Movie Review

Movie Review

Movie Review : Cloaked in Faith and Humility | The Reluctant Saint

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Cloaked in Faith and Humility: The Life of St Gabriel the Fool for Christ

Runtime: 64 minutes

Director: Efstratios Papageorgiou.

Narrator: Ioannis Seraskeris.

This documentary presents the life story of the Russian Orthodox saint and monk known as the Holy Confessor Gabriel (Goderdzi Urgebadze). Born in 1929 in Soviet Georgia, during the oppressive Stalinist era, to atheist parents in a regime that actively suppressed religion, young Goderdzi developed a remarkable sense of the divine. Despite the atheistic environment, he first heard about Christ when he witnessed two neighbours quarreling and one of them said to the other “You have crucified me like Christ.” Mystified by the mention of Christ and his crucifixion, Goderdzi enquired about this and a church warden advised him to read the Gospel. Under miraculous circumstances he got a New Testament from a stranger and within a few years learned it by heart. Against his mother’s discouragement, Goderdzi rebelled, running away to join a monastery and became a wanderer. Eventually, his mother followed suit, embracing monastic life. At the age of 26, he became a monk named Gabriel, inspired by the Greek saint associated with a miraculous icon of the Mother of God. In 1962, defying the atheist government, Gabriel single-handedly built a church in Tbilisi, salvaging sacred objects discarded during persecution. Openly defying authorities, he burned a portrait of Lenin and endured imprisonment, torture, and was declared a psychopath. Despite being banned from religious ceremonies, Gabriel practiced extreme austerities, living in a broken hen pen and going barefoot in winter. His mother joined him in the monastery, and he passed away in 1995. The documentary includes eyewitness accounts of his miracles, showcasing a life marked by unwavering faith and defiance against oppression.

The Reluctant Saint (1962) (Runtime: 105 minutes)

Director: Edward Dmytryk

Cast: Maximilian Schell, Ricardo Montalbán, Lea Padovani, Akim Tamiroff, Harold Goldblatt.

This film portrays the life of Joseph of Cupertino, a legendary saint of the Franciscan order and patron saint of aviators, astronauts, the mentally handicapped, and students. The movie blends humor and compassion in recounting Giuseppe’s life story. Born Giuseppe Desa in Cupertino during the 17th century, he faced challenges due to his simplicity and dull wit. Subject to practical jokes and cruelty, his mother tried various avenues for him, but it was his uncle, a Franciscan monk, who brought him to their friary. Giuseppe found solace tending to the animal farm there. Bishop Durso, impressed by Giuseppe’s humility, ordered him to train for priesthood. Despite struggles in his studies, Giuseppe miraculously passed his examinations, leading to his ordination. His life took a mystical turn when, during a quarrel, he displayed the power of levitation, marking the beginning of miracles. As word spread, Giuseppe’s levitation during Mass brought both popularity and trouble. Skepticism arose, and Father Raspi accused him of demonic possession. Despite an inconclusive investigation by the bishop, a dramatic climax during an exorcism revealed the true nature of Giuseppe’s miraculous abilities.


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Movie Review

Moview Review : The Fourth Wise Man | Face of the Faceless

Moview Review : The Fourth Wise Man | Face of the Faceless

The Fourth Wise Man (1985) Runtime 72 mts

Director: Michael Ray Rhodes.

Cast:  Martin Sheen, Alan Arkin, Eileen Brennan, Ralph Bellamy, Money Penny.

