkovich"? I really want to see it but I have read there is some sex in it and i wish i knew how much. Would your reccomend it? Can the bad content be overlooked through the overall film? Again, not to be a bother. I
think your site is great. Thank you so much for reading this, and for the site.
peace out-
josiah
My response: I am sorry I can not do that. I can not put my mind into making notes on sex and nudity. I keep my mind centered on Jesus. Practice centering your mind on God and you will be alright. Simple.
THE NINTH GATE
Novenber 5, 1999. Hello Im greatly anticipating THE NINITH GATE and would appreciate any more info when available
THIS PRESENT DARKNESS
November 5, 1999. Do you know anything about a movie being made out of "This Present Darkness" by Frank Peretti? I would really like to see one.
With Anticipation, michael
My response: Yes it is in the works.
FIGHT! THE DEVIL/SIN PERSONIFIED
November 6, 1999. (Re The Fight Club) You know the thing about this show? It shows that we all have that little devil in our minds. That pesky little guy that is the same as Tyler Durden. That pesky little guy that keeps telling us to do what we want to do and push us to do it. So Tyler did show us each and everyone of us thinks. "Does God really care?"
I think we have the best portrayal of the devil and our sins. It is of our darkest wants and needs humanised. The very Human Nature at its worse~! Rauchy sex? Blowing things up? Pornography? Vadalism? VIOLENCE!!
You name it and our Tyler Durden inside us wants us to do it. As Paul put it very clearly in Romans
"I do not understand what i do. For what i want to do (for the Lord) I do not do, but what i hate to do. And if i do what i do not want to do, i agree with the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For i have the desire to do what is good, but i cannot carry it out. For what i do is not the good i want to do;no, the evil i do not want to do-this i keep on doing. Now if i do what i do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it."
-Romans 7:15-20.
Well said indeed~!! Tyler Durden is the one who is doing all the things that the character do not want to do. And the things that he wants to do he could not control it as portrayed by the power of Tyler.
He could not kill it after 'shooting' him in the last moments of the show. And the end is pretty exciting (yucks~!)
So what does it say us as human beings? We are forever condemned because nothing good will come out of us no matter how 'good' we are because day in and out, our thoughts will wonder to do 'bad' things.
Do we have a saviour?
Who will show the Tyler Durden in all of us?
Ans? Jesus Christ.
Now matter what our Tyler Durden do. We can conquer him through Jesus Christ. We can stop our spiritual decay, our anguish of this present life and losing of hope.
We can. and We will.....May our Tyler Durdens die with the knowledge
that we can control our destiny through Jesus' help.
Kriston Wong
wilswong@pacific.net.sg
LOOKING FORWARD TO DOGMA
November 5, 1999. I am a practicing Catholic, and a big fan of Kevin Smith. The concepts and issues that Dogma deals with and I have read about, have caused a stir within my spiritual and mental states. The ideas of Dogma interest me. For the most part, I have been following the back and forth that has come up between Bill Donahue, and his Catholic League, and Kevin Smith, and I must say I'm siding by Kevin. I applaud anybody who has the confidence to openly question his faith, and further more, examine it. Catholicism is not, by far, a "perfect" religion. It is an institution that is perpetuated by humans, who, last I checked, are imperfect beings. As with any established insitution, one should question each and every message presented for the bringers of those messages are imperfect and subjective individuals. The idea of not questioning or examining what you learn and take in leads to acceptance without thought, or in other words, blind faith. I for one don't want to become an automaton accepting every order and message given to me, and becoming a cog in the machine.Just think, how much would a little bit of questioning and examining might have changed things in the Crusades, or even Nazi Germany? Just because someone is in a perceived "higher" position, whether it be teacher, priest, or president, does not make that person right.
Thank You Brad Lapitan
GOD GAVE US A SENSE OF HUMOR
November 4, 1999. (Dogma) Hello-Being raised a by a Catholic mother and an agnostic father, I've had my share of confusion on religion. I'm gonna keep this short and sweet- God created us to love and cherish one another, and he also created us ( though it's not always apparent ) with a SENSE OF HUMOR! I'm a newcomer to your website ( via newsaskew ), and I have to say, it's a breath of fresh air. Keep up the good work! I'll definitley be returning. I can't wait for Dogma!
Andriette Langley
My response: Thank you, I always like kind words.
YOUTH WORKER
Novenber 4, 1999. I APPRECIATE YOUR REVIEWS. I JUST GOT BACK FROM THE NATIONAL YOUTH WORKERS CONVENTION IN SAN DIEGO PUT ON BY YOUTH SPECIALTIES, AND YOUR SITE WAS BROUGHT UP A LOT IN SOME OF THE SEMINARS ON USING MEDIA IN THE YOUTH GROUPS. I WAS WONDERING THOUGH IF YOU PLAN TO DO A REVIEW ON THE FIGHT CLUB. I, AM, INTERESTED TO HEAR YOUR VIEWS
FROM A FELLOW MOVIE BUFF AND YOUTH DIRECTOR
SHANE
My response: Yes I will. Thanks for the kind words.
PUERTO RICAN AS GOD
November 4, 1999. Several years ago there was a play (off or on Broadway, I don't remember) that protrayed God as a Puerto Rican janitor in New York. Would you happen to remember the name of the play? I believe it was later broadcast on Masterpiece Theatre.
Thank you! Joanne
My response: I think it was called Steam Bath.
THE GENIUS 2000 VIDEO
November 4, 1999. 4, 1999. I am an independent filmmaker and have recently completed a video called Genius 2000. It consists mainly of unscripted interviews with ordinary people about the concept of genius, the meaning of the year 2000, and how they are connected (if at all). The video is not structured around Christian
beliefs, however, several of the interviewees are Christian and it deals with Christian concepts in an open-minded and tolerant manner. In this respect its method and message could be called "syncretic," i.e., utilizing a diversity of beliefs and worldviews in a gestaltic way. One of my main goals in the work was to avoid rigid dogma and judgmentalism, while at the same time exploring the meanings behind pop culture, religion, and the state of contemporary belief. I have also tried to include the question of the Gospel of Thomas, recently rediscovered in Egypt but expunged from the original crafting of the official Bible.
More information on the work can be found at www.geocities.com/~genius-2000, and at the prestigious web art site Rhizome (go to www.rhizome.org and use "query: genius 2000"). I would be interested to hear the list's reactions to this work.
Sincerely, Max Herman
TED'S TOP TEN
It's A Wonderful Life- Intercessory prayer, intervention of saints and angels, the dignity & significance of daily compassionate living- WOW!

