Showing posts with label Movie Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Movie Reviews. Show all posts

When Calls the Heart, Season 3 | DVD Set Special Offer

When Calls The Heart Season 3 Video Offer

I've been a When Calls the Heart fan from the beginning. (Go #Hearties!) My obsession began way back in 1983 when Janette Oke first began the Canadian West series. I devoured each of the books as they came out and eagerly looked forward to the next installment.

When the TV movie of When Calls the Heart came out in 2013. I was thrilled. We popped up a batch of popcorn and had a great night of entertainment. Then in January 2014 Hallmark really made my day when they turned When Calls the Heart into a TV series

It's hard to imagine that we've just finished up season 3 and are antsy to watch the upcoming season 4. The wait is just killing me!

Fortunately for us the When Calls the Heart Complete Season 3 DVD Collection was just released. 





About the Season 3 Boxed Set

As with the When Calls the Heart Season 1 and Season 2 Collector's editions, this 10 DVD set contains both the film versions and the TV episode versions of When Calls the Heart Season 3. You can watch the series as 10 hour-long episodes or 5 feature films. As in previous years, fans will enjoy finding small differences between the film versions and the individual episodes.

The really exciting elements of the Season 3 Collectors' Edition are the three bonus discs. Disc 8 features the typical bonus material one would expect from a project like this -- behind the scenes footage, interviews, etc. Disc 9 is a special product devoted to the fans that have made When Calls the Heart such a grassroots success--featuring footage from the #Hearties gathering in Vancouver in January 2016. The 10th disc is a When Calls the Heart trivia game that devoted fans are sure to love.

Free DVD Set For All Pre-Orders

I know you're going to want the Season 3 collection so I couldn't resist telling you about this special offer from Fish Flix. We love Fish Flix for inspiring films at a great price. (Usually cheaper than we can find anywhere else!)

For everyone who pre-orders the Season 3 Collector's Edition from FishFlix.com they'll send the Season 1 "Episodes" set as a free gift. If you're going to be ordering it anyway you might as well get a free gift . . . right?!! Besides the Season 1 Episodes set would make a great item to give away to friends who aren't familiar with the When Calls the Heart series. 

With the release timed for October 11, 2016 this bonus item is a great Christmas gift (maybe stocking-stuffer?) for all those lovers of family-friendly romantic movies on your list! 


Disclosure of materials.

Return To The Hiding Place DVD {Review}



Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 108 minutes

Based on a true story, Return to the Hiding Place is the dramatic continuation of Corrie Ten Boom’s story. Filled with drama, romance, and thrilling action, this film is heart-wrenching and breathtaking. Corrie realizes that the Nazis are going to senselessly murder thousands of Jews in order to further their own empire. Her heart for justice cannot simply stand by and watch innocents be slaughtered, so she decides to do something. Though harboring Jews and attempting to save their lives will put her in direct conflict with the Nazi Gestapo, she knows that doing the right thing is what she must do. Her way of fighting back against the rising Nazi Empire comes in a surprising and unexpected way. Corrie rallies an army of young, untrained teenagers to fight the growing evil.

Meanwhile, a teenager named Hans Poley, makes a huge decision that greatly impacts his future. Though he is expected to join the Nazi party, he feels uncomfortable with their policies and refuses to join. In order to protect him from being harmed or forced to join, his parents send him into hiding. This hiding place that he goes to turns out to be Corrie’s house. While in hiding here, he discovers what is actually happening to the Jews. They are being sent to secret death camps, unbeknownst to a majority of the population. These undercover atrocities bring to light the flaws and horrendous activities being performed by the Nazis, and Hans develops a heart for helping free the Jews from the Holocaust.

After expressing his interest in the underground movement, he is recruited by Piet Hartog, a resistance fighter. Piet is romantically involved with Corrie’s niece, Aty van Woerden, and Hans is drawn into the world of the Nazi resistance. This web of mystery and secret missions is the setting for The Hiding Place.

Together, Hans, Piet, and Aty are met with severe challenges and great opposition. Their work is hard and full of terror, but it is the right thing to do. Return to the Hiding Place is filled with dramatic missions, secret codes, underground hiding places, disguises, and treachery. Their action-filled adventures even include rescuing an entire orphanage full of children that are slated to be killed by the Nazis. This film will move viewers to tears as they cheer for the victories and cry for the losses that the characters experience. Reconnect with The Hiding Place in this dramatic and emotional film.