“The Fourth Wise Man,” (1985) directed by Michael Ray Rhodes, explores the lesser-known legend of Artaban, a fourth Magi, based on Henry van Dyke’s novel, “The Other Wise Man.” Grieving the loss of his family, Artaban, a wealthy Medianite, embarks on a journey to find the newborn King of the Jews, inspired by the Star of Bethlehem. Despite discouragement from friends, Artaban sacrifices his wealth for gifts – a sapphire, a ruby, and a “pearl of great price.” Along the way, he encounters obstacles, such as caring for a dying wayfarer and organizing his own caravan. Artaban learns of the birthplace in Bethlehem but arrives to find the Holy Family has fled to Egypt. His acts of charity and encounters with those in need delay his quest for thirty-three years. Accompanied by his loyal servant Orontes, Artaban witnesses the trial and crucifixion in Jerusalem, where he meets Peter and aids an enslaved girl with his precious pearl. Despite an accident preventing a close encounter with Christ, Artaban finds solace in Christ’s voice in his dying moments, realizing that his acts of kindness were accepted: “Verily I say unto thee, Inasmuch as thou hast done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, thou hast done it unto me.” The gift had already been accepted.

Face of the Faceless (2023) Runtime: 136 mts

Director: Shison P Ouseph

Cast: Vinshy Aloshious, Jeet Matharu, Sonali Mohanty, Jackson Varghese, Ajeesh Joseph, Anjaly Sathyanath, Fr Stanly Kozhichira., Poonam Ingale et al

Currently in Indian theaters, this biopic recalls the life of Sr. Rani Maria, a Franciscan Clarist nun martyred in 1995 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Born in Kerala, she dedicated herself to empowering the rural poor in Indore, particularly the marginalized tribal communities. Despite facing opposition and hatred from the powerful and wealthy, Sr. Rani Maria, affectionately known as “Indore Ki Rani,” tirelessly worked to uplift the impoverished, focusing on women empowerment. The film portrays her four years in Bhopal and Indore (1990-1994), depicting the challenges she encountered from moneylenders and the feudal system. The narrative culminates in her tragic martyrdom at the hands of an ignorant hireling named Samunder Singh, sent by moneylenders to halt her mission. The movie also highlights the villagers’ resilience and dignity amidst adversity. It underscores principles of non-violence, forgiveness, and compassion, echoing national ideals. The narrative takes a poignant turn as Sr. Rani Maria’s Congregation and family reconnect with Samunder Singh in an act of forgiveness. The film concludes with Sr. Rani Maria being beatified on November 4, 2017, emphasizing the enduring values of non-violence and compassion encapsulated in India’s cultural ethos.


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Movie Review

Movie Review : The Gift of Love | A Hidden Life

Movie Review : The Gift of Love | A Hidden Life

The Gift of Love: A Christmas Story (1983)

Director: Delbert Mann

Cast: Lee Remick, Polly Holliday, Angela Lansbury, Michael Higgins Joe Warren, Michael Pearlman, Mart Hulswit.

“The Gift of Love: A Christmas Story” (1983), directed by Delbert Mann, is a heartwarming Christmas drama adapted from Bess Streeter Aldrich’s short story ‘The Silent Stars Go By.’ It centers on the life of Janet Broderick and her family in Ohio facing financial crisis during the Christmas season. As the store faces bankruptcy and Janet’s marriage with Neil strains, a series of events, including the sudden death of her mother, push her to the brink of a nervous breakdown. Janet is put to bed, and enters into a long sleep lasting two days.  In this state she  experiences a magical time travel to her childhood home in Vermont, rediscovering the warmth of her family and the true meaning of Christmas. The narrative weaves in Janet’s relationship with Neil, her Aunt Minerva’s lost love, and the mysterious visits of a ‘Christmas ghost’ linked to the children’s adventures. The climax unfolds on the night before Christmas eve when Michael goes missing in the snow, leading to a desperate search. Janet learns from her mother about the true ‘secret place’ – a space within the heart where love resides and miracles happen. This revelation transforms Janet, bringing about a heartwarming reunion and a joyful ending with carolers singing at their door. The film emphasizes the enduring power of love and faith.

