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     Are you tired of watching violence or sex on your television or in theaters?  Even sitcoms, reality shows and cartoons are promoting anti-biblical values.  We complain about Hollywood, but they are not listening!  They are doing whatever makes a dollar and for the most part we as Christians are helping them by paying to see these movies.  Here I will explain, from my point of view as well as interviews with several Christian movie producers and distribution companies, why Christian movies are important, the meaning of theater or DVD releases, and what we as Christians can do to help promote them.  I have spent the last several years watching and writing about Christian movies and have been blessed by the ones that truly promoted the Lord.  I have watched Christian films from individuals to the big budget productions.  The big budget films might be higher quality, but both have strong and inspiring messages.  As a Christian I would like to see more faith-based movies available.  

Importance of Christian movies

    The movie industry has proved to be a great influence on Americans and when you think about how many of our teens are flooding theaters, how are they being influenced?  The rapid decline of truth and lack of morals in movies must be stopped if the next generation is going to learn how to live for the glory of God.  If we do not stand up against the defiling scenes that are in the media now can you imagine what it will be like in ten years?  I recently watched a film Time Changer (a Rich Christiano film) that explains in a very entertaining way how when you take the authority of God out of teaching morals you are asking for trouble.  Over 75% of Americans claim to be “Christian” and with most films from Hollywood containing extreme violence, excessive sexual content and consistently blaspheme God, why are Christians paying to see these films?  Philippians 4:8 says - to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, & praiseworthy, not much of that in movies today.  However; Hollywood is not the enemy; they only do what is profitable.  This 75% claiming to be “Christians” needs to stand up for what is right and in line with God’s Word, if they would, the types of movies being produced and the shows on television would change!  I am sure that Hollywood is not making its millions and the major television networks getting its high ratings from the less than 25% (the non-Christians).   A documentary I think that puts this in prospective is Lord Save Us From Your Followers (a film by Dan Merchant).  This film shows how the world views Christians in a negative way because they are judging Christianity by the way they see Christians act and some do not act at all like Jesus would want them to.  God is the Creator of everything; we would have no actors, actresses, producers, etc. if He had not given them the very breath they breathe.  Also Christian filmmakers must make sure that if they put a Christian label on their movie that it is true to God’s Word.  I understand that some of the Christian movies done years ago were low quality or more Biblical stories.  Today there are more Christian feature films that show viewers how to live for God while going through everyday situations.  There are a growing number of Christian filmmakers and their films are increasing in quality.  Nowadays most Christian movies are well written, entertaining, and have inspiring messages.  With the economic downfall, unemployment and stress, people (Christians and non-Christians) are hurting and looking for hope.  That hope can only be found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. If we are going to help these people find the peace, hope, and joy God gives to go through some of lives hardest circumstances Christians must take a stand!  

Theaters/DVD releases

     Just because a Christian film does not play in theaters does not mean it is low quality or not worth watching. Christian producers choose to release directly to DVD for many reasons, but the main is financial.  It costs a great deal to produce a film and it costs more to get it into theaters.  But too many “Christians” are choosing the Hollywood alternative films, so it is hard for a Christian film to break even in theaters.  It is estimated to cost $2000 per screen to show a movie.  In addition to the screen cost is advertising.  For a new filmmaker or small production company it is difficult to fund a theatrical release or find investors for it.  Some Christian filmmakers have used their own money to get a film into theaters and then just prayed it would cover costs.  The meaning of a successful movie to most Christian filmmakers is not monetary, but in touching lives and bringing glory to God.

What we can do

    One of the most important things you can do is go see Christian films when in theaters on opening weekend.  Theaters make decisions about which movies to continue showing by the number of viewers on opening weekend.  John Martin, editor of Christian Filmworks magazine, says “Making a movie is easy. Getting it distributed is the hard part”.  This is where we can help by spreading the word.

 

More ways you can help:

* Pray for Christian movies, filmmakers, cast & crew

* Buy DVDs for yourself & to give as gifts at your local Christian store, Wal-Mart, or online at www.christianmovies.com, www.familychristianmovies.com, www.christiandvdstore.com, www.gobmg.com or anywhere Christian movies are sold.