My Thoughts

Most of us are quite familiar with Corrie Ten Boom and her heroic efforts to hide and save Jews in her home. What is less known is the story of those who chose to help her in her efforts. Most of these courageous people were university students that chose to follow their conscious and risk their own lives.

In Return To The Hiding Place we get the fictionalized version of these terrifying days in the Netherlands. The strength and bravery exhibited is phenomenal. Each of the members of the Resistance daily risked their lives for those that had lost everything and were in danger of losing their very lives.

The scenes involving the orphanage and the children were gut wrenching. How could human beings become so callous as to harm innocent children? The story of Hans, Piet, and Aty remind us that it only takes a few to stand up and make a difference.

I was moved my this movie and felt like it was a great reminder that we need to remember the atrocities of the past in order to not have them repeated in the future. While it is based on actual facts that can be found in any good history textbook it is still a gruesome part of our history. For that reason I would caution parents about watching this with young children. Nothing is shown but references are made to some very horrific events.

This movie would make a good additional resource for homeschooling families that are studying the Holocaust and World War II. It is a good companion piece to The Hiding Place.

Bonus

If you are thinking of buying this movie or any other Christian DVDs let me tell you about a great offer. You can get a $5 coupon to FishFLix.com if you join their email list. It's easy to join just visit www.fishflix.com/5gift or you can text 5-GIFT to 44222 and you'll receive your coupon code.



Just Let Go {Movie Review}



DVD
Rated PG-13 for accident images and thematic material
Movie Run Time - 106 mins

COULD YOU FORGIVE?
WOULD YOU?

In the face of tragedy, Chris Williams made the most important decision of his life. On a cold night in 2007, a devoted father of four and a seventeen-year-old drunk driver both received life sentences. In one violent, devasting instant, each faced a drastically different future. But as Chris Williams sat in his demolished vehicle, realizing that his wife, unborn baby, nine-year-old daughter, and eleven-year-old son had just been killed, he committed to do something extraordinary: he would forgive. Chris Williams' story is the cinematic tale of how someone can forgive despite the desire for revenge that surfaces within the dark corners of the human heart--showing the world that hope, love and forgiveness can overcome all when you just let go.




My Thoughts

If you've ever been forgiven or had the opportunity to forgive, you already know the power that lies behind that act. As Christians we know that it is required of us. Christ forgave us and we are required to forgive others. 

The hard part is overcoming every desire of the flesh to lash out and seek retribution. That's just where Chris Williams found himself. His whole world as he knew it had been shattered by a senseless act. Chris knew that he needed to forgive just as he had been forgiven. But all around him the cry for justice was rising up. From family, from friends, and even from circumstances such as mounting hospital bills the need to seek retribution resounded over and over again.

But a still small voice cried out, "Let it go." 

I will admit that this story begins slow as it sets the stage for the trial. There are many flash-backs and angst ridden scenes but if you will hang with it you won't regret it. You need the background information to understand all that is going on but the real meat of the movie begins as the trial winds down. There are three pivotal points that are still resonating with me.

The first is the scene with the judge. The judge asks Chris if he believes the defendant should be tried as an adult or a juvenile. Chris speaks truth when he says that he and the defendant have already been given a life sentence no matter which way the judge decides to rule.

The second scene is the one where Chris shares with his grieving and angry sons about a past incident that changed his life and led him to his ability to forgive.

The final scene is perhaps my favorite of the three. Chris is a minister and we get to see him give a sermon talking not only about his own family but about the prodigal son and how it relates. It will forever change the way I think about that story. 
I would highly recommend this movie to everyone (with the exception of small children). I believe it will help you look at the act of forgiveness as more than a requirement. It will allow you to see it as the first step in healing and becoming whole again.

Finally . . . let me leave you with a very powerful song and video. It is called Rise & Fall and it is from the soundtrack from Just Let Go. Enjoy!





Every Boy Needs A HERO ~ DVD Review & Giveaway



Dove Family Approved for all ages
Run time: 94 Minutes
Not Rated


A father's broken relationship with his family fills him with determination to win back the son he left behind. Reaching out through the game they both love, he deliberately forms a baseball team designed to reconnect both fathers and sons, transforming their town in the process. The story shows how one good man can lead change in his community for the common good.