A Clockwork Orange- which is worse- to permit the possibility of vicious evil or to destroy the freedom to choose that evil? That plus the hallucinagenic Stanley Kubrick visuals, the witty manipulation of language from book author Anthony Burgess, and a haunting music score by Walter/Wendy Carlos!

Blade Runner- When humans assume God-like powers, we will have a Lucifer to rise against us. Yet in the end, even it may find the Way of Christ.

The Last Temptation of Christ- Flawed & heretical yet well-meaning, insightful & profoundly moving. The Scourging & Crucifixion scenes really hit me in the gut. And David Bowie as Pontius Pilate was totally incisive.

The Rapture- Michael Tolkin's story of Mimi Rogers as a debauched woman, turned Christian wife & mom, turned homicidal fanatic who in the end must choose whether to accept the Grace & Truth that is starting her in the face.

The Seventh Seal- Max Von Sydow, a returning Crusader, plays chess to keep the Black Death from claiming his companions. Is the film a denial or an affirmation of faith? The Apocalyptic ending would seem to be a denial but for the Life that survives & affirms God in the end.

Slaughterhouse Five- A man unstuck in time jumps thru his life in random points, as he is studied by aliens who want to see what the mystery of humanity is. He ends as the Adam in their laboratory Eden, mated with a lovely new Eve.