* Tell family, friends and co-workers about upcoming Christian movies – send emails

* Organize a church movie event

* Sign up for movie newsletters online

* Post Christian movie information on your website, Facebook, Twitter, etc.

* Give producers feedback and encouragement online

* Financially support Christian filmmakers
* Print out and post Christian movie information on church &/or work bulletin boards for those not active on the internet. 

-- If you are interested in receiving articles about upcoming Christian movies or have any questions or comments please send an email to signgal@faithwriters.net.

 

     I hope you can see why Christian movies are so important and you will make a decision to help promote them in whatever way you can. The growing number of Christian filmmakers is raising awareness and possibilities for future Christian movies.  If Christians will buy DVDs by Christian filmmakers and help get the word out about upcoming Christian films more will go see them and in turn Christian filmmakers will be able to make higher quality films with well-known actors/actresses in the future.  Christians must take a stand against what is conflicting to God’s Word.  So grab the popcorn and the Christian movie of your choice and enjoy a family movie night.  Christian films are not only for Christians, but also to help non-Christians learn what is true and how to walk everyday and in every situation, with God. 

     Lord Save Us From Your Followers will be released on DVD April 20, 2010.  This is a humorous and insightful documentary about how America views Christians.  It answers the question, “Why is the gospel of love dividing America?”   The film does not add to the fight between “Us” vs. “Them”, but has a conversation with those who believe and oppose the Christian faith.  It is very entertaining and is meant to wake the Church up to see how others view our tactics.                                  

 

“No one ever converted to Christianity because they lost the argument.”

                                                              -Phillip Yancey, author, Rumors of Another World

 

     Lord Save Us From Your Followers is a thought provoking documentary that demonstrates how Americans view Christianity.  It does not add fuel to the fire, but shows both sides and how their tactics are being viewed from the other side.  It is very surprising that statistics show that 9 out 10 Americans claim to be Christian.  So what’s all this “Cultural Wars” fighting about?   The writer/director, Dan Merchant, explains that a lot of the groups, in this so-called fight, cannot think outside their own beliefs.  Most are not willing to have a conversation with anyone from the other side, so we just shake our fists and scream our beliefs expecting to be heard.  I can not see any evidence that this is working.  People are talking about Christians from Politicians to athletes and preachers to students, but are they speaking of them positively?  This film uses interviews on the streets, with people opposing Christianity, with celebrities, and even an unusual confessional booth to show how each side sees the other.  It makes viewers stop and really think about how Christianity is being portrayed and is this how Jesus would approach it?  But some believe today there are so many issues – homosexuality, abortions, various other religions – how can we get our values across?  Through the interviews you will see that we are not doing it very well!  I think Dan Merchant says it best “I found that most people that have a problem with Christians don’t have a problem with Jesus!”

 

     Lord Save Us From Your Followers is a must see for both Christians and non-Christians.  It does not condemn either side, but in fact shows how we can improve our relationships.  Isn’t that what Christianity is all about?  It proves that actions speak louder than words and that whoever screams the loudest does not win!  How did Jesus’ message of compassion, love, mercy, and empathy turn into fighting?  This film clarifies that as Christians we must act like Him!  Please visit www.lordsaveusthemovie.com to find out more information.

Letters to God, an inspiring faith based film, opens in theaters April 9, 2010.  The story is extremely touching, inspired by a true story, and the hope beyond the movie is unstoppable.  The message is about hope and trusting God, no matter the circumstances.  The production is high-quality with an outstanding cast and crew.  It is produced by David Nixon (Facing the Giants, Fireproof) and written by Patrick Doughtie, the actual Tyler’s father.

 

The Story

    Letters to God is the heartwarming story of a young boy’s battle with cancer and how he touches the lives of those around him.  Tyler Doherty (Tanner Maguire) is an 8 year old boy diagnosed with a rare brain cancer.  He writes letters to God asking Him to help those around him deal with his cancer.  He explains that his letters are like texting your best friend.  Tyler sees the stress his mom, Maddie (Robyn Lively) is under trying to run the family after his father passes away.  He unselfishly asks God to help his mom laugh again.  He is concerned about what his family and friends will do after he is gone.  Not once does he complain or question why he has cancer.  The postman Brady McDaniels (Jeffrey Johnson), going through his own battles with alcohol abuse and a bitter divorce, receives the letters.  He is confused with what to do with the letters at first, but finds himself on a mission for God. 