My Thoughts

Joe and Hannah Finn and their son David have made a good life in Miller's Gap. Joe is coaching David's baseball team and earning himself the reputation of a successful leader. But when the opportunity of a lifetime comes along Joe decides to take it. He wants to get rich and make a name for himself then come back to his family.

For seven long years Joe pursues this dream while Hannah and David continue on with their life in Miller's Gap. We're introduced to this story-line when Hannah is dying and only has weeks to live. Joe of course comes home to be with her and David. While Hannah is thrilled to see her husband and make the most of the time they have left, David doesn't really want anything to do with his always absent dad.

Joe sets about reconnecting with his son and decides the best way to do that is through helping with the Gappers, the baseball team that David used to be part of and now coaches. One of the first things that Joe notices is that things have changed drastically in the seven years he's been gone. There are silly new rules for the games and the dads just don't show up anymore. 

This is a good family friendly movie about the value of fathers in their sons' lives. I did find it to be a bit ironic that the one trying so hard to fix this situation is the one who left his own family for seven years. I liked the movie but felt like the story was a bit out of order. I would have preferred if Joe had set his own house in order (made amends with his own son) before he set about trying to fix the dads in the town.

Again, this was a good movie that has a much needed message that dads are important especially to their sons. The acting was good and the pacing of the movie kept my attention. I would recommend this to all families for a nice movie night at home. 

The Giveaway

We have partnered with Family Christian Stores to offer one of our readers a copy of the DVD - HERO. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents and will run through midnight on Monday, October 27, 2014. You must be at least 18 years old to enter. The winner will be contacted by email and will have forty-eight hours to claim the prize. If unclaimed, a new winner will be drawn. The winners’ entries will be verified. Please enter the contest using the Rafflecopter form below. All entries are optional.

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Moms' Night Out Blu-Ray + DVD {Review & Giveaway}



Blu-Ray + DVD Combo Pack
Rated: PG
Run Time: 99 min

All Allyson and her friends want is a peaceful, grown-up evening of dinner and conversation . . . a long-needed moms' night out. But in order to enjoy high heels, adult conversation and food not served in a paper bag, they need their husbands to watch the kids for three hours—what could go wrong? MOMS' NIGHT OUT is an endearing true-to-life family comedy that celebrates the beautiful mess called parenting.



My Thoughts

From the opening scenes of this movie we were laughing our heads off. Yes it is a bit of an exaggeration, but not by much. Who hasn't had the obligatory breakfast in bed made by the children? The food is a bit dicey but the mess in the kitchen . . . don't even think about it! 

Just when you think you've made it through the hard years, you know the ones that are full of coloring on the walls and legos on the floors and barbies everywhere, then the teen years descend upon you.  Those are the years of cutting the apron strings. You've raised them to be strong independent people, but did you teach them everything they need to know?


Ugh! Those clothing arguments. Deep down we know they are just trying to figure out the boundaries, but boy it wears you out. I really enjoyed Patricia Heaton's character. She had such spunk in responding to all that being the pastor's wife entailed. Talk about a hard mom's job . . . being the preacher's wife is a role that is such a fishbowl experience. No matter what you do it is going to be over scrutinized.


Best scene in the movie! Momma's you need to hear what he is saying. "He loves you . . . no matter who you are, no matter what you do, or how far you run, Jesus will always be loving you with His arms open wide." Hear those words. Soak them in. They are the perfect balm for your weary soul!

We've been there, done that, and have the stretch marks to prove it. If we had a way to give each of you a little reprieve in your wash, rinse, repeat days we would. You really do make a big difference. God Himself chose you to mother the ones in your care. He entrusted you with those little lives. He must love you very much because the Bible is pretty clear that those little ones are very important to Him.

If we could make a recommendation for a uplifting evening we'd suggest this: Put on your favorite yoga pants. Whip up your favorite snack. Flop on the couch and watch Moms' Night Out. We think you'll come away from it refreshed and ready to take on the world again!

The Giveaway

We are thrilled to offer one of our readers a copy of Moms' Night Out. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents and will run through midnight on Friday, October 17, 2014. You must be at least 18 years old to enter. The winner will be contacted by email and will have forty-eight hours to claim the prize. If unclaimed, a new winner will be drawn. The winners’ entries will be verified. Please enter the contest using the Rafflecopter form below. All entries are optional.

