review of the new Ben-Hur by Carol Wallace

As one of the bestselling stories of all time, Lew Wallace's Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ has captivated and enthralled millions around the world--both in print and on the big screen. Now Lew's great-great-granddaughter has taken the old-fashioned prose of this classic novel and breathed new life into it for today's audience.

Coming to theaters in August 2016 as Ben-Hur, a major motion picture from MGM and Paramount studios, the story follows Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish nobleman whose childhood friend Messala betrays him. Accused of trying to murder the new Roman governor in Jerusalem, Judah is sentenced to the galley ships and vows to seek revenge against the Romans and Messala. But a chance encounter with a carpenter from Nazareth sets Judah on a different path.

Rediscover the intrigue, romance, and tragedy in this thrilling adventure.

Also included: the inspiring story-behind-the-story of Lew Wallace--Indiana lawyer, author, and Civil War general.

You may have heard of or seen the new version of the famous Ben-Hur movie. Well, to go along with the film is a new version of the classic book itself! This is the classic story which inspired and made the Charlton Heston film we all love. Now, years later, the original author's granddaughter Carol Wallace presents an updated version for today's readers. 

I have not seen the film- I am sure it is interesting to watch although I see no need for a remake of one of the best films of all time. Also, I think it sad that Carol Wallace said she was never able to get into her grandfather's literary masterpiece. I am disappointed- greatly disappointed- with the dumbing-down of that original Ben Hur into this far TOO easy-to-read version. This edition is like the typical Christian romances written recently. The reader's brain does no work as he reads the tale; the focus of the book is on emotions and thoughts and romance with no literary value. There are no thought-provoking aspects this book. I am sorry to be so critical but I don't understand the literary weakness of readers today! We need to expand our minds and read older literature. One thing I found interesting which the author Carol Wallace pointed our about the original book is that Lew Wallace spent much of the book describing the surroundings and settings of the Middle Eastern region in Ben Hur because Lew Wallace's 1900's readers wouldn't have known too much about that remote and mysterious lands. In contrast, today's readers have seen hundreds of pictures/videos of those lands and perhaps even visited them! So the majority of the lengthy descriptions would be unwelcome for today's readers. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review of War Room novelization of the movie

    Although the idea behind the screenplay is incredibly important, I had a hard time judging from the novelizationhow impactful it would be in the movie. However, I have high hopes because of the powerful films the Kendricks's have previously produced.

   Having read a couple other books by Chris Fabry, including the novelization of the film The Song, I really am surprised that he is considered a good author. His writing style is basic and predicable. Considering his novelization of screenplays, it sounds as if a young writer was simply relating the film, conversation by conversation, scene by scene. I really felt that I needed to watch War Room to understand the book! 

   Nevertheless, the power of prayer was emphasized strongly in the book; that I was able to take to heart. Also, there was a scene of repentance which brought tears to my eyes; always a wonderful thing in a book. 


   Lastly, in criticism of both the screenplay and the book; I wish it was more obvious whether or not the main characters, specifically Tony were saved at the start of the book or whether they were saved later? I have the idea that the wife Elizabeth was a Christian lacking in prayer.... but Tony...? He had no fruit of the spirit at the start of the book for sure.

  I didn't feel like the author was good at describing the characters either; I strongly believe he expects you, the reader to have the film as your guideline, your accompaniment to the book! Just so you know where I am coming from, I felt the same way about the novelization for Courageous. The book was such a waste of time while the movie is wonderful! 

   To conclude, concerning the screenplay of War Room which I obviously have not yet viewed (review to come when I do!), I am a little concerned about the content. I understand, judging by the novelization of Courageous that novelizations aren't precisely what is shown in a film. The Courageous novel had several scenes which were not in the movie itself. If the War Room film includes everything contained in the novelization than it won't be appropriate for younger viewers. At the same time, it will be excellent for adults and especially couples! I guess I will just have to be patient and wait for the film to be released!

   

according to regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, I must mention that Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Movie review: Polycarp: destroyer of the gods (2015)

Within the past two weeks, my siblings and I got to see the Polycarp movie! 

(available as DVD on May 5th 2015!)

We were interested partly because we know many of the people involved with this film project, and partly because historical accounts such as these are so important to remember.

I must admit that I experienced some fear of going to see a Christian film because I can be rather critical of the typical badly-filmed poorly acted homeschool family film. 

Imagine my relief and excitement when I immediately found myself immersed in the movie, with no qualms at all about the quality of the production!

We all agreed that this film accurately and respectfully portrayed the life and death of Polycarp. 