 

Beyond the movie

     Letters to God is more than just a movie; it is a movement of hope.  The official website, www.letterstogodthemovie.com, offers a multitude of information and encouragement.  There you can watch the movie’s trailer, find theaters showing the film, preorder the soundtrack, find resources about cancer, and write your own letter to God.   

 

     Letters to God is a powerful film of how one boy moves those around him to look to God for answers.  It is very well done with an experienced cast and crew.   Although the film tackles the issue of a young boy with cancer, the message is of hope.  God can use any situation to bring people into a relationship with Him, even a young boy’s letter.  See the movie, visit the website, and join the movement of hope!

 

Dana Chaffin is a Christian freelance writer who has published many articles on sites like: faithwriters.com, christianmediaalliance.com, and extantmagazine.com. Passionate about Christian film, her desire is to get the word out about Christian movies to as many people as possible. Email signgal@faithwriters.net

Amish Grace will air Sunday March, 28, 2010 on Lifetime Movie Network (LMN) at 8 pm ET.  This movie is a touching story based on true events of tragedy, faith, and forgiveness.  An Amish community endured a great tragedy, but they never lost faith.  The scenes of prayer, faith, and forgiveness are outstanding.

     Amish Grace the movie is based on the book Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy by Donald B. Kraybill, Steven M. Nolt, and David L. Weaver-Zercher.  On October 2, 2006 at an Amish community schoolhouse in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania a disturbed man upsets the peaceful community.  He enters the one room schoolhouse shooting 10 young girls, killing 5 and critically injuring the other 5 girls before killing himself.  This movie does not concentrate on the murders, but more so about the unbelievable forgiveness offered by the Amish community.  Immediately after the community was turned upside down, Amish leaders go to the home of the shooter offering forgiveness and compassion to his widow.  Even the father of one of the deceased girls offers comfort to the widow.  The movie highlights facts of the actual events that caught national media attention.  The incredible cast includes stars like: Kimberly Williams-Paisley (According to Jim, Father of the Bride) and Matt Letscher (Medium, Brothers & Sisters, Boston Legal).

    Amish Grace is extremely inspirational and illustrates that faith can overcome even the most tragic circumstances.  Luke 6:37 says, “Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”  As Christians we are to forgive, even our enemies.  There is a lot to learn from the forgiveness in this film.  This is an emotional movie so be sure to have plenty of tissues.

     You can find out more about the book, print a study guide, find forgiveness resources, and more at www.amishgrace.com.

     Amish Grace airs Sunday March 28, 2010 on LMN at 8pm ET. Go to www.mylifetime.com to watch the movie trailer and read more about the movie.

 

Dana Chaffin is a Christian freelance writer who has published many articles on sites like: faithwriters.com, christianmediaalliance.com, and extantmagazine.com. Passionate about Christian film, her desire is to get the word out about Christian movies to as many people as possible. Email signgal@faithwriters.net

After speed-reading to get to the last page (I wasn’t bored, I just couldn’t wait to find out what happened!), I have just finished reading A Distant Melody by Sarah Sundin. Thanks, Baker Books, for my free review copy. I enjoyed every page! Here’s the synopsis:

Will a chance meeting in a time of war change her life forever?

Never pretty enough to please her gorgeous mother, Allie will do anything to gain her approval–even marry a man she doesn’t love. While Allie has nearly resigned herself to that fate, Lt. Walter Novak–fearless in the cockpit but hopeless with women–takes his last furlough at home in California before being shipped overseas.

Walt and Allie meet and begin a correspondence that will change their lives. As letters fly between Walt’s muddy bomber base in England and Allie’s mansion in an orange grove, their friendship binds them together. But can they untangle the secrets, commitments, and expectations that keep them apart?

Book 1 in the Wings of Glory series, A Distant Melody is an exciting and tender story of love, courage, and sacrifice during World War II.