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When The Game Stands Tall ~ Every Football Player, Parent And Fan Needs To See This Movie!


Drama
PG
Runtime: 1 hr. 55 min.

About the movie:

IT'S NOT HOW HARD YOU FALL, 
IT'S HOW YOU GET BACK UP

"Winning a lot of football games is doable. Teaching kids there's more to life? That's hard."
Coach Bob Ladouceur, from the movie WHEN THE GAME STANDS TALL

The New England Patriots hold the NFL record with 21 consecutive victories. The Oklahoma Sooners set the standard for NCAA Division I football teams with 47 straight wins.

Then there's the De La Salle Spartans and their incredible 151-game winning streak. For 12 consecutive seasons, the De La Salle High School football team has known only the thrill of victories and the consistency of championships.

Yet all along the way—as he builds a seemingly invincible, record-setting national powerhouse—coach Bob Ladouceur emphasizes to his young men the value of purpose and significance over the glory of titles and streaks.

It's a formula that works year after year after year—even when everyone else only wants to focus on The Streak. As he tells his team, "Winning is just a way of keeping score for the days when opportunity and perfect effort meet."

With the excitement of becoming team leaders countering the pressure of keeping The Streak alive, a new group of seniors are ready to take over. But when real-life adversity leaves the team reeling, the Spartans must decide if the sacrifice, commitment, and teamwork they have always trusted in can rebuild what is now disintegrating around them.

Starring Jim Caviezel, Michael Chiklis, Alexander Ludwig, Clancy Brown, and Laura Dern, WHEN THE GAME STANDS TALL is in theaters now. Find a theater near you.


My thoughts:

For the De La Salle Spartans winning had become a given. If it was Friday night then victory was only a couple of hours away. Eventually the winning streak surpassed the 150 game mark.

For years Coach Ladoucer (Coach Lad) had been instilling into his players that they were more than the game. Who they were off of the field was just as important as how they played on the field. He taught his men that they were a team. They learned to stand tall together. They learned to watch each other's back.

The unity on the team impacted the entire community. There were literally kids that had grown up at De La Salle who had never seen their team lose. But eventually cracks began to develop. Other teams began to accuse them of cheating. Players started seeking their own limelight and the hard earned unity was eroding by the minute.

The the day that they thought would never happen happened. The lost. They lost the game, they lost a player and they came very close to losing their beloved coach.

When The Game Stands Tall is a movie about winning. Not just a football game, but at life. The inspiration of the Spartans isn't really about how they managed to win so many games. What is truly inspiring is how they learned to stand tall together after they fell from their lofty heights.

If you're a player, parent or fan you need to go see this movie. In an age of sports scandals this movie will remind you that the game that we all love has the potential to impact our lives in a good way. When The Game Stands Tall is what football and team sports in general should be about.

"Therefore, whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall!" ~ I Corinthians 10: 12



Connect with the movie:



My Mother's Future Husband DVD ~ A Fun Mother Daughter Chick Flick Night Idea and Giveaway!


Dove Family-Approved for all ages.
Not Rated
Run Time: 88 Minutes


Headly, a fifteen year old girl, feels her mother has been in mourning long enough and is determined to find her a new husband by summer.

Fifteen-year-old Headly and her mother, Rene, have more than just a mother/daughter relationship - since Headly's father died, mother and daughter have become best friends. When Headly experiences her first crush, she decides that her mother needs some romance in her life as well and devises a scheme to help Rene find love again.

In My Mother's Future Husband, Headly and her best friend introduce Rene to Andrew, a single dad with a four-year-old son - and sparks fly. Through it all, Headly and Rene learn that they must first deal with the pain of the past before they can open their hearts to the possibilities of the future.



My thoughts:

I just had the pleasure of watching this movie over the weekend. There was a lot that I liked about the film, but I do have a few reservations. Let me start with what I liked. The movie depicted a wonderful relationship between a mother and her teenage daughter. It showed the process of moving on after an appropriate amount of time of grieving for their husband and father. It also was candid on how hard the beginning of a new relationship, especially after a long lasting one can be.

There are some really great themes that run through the movie such as trust, not judging someone based on their looks, and how important open communication is in any relationship. Lots of good situations that can lead to some interesting conversations after the movie is finished.

