Faith Based Arts Review

FILM REVIEW - "Providence"

2016-03-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

Last night, my wife, two members of our screening committee and I watched this Faith Based Film in preparation for our showing during "May is Providence Month" here in the state of Vermont. It is the latest production from Christian Filmmakers Sharon and Fred Wilharm of Faith Flix Films. We want everyone to know that YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS MOVIE! Yes, I know capital letters signify yelling but I am not yelling negatively I am just sharing my emotions about the film. If it is playing near you anywhere be sure to go and see it and if you can't see it in a theatre, church or other venue be sure to purchase a copy. (PS You should purchase a copy either way to help support faith based films.)

The film, though silent, speaks loudly to the theme of the movie that "Love Needs No Words". The filmmakers describe their film as a "beautiful romance that is told in silent cinema style, using only dramatic action and a soundtrack of eclectic indie music that portrays an emotional journey of love." This description fully encapsulates the fact that the well planned scene changes; the highlighting of each scene with powerful, relational music coupled with a strong, professional cast tells the story without the need for dialogue.

The cast includes powerful performances from Juli Tapken, Rich Swingle, Stacey Bradshaw, Josh Allen, Emily Knapp, Chase Anderson, Irene Santiago and many other supporting actors and actresses. All seemed to work together as a team to tell this thought provoking story.

Because there is no dialogue you find yourself paying extra attention to all of the little details so that you don't miss any piece of the storyline. We can't wait to see the movie again when we show it here in Vermont on May 29th. We just know that we will continue to pick up new thoughts and ideas even though it will be our second time seeing the film. We were fortunate to show the Wilharm's first silent film "The Good Book" and each time we watched it something new jumped out at us and we expect that to happen with "Providence" as well.

Here's a little information about the film:

Rachel Cartwright and Mitchell Little grow up in the small town of Providence, Tennessee. Their paths keep intersecting and at one point it looks like they'll finally get together. But the opportunity slips away and they go their separate ways. It takes a tragedy many years later before they're reunited. This time will they let the moment pass or will they finally overcome their insecurities and connect with their soulmate?

Guardian Angel Ministries and Faith and Family Films will be presenting "Providence" in Vermont during "May is Providence Month"

Faith and Family Films will be showing the movie on the following dates:

May 7th at Hunger Mountain Christian Assembly in Waterbury Center
   The showing at Hunger Mountain will also include a screening of “The Good Book” by the same
     company, and another award winning film!
May 14th at The Faith Assembly of God In Bethel, VT
May 27th at The East Randolph Baptist Church in E Randolph, VT
May 28th at Gateway Church in Bethel, VT

Guardian Angel Ministries will be showing the movie on the following date:

May 29th; 6pm at the Richford First Baptist Church, 33 School Street in Richford VT.

Check out the Providence Website at: http://www.providencemovie.com/ for more information.

For more information on Guardian Angel Ministries and Faith and Family Films check out their websites at:

Guardian Angel Ministries - http://www.guardianangelministries.org
Faith and Family Films - http://www.faithandfamilyfilms.net

Until next time ... God Bless!
Pastor Tim

LOVE DIFFERENT - Another Faith Based Film We Are Following

2015-08-24T07:31:00.000-07:00

LOVE DIFFERENT.

We are following the development of this film being produced by Anthony Hackett and his faith-based Sonset Friday Entertainment.

Here is the synopsis of the film: Lindsay Walker, a Caucasian woman who grew up in a small, all Caucasian town, gets a job at an African American consulting firm and finds herself in a complete culture shock! An African American co-worker, Neque Campbell, is given the task to help Lindsay get acquainted with the African American culture. Through their hilarious and eye-opening journey together, they both come to understand even more than they signed up for.

The film is currently being edited. You can get more information by going to their website: http://www.sonsetfriday.com/ or by checking out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/LoveDifferentTheMovie. We will also be posting updates here on our blog as well. Stay tuned for more.

2015-08-24T06:35:00.001-07:00

OFFICIAL TRAILER RELEASED

AFFIRM Films, Provident Films and the Kendrick brothers are gearing up for the launch of WAR ROOM on August 28th, releasing the official trailer for the film today. In it, fans are introduced to the tumultuous life of the Jordan family, and the older, wiser prayer warrior who teaches them to battle life’s challenges on their knees.