That is exhaustive by far but it's enough for now
Ted
SEE SIXTH SENSE OVER AND OVER
November 4, 1999. This is one of my favorite films of all time and is very a film you will not understand fully unless you watch it over and over. I still had
not noticed the red theme throughtout very interesting. I also have a review at http://mypage.uniserve.ca/~ccoyote of the sixth sense
LOVES MARY
November 4, 1999. (Re: Mary Mother of Jesus) MAY I ASK WHY YOU HAVE NOTHING ON THE REALLY GOOD UPCOMING MOVIE, "MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS" PRODUCED BY EUNICE KENNEDY SCHRIVER"
THANK YOU
SHARON NAUGHTON
HATES DOGMA.
November 4, 1999. (Re: Dogma) I WAS MORTIFIED TO SEE THAT MATT DAMON WAS STARRING IN THIS ABOMINATION. THIS FILM SAYS MARY AND JOSEPH HAD SEX AND THAT IS LIKE SPITTING IN MARY'S FACE AND THAT OF THE CATHOLIC FAITH,
I, AM SICK OVER IT AND FOR ANYONE WHO CLAIMS TO BE CATHOLIC OR TO LOVE MARY, AND TO SUPPORT THIS FILM, THINK AGAIN,
I DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU ARE BUT YOU ARE NOT CAHTOLIC
SHARON NAUGHTON
LAW AND ORDER
November 3, 1999. thanks for your website. i found it when looking for catholic-church reviews of TV shows. couldn't find any sites for that. but stumbled on yours and...
I have to agree, that tv is finally showing an interest in traditional values. i esp. enjoy "law and order" for its continuing exploration of moral questions in a thoughtful, non-polemic manner.
I do worry that the tv handling of spirituality can be sensationalist and ignorant. just saw a new show called "angel" which looks to be a violent thriller dealing with supernatural themes, not in order to nurture and challenge the viewer but rather to feed his adrenaline addiction. what do you think?
thanks again, mary
My response: Yea sometimes this is true. The name of the game is ratings.
TOUCHED BY TOUCHED
November 3, 1999.(Re: Touched by an Angel) My heart leaps with joy for the success of "Touched By An Angel". I hope that "Hollywood" gets the message. All of us would like to have more movies that we can take the kids and grandkids to see without cringing at the language or vulgar visual effects. Also, after the movie "Apocalypse III....Tribulation" debuts in theaters around the country, maybe "they" will finally listen. Thanks and prayers to "Touched By An Angel"
PROPHECY INCREDIBLE
November 3, 1999. (Re: Prophecy). I thought this movie was incredible!!!! It is one of my all time favorites and I found it very thought-provoking. How do we know if the angels do or don't feel anger towards humans hmmmm? I too have to agree that Christopher Walken WAS the perfect Gabriel, the man is a genius. Viggo Mortenson (a perfectly yummy, beautiful Lucifer) and Eric Stoltz were nothing to sneeze at either. All in all, it was very well done. I will watch it over and over.
P.S. Please do not display my e-mail address. Thank you.
LIKES HJ
November 2, 1999. All I have to say is WOW. OK, I'll say a few more things. As a Christian, I really appreciate your thoughtful, probing reviews. The Christian media never seem to be able to look at popular culture with anything but judgment. Your ability to find meaning in art makes me proud to be apart of the Christian community, which is not always something I can say.
Please keep up the good work. I have you bookmarked.
BLAIR WITCH WAS SCARY
November 1, 1999. I really enjoyed the movie , but there were many parts that I just could'nt believe due to the extreme explicitness of this film. When I went to see the movie , I was so scared to see what was goin to happen next th I could'nt even get up to go to the restroom. I really did not understand what happened to the man at the end of the movie . Was it the Blair Witch that killed the students or was it the other man that they talked about at the beginning of the movie when they were askng people what they thought about the Blair Witch?
I wish there was more information on this particular subject! The Blair Witch has really grabbed my attention and I plan to do more research in the future , but don't worry I wiil not be going into any woods!!!!!!
The movie had a very sudden ending , so what I want to know is how long was it after the first set of footage was found the second set found? Or is this just a money gimic like everything else is?
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