As I said I do have a couple of reservations. While this is a family friendly movie I really think it is best suited to a mother-daughter chick flick night. The men in our house groaned a little too often for me to recommend it to the male audience.

The thing that I didn't really like about it is totally based on our personal parenting style. Headley is a very charming 15 year old girl. I enjoyed her character and thought her mother Rene was a loving and caring parent. But I didn't like that Headley was allowed to have a boy over to the house while Rene was gone. Even when you assume that parents are around it is okay for mixed company to be in bedrooms. Those are just no nos in our house. Let me say that nothing untoward happened or was even implied, I just didn't like it and wished that the scene had taken place elsewhere.

Beyond my reservations I say this would make a fun movie to view with your favorite girl. Pop some popcorn, curl up together on the couch and have a wonderful evening laughing together over a good clean film. (Then have a discussion about boys in the bedroom!)

The Giveaway:

We have partnered with Family Christian Book Stores to offer one of our readers a copy of My Mother's Future Husband DVD. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents and will run through midnight on Wednesday, September 3, 2014. You must be at least 18 years old to enter. The winner will be contacted by email and will have forty-eight hours to claim the prize. If unclaimed, a new winner will be drawn. The winners’ entries will be verified. Please enter the contest using the Rafflecopter form below. All entries are optional.

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Meet The Cast For The Song ~ A Must See Movie For Every Couple


EVEN THE WISEST OF MEN WAS A FOOL FOR LOVE.

An aspiring singer-songwriter’s life and marriage suffer when the song he
writes for his wife propels him to stardom.

SHORT SYNOPSIS: Aspiring singer-songwriter Jed King is struggling to catch a break and escape the long shadow of his famous father when he reluctantly agrees to a gig at a local vineyard harvest festival. Jed meets the vineyard owner’s daughter, Rose, and a romance quickly blooms. Soon after their wedding, Jed writes Rose “The Song,” which becomes a breakout hit. Suddenly thrust into a life of stardom and a world of temptation, in the form of fellow-performer Shelby Bale, his life and marriage begin to fall apart.



As I said in my review of The Song, this is a movie that every couple should see. It is based on the life of Solomon as told in the books of Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon. The story is gritty and real in parts and steamy and romantic in others. Perfect date night material. So what puts it over the top you ask? I say it is the cast and the music. Let me introduce you to them:


JED KING (Alan Powell) Jed is a young, rugged, charismatic (and wise‐beyond-his‐years) singer/songwriter painfully overshadowed bythe legendary musical accomplishments and catastrophic moral failures of his famous father, David King. Jed enters the music scene and a relationship with Rose, determined to maintain fidelity to his music, his bride, and his God. Fame and road-life soon take their toll, leaving him burnt out and broken by the same worldly pursuits that ensnared David.

Best known as a lead singer of Anthem Lights, Alan Powell is turning heads as a new actor with his breakout lead role in the movie THE SONG. Anthem Lights just released “You Have My Heart” and Alan has two feature films in post-production.

You can follow Alan on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and yes even Pinterest!


ROSE JORDAN (Ali Faulkner) Inspired by the love interest in Song Of Solomon, Rose captivates Jed with her breath-taking beauty, wit, and the innocent charm stemming from her deeply committed faith. Romance and marriage soon follow, but after his meteoric rise to fame, she struggles to raise their son in the wake Jed’s absence.

Ali was recently dubbed a Rising Star by “Yahoo Movies!” and has accumulated a list of impressive credits over the last couple of years, including a featured role in “Twilight: Breaking Dawn.”

You can find out more about Ali on her website, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

SHELBY BALE (Caitlin Nicol-Thomas) One of Jed’s fellow musicians. She’s a beautiful, brazen, and sultry singer and violinist. Just as hundreds of wives and concubines led Solomon astray, Shelby ensnares Jed in a world of temptation and addiction that nearly destroys him.

Caitlin is an accomplished violinist and recent actress, and a magna cum laude graduate of Berklee College of Music. She first landed the role of Jesse in the pilot for ABC country-music drama, “NASHVILLE” before being cast for THE SONG. In just the last year, she’s played shows in Ireland, Scotland, England, and multiple U.S. states including gigs at the legendary Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry.