The trailer gives a glimpse of cast members including New York Times best-selling author and Bible teacher Priscilla Shirer in her film debut, director Alex Kendrick (Moms’ Night Out, Courageous), T.C. Stallings (Courageous), and comedian Michael Jr. WAR ROOM introduces film newcomers Karen Abercrombie as Miss Clara and Alena Pitts as Danielle, and features a cameo by renowned speaker Beth Moore in her first acting role.

WAR ROOM OFFICIAL TRAILER: http://youtu.be/mIl-XY9t_Lw

From the award-winning creators of Fireproof and Courageous comes WAR ROOM, a compelling drama with humor and heart that explores the power that prayer can have on marriages, parenting, careers, friendships, and every other area of our lives.

Tony and Elizabeth Jordan have it all—great jobs, a beautiful daughter, and their dream house. But appearances can be deceiving. Tony and Elizabeth Jordan’s world is actually crumbling under the strain of a failing marriage. While Tony basks in his professional success and flirts with temptation, Elizabeth resigns herself to increasing bitterness. But their lives take an unexpected turn when Elizabeth meets her newest client, Miss Clara, and is challenged to establish a “war room” and a battle plan of prayer for her family. As Elizabeth tries to fight for her family, Tony’s hidden struggles come to light. Tony must decide if he will make amends to his family and prove Miss Clara’s wisdom that victories don’t come by accident.

Opening nationwide in theaters August 28 and filled with more of the authentic characters loved by millions in previous Kendrick Brothers’ films, WAR ROOM is a vivid reminder that prayer is a powerful weapon. WAR ROOM is the highly anticipated fifth film from Alex and Stephen Kendrick (Fireproof, Courageous, Facing the Giants, Flywheel).

Sony Pictures Entertainment’s TriStar Pictures, distributor of Soul Surfer, Courageous and last year’s faith-based sensation Heaven Is for Real, will release the film, which is rated PG, perfectly positioning it to entertain families of all ages. The family-friendly movie explores the transformational role prayer plays in the lives of the Jordan family. “We made this film to inspire, challenge and motivate viewers to fight the right kind of battles and to fight them the best way,” says writer and director Alex Kendrick. WAR ROOM is directed by Alex Kendrick and produced by Stephen Kendrick and Gary Wheeler. Written by Alex & Stephen Kendrick, WAR ROOM was filmed in and around Charlotte, N.C.

AFFIRM Films and Provident Films partnered with the Kendricks on the film.

2015-08-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

I ordered our tickets today to see War Room at the Essex Cinemas in Essex, VT. I am sure it will be a great show. I am also very pleased to hear that the producers of War Room are partnering with another of our favorite ministries Operation Christmas Child. Essex is the only place that the film is playing in Vermont so come on Vermonters let's get out and support it.

2015-08-20T08:53:00.005-07:00

The newest movie from the Kendrick brothers called "War Room" is coming out on August 28th to theaters nationwide. Here in the beautiful Green Mountains of Vermont it will be playing at Essex Cinemas located at 21 Essex Way #300 in Essex, VT 05452. Tickets can be purchased on line and the theater can be reached by phone at: (802) 878-7231 for more information.

They have been very supportive of faith based films over the years and if we want them to continue we need to get out and support them. We will have more information on the movie over the next few posts here on the blog.

WOW! It has been a long time

2015-08-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

The latest movie from the creators of FIREPROOF and "Courageous" is going to be in theaters starting on August 28th. Here in the beautiful green mountains of Vermont it will be at Essex Cinemas located at 21 Essex Way #300 in Essex, VT 05452. You can reach them by telephone at (802) 878-7231. They have been very supportive of faith based films in the past and if we want to keep having faith based films shown there we need to get out and support them. We will have more information here on the blog about the movie over the next few days. Keep watching for it.

New "Rescue Us" Photos and "Without A Father" Review Coming Soon

2010-11-10T18:38:00.000-08:00

I will be working on some photos from this past weekend's shoot in Las Vegas of scenes for "Rescue Us" and will also be working on a review of the movie from Gordon Pictures call "Without A Father" Keep posted right here to the Christian Music, Movie and Theater News.