I’m convinced that most of you reading this blog will enjoy this book. Here’s what I liked about it:

• It’s a love story, but it’s not sicky-sweet.
• It’s set during World War 2, so I think military wives/girlfriends of any generation will be able to relate to some part of the heroine’s journey
• It’s very thoroughly researched. I was so impressed with the level of detail in the descriptions of the Flying Fortress (B-17s), as well as life back home in California during the war. But don’t worry, it’s not dull, it’s fascinating.
• The characters grow and develop throughout the book- they are not flat characters by any stretch. They experience tough times and they make a few poor decisions, so they are fallable, approachable, and easy to relate to. But they’re also very, very loveable!
• The dialogue is perhaps the best I’ve ever read in a love story. It’s not cheesy. It’s actually witty, realistic and interesting. Every line mattered. (You can’t say that about every novel!)
• There is resolution at the end of the book. I was afraid there wouldn’t be when I noticed this is the first in a series. I was worried I’d get to the end and still be left hanging. But thankfully, the reader is definitely rewarded for getting to the last page, but there is much more story to be told, so I’m looking forward to the sequel!

For an excerpt, click here and click the button at the bottom of the screen that says “Download Now.”

If you are looking for a great "escape" novel and enjoy historical fiction, I highly recommend this book! It's available at Amazon and all the other major online book retailers.

     On January 22, 2010 To Save a Life is opening in theaters nationwide.  This exciting Christian based film confronts many teen issues.  New Song Pictures gives viewers a touching story that will certainly change the way they see people.  The story is inspiring and the way it deals with the issues the characters face is remarkable.

    To Save a Life is the story of a teenage boy, Jake (Randy Wayne), who must make the choice to do what is popular or what is right.  In the past he made the choice to be popular and it cost him a friend, literally.  Now he will not let that happen again.  Jake must also decide what he believes as far as God.  A youth pastor, Chris (Joshua Weigel), comes into Jake’s path and he has a very unique, but effective way of dealing with the teens. Jake’s faith is tested by many difficulties, but the final outcome is inspirational.

     To Save a Life discusses difficult topics such as suicide, cutting, divorce, teen pregnancy, dating, partying, drinking/drugs, depression, abortion, adultery and more.  Although it is very tastefully handled, parents and leaders should know.  This is a very moving film that will help adults to understand what our teens are facing and teens to see what their actions towards others could be saying.

    To Save a Life is a powerful movie.  It is a great film for any teen, parent, youth group, etc.  I do want to warn there are some topics that might be too mature for younger kids; however most teens are aware of these issues.  Please check out the official website www.tosavealifemovie.com to find a theater near you and for resources.  Today many teens are faced with issues and situations similar to those discussed in the movie and this film may be just what is needed, to save a life. 

    
Fountain of Youth is the debut Christian short film from Light in the Dark, Inc.  The film is only 12 minutes long, but the story is timeless.  Light in the Dark, Inc. is a unique production company with high standards and a promising future.

     Fountain of Youth is the story of a young man struggling with being in a rut.  When he hears tale of a “fountain of youth” he is intrigued.  He talks with an elderly man that tells him where the fountain can be found.  He and a young female friend set off on a journey to find the fountain.  What they find is inspiring.  The cast, although debuting in this film, is talented.  Much thought was put into every scene.

     Light in the Dark, Inc. was started in 2003 by Allen Carrescia.  It is run by Allen and his brother Reid.  Allen graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston.  Reid is currently at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.  They are presently working on other short films with a feature film in the near future.

     Fountain of Youth is an inspirational film that will touch many of lives.  The simplicity will draw viewers in to the story.  The cast does a great job of keeping your attention.  The film is available for only $5 (free shipping) at www.lightinthedark.com.

     Now available on DVD, THE PERFECT GIFT is an inspirational Christian movie about the reason behind the Christmas holiday.  It is an extremely well-made production for the entire family.  This is sure to be a Christmas classic.  Like other Christmas classics it makes viewers seriously think about situations/relationships in their own lives and leaves them feeling hopeful in the end.  It explains the sad truth that Christ is being excluded from Christmas – it is like the whole world throwing you a birthday party… and you weren’t invited!  This question in the movie urges viewers to think how the world has commercialized Christ’s birthday, does not even acknowledge Christmas as His birthday.  An example of this is that in America it is not widely acceptable to say “Merry Christmas”; we are expected to say instead “Seasons Greetings.”  The film highlights the meanings of some popular Christmas symbols like the tree, wreath, candy cane, and the nativity. 