You can find out more about Caitlin on her website, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!



So there you have it! Don't forget to mark your calendars now for opening weekend, September 26-28, and plan on seeing this awesome movie about a redemption story that never grows old.

For more information on The Song check out the following:



The Song ~ A Music-Driven Romantic Drama About Things We All Pursue . . . Love and Meaning


THE SONG follows aspiring singer-songwriter Jed King (Alan Powell, lead-singer for "Anthem Lights") as he struggles to catch a break and escape the long shadow of his father, a country music legend. After reluctantly accepting a gig at a local vineyard harvest festival, Jed is love-struck by the vineyard owner’s daughter, Rose (Ali Faulkner, Twilight: Breaking Dawn), and a romance quickly blooms. Soon after their wedding, Jed writes Rose “The Song,” which becomes a breakout hit. Thrust into a life of stardom and a world of temptation in the form of fellow performer Shelby Bale (Caitlin Nicol-Thomas, "Nashville"), Jed’s life and marriage begin to fall apart.

The film was written and directed by Richard Ramsey and produced by City on a Hill Studio. The story is a modern-day adaptation of the life and writings of Solomon, found in the Song of Solomon and Ecclesiastes.


My thoughts:

Last night I went to see a pre-release showing of The Song. I was excited to go on a working date with my husband but my expectations weren't very high for the movie. I had read as much background on it as possible and what I had read left me a bit skeptical. In all honesty I thought it was probably going to end up being a bit cheesy.

The story is a modern day retelling of the life of Solomon based on the books of Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon. I read that the main character's name is Jed (short for Jedidiah aka Solomon) and his father's name is David King. The girl he falls in love with is Rose Jordan who's family owns a vineyard just outside of Sharon, Kentucky. (Yep, she's the Rose of Sharon.) The interloper is Shelby Bale (as in worshiper of Baal). One of the biggest surprises was that these cliche names actually added a depth to the story that I wasn't expecting.

The opening scene features David King in all his glory. He's a well known star that has everything . . . fame, fortune, talent. But what he really wants is what he can't have, his neighbor's wife. These opening scenes are gritty and real in their depictions of that life of debauchery. What really makes the message powerful is that you don't hear the character's speak, what you do hear is the voice of Jed speaking passages from Ecclesiastes over the gut wrenching story playing out. 

Several scenes later we meet the adult Jed. He's a struggling musician trying to make it in the shadow of his father. As a way to make ends meet he reluctantly accepts a gig at a festival at the Jordan family's vineyard. There he meets Rose. I'm not going to give away too much about this but let me just say that an ex-boyfriend of Rose's shows up at the festival with another woman in tow. The way Jed puts him in his place is worth the price of the ticket in itself. I was swooning in my seat. Let me tell you, every woman I know wants a man to stand up for her like that. Not an ounce of blood was shed, but the sword went deep. 

By this point in the movie I had a smile plastered on my face. But of course if you are familiar at all with Solomon's story you know what lies ahead. A great sorrow began to fill me. At times I wanted to stand up and yell at the screen, "Don't do it!" But of course they did it.

Another aspect that I appreciated was that it clearly showed that while Jed was the most responsible, Rose, her father, and even Shelby had roles that they played in the downfall. Jed should have said no and walked away. Rose should have been with her husband. Rose's father should have insisted she be with her husband. And Shelby should have left a married man completely alone. I truly wanted to weep for all that they had lost.

That's all that I'm going to tell you about the movie because I don't want to give away anything. I want you to experience it as I did and enjoy how the story unfolds. But let me assure you there wasn't even an ounce of cheese involved. The acting is believable and the music is over the top good. This is a top notch film that every couple should see. What you shouldn't do is bring your little kids. 

As of this showing the film hasn't been rated but I'm confident it will receive a PG 13 rating. This is a steamy romantic movie that doesn't cross the line. What I mean by that is the characters cross the line time and time again but in depicting those scenes the movie itself doesn't cross the line. There are no swear words. There is no nudity. But there is drug use, drinking, and implied sexual activity. I'm sure there will be Christians that do not like it because of these scenes. But I am telling you that when the credits rolled, I was left with a sense of gratitude that we serve such a loving God of the second chance. Not one of us is above falling into a similar snare. All I wanted to do afterwards was express my deep love for my husband and crack open my Bible to again read the account of Solomon's life.