"Rescue Us" The Movie Films This Weekend

2010-11-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

Hi Everybody. Peggy Chaves the Director and Producer of the Christian Movie "Rescue Us" sent along an update on the production progress on the film. She wanted to let everyone know that they were able to film two scenes this weekend...And, not only two scenes but the very first speaking scenes that they have had the opportunity to shoot. Everyone was extremely excited and Peggy says she is really happy with how the scenes turned out.

We are also pleased to report that the first donation made to the production of this "movie with a message" was received at the very same time as the filming of the scenes took place. God is definitely at work! If you are interested in supporting the production of this Christian Film check out their website at http://www.rescueusthemovie.com/ or send Peggy an e-mail at rescueusthemovie@yahoo.com. The production team is also still in need of some production equipment. You can check out their wishlist at B&H Photo and Video ... http://www.bhphotovideo.com/ ... Please be sure to let Peggy know if you are able to help with funding or equipment.

And yes, Please don't forget to keep the movie in your prayers. God has an important message to share through this film. We'll keep you posted on the progress right here on the Christian Music, Movie and Theater News Blog.

"Slow Fade" the Movie in Production Now

2010-10-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

Today the Christian Movie that I am following the development of is a move that reminds us that "Every day we make choices that affect how we live" ... a movie called "Slow Fade".

“Slow Fade” is the second movie being produced by ClockWork Cinema of Couer d’Alene, Idaho. ClockWork Cinema, whose vision is “to create “Family Films” that will influence our culture and to restore morality to films and Glorify God in all of their work” was started in 2008 with the production of their first short film called “The Last Letter”. “The Last Letter” was produced on a budget of $2500.00, was entered in many film festivals and led to the beginning of this new production “Slow Fade”.

The screenplay for “Slow Fade” is written by Ryan Anstett. He is also directing the film which is produced by Nicholas Madsen. There is a lot of work currently underway on the production and we will keep you posted here on our blog as work continues.

Here is a rundown on the story behind “Slow Fade the Movie”:

Thomas is the average young boy growing up in a big city. Thomas' single mother is working full time to support her and Thomas. While his mother is out working Thomas is left to raise himself and occasionally a sweet old grandmotherly neighbor watches Thomas. As each day passes Thomas makes choices that will affect his entire future life. He begins making little choices here and there that lead him further and further into a moral trap. As Thomas' home life begins to deteriorate he is faced with harder and more difficult choices. Finally Thomas is put to the final test when he discovers that his mother’s salary cannot keep up with the rent and maintenance costs of their home. He must act quickly or they will lose everything. Every choice he has made will affect his decision. His past will now dictate his future. He must overcome his past, his fears and the pressure from everyone around him in order to avoid the Slow Fade.

Be sure to sign up for e-mail updates from our blog site for more information as it becomes available on this movie and others as well as be sure to check out the following websites: http://www.slowfadethemovie.com/, http://www.cwcfilms.com/, www.facebook.com/slowfadethemovie. Be sure to become a fan by pressing “Like” on their Facebook page… More to come as production continues.

"Rescue Us" - New Movie in Development

2010-10-28T18:33:00.000-07:00

I am following the development of a new movie being readied for production by Grace Pictures in Las Vegas, Nevada. The film is called “Rescue Us” and is the first feature film project of a film ministry headed by Peggy Chaves called Grace Pictures.

“Rescue Us” is an inspirational story that takes you from recovery to Redemption. The plan for this movie is that it will touch the lives of anyone who suffers or knows someone who suffers from alcoholism or other addictions. The story takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada, otherwise known as “sin city,” where alcohol and gambling is all around you. Only by grace, through faith, can this family be saved.

Here’s a little summary of the plot:

Joshua, an private airline pilot, has a beautiful wife and a son, named Sammy, who he would give his life for. When Sammy was first born something very tragic happened and Joshua did not know how to deal with it. He never imagined that things could get any worse until the day Sammy was diagnosed. There’s only one thing that Josh feels he needs to take away his pain, for a time.