      THE PERFECT GIFT is the story of a spoiled young girl, Max (Christina Fougnie), who feels cheated that Christmas is on her birthday.  Max is too consumed with her birthday gift list and cake to be concerned about Christmas.  Her overworked mom must ask neighbor, Tony (Matt Wallace), to watch Max after school.  While hanging out at the church where Tony works, Max meets a mysterious drifter, Jess (Jefferson Moore).  Jess helps Max, Tony, and the whole community understand why we celebrate Christmas.

     THE PERFECT GIFT reveals in a loving way the meaning of the perfect gift.  A hint – it is NOT something you can buy.  It tells the unchangeable story of Christmas in a humorous and exciting new way.  The film has an uplifting message about standing up for what you believe.  The film has a very talented cast and high quality production.  The theme song Emmanuel (You are with me) written by Tim Brown and Mark Smeby is extremely moving.  It is performed by Mark Smeby who also acts in the movie as bad guy, Blaine Pollett.  You can find out more about the movie, view a study guide, and purchase the film at www.perfectgiftmovie.com. 

     THE PERFECT GIFT is a great way to start the Christmas season and is a Christmas must see movie!

Saving God, an exciting Christian film, is available on DVD. This is an inspiring movie about making choices and finding hope. The story brings to mind the Scripture Romans 3:23 NIV “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. We all have done things in our past that we regret. But because of God’s grace we can be forgiven and change. People are capable of changing with God’s help. It was awarded five Doves from the Dove Foundation, their highest rating. Saving God has also been nominated for the 2008/2009 Time for Peace Film Award. The story is moving and the cast is very talented and well known. Grab your popcorn and enjoy an extremely entertaining and motivating movie. The Story Saving God is the story of Pastor Armstrong Cane (Ving Rhames), a recently released prisoner. He entered prison a rebellious young man, but left prison a man of God. His father had died while he was locked up and that was a turning point in his life. His father was the pastor of a small church in his hometown and now he would take over. In a very tender moment in the movie Cane visits the graves of his parents and tells his dad that he would not let him down. He will have several people from his past telling him that he can not change his violent ways. Armstrong returns to his father’s church to find that most of the congregation had left because of the decline in the neighborhood. The area was now overrun with drug dealers and violence. Armed with his love for God and a megaphone he is determined to take back the neighborhood and overcome his past. By a chance encounter he meets Norris (Dwain Murphy), a young man that is making bad choices. Cane tries to help Norris turn his life around. Norris must first decide to give up his drug dealer lifestyle. That is not so easy because he is ruled by a violent drug dealer, Blaze (Dean McDermott). Norris does not know that his teenage girlfriend is pregnant, but he wants to get his life straight. The struggle that occurs for the life of Norris is exciting and dangerous. The Actors Ving Rhames plays Armstrong Cane. He was born and raised in Harlem, New York, so he can identify with the neighborhood in the movie. Rhames also served as Executive Producer of Saving God. He is a Golden Globe winner and very experienced actor. He is also nominated for the 2008/2009 Time for Peace Actor Award for his exceptional performance in this film. Mission Impossible, Kojak, Pulp Fiction, Con Air, and Lilo and Stitch are only a few of the movies he has acted in. In this film he does an outstanding job. Ricardo Chivira is wonderful as Danny Christopher, a superficial TV preacher. It is a long way from his role as Carlos Solis on Desperate Housewives. He has had numerous guest star appearances on Monk, 24, JAG, NYPD Blue, and the George Lopez Show. Chivira is also active off screen as a breast cancer advocate. This is an issue close to his heart as his mother passed away at the age of 43 years old of breast and ovarian cancer. He is honorary spokesman in San Antonio, Texas for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The brutal gang leader, Blaze, is played by Dean McDermott. He is known for being a very talented actor and being married to Tori Spelling. His acting career includes Open Range, Kojak, Brian’s Song, Without A Trace, and the reality show Tori & Dean: Inn Love to name a few. Dwain Murphy is outstanding as Norris Johns, a young drug dealer who has a tough choice to make between being a thug and being a THUG for Christ. Murphy is best known for his role as Eric in Degrassi: The Next Generation. He has acted in many films such as Poor Boy’s Game, How She Move, and The Line. He has a passion for acting, but also enjoys basketball in his free time. Extremely talented actress Genelle Williams plays the girlfriend of Norris Johns. In the film she finds out she is pregnant and tries to find the right time to tell Norris. Williams has a long list of acting credits including The Lazarus Child, It’s a Boy Girl Thing, The Orphan, and more. In 2007 she was nominated for the Gemini Award for “Best Performance in a Leading Role” as Monica in the mini-series Doomstown. Saving God is a brilliant Christian movie. Who will save God for the souls who have lost Him? It is a quality film with exceptional actors and an amazing message. It has some violence and the subject of drug dealing so it may not be suitable for younger children. This would be a great movie for adults to share with their teens. The excitement and teen issues will keep them interested. This film expresses the topic of choices and how even those choices we make as young people can altar our life, so it is important to make careful choices. You can purchase Saving God wherever Christian movies are sold or at the movie’s website www.savinggodmovie.com.