Mark your calendars now for opening weekend, September 26-28, and plan on seeing this awesome movie about a redemption story that never grows old. 

For more information on The Song


The Legend of the Three Trees from Tommy Nelson ~ A DVD Review and Giveaway


Tommy Nelson
DVD

Running Time: 40 min
Suggested Ages: 2-7

About the DVD:

The Legend of the Three Trees

God always has a plan and a purpose for everything. 
He does things in His own unique way and in His own time.

The Legend of the Three Trees is a timeless retelling of the classic folktale of three distinct trees, each with its own hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Each tree dreamed of becoming great--perhaps a majestic treasure chest, or a magnificent sailing ship, or maybe the tallest tree in the forest.

But their dreams didn't seem to come true. Disappointed and dejected, the trees despair until they each interact with Jesus Christ--in His birth, ministry, and ultimate sacrifice, in these experiences they learn that God has a special purpose for each of them.

Thoughtfully written and beautifully animated, The Legend of the Three Trees teaches children and adults alike the significance of their role in God's plan for the world.

My thoughts:

Get ready to curl up with your little one and enjoy a beautiful tale about God's plans for you told through a classic folktale! The animated video will take you through the lifecycle of three different trees. From how they were planted and grown to what they desired to be used for to their final destination. 

At first all three of the trees are disappointed in how their destiny turned out, but then they realize that what they were designed to do really is an important job. Without them the story would be different.

Of course this is a parable type of story and the real theme is that God always has a plan and a purpose for everything. He does things in His own way and in His own timing. We are reminded that sometimes the dreams that we have for ourselves are much smaller than the dreams God has for us. What at first seems insignificant, in the end is very pivotal. The most important part is that no matter what we become it is important as long as we are being used for His purpose.

The animation is absolutely charming and the narration by Hal Holbrook is soothing and draws you in. One of my favorite things is the two original songs. The first is called The Tree and it is sung by Marilyn McCoo and the second is He'll Never Give Up On You which is sung by Andy Chrisman from 4Him. If you are like me you'll be humming the tunes in your head for hours afterwards.


The Giveaway:

Now for the good stuff! We are partnering with Tommy Nelson to offer one of our readers a copy of The Legend of the Trees. If you would like a chance at the giveaway for your family just use the Rafflecopter form below. The giveaway is open to all U.S. residents that are 18 and over.

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Win A Trip To The Hollywood Premiere of Moms' Night Out


By now you've probably heard some buzz about the new movie coming out on Mother's Day weekend. Moms Night Out is a hilarious look at the everyday chaos/blessings of motherhood. It's a story of a group of moms that just need a little break, but what happens instead makes for one interesting night out.

Here's the star of the show, Sarah Drew to give you a little peak into something they've cooked up for you . . . the mom who needs a break!





So are you interested? I know we are! You can enter for your chance to win with the Rafflecopter form below. We'll be holding our breath for all of us. If you're the winner don't forget to give us a shout out so we can brag that we know you!



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Hermie & Friends 'I Will Trust God' DVD by Max Lucado ~ Review & Giveaway



Max Lucado
DVD

Recommended ages: 2-7

About the DVD:

Trust in the Lord and His plans for you!

When God asks Hermie to build a boat but doesn’t tell him why, the adventure of Hermie and the High Seas begins. The other garden bugs choose not to help because they are busy and don’t see the need for a boat in the garden. But when the rain comes and the garden floods, all of the bugs run to Hermie’s boat. Everyone in the garden has to learn to trust God, even when it doesn’t make sense.

In Who is in Charge Anyway, Freddie the flea learns from Hermie and the other bugs that God gave everyone his or her own unique gifts and talent. Some are strong, others can spin webs. But what is special about a flea? Freddie has to learn to trust that God has given him his own talents and has a special plan for him. God didn’t make anybody by accident, and He’s not finished with any of us yet!

Features & Benefits:
  • Two classic garden tales combined to emphasize one important lesson
  • Trusted Hermie brand from Max Lucado that has sold more than 5.5 million units
  • Teaches children important lessons about trusting God, no matter what the circumstance
  • Features a star-studded cast led by Tim Conway as Hermie

My thoughts:

Max Lucado is a master at using an endearing story to drill down truth. He has used this talent in I Will Trust God to bring about the understanding of trusting God even when we don't understand the situation. The truths are taught with easily understood examples that will continue to linger with you and your children.

