The Hopeful

THE HOPEFUL is the true story of a community whose lives were transformed as they learn what it means to truly wait for Jesus. In Theaters April 17-18, 2024.

Aboard a steamship sailing across the Atlantic Ocean in 1874, John Andrews shares a tale of courage, hope, war, and true love that begins with the end of the world with his children.

 
SYNOPSIS: William Miller’s faith is in ruins. After miraculously surviving a fierce battle in the War of 1812, Miller questions why God spared him. His search for wisdom leads to an astonishing prophesy — the world is going to end. "The Hopeful" unfolds as a story of a man burdened with the knowledge of Christ’s return. Miller’s message resonates with some—even as it is scorned by others.

When a young woman named Ellen Harmon listens to one of his sermons she is transformed. And through her witness the message begins to take flight. The preaching grows beyond prophecy and develops into a more holistic vision for how Christians should live and worship. We see the seeds of a new global movement of faith —the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This sweeping drama, set in 19th century New England, invites audiences of all ages to imagine how hope can change the world.

Buy Tickets for this Fathom Event of THE HOPEFUL.

MY REVIEW: THE HOPEFUL is a well-made period piece set in the 1800s about the beginning of the SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS CHURCH. The film begins as widowed John Andrews is sharing the story with his 2 children as they are sailing across the Atlantic to become missionaries. William Miller, who predicted Christ would return in 1843-1844. Despite disappointment that it didn't happen, a small group begin to embrace other tenets of his faith and grew in their hope and their faith.

There are several strong women included in this movie, but Ellen G. (Harmon) White is the most prominent and well-known. Her faith, visions, and firm beliefs in living a healthy lifestyle had a major impact on the growth of the Seventh Day Adventists denomination and beyond.

This is a fascinating look at how a