Polycarp (AD 80-167) was one of the earliest martrys. A student of the apostle John, Polycarp served as the bishop of Smyrna.  Tertullian testifies of Polycarp's discipleship with John, while Saint Jerome wrote that Polycarp was a disciple of John and that John had ordained him bishop of Smyrna. Polycarp was martyred at an advanced age for refusing to burn incense to the Roman Emperor. He was burnt at the stake and then, when the flames did not end his life speedily enough, stabbed to death. A famous quote from the martyr is:

"Eighty and six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong"

       How wonderful then, that Henline productions (run by talented brother and sister Joe and Jerica Henline) has produced this beautiful film dramatizing the later years of Polycarp. Although it incorporates some fictional aspects, one can tell that the film was made with much thought and consideration to historical detail and the glory of God in particular. This is no money-seeking venture but rather a film dedicated to the Lord! 

Since there are so few details known about the daily life of Polycarp, Henline productions created several fictional characters, specifically a slave girl ''Anna'' around which to weave the story. The whole film beautifully emphasizes God's amazing love and grace as the family in the story actively demonstrate God's love by opening up their hearts and home to the young slave girl.

It makes a wonderful family film which will open up hearts and lead to important conversations particularly with young children. On that note, I will assure you that this movie kindly avoids gore and extreme violence. The scenes in the ampitheatre are surprisingly well-done with the horror of the moment being represented yet there is nothing you would want to hide from a child younger than 8 or 9. 

Other aspects we loved about the movie include...

-Sets/props were accurate; excellent portrayal of ancient Smyrna (our family loves history and are used to critiquing films)

-Believer's worship gatherings were realistic and well done (you know how awkward it is when you're watching a film about believers in ancient times and they use terms from the 21st century? Not so in this film, thankfully!)

-Gary Nation who played Polycarp did a great job!

-Eliya Hurt, although not a professional actress played her main role of ''Anna'' delightfully

-The score by Benjamin Botkin was absolutely beautiful. I loved how he incorporated traditional instruments into the music to give it a perfect Greek feel.

-The horror of the amphitheater was hinted at without there being any gore whatsoever

-I recommend this movie for ages 8+

-The cinematography of this film was especially pleasing. Beautiful color tones and filming.

As for those necessary critical thoughts which I'm sure you want to hear since there is no way this movie can be absolutely perfect...

-We didn't care for the actor (Gary Bosek) who played the evil Quadratus...but he was a bad guy, and nobody's supposed to like them right? We just found his acting talent lacking. 

-The mother (played by Ilse Apestegui) is sweet but a little overdone in the film. However,

this probably won't bother most people since a lot of actresses posing as mothers in films are like that. 
-There are some amateur actors of course, but not unbearable. 
-Although I prefer slower-paced films over fast-paced, I did find that this movie was a little long (slow) but it wasn't meant to pass as an action or adventure film, so one can hardly criticize it for that. And I did watch it at the end of a full Sunday so I was probably tired.
In conclusion, your family can't go wrong with getting this movie and watching it together! You will be moved and blessed by it. 

Beyond the Mask movie...in theaters April 2015!

http://www.beyondthemaskmovie.com/home

Double crossed and on the run, an assassin for the British East India Company seeks to redeem his past by thwarting a plot against a young nation's hope for freedom.

The leading mercenary for the British East India Company, Will Reynolds has just been double-crossed and now is on the run in the American Colonies. Working to redeem his name and win back the affections of the woman with whom he's never been fully truthful, Will now hides behind a new mask in hopes of thwarting his former employer. As his past life closes in on him, Will must somehow gain the trust and the help of his beloved Charlotte - as well as Ben Franklin - while he races against time to defuse a plot of historical proportions. Coming to theaters Spring, 2015, Beyond the Mask is a revolutionary new family film that brings history to life in a faith-filled adventure celebrating grace, liberty, and the true freedom that can only be found in Christ. 

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! DEADLINE COMING UP SOON! 

Showings are throughout April 2015 (deadline to purchase tickets is in March)

   I don't know why it has taken me so long to actually blog about Burns Family Studios new film,                                      Beyond the Mask!

   Perhaps I fear sounding cliche with phrases such as: ''this is an AMAZING movie''....''you will LOVE it''...and so forth. The truth is, you will love this film and it is absolutely incredible. I'm also afraid that people will think we are just saying this because our own friends the Burns produced it...but although that may have been the case with their first films (most of which were never seen by the public), their newest creation goes far beyond the initial ''I love this movie because my friend's made it'' emotion. 

   I was thrilled by the context and time period of Beyond the Mask because there really isn't another of its kind that a family can safely watch together! And yet this time period and theme is such a favorite amongst families!

I feel that one of the greatest qualities of this new film is that it presents many enjoyable aspects: romance, action, the 1700s...and combines them in a faith-infused adventure.

  The message of this film was especially important at the time that I first saw (a draft of) Beyond the Mask! It is in fact, a timeless and all-important message: who are you before God's eyes? Have you seen yourself as He sees you? (that's not exactly how it's worded in the movie and God can use it in different ways according to what you need to be taught...but that's part of the point I got out of it.)

Have you turned to God, who is the only One who can redeem and cleanse you from your past?