Hermie and his friends are such adorable garden creatures and they are entertaining for children and adults alike. The voice of Hermie is Tim Conway which brings back fun memories for me as an adult. His voice just puts a smile on my face. 

We use DVDs in the car a lot so I am thrilled that this one is about an hour and a half in length. Another thing that I enjoyed were the catchy tunes that were featured. Nothing is worse than having to listen to annoying music on a long trip! I've found myself humming along on several occasions. It is so sweet to hear the littles trying to sing along. The songs do a great job of reinforcing the lessons learned.

If you are needing a new addition to your DVD library I would highly recommend you picking up a copy of this adorable movie. You won't be sorry!


The Giveaway:

We have partnered with Tommy Nelson to giveaway a copy of I Will Trust God to one of our readers! If you would like to have a chance at winning a copy please use the Rafflecopter form below. (Open to all U.S. residents only.)




Moms' Night Out Movie ~ Perfect for Date Night, Girls' Night, or Family Night!



Last week we were invited to an advanced showing of Moms' Night Out. We were so excited because we were hearing some really great buzz about the movie and quite frankly we were ready for a nice little evening out ourselves!


A sweet friend of ours pointed out that Jesus was photo bombing us! Guess if we are going to be photo bombed then who better than Jesus, right?!!

























We each received a bag with information about the movie and a little bit of swag! Then we settled in to watch what proved to be one of the funniest movies we've seen in quite some time. Here's the official trailer, take a look and get a taste of what we saw.




 
Sarah Drew plays Allyson, a beginning mommy blogger, that is drowning in the chaos of everyday life. Let me just say that if you are a blogger or a mommy of little ones, the beginning of this movie may come across as more of a documentary of your life than a comedy! We laughed so hard that we had to keep wiping our eyes. 
Unless you are that unusually neat, tidy, organized and ultra patient mom, I can pretty much guarantee that you are going to relate to this movie on some level.
 
The supporting cast is fabulous. Patricia Heaton plays the pastor's wife and through her character we get a little peak into the not so perfect things that really go on. Trace Adkins plays a tattoo parlor owner/artist and a big bad biker guy. But believe it or not the line that stuck with me from the movie came from his lips.

This film is scheduled to hit theaters on May 9th, which is Mother's Day Weekend. Trust me on this one, you can't go wrong by taking your favorite momma to see this movie!
To keep up to date on what's happening with the movie check out their website, www.MomsNightOutMovie.com You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest .

Father of Lights DVD ~ Review





Darren Wilson
DVD – Documentary

Back of the DVD:

If God could be filmed, what would He look like?

In the explosive documentary, filmmaker Darren Wilson attempts to do the impossible: film God and understand His character. Along the way, Darren and his team encounter powerful witch doctors, violent gang leaders, Hindu holy men, and everyday people with extraordinary experiences to tell. Father of Lights attempts to tear away much of the bad press the Almighty has received over the years, and reveals a God who is far better than anyone could have possibly imagined.

Prepare to see the impossible. Prepare to meet your maker.



My thoughts:

There is nothing more fascinating than a documentary done well. It takes you to places that you may never go yourself. It lets you peak into the lives of others when they are being who they really are. Father of Lights is a documentary that was done exceedingly well.

Darren Wilson travels the globe meeting and interacting with the most fascinating people. These people that he travels with are devout believers in Christ. Each of them could easily step straight out of the book of Acts. In fact their testimonies and interactions with non-believers were so strong that I found myself pondering on the question of why is my faith so weak.

There were a couple of specific things in this documentary that I think will stick with me. The first is Darren’s friend Ravi. I was so inspired by the love he showed to those that by all rights probably wanted to kill him. Ravi didn’t show fear because he knew that God was present and directing his very path.

The second event was the trip to the Dome of the Rock. It was incredibly interesting to see inside this disputed holy site. I am fascinated with the thought that God is there. He sees and knows and one day will come back and set all to rights.

Father of Lights is the third in this series of documentaries. The first two are Finger of God and Furious Love. I recommend that you watch them all. I can almost guarantee it will change the way you look at your fellow man. Darren Wilson leads you to see others in the way that God sees them.


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