Josh and his wife Beth would enjoy a drink now and then; but Beth didn’t realize how much he was drinking until she catches him in some lies. When she finds out, she pleads with him to get help but he refuses to accept that there's a problem. In order to protect herself and Sammy she asks Josh to leave.

Joshua finds himself on the streets and meets one person who gives him two choices. Josh’s ultimate decision will affect him and his family for the rest of their lives.

“For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14 (NIV). One in four households are affected by addiction. “Rescue Us” … the cry of each one is the same.

Be watching this blog and others for the release of this Christian film. You can check out the movie website at http://www.rescueusthemovie.com/ for more information.

"A Christmas Snow" - Fabulous Family-Friendly Movie - Get It Now!

2010-10-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

My wife and I had the opportunity to see this film at least four times before we showed it at our church at an official screening on the 26th of September and we LOVE IT! Every time we watch it we catch something else that is part of the message of the fil...m. So ... not only should you purchase a copy for you, your family and your friends but you will also want to watch it over and over. The message gets stronger each time you watch it as you see other connections to the story that Producer Tracy Trost is sharing in the film.

I am really focused on presenting films in our community that have solid family values and this film has been one that I have been watching the development of for many months and was extremely pleased to be able to offer the screening to the people of our community and now I am extremely pleased to recommend that you too purchase the film. You won't be sorry that you did.See More

Tons of Christian Music in Sheldon

2010-09-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

There is going to be tons of great Christian Music in Sheldon, VT as Matt Luneau hosts Harvestfest at his God's Vision Retreat located at 141 Sweet Hollow Road on Saturday, October 9th from 12pm - 5pm.

Harvestfest will feature the music of: Spirit and Truth, Julia Gagne, the Church of the Rock Worship Band, One Voice from Malone, NY, Jesus Christ for All Nations and the Essex Worship Band.

The event will also feature free pumpkins, a bouncy house for the kids, face painting, a maze, horse rides sponsored by Phoenix Meadow Stables, wagon rides an egg toss, a "Farmers Market" and more.

This is a free event with all free parking for the entire family.

Directions: From Exit 19 off I-89: Take right onto Rt. 104. Follow Rt. 104 to Rt. 105. Take right onto Rt. 105 towards Sheldon. Go 2 miles, take right onto Pond Road. Take the first left onto the Sweet Hollow Road. Harvestfest will be 1 mile on the left.

For more information check out Matt's God's Vision Ministries website by clicking here.

New Movie - UPSIDE - To Be Released October 5th ... Check out the information below.

2010-09-16T15:05:00.001-07:00

It's All How You Look at It

High school senior Solomon White seemingly has everything going for him: great athlete, good-looking girlfriend, scholarship offers—a bright future. But a devastating hit on the lacrosse field leaves his world literally turned upside down.

And that's before he meets Wren, a believer who happens to be blind. She challenges Soli to look at his world in a way he never has before. This fresh story of faith, romance, and coming of age is an inspiring reminder that when life gets you down, there's always an Upside.

UPSIDE will be available at your favorite Christian store beginning October 5 or you can pre-order it online.

» Learn more at UpsideMovie.com
» View Trailer Now!

More Information on "Praise Incorporated"

2010-09-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

With a focus on Musical Excellence, and Integrity in Ministry, Praise Incorporated has become one of the fastest rising groups in Southern Gospel Music. Building on combined decades of music experience, Steve, Ron, Dodd and Greg have hearts for the Lord and that gives Praise Incorporated the musical excellence it strives for.

Since it’s inception in 2004, Praise Incorporated has been honored to accept invitations on behalf of the National Street Rod Association. They have appeared at the Oklahoma state fairgrounds in Oklahoma City, Springfield, Missouri, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Pueblo, Colorado, Richmond, Virginia, Knoxville, Tennessee, Burlington, Vermont, York, Pennsylvania, Tampa, Florida, Sacramento, California and the nationals at Louisville, Kentucky Freedom Hall.

They make regular guest appearances at the Grapevine Opry, where they were featured recently for the entire second half of the show. They also received the 2005 Horizon group of the year. Praise Incorporated was nominated and voted in the top five in U.S. Gospel News for Quartet of the year and New Excelling Artist of the Year.