Now available on DVD the award winning film, Fern Hill.  This Christian film is about true friendship, hope, adventure, and faith.  It takes four young boys on the adventure of a lifetime.  We all have cherished memories of our childhood friends; this film reminds us how sweet that time together was.  It has been awarded the Family Approved Seal by the Dove Foundation.  This is a great adventure film for the entire family. 

 

     Fern Hill is the tale of Colin, his best friends, and the loss of his father.  His father was a pilot and his plane disappeared when Colin was only five years old.  Although there was an investigation, nothing was ever found.  Colin and mother were forced to move on without closure.  She remarried an overbearing man that pushes him too hard.  After Colin has a vivid dream about his Dad, he devises a plan to find him or at least try.  He tells his plan to his three best friends and asks them to join him.  His friends Kenny, Seth, and Bob are going through their problems and are looking for a get away.  After debating all the obstacles and donuts, they innocently prepare for their journey.  They soon find that the least of their concerns is that they are hiking to Fern Hill in the Colorado Mountains.  They face many other challenges - fear, dark, the woods, wild animals, rain, a lost map, and the rumored madman Old Man Tyler’s cabin.  But the biggest challenge just might be facing the truths they find out about themselves. 

 

     Fern Hill was written many years ago by Cole Claassen of Agape Productions.   This may be his debut feature film, but this film is high quality.  The cast is amazing and very talented.  Many were local actors from Crested Butte, Colorado where the film was shot.  He was setting out to make this movie with almost no budget and a crew of friends and family when a friend made a small investment in the film.  Cole says that memories from his own childhood are where he got the idea for the film.  Growing up he had three adventurous best friends.  Also while in high school Claassen experienced being part of a search and rescue team for a plane crash of a friend and their family.  The poem ‘Fern Hill’ by Dylan Thomas, about childhood, also played a part in the story of this film.

 

     The next film for Agape Productions is Tennison Hopps.  Visit the movie’s website www.tennisonhoppsmovie.com.  The film is set in New Mexico Territory in 1889.  Tennison Hopps is a coming of age story about two brothers’ fight to save their family after a tragic loss.  Tennison is faced with the most difficult circumstances a young boy can imagine, and sets out on a journey across the rugged southwest to rescue his brother.  This film is a faith-based family drama about a young boy’s journey from childhood to manhood, with the help of two unlikely new friends.  At this time Agape Productions has actor Tom Berenger (Major League, Sniper, Gettysburg) attached as well as distribution offers with prominent worldwide companies.  They are currently seeking investors for financing to complete the film.  To find out more about this outstanding opportunity contact cole@agapefilmvideo.com. 

     Fern Hill is a touching story of childhood, friendship, and adventure.  The simplicity of childhood is memory we all cherish.  Simplicity like how a three day weekend away from school can make your day.  This film helps to remind us through its talented characters how great those times were.  After watching this movie, you might very well give those old friends a call.