A Week Away: An Honest Review

 

A Week Away: An Honest Review

 

Synopsis:

 

A troubled teenager takes a leap of faith by attending summer camp, where he finds love, friends, and a place to belong.

 

My Review:

I can't tell you how long I've waited for a summer camp, romance musical! And the best thing is, this film is actually very high-quality, and lacks the common tropes that contemporary romances seem to have. The musical segments were beautifully done and not at all abrupt or out of place. The vocals of Kevin Quinn (Will) and Bailey Madison (Avery) were superb and the songs chosen for this film could not have been more appropriate. With songs like "Dive" by Steve Curtis Chapman and "Place In This World" by Micheal W. Smith, the film really came alive. The choreography was well done, and I found myself dancing along with the cast in many of the musical numbers. 

 

Now that I have finished fan-girling over the musical and production aspects of the show, let me move on to the overall plot. It wasn't the typical bad boy-meets-good girl story that I was expecting, and I was pleasantly surprised. The backstory they gave Will, the male lead, was solid and touching, and his sentiments of not belonging and putting on a facade to fit in really resonated with me. Will's character arc was tastefully done, realistic, and not at all cliche, despite its rather rapid pace. Avery's character journey was also very well done, and her character arc, though not as powerful as Will's, was beautiful to see. The chemistry between the characters was both humorous and touching, and their struggles with one another added a very natural and human dynamic to the story. The supporting roles of George and Presley enhanced the show and also brought some humor, which helped to ease the more tense moments. Additionally, the character of Shawn brought a unique element that showed that sometimes the flaws we find in others happen to be the same things we ourselves struggle with. 

 

Moving on to the characters, I would like to discuss Will first. The backstory given to Will was very touching, having lost his parents at a young age and going in and out of foster care due to his reckless behavior. His resistance to all things spiritual, yet his brilliant cover as a Christ-following teenager helped you to really see the push-pull dynamics of his character. Will was resistant to the fact that God cared because his parents had passed away, leaving him all alone. But he, somewhat without knowing it, was drawn to the love and joy that others had because they chose to follow Jesus. He struggled with telling the truth and living a lie, something I feel like a lot of people go through. The ending is very satisfying, and though I won't give away any spoilers, let me just say that it will pull at your heart strings. Will's relationship with Avery is also very cute as he tries to play the charming hot-shot for a good portion of the film to get her attention, only to find out she isn't buying it. 

 

Will: It’s just been so long since I’ve felt so connected.

 Like I am part of something bigger.

 

That brings us to the character of Avery. Bailey Madison was the perfect actress for the part, and her emotions were so beautiful, I almost cried myself. Her love for the Lord, and strength in the midst of grief really drew me to her. She is outspoken, but has a peaceful nature about her that is very soothing. What I probably most enjoyed about her character, is that she is a happy balance of two extremes: really fun-loving and really serious. In some scenes, she's acting like a teenager and making witty remarks, the next minute she shows the maturity of someone three times her age as she encourages her friends or mentors someone in need, all in moderation. Her relationship with God appears to be one based on a simple, child-like faith, for as she says "I just choose to believe, you know? I mean, that's faith." She remains mostly static throughout the film, though has some key moments in her character journey, but they aren't as potent as Will's. Her relationship with Will is also very sweet, and her feelings for him are genuine, not simply romantic, and consist of a true care for him as an individual. 

 

George and Presley were great characters as well, and it was so hilarious to see their relationship progress in its own quirky way throughout the show.  Their struggles with self-worth and confidence were relatable, and it was nice to see them *spoiler alert* finally content with who God made them to be by the end of the movie. 

 

The faith element wasn't as strong as in some films, and for this reason many people have criticized this show. However, I believe that it had just the right balance. To add more would have been too overpowering, and I think they balanced the faith element accordingly with the intensity of the movie. It was more light-heated, so the religious elements were more subtle.

 

 Altogether one of the best movies I have ever watched, and I highly recommend it! This show is very under-rated, so please, share it with your friends and family, I promise you won't regret it!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

The Lost Medallion - The Advetures of Billy Stone: An Honest Review

The Lost Medallion

Synopsis: 

Daniel tells foster kids a story about Billy and Allie - two friends who uncover a long-lost medallion then accidentally wish themselves back in time. Billy and Allie's adventures help the kids realize their value to God.