A Hidden Life (2019)

Directed by    Terrence Malick

Cast: August Diehl, Valerie Pachner, and Matthias Schoenaerts, with Michael Nyqvist and Bruno Ganz

The movie presents to us the inspiring life story of Franz Jägerstätter, the hero and martyr of the German church who became a symbol of resistance against the Nazi war machine during World War II. The film draws its title from St. Paul’s Epistle to the Colossians 3:3, reflecting on the notion that one’s life is hidden with Christ in God after death. Franz Jägerstätter, initially a simple farmer, undergoes a profound transformation into a devout and committed Catholic. He was part of a vibrant rural parish set in the mountain village of St. Radegund, where he and his wife Franziska (Fani), raised three daughters. Soon Austria is annexed by Hitler’s Third Reich. Their happy life is disrupted when Franz is drafted into the German army separating them for months. When France is annexed and the war seems to be ending, Franz returns home.  However, when the war intensifies, Hans along with the other young men of his village are ordered back to the field. Hans despised the Nazi ideology on grounds of his strong faith and refused to take the required oath of allegiance to Hitler and his regime. Facing ostracism from his community and the disapproval of the local bishop, Franz remains steadfast in his refusal, knowing it means almost certain execution as a traitor. Throughout his imprisonment, Franz engages in an active correspondence with Fani, finding strength in his unwavering faith. Meanwhile, his family endures criticism and victimization from their village due to Franz’s bold decision. Despite months of torture, threats, and temptations, Franz refuses to declare loyalty to Hitler. On August 9, 1943, Franz Jägerstätter was executed by the Third Reich. His family, including Fani, survives him, and his legacy endures. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to his principles, Franz was beatified by the Church in October 2007.


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Movie Review

Movie Review : October Sky | Lincoln

Movie Review : October Sky | Lincoln

October Sky (1999)

Director – Joe Johnston

Cast:   Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper, Chris Owen, Laura Dern, Natalie Canerday, William Lee Scott.

“October Sky” (1999), directed by Joe Johnston, is an adaptation of the memoir by NASA Rocket engineer Homer Hickam. Set in a West Virginia coal mining town, the film follows Homer’s journey as he defies societal expectations to pursue his dream of building rockets inspired by the launch of Sputnik. Despite initial skepticism from his family and peers, he forms the “Rocket Boys” team, which includes his friend Quentin, the Math Geek.  The supportive science teacher, Miss Riley strongly endorsed the aspirations of the Rocket Boys. Encountering multiple obstacles, including failed launches, a mine accident, and false accusations leading to his arrest, Homer faces significant challenges. However, with perseverance and the encouragement of Miss Riley, he eventually finds success, representing his school at the National Science Fair. With the support of his initially disapproving father, Homer achieves a notable triumph, earning the respect of his idol, Verner von Braun. The film concludes with a heartwarming reconciliation between Homer and his father, culminating in a touching tribute to Miss Riley through the launch of the aptly named rocket “Miss Riley.”

Lincoln (2012)

Director – Steven Spielberg

Cast: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Hal Holbrook, James Spader, David Strathairn, Jared Harris.

Steven Spielberg’s “Lincoln” (2012) immerses viewers in the poignant final four months of Abraham Lincoln’s life, skillfully capturing the tumultuous backdrop of the American Civil War. Based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s “Team of Rivals: the Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,” the film masterfully portrays Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to the passage of the 13th Amendment, which would abolish slavery in the United States. As the war rages on, Lincoln grapples with the daunting task of navigating the political landscape to ensure the amendment’s success before the war’s conclusion. Amidst political turmoil and familial challenges, including his wife’s fears for their son’s safety in the war, Lincoln meticulously maneuvers through the intricacies of the Republican Party and engages in strategic negotiations with hesitant Democrats, offering political incentives in exchange for their crucial support. The film meticulously highlights Lincoln’s unwavering determination and political acumen, showcasing his efforts to unite a divided nation and cement his legacy as a proponent of human dignity and equality. However, the narrative takes a somber turn as Lincoln’s life is tragically cut short when he is assassinated at Ford’s Theatre, leaving an indelible mark on American history and inspiring generations to come.