They have performed with Karen Peck and New River, The Weatherford's, Naomi and the Sego's, Brian Free and Assurance, Triumphant Quartet, Tony Gore, the Ruppes, the Relations Quartet, Michael English, Young Harmony, the Singing Echoes, Kirk Talley, Dixie Melody Boys, the Stamps, Gold City, The Talley Trio, Gary Jones, Melody Boys Quartet, Shannon Bunch, and many more.

Praise Incorporated recently appeared on stage at the Mansion America Theater, the largest theater in Branson, Missouri, for the recording of the TV show “Jammin for Jesus” airing on Gospel Music Television.

Praise Incorporated wants their audiences to have a great time. They feel it's important. They also want first and foremost to present the gospel through what they call "Motivatin Music." Each member of Praise Incorporated brings to the team his own unique background and abilities.

“We hope our music has an effect on the lives of people wherever we go. That's our calling. That's our commitment. This philosophy has fueled this ministry from the beginning. We strive to keep the subject of the song, Jesus Christ, in the center stage. Singers will come and go, but God will never change or leave.”

Praise Incorporated – incorporating the praise of Jesus Christ in all we do.

"The Lamp" - A New Movie from the Creators of "A Christmas Snow"

2010-09-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

Trost Moving Pictures, the producer of "A Christmas Snow" the movie we will be showcasing on September 26th at the Bakersfield Methodist Church is casting now for their next family-friendly film "The Lamp".

The Lamp is a powerful story of hope and overcoming loss. It is written by Director Tracy J. Trost and is based on the book by best selling author Jim Stovall. The planned release is Spring of 2011. Check out their Facebook page by searching for "The Lamp" and choosing "Like". We'll also keep you posted on this site.

Don't forget - New Life Christian Church presents a Premier of "A Christmas Snow" - Sunday. September 26th, 2010 at 2pm. Be sure to come and join us. Bakersfield Methodist Church, Main Street, Bakersfield, Vermont.

New Life Christian Church Hosts Hymn Sing in Bakersfield, VT

2010-09-10T17:28:00.000-07:00

New Life Christian Church of Enosburg Falls is pleased to invite you to a Good Old Fashioned Hymn Sing at the Bakersfield Methodist Church on Main Street in Bakersfield, VT. The hymn sing starts at 7pm and everyone will be singing old favorites like "I Exalt Thee;" "Because He Lives;" "There's Something About That Name" and many more.

Brownies and Ice Cream will also be served.

You can make a whole day of it in Bakersfield on Saturday. The town's "Homeland Days" starts off at 9:00 am and features entertainment, a goat show, a silent auction, flea market and a BBQ at 5pm at the school gym. Most of the events take place on the school green.

You can head to the Hymn Sing right from there and top off an exciting day with song, fun, food and fellowship. Hope to see you there!

"Praise Incorporated" Southern Gospel Concert Coming to Bakersfield, Vermont

2010-09-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

A new group is discovered every so often in music, but Praise Incorporated has the Southern Gospel world talking about their, tight harmonies, dynamic style and interpretations of Southern Gospel music. In just five short years this group has been nominated in the top five by the U. S. Gospel News as Quartet of the year, New Excelling Artist of the Year and in 2005 they were chosen as the Horizon Group of the Year at the Grapevine Opry. They have been nominated for the fourth year in 7 categories for the SGM FanFair and Southern Gospel Music Award.

Their first project called The Genesis Project started this ministry with a major boom! They followed it up with a foot stomping project called Motivatin’ Music. In their first year this group fulfilled more than 130 concerts and quickly grew to over two hundred fifty in 2007. They ended 2008 with 266 concerts. Spreading God's word through song is the goal and they take their calling seriously. Their project released in September 2007 is called My GOD Is Bigger Than That. From start to finish, this soul stirring project will leave no doubt this group uses their music to proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Still Praising also released in September 2007 is a compilation of songs from all of their CD’s. Their new Live Praise CD was released in the spring of 2008 and in August 2008 a new project called Contagious Praise was released. This project will move you to sing and shout the praises of our Lord.

2010 brings even more opportunities to this ministry minded quartet as they travel across this world sharing the good news of Jesus Christ to those who need His love, grace and mercy. They have proclaimed this year as revival time.

This quartet is comprised of Steve Sam, founder and Lead, Ron Higgins, Tenor, Dodd Meadows, Baritone, and Greg Bares, Bass. They use the talent that God has supplied to warm your heart and bless your soul. This ministry will get you on your feet and awaken your spirit. Be prepared to clap your hands, tap your feet, and enjoy the southern gospel sounds of yesterday and today.

Praise Inc. asks that you come and be a part of their ministry and share in their worship of Jesus Christ on Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at the United Church of Bakersfield and East Fairfied ... on the park in Bakersfield, VT. The concert will start at 6:00pm and a free will offering will be taken. For more information please call Rev. Lyle Miller at 802-827-6544 or visit http://www.praiseinc.com/.

Name Change and New Logo Coming Soon

2010-09-10T15:03:00.000-07:00

I am not sure why I didn't name this blog the "Christian Music, Movie and Theater News" to start with, especially being that I am a Gospel Singer and Recording Artist. But as you know I didn't. So I am pleased to announce that from this day forward the blog will officially be called exactly that "Christian Music, Movie and Theater News" and will cover not only the movies and theatrical productions I am following but will also cover information and news from the world of Christian Music especially the world of Southern Gospel, Christian Country, Country Gospel and Bluegrass Gospel.

Also, stay tuned for a new logo coming soon.

Films I Am Following - #1

2010-08-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the Christian Films I am currently following the progress of:

A Christmas Snow - This film looks to be great. In fact we have scheduled a Church Premier here in Vermont in September for this family film that has an October 2010 Release date. The movie stars Catherine Mary Stewart (Kathleen), Muse Watson (Sam), and Cameron ten Napel (Lucy)

The screenplay is written by: Tracy J Trost & Candace Lee. It is directed by: Tracy J Trost and produced By: Chad Gundersen.

The Plot Outline of the movie is: Kathleen has carried around the haunting memory of her father abandoning her and her mother on Christmas Eve.

For the past 30 years, she has blamed her mother for that night and refuses to celebrate Christmas in any fashion.

Although she has tried to forget her past, it has not forgotten her, and in the days leading up to Christmas she finds herself stuck in her own home with two strangers, because of an unforgiving blizzard.

As the storm brings her face to face with the hurts of her past, she will have to choose one path; letting go and grabbing hold of a life changing forgiveness or continuing to carry her pain and bitterness with her.

"A Christmas Snow" will challenge you to step out on the adventure of hope that waits for the heart that dares to forgive, as the storm of the century... brings the gift of a lifetime...

You can check out more information at the following links:
www.facebook.com/AChristmasSnow
www.AChristmasSnow.com

Keep posted to Christian Movie and Theater News for more updates.

Welcome to Christian Movie and Theater News

2010-08-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I am really interested in the making, producing, presenting, and all other aspects of Family Friendly Christian Movies and Theater Productions. Because of my interest in sharing the word of God through the use of Screen and Stage I am always: following the latest Christian Movie being made; attending the latest "Christian Based" Theatrical Production; writing a new script for presentation on the stage; figuring out how to do the latest techno special effect for a Christian Production; searching for new Christian and Gospel Music to be worked into stage musicals; researching new Christian based suppliers; and reviewing the latest releases of Christian Books, Movies, CDs and Stage Productions. So, I thought that setting up a new blog would be a great way for me to share all of this and more with all of you. Welcome to Christian Movie and Theater News.

Movies and Theatrical Presentations are two of America’s favorite entertainment pastimes. People are always talking about the last great movie they saw or are talking about the latest and greatest Broadway Production that is now on tour. Well guess what? These two mediums are also powerful when used to share the Love of God and provide "Family Friendly" entertainment all at the same time.

And guess what else? Not only will I be talking about these things but I will be sharing with you how you can find out where movies are being shown in your community as well as where the latest theatrical production is taking place. I am here in Northern Vermont so I will focus on Vermont and New England but will try and provide as many links as I can so no matter where you are when you read this blog you can find connections to the different topics I discuss.

Again, Welcome to "Christian Movie and Theater News".