   The fact that this movie will appeal to both boys and girls is a major plus. It was a winning idea to combine a beautiful romance with a ton of action...of course this movie does fall more in the adventure category than romance but I find it hard to imagine that anyone would discard it on that fact alone. Other aspects of this movie include:

-No gore (despite a 'healthy' amount of violence)

-Many beautiful dresses, but not a bit immodest- making this movie a win for the entire family!

-No bad language

-The message of salvation is not weak or 'just thrown in there' to make it a ''Christian film''

-The musical score is top-notch. (I especially love the romantic theme...it's so beautiful!)

-The heroine is brave and adventurous without being feministic

Not to mention... the setting is East India Trading Company/ England/ Young America!!!!

British accents mixed with a patriotic American feel...yes!!!

 I would totally watch this on Independence Day week!

and...there are the most amazing quotes in this film! 

I love a movie which has quotable phrases...and memorable characters....

Such as Ade M'Cormack as Joshua Brand
(My favorite scene is the one where he says...nevermind. Just go see the movie.)













The main actor is Andrew Cheney:

And we have Kara Killmer as Charlotte

Everyone will be delighted by John-Rhys Davies wily character:

The Benjamin Franklin in Beyond the Mask is perfect!

The Song book review

The Song

by Chris Fabry (Goodreads Author), Richard L. Ramsey (Screenplay), Kyle Idleman (Foreword)

This is a novel based on the film by Richard Ramsey. Complete with photos from the film, this large paperback book puts on paper the heart-changing story of The Song. 
I have not yet viewed the film, so remember that this review is focusing on the content and quality of the book alone. Before reading this fictional book, I watched the movie trailer. I knew I was in for a hard read. A heart-changing experience. But I went for it and could not put the book down! I read it in one afternoon and upon closing the book, wept. I cried for all the sins mankind is capable of. I cried because as I read the book I felt the emotions, I understood the anger and frustration and temptations. Most of all I marvelled at the healing, at God's mercy. Indeed, His mercies are new every morning! 
   This film and consequently the book are about a young man who is confident that he will not fall into the sins of his father who yielded to temptations and lived with the regret for the rest of his life. Aren't we all so confident, before we actually have to face sin? 
This young man, Jedidiah King desires to follow in his father's legacy of musical talent. Seemingly overnight and definitely aided by his passionate love for Rose, Jed becomes famous. And ironically, the very song that Jed wrote inspired by his whole-hearted love for his bride and which makes him famous, begins to hinder their marriage as the musical career takes precedence in Jed's mind. 
Watch as Jed and Rose's family grows while Jed's musical life flourishes as well. Follow Jed as he encounters and eventually gives into more and more temptation. Feel the heartache and tragedy as Rose and Jed feel their marriage crumbling. 
This is by all means not my favourite topic of film or book, however I think it is crucial for couples to face the possible facts. Marriage is not without its problems. Mankind is not sinless. I think it important for all couples to talk about these things and pray together constantly that their marriage would stay pure. I appreciated how the book made the point that Rose was not entirely without fault herself. In allowing her motherhood to take over her life, she was not always the Rose Jed married. She let herself become consumed with being a good mommy and neglected being a doting wife. 
However, the majority of sin in this book/film is about Jed and it is a hard journey he travels. See what God can do in people's lives....read this book/watch the film!

  Before I close, I will add a few personal remarks. I don't love the literary quality of this book. It is like most books inspired by films- not incredibly well-written. That said, it is definitely an easy read which perhaps is good for husbands who are not accustomed to soaking up classics from the 1700s!
Secondly, this book is for adults! Do not let your children read this book or see the movie. I don't know how discreet the movie is since I have never seen it, but the book insinuates a lot. 
Thirdly. I think the author didn't do an exceptional job portraying the joy of God's forgiveness in the book. As I know, movies are very visual and emotional so I'm sure it is presented beautifully in there. But in the book, I think the author did a better job with the tragic moments than the joyful moment of forgiveness at the end. Also, I am slightly confused about when Jed King was saved. I wish the creator of this masterpiece had made the redemption more obvious. The release from the power of sin was evident, but not so much the moment of salvation. 

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!




Jed King's life has been shaped by the songs and mistakes of his famous father. He wants to sing his own song, but the words and melody are elusive. Haunted by the scars inflicted by his broken family, Jed's dreams of a successful music career seem out of reach . . . until he meets Rose.As romance quickly blooms, Jed pens a new song and suddenly finds himself catapulted into stardom. But with this life of fame comes temptation, the same temptation that lured his father so many years ago.Set in the fertile mid-South, this quest for success leads Jed and Rose on a journey that will force them to deal with the pain of loss, failure, and the desire to be who God created them to be.Lyrical and deeply honest, "The Song" asks the hard questions of love and forgiveness. When even the wisest of men are fools in love, can true love persevere?