Prof. Gigy Joseph

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Movie Review

Movie Review : Elephant Whisperers | Kiss the Ground

Movie Review : Elephant Whisperers | Kiss the Ground

Elephant Whisperers (2022) Runtime: 40 minutes

Director: Kartiki Gonsalves

“Elephant Whisperers” is a touching documentary that unfolds the heartwarming story of a tribal couple, Bomman and Bellie, living in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve on the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border in South India.  Raghu and Ammu, two orphaned baby elephants, are entrusted to their care by the Forest Department. Raghu, a mischievous 7-year-old male elephant, was rescued from a tragic situation after his mother was electrocuted and he was abandoned by his herd. Bomman, a descendant of elephant caretakers, became Raghu’s saviour, nursing him back to health. Over time, Raghu became an integral part of Bomman and Bellie’s family, with the couple treating him as their own child. The bond between them is deeply emotional, with Raghu even comforting Bellie during her moments of sorrow. The movie is not only a heartwarming tale of human-elephant relationships but also a tribute to the beauty of South Indian forests and the rich culture of tribal communities. The documentary, produced over five years in Mudumalai, premiered at the New York City Film Festival for Documentaries and achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first Indian film to win an Oscar for Best Documentary Short Film at the 95th Academy Awards. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of coexisting harmoniously with nature and its magnificent creatures.

Kiss the Ground (2020) Runtime 84 minutes

Directors: Rebecca Harrell Tickell, Josh Tickell

The documentary “Kiss the Ground” highlights the urgent issues caused by the Green Revolution: desertification, global warming, and pollution. It traces these problems back to thoughtless industrial growth and the industrialization of agriculture, which disrupted the carbon cycle, releasing vast greenhouse gases. This leads to climate change. However, the documentary asserts that there’s hope in the new methods of “farming like nature.” Many farmers and activists worldwide are using eco-friendly practices like cover cropping, avoiding monoculture, and composting to draw carbon from the atmosphere and improve soil health. They also emphasize raising livestock sustainably, which supports soil microbes. Gabe Brown, a rancher in San Diego testifies to this from his experience of the changeover from the industrial method that ruined his farm in the 1990s. His success shows that restorative farming can be profitable and reduce desertification. Additionally, reducing and composting food waste is crucial. This new farming approach benefits both the environment and our future.  “Kiss the Ground” also illuminates a path forward through sustainable farming practices.


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Movie Review

Movie : Wizard of Heaven | Little Boy

Movie : Wizard of Heaven | Little Boy

Wizard of Heaven – Life of St. John Vianney (1949) runtime 100minutes

Director- Marcel Blistène

Cast: Georges Rollin, Marie Daëms, Dora Doll, Alfred Adam, Claire Gérard, Alexandre Rignault Jandeline, Léon Belières

“Wizard of Heaven,” is a French film, directed by Marcel Blistène, now available with English subtitles. The movie beautifully portrays the life of St. John Marie Baptist Vianney, also known as the Curé de Ars, a revered modern saint and patron of parish priests. Despite his limited intellectual abilities, Vianney’s journey to priesthood is made possible through the intervention of an influential friend with the diocesan authorities. Struggling through seminary studies, Vianney is ordained during a tumultuous period in France marked by the aftermath of the Revolution, Reign of Terror, and Napoleonic wars. Assigned to the quiet and disregarded parish of Ars, where both church and clergy face hostility, Vianney’s deep spirituality, compassionate preaching, and love for the downtrodden endear him to the people, making him a legend. Haunted by the Devil’s visits and temptations, Vianney’s unwavering dedication prevails. He earns a reputation as a healer after miraculously aiding a crippled boy and dispelling accusations of murder from a deceitful local doctor. As a confessor, he guides penitents, offering spiritual guidance and urging them to confess forgotten sins. Vianney fearlessly condemns spiritual ignorance and worldliness, even as the Devil challenges his miracles. Despite being threatened and even having his presbytery set on fire, his resolve remain unshaken. His attempt to embrace monastic life is interrupted by the fervent pleas of the community, bringing him back to Ars. Acknowledged for his contributions, Vianney receives the Legion of Honour from the French monarch, leading to the resignation of the anti-clerical mayor. The film captures the essence of a humble priest who overcame odds, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire.

Little Boy (2015) Run time 106 minutes

Director: Alejandro Monteverde

Cast:    Jakob Salvati Emily Watson, David Henrie,  Michael Rapaport,  Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Tom Wilkinson, Ben Chaplin , Ted Levine

“Little Boy” (2015), is a poignant film set during World War II that touches on themes of war, racism, friendship, faith, and coming of age. Pepper, an eight-year-old boy in the peaceful village of O’Hare on the California coast, faces bullying with the nickname ‘little boy’ due to his small stature. Inspired by magician Ben Eagle, Pepper discovers his self confidence when he believes he can move objects with his mind. This newfound faith in magic becomes intertwined with his understanding of miracles. As the war intensifies, Pepper’s family is affected – his father joins the military, and his brother faces imprisonment. Inspired by Vicar Fr Oliver’s homily, Pepper attempts to move mountains with his mustard seed-sized faith to bring his father back. He embarks on acts of mercy, including befriending Hashimoto, a victim of racism, and performing charitable deeds. Pepper’s conviction in moving mountains takes a literal turn, as he triggers a seismic event that changes the landscape. His prayers coincide with the news of the atomic bomb named ‘Little Boy,’ which ends the war but also claims his father’s life. In a twist of fate, Pepper’s unwavering faith is ultimately rewarded, underscoring the film’s exploration of love, belief, and the unexpected ways in which miracles can unfold.


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Movie Review

Moview Review : David | Diary of a Country Priest

Moview Review : David | Diary of a Country Priest

David (1997) Runtime: 190 Minutes

Director- Robert Markowitz

Cast: Nathaniel Parker, Jonathan Pryce, Leonard Nimoy, Sheryl Lee, Ben Daniels

“David” tells the epic story of David, the founder king of Israel. The narrative follows David’s journey from an insignificant young shepherd boy to a powerful ruler, fulfilling the ancient promise of establishing a kingdom. Set in the Promised Land, the Israelites are surrounded by formidable enemies such as the Amalekites and Philistines. The story begins with Saul, anointed by the prophet Samuel to lead the Israelites against the Philistines. However, tensions arise between Saul and Samuel, leading to their falling out. In the meantime, Samuel secretly anoints David, the son of Jesse, as the future king. David gains hero status by defeating the Philistine warrior Goliath with a slingshot. Despite marrying Saul’s daughter, David faces Saul’s jealousy and numerous attempts on his life. Following Saul’s death in battle, David ascends to the throne, but his reign is filled with challenges. His lustfulness and treachery bring curses upon him, and his own family witnesses violence and betrayal. David remains steadfast in his humble submission to God throughout these trials. Although he desires to build a temple in Jerusalem, God denies him this privilege, promising that his son Solomon would fulfill that dream. The movie incorporates David’s prayers from the psalms, which reflect his emotions and experiences during various moments in his life. Overall, “David” explores the rise and establishment of one of Israel’s greatest kings, showcasing both his triumphs and struggles.

*****

Diary of a Country Priest (1951) Runtime: 115 minutes

Director: Robert Bresson

Cast: Claude Laydu,  Jean Danet, Yvette Etiévant, Adrien Borel,  Nicole Ladmiral, Martine Lemaire, Nicole Maurey

“Diary of a Country Priest” is a highly acclaimed French film adaptation of Georges Bernanos’s classic Catholic novel. Set in 1930s regional France, it portrays the life of a young parish priest facing numerous challenges and chronicling his experiences in a diary. The priest, whose name remains unknown, is assigned to the village of Ambricourt, where he encounters indifference, hostility, scandal, and wavering faith among the townsfolk. Suffering from an undiagnosed illness, the priest survives on meager sustenance like cheap wine and bread. Despite feeling like a prisoner in the lonely village, he remains dedicated to his pastoral duties. Another priest advises him not to expect love but to maintain order. Only one parishioner, Miss Louise, the governess to the Count’s rebellious daughter Chantal, attends daily Mass. As the priest tries to address the problems within the Count’s family, including the affair between the Count and Louise, he faces the Count’s disapproval. The Countess, burdened by family troubles and grieving the loss of her son, questions God’s justice. The priest counsels her to show mercy to herself and accept God’s grace. The Countess eventually finds peace and passes away. However, Chantal spreads scandalous rumors about the priest, falsely accusing him of tormenting her mother before her death. Despite possessing a letter of thanks from the deceased Countess, the priest chooses not to defend himself. As his condition worsens, he visits a doctor in Lille and receives a cancer diagnosis. Instead of returning to his parish, the priest stays with a sick former classmate who is cared for by a woman. In his final moments, the priest seeks absolution from his friend, uncertain of its appropriateness. His friend’s concerns are dismissed with the priest’s last words: “What does it matter? All is Grace.”


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Movie Review

Movie Review : Miracle at Moreaux | Dead Man Rising

Movie Review : Miracle at Moreaux | Dead Man Rising

Miracle at Moreaux (1985)  Runtime: 1 hour

Director: Paul Shapiro

Cast: Loretta Swit, Robert Joy, Geneviève Appleton Milan Cheylov Simon Craig Thomas Hellman

The plot of this movie follows Claire Bishop’s novel Twenty and Ten based on some real events in 1943 in Nazi occupied France. It celebrates the quiet heroism of a French nun and a group of school children who helped to rescue three Jewish children during the holocaust.  The events take place during Christmas, coinciding with the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Amidst the Nazi regime and the efforts of underground resistors helping Jews escape to Spain, an underground guide leads Anna, Sabine, and Daniel, three Jewish children, towards the border. The Nazis have blocked the roads to catch escapees, forcing them to hide in the forest near a convent. When their rescuer attempts to steal food from the convent, he is caught by Dominique, a senior inmate. In an attempt to distract Dominique, the rescuer runs into the forest and is shot by Major Braun, a Nazi officer, in front of Sister Gabrielle and the children. Sister Gabrielle manages to save Anna, pretending she is one of her truant wards, and brings her into the convent. Later, the other two children are also hidden there while preparations are made for the Christmas pageant. Despite the sympathy of the other children, Sister Gabrielle must confront Dominique’s prejudice against Jews. Major Braun becomes suspicious and investigates the convent after discovering forged Spanish passports belonging to the three children. However, Sister Gabrielle successfully conceals the children and uses the distraction of the Christmas pageant to deceive Major Braun. With the support of Sergeant Schlimmer, an old man sympathetic to their cause, and the children’s assistance, the Jewish children manage to escape right under the noses of the searching soldiers. In a heartwarming moment, the Christian children begin their Christmas celebrations by lighting candles, while the Jewish children announce the start of Hanukkah. This unity and mutual affection create a new dimension to Christmas, symbolizing hope and triumph. In the end, the three children escape across the border, aided by everyone involved. Sergeant Schlimmer reports to Major Braun that there are no Jewish children hiding in the convent, and the movie concludes with the enduring symbol of the still-burning Hanukkah lamp, representing hope and triumph in the face of adversity.

Dead Man Rising (2016)  Runtime: 97 minutes

Director: Thomas L. Callaway

Cast: Sean Anthony Moran, Travis Johns, Corbin Bernsen, Daniel Roebuck, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, Shawna Waldron, Mike Capozzi.

The movie is set inside the death row of an American prison where Daniel, a condemned criminal struggles with his desperate spiritual condition and moves gradually towards faith. The story unfolds through dialogues between Daniel and his fellow inmate, Fish, an unbeliever who challenges Daniel’s growing faith. Daniel, unknowingly responsible for the death of 11 people during a failed robbery attempt in a senior citizen’s home, finds himself at a dead end. Upon entering his cell, he tries to connect with a fellow prisoner adorned with Christian tattoos, assuming he is a devout believer. However, he soon discovers that Fish is a renegade Christian turned atheist.

As Daniel awaits his impending execution, he learns from his lawyer about the excruciatingly painful death he will face through a lethal chemical cocktail. Driven by curiosity, he requests access to a computer and the internet to investigate this rumored new form of human experimentation. Although granted limited access, Daniel engages in animated discussions with Fish, exploring themes of the human condition, the existence of God, the afterlife, the reality of Christ, undeserved human suffering, the historical accuracy of the Gospels, scientific theories of the universe’s origins, and the emergence of life on Earth.

Fish challenges Daniel’s newfound faith, prompting him to question his beliefs. Meanwhile, Daniel’s guilt-ridden past haunts him through vivid dreams. The conversations between Daniel and Fish continue, delving deeper into their perspectives on Christ.  The film also explores the ongoing conflict between science and faith. As Daniel’s lawyer delivers the devastating news of his failed appeal, Daniel must confront the inevitability of his fate. In the midst of his despair, he gradually realizes that Fish had been assuming the role of an atheist, all along, to guide Daniel towards finding God on his own terms. The final sequences are poignant, exploring themes of grace and redemption.


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Movie Review

Movie Review : A Man Called Otto | Blue Miracle

Movie Review : A Man Called Otto | Blue Miracle

A Man Called Otto (2023)   – runtime. 126 minutes

Director: Marc Forster

Cast:     Tom Hanks,  Mariana Treviño, Rachel Keller, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Truman Hanks, Mike Birbiglia

The movie is a remake of the Swedish film A Man Called Ove, based on Fredrik Backman’s novel. It follows the life of Otto Anderson, a grumpy widower and retired steelworker living alone in Pittsburgh. Through flashbacks, we learn of his emotional wounds, including the loss of his wife and unborn child. He contemplates suicide, but each attempt is interrupted in unexpected and often comical ways leading him back to life and happiness in loving human relationships.

Otto’s story is a poignant reminder that everyone carries hidden pain, and it’s important to approach others with empathy and understanding. The intrusive Hispanic family with their children force their way into Otto’s life, and he is gradually drawn to play father and grandfather, undertaking to teach driving to the pregnant mother, and babysitting for her children. His other attempts also get interrupted, and he decides to return to life gradually, giving up his grumpiness and unsociable behavior. He is even forced to adopt the stray cat and patch up with his old friend, the now invalid Ruben, and his wife Anita. Otto comes to their rescue from the manipulative real estate company attempting to trick them out of their house. His story ends on a reflective note, reminding us that every life has meaning and that we can make a difference in others’ lives by showing compassion and love.

Blue Miracle (2021). Runtime 95 minutes

Director: Julio Quintana

Cast: Dennis Quaid, Jimmy Gonzales, Fernanda Urrejola, Miguel Angel Garcia, Nathan Arenas, Anthony Gonzalez, Isaac Arellanes …

The movie is based on the true story of Omar Venegas, a former street boy who now runs a shelter for troubled boys in the Mexican port town of Cabo San Lucas. Omar and his wife, Becca, provide a home for boys who have nowhere else to go and help them to turn their lives around. However, the shelter is facing financial difficulties, and Omar has a large bank debt that he can’t repay. The story takes place during the 2014 Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament, which is a famous sport fishing competition offering a huge cash prize. The tournament is a three-day event, during which teams compete to catch the largest marlin. Captain Wade, a seasoned fisherman who has won the tournament twice before, is eager to participate again and win the prize money. However, a hurricane hits the town, and many competitors are discouraged from attending. Meanwhile, the shelter is nearly ruined, and Omar is struggling to provide food for the boys. When a delinquent boy steals a watch from Captain Wade, he is taken in by Omar and forced to help out at the shelter. In exchange, Omar agrees to return the stolen watch and asks Captain Wade to teach the boys how to fish. Wade is initially reluctant, but he agrees to help out when he realizes that his chances of winning the tournament are slim without a local partner. The team’s first two days of fishing are disastrous, but Omar’s determination and the boys’ faith keep them going. They are also helped by a little boy’s “miracle nail,” which he believes will bring them luck. As they head out to sea for the final day of the tournament, they are faced with a series of challenges that test their character and resolve. In the end, Omar and his team manage to catch the largest marlin of the tournament, winning the prize money and saving the shelter from closure. The movie delivers a message of hope and resilience, showing that even in the face of adversity, miracles can happen if we stay true to our values and never give up.


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Movie Review

Movie Review : Not Broken | Of Fathers and Sons

Movie Review : Not Broken | Of Fathers and Sons

Not Broken (2021) Runtime 71 minutes

Director: Lauren Havel

Cast: Anne Marie Ryan, Natalie King, Kyra Wilson, Rosaia Wilson

“Not Broken” is a film that follows the life of Winter Knight, a dyslexic but talented girl who struggles to find her place in the world. Winter’s love for drawing is discouraged by her anxious mother, who believes it won’t lead to a successful career. Despite her mother’s efforts, Winter struggles in the conventional education system and fails in multiple jobs. The film does an excellent job of highlighting the frustration and sense of inadequacy that many individuals with learning disabilities experience, particularly when trying to fit into a system that doesn’t cater to their needs. Winter’s struggles with reading and writing are relatable to anyone who has ever struggled with learning, while her perseverance and determination to find her place in the world are inspiring.

As the film progresses, Winter’s talents and abilities shine through in unexpected ways, such as when she starts drawing customers’ faces on coffee cups at a coffee shop. Her art becomes a way for her to connect with others and to make a meaningful contribution to the world. One of the most touching aspects of the film is Winter’s friendship with an old lady suffering from partial dementia. Through their friendship, Winter discovers her love for helping others and finds a sense of purpose that had eluded her for so long.  When the old lady passes away, Winter meets her daughter, who is an art dealer and helps her start her artistic career. In the end, Winter and her mother reconcile, and Winter finally finds her place in the world.

Overall, “Not Broken” is a powerful and uplifting film that celebrates the resilience and creativity of individuals with learning disabilities. The film is a must-see for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in and a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and human relationships.

Of Fathers and Sons (2018) Run time 56 minutes

Director- Talal Derki

Appearances- Tia Alkerdi, Yara Ibrahim, Abu Osama, Ayman Osama, Osama Osama.

“Of Fathers and Sons” is a thought provoking documentary that sheds light on the disturbing reality of child soldiers in war-torn Syria. The film follows the life of a jihadist family living in the Northern Syrian province of Idlib, under the Al-Nusra Front, an Al Qaeda affiliate. Director Talal Derki poses as a war photographer sympathetic to the jihadist cause to gain access to the family and document their lives over a period of two years. The result is a chilling portrait of a family indoctrinated in a radical ideology, and the profound effect it has on their children. The film is a stark reminder of the brutal reality of life in a war zone, where innocent children are systematically groomed to become killers. Abu Osama, the patriarch of the family, is a sniper and mine detector expert who takes pride in naming his sons Osama, Ayman, and Mohammad, after notorious terrorist leaders. Abu Osama and his fellow militants are shown to be brutally training their young sons to become jihadists, teaching them to shoot guns and execute hostages. The boys are also taught to make bombs and handle explosives, and they are made to watch public beheadings as a matter of routine. The documentary offers a sobering glimpse into the psyche of these militant fathers, who view their sons as the next generation of fighters for the caliphate. It also exposes the horrific impact of war on innocent children, who are forced to grow up too quickly, stripped of their childhood and any semblance of a normal life. The film highlights the absence of education, family affection, and basic human rights in this conflict zone. It is a stark reminder of the terrible human cost of war and the devastating impact it has on the lives of innocent children caught in the crossfire.


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