The Story: Archaeologist Dr. Michael Stone looked for the lost medallion his entire life, and now his son Billy has taken up the search. Amazingly, the medallion ends up in Billy's hands and a spontaneous wish in a precarious situation takes him and his best friend Allie back 200 years to what they realize is a very different Aumakua Island. 

When Billy and his friends are not jumping off waterfalls, avoiding animal traps, crossing the ocean, sneaking through caves or escaping a prison, they're facing their nemesis Cobra, who wants nothing more than for them all to disappear. With no other way to get home, and the well-being of the entire island resting on his shoulders, Billy must discover the key to reclaiming the medallion and its tremendous power. One way or another, this adventure will change Billy and life on the island forever.

My Review:

    If you are looking for a family adventure movie with faith to watch on movie night then this is it. I'm not a big fan of time-travel or sci-fi movies but this one was most certainly the exception. I mean, it was shot in Thailand - what's not to love? Parents might want to preview this though if their children aren't used to watching movies that contain dramatic themes, so just be aware that this might not be a good film for all families. 

     

    So to start, the beginning was great. I loved seeing Alex Kendrick in the film as Daniel, and it was a cool concept how the majority of the movie and the story of the lost medallion was being told as just that - a story. It was also really sweet how Daniel named the main characters in the story of the lost medallion after certain children in the orphanage - the ones he knew needed help measuring their self-worth. 

 

    As I said at the start of this review, the story of "The Lost Medallion" was shot in Thailand, so all the scenes were exquisite. I liked Billy Stone (played by Bill Unger) right off the bat. My heart ached for him as he tried so hard to seek his father's approval and love. Billy's character is quite extraordinary. He's determined, stubborn, but also faithful and loyal. He can be a little skeptical and gets carried away a few times thinking he's better than the others but for the most part he's a very likeable kid. Billy carries a bit of resentment throughout the movie though, as he aches to prove himself even when he's two hundred years back in time. 

 

    Billy Unger was the perfect actor for the part of Billy Stone. Honestly, young Unger looks like a little adult, which gives the movie a more serious air than if the main actor had been a very young-looking 12 year old. Billy is so devoted to his friends though, you can't help but admire him.

 

                                                                            

                                     Billy: "Its all about our hearts - that's the answer to the

                                                riddle. Our hearts: where worth and purpose 

                                                both reside."

 

 

    Oh, and Sammie Hanratty was the perfect actress for Allie. My heart grieved for the young girl who didn't have a family - well, except for Billy. She was incredibly courageous, and didn't complain about how hard life had been for her. Unlike what many girls I'm sure would have done in life-threatening predicaments, Allie was always trying to help in any way that she could, not allowing the fear of the moment to paralyze her. It was also so nice to see the relationship that her and Billie had. Allie was put in a lot of dangerous situations but she kept her head and was always looking towards the light at the end of the tunnel. 

 

    Cobra was an interesting character. Can't say much on this villain as that would spoil the show for those of you who have never seen it before. But his character was...well, evil, and the fact that he dipped his nails in cobra venom was very *gulps* interesting. He was a good representation of the darkness in this movie and made the life lessons and scenes of faith really stand out.    

 

    And the humor in this! While a lot of the scenes were serious, some were downright funny and it was great to have a good, clean laugh! James Kong as Faleaka added some great comedy to the show - oh yeah, and the thugs of course. They were pretty funny as well.

 

                                                            

                                                  *These two guys cracked me up lol*   

 

 

    Altogether a must-see. From the amazing lesson on self-worth and identity, to the quality of the film itself, it more than met my expectations. So if you like faith, action, and a few laughs, grab your popcorn and sit down with the family for the thrill of a lifetime!                    

 

    All opinions expressed are strictly my own, unbiased thoughts on this film.   

 

    Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐                   

 

 

Belle - The True Story of Dido Belle : An Honest Review

Belle:The True  Story Of Dido Belle

Synopsis:

 This movie was inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the illegitimate mixed race daughter of Royal Navy Captain Sir John Lindsay. Raised by her aristocratic great-uncle Lord William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield and his wife, Belle's lineage affords her certain privileges, yet the color of her skin prevents her from fully participating in the traditions of her social standing. Left to wonder if she will ever find love, Belle falls for an idealistic young vicar's son bent on change, who, with her help, shapes Lord Mansfield's role as Lord Chief Justice to end slavery in England.

 

Review:

    Oh my, where do I begin? I don't think any movie has left me so speechless in every possible way. It even rivals Beyond The Mask...and if you watched my review on that movie then you know that that is saying something! And the fact that this movie is based on a true story makes it even  more amazing!

  

    First off, Dido's character is breathtaking. Gugu Mbatha-Raw played the part perfectly. I felt like by watching the movie I actually got to get to know the woman herself. My heart ached for her when she was so set apart from general society, kept like an animal in a cage, only to be allowed freedom when society said it was acceptable. Even though the Earl and his family were good to her, you could tell that Dido felt somewhat rejected, and sometimes resented her skin color. It was obvious that she was longing for love and acceptance, though knew that the only way she could escape living as an old maid with no protection was to marry...whether she loved the man or not. 

    

     She was also very courageous and some of the words Dido spoke were just...profound. She was very intelligent and wasn't going to take things at face value, as shown when she goes on to investigate the Zong case. It's clear that Dido believes that if she can't find justice for herself then maybe she can at least pave the way for her her people. Also, she is very sacrificial and caring to those whom she loves, like her cousin Elizabeth. But she's incredibly honest, and isn't afraid of the truth. She has a realistic approach to life, but at the same time wishes society wasn't so barbaric.

 

                                                                     

Belle: "My greatest misfortune would to marry into a family

           who would carry me as their shame. As I have been

               required to carry my own mother's: her apparent crime

to be born Negro. Am I to be the evidence?"

 

 

 

     And we need to talk about Mr. John Davinier. Sam Reid was the perfect actor to play this part. Right from the start I knew that this man would win Dido's heart. He wasn't forward, rude, or prejudice. As a matter of fact, he was nothing but respectful and kind to Dido. John showed his care for her in very subtle ways, but it was undeniably there. His ambitions to make a law abolishing slavery were so genuine, and he too had some amazing statements to make that took my breath away. John wasn't afraid to speak what he believed to be the truth. That human beings can never be put at a price because they are priceless. Mr. Davinier's involvement in the Zong case was amazing, I loved how he was rallying his friends together to try and come up with a way to show, through the Zong case, that slavery needed to be abolished. 

    Also, wow, this man is so humble and unselfish! If it wasn't for some minor mistakes he made in the show, I would say he was almost perfect. It was evident he wanted to marry Dido and loved her. But he truly loved her - and you know how I know that? Because he really just wanted her to be happy. He was ready to sacrifice his own happiness if it meant that she would be happy marrying another man instead.

                                                                                    

                                 
                                        John: "I pray he would marry you without a penny 

                                                   to your name, for that is a man who will 

                                                   truly treasure you."

 

     

    Now for the all together review on strictly the movie itself. The quality of the film was stunning, the sets, the plot, all of it was intricately woven to be both historically accurate, adventurous, romantic, and family-friendly. I also loved how at the end the producers displayed some written information about the real Dido Belle and what happened after what took place where the movie left off.

     

    Altogether, this was probably one of the best movies I will ever watch. Ever. Just a side not: due to some theatrical elements, adult topics, and the nature of the film (slavery), this is a PG-13 movie. But they could have included a lot more unpleasant topics or events, which the producers chose not too put in purposely, and I really respect that. 

 

    In a sentence summary: This is a must-see motion picture! 

 

    This review is strictly my own unbiased opinion of the movie.  

 

    Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 

 

Beyong The Mask: An Honest Review

Beyond The Mask

Synopsis:

In this historical fiction - with a touch of science fiction - East India Company assassin, William Reynolds wishes to leave the terrors of his past life behind to explore new possibilities. But after escaping his own assassination - at the cost of a vicar's life - William changes his name to Steven Reynolds...posing as the very man who died to save his life. Will falls in love Charlotte Holloway, but dangerous truths are destined to keep them apart. With traders on every side, William tries to gain redemption...even if it means risking his own life to teach others the importance of looking beyond the mask.

 

 My Thoughts:

     Hmmm...where to start? First off, this is a great family film. There is so much suspense, with great lessons about faith and redemption woven in. Will's character was designed so well, and my heart ached for this man who so desperately wished to give himself a new name...but the odds were stacked against him. Jason Shaw was perfect for the role of William. Even though he still had a lot to learn about true forgiveness and love, William Reynolds never gave up, even when he lacked to find the purpose of his own life. 

   

    And can we talk about Charlotte Holloway for a minute please? Such a beautiful character, with a huge heart and though timid, is not afraid to make a stand for justice when the need arises. Not easily intimated, and some of the things she says are just...wow! I love how she teams up with Will, even though she doesn't know the danger that is lurking in the shadows. What I admire most about her character is that Charlotte is genteel, but not self-righteous, brave, but not malicious, afraid, but not intimidated. And her devotion to William even when she learns of his past is just beautiful. Charlotte's faith in God is so profound as well, which is really the icing on the cake. 

                                                                              

 

                                       Charlotte: "Neither redemption nor love can ever

                                                        be earned. They are both gifts granted 

                                                        freely from the heart of God."

    Yes, don't worry, I'm getting onto the villain. 😂 Charles Kemp... John Rhys-Davies was the right man for the job. Honestly, major plot twist when *spoiler alert* I found out he was Charlotte's uncle! The way he betrayed her made me so upset...and near the end when he knocked Charlotte to the floor...my contempt for him reached it's peak. But justice was done in the end thankfully, with our protagonists not getting too severely hurt. 

    Another thing before I wrap up this movie review. The cruelty of the East India Company is rarely ever mentioned so I was very thankful that a movie was finally released which dealt with this topic head-on, no sugar coating. This is a historical fiction, and I like how you can recognize some iconic historical figures in the film as well. 

    Totally one of the best family movies I have ever had the pleasure of watching. With plenty of action, faith, romance, and even history, this movie is one you undoubtedly must watch!

    All views expressed are strictly my own personal opinion. 

    Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(X infinity!!!!)

One Night With The King: An Honest Review

 

One Night With The King

Synopsis:

After the banishment of Persia's queen, Vashti, young Jewish girl Hadassa finds herself chosen along with hundreds of other women to be taken into King Xerxes harem as a prospect for Persia's next Queen. Hadassa changes her name to Esther, and must keep her Jewish identity hidden. Queen Esther soon marries for love but must find the courage to save the lives of her people - even it means losing the love of her husband King Xerxes...and her own life.

 

My Thoughts:  

    Okay, give me a second. There are so many great things about this movie that I don't know where to start. Well, I'll start with Esther's character. Tiffany DuPont was the perfect Esther, and I loved the character right from the start. She was a gem, so inquisitive and  trusting, having a very child-like faith. My favorite scene would have to be when Esther was going into the King's chambers and how well she handled herself. It was obvious that as a virgin and woman of faith, Esther did not wish to merely spend the night with King Xerxes...she wouldn't settle for anything less than marriage. Of course, Esther won his heart, and she fell in love with the King as well. And the costumes! 😍 Esther's dresses were superb, from headdresses to the millions of tiny embellishments  that adorned her flowing gowns. They were...fit for a Queen!

 

                                                                

                                             Hadassa: "No, not Esther. Hadassa Bat-Abihail.

                                                              Daughter of the tribe of Benjamin, 

                                                              child of the Most High God." 

 

    Oh yes, and we can't forget the necklace! The symbolism in this is astounding, and I found it particularly thus when the necklace Esther lost on her transfer to the palace was the same one in the King's treasury. And the fact that when the light hit it, it released the Star of David, was totally genius. Her identity was etched in that necklace, and it adds an enchanting air to the story. 

 

    And we can't forget Haman, might as well get my thoughts of him over and done with. The actor did a good job playing the villain, because I really, really disliked him. But I liked how at the start of the movie they gave the reason why Haman, descendant of King Agag, wanted all the Jews killed. It created the perfect link between the movie and the Bible. Even though the story of Esther is a Biblical account, the introduction at the start of the movie brings that to life.

 

    Now for King Xerxes. Luke Goss was really the perfect Xerxes in this...I think it was his eyes and face sculpt, looked very Persia-ish 😅 I believe he really needed Esther in his life, and the way he smiled at her on their wedding day was priceless! I liked how he was portrayed as a man very open to new thinking,  and the scene where he held out the scepter showed his humanity and his love and devotion for Esther. 

 

    Altogether this movie was amazing. The production was flawless and was very much in accordance with the Biblical account. Due to some minor violence and some more mature themes that are discussed, parental discretion is advised. There is no coarse language, sex, or swearing in this film. A must-watch, especially for those who are fans of Esther!

 

    All views expressed are strictly my own opinion. 

 

    Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5 stars - but I wish I could do more!)

 

 

Storm And Luther's Forbidden Letter: An Honest Review

 

                         Storm: And Luther's Forbidden Letter 

 Are you looking for a realistic, heart-pounding, mind-boggling, stomach-wrenching, pulse-racing movie? Then my friend, this is for you. Though originally filmed in the Dutch tongue (thus the lip-syncing was off the entire movie) this is filled with adventure, faith, and even...romance. Due to some of the graphics used in this movie (blood, implication of being burned alive, people with maladies etc.) parental guidance is suggested if you are considering watching it with your family.

 

  Synopsis:

    Martin Luther's works are told to be hypocrisy, but when a young monk delivers a letter from Luther himself addressed to the village of Antwerp, Klaas Voeten, one of the village printers, finds himself responsible for reproducing the letter - which is forbidden. But when he is arrested for attempting to reproduce the letter, 12 year old Storm, his son, takes the template and runs. Meanwhile, his father is imprisoned and sentenced to death. Soon on his journey he meets Maria, a parent-less wench who literally lives underground in the village sewers and the two form a pact. But unknown forces are against them, and it comes to the point where both must come to terms with their faith...and find out just what they are willing to sacrifice for the freedom of Storms' father... 

 

 

                                                                                * 

My Thoughts: 

    Right off the bat you could tell the movie was going to thrill. I loved Storm's character from the start as well, he was so eager to gain his father's approval and make him proud. He was also filled with curiosity...a little too much for his own good. But I really like the integrity he shows from the beginning...even secretly reading one of Luther's previous books when he knew his Mother was a devote Catholic. He never gave up, and didn't let fear paralyze him which is something I always admire.

 

    Oh and Maria!!! When that girl pressed a knife to Storm's throat I honestly thought she was a villain, but it turned out she was just an independent girl who had to protect herself from dangerous men. It turned out she was really an amazing ally for Storm, and my heart broke for her when she found out that her father had died at sea and she was really an orphan. Also,  Maria is mean with the sling shot, she's honestly like another David. It was also kind of humorous to see how well she could just take things from vendors and no one ever ran after her.

 

    There were so many subplots - even a budding romance if you scratched beneath the surface a little bit. I was so afraid that Storm's father really was going to burned for copying Luther's letter, but I should have known Storm and Maria would save the day. Also, a major twist I wasn't expecting was the betrayal...and the epic escape that followed. Once again, Maria and her sling knocked everyone out - literally. It was a little gross to see them actually walking in the sewers - rats and all - but the sets were amazing and I can't believe the shots were taken in a real sewer system!

 

    Oh yes, and the Inquisitor. Not much to say about him. I really disliked him - well, he was the villain after all. All I have to say is: good job to the actor who did an amazing job playing the role of the antagonist.

    And can we just talk about the ending for a moment? The scene where Storm saves his father's life is amazing...a little humerus...but altogether breathtaking. Not only will this satisfy those who love to watch adventure, but also those who love a good romance. In the end the movie fast-forwarded to a year later when Storm was thirteen and it actually shows the two of them to be a...dare I say it?...couple!

                                                                             

Storm: "But...it's impossible."

                                                            Maria: "Nothing is impossible." 

Personally, I think that this is a very good film that depicts the time of the Reformation. Printing Luther's works was very dangerous, and there were many unsung heroes who gave their lives because they realized how oppressed they were under the Church at that time. It really gives you a thrill, sticks to the facts about the time period without being overly graphic, and will even give you a few laughs.  Altogether, a must-see film!

All opinions expressed are strictly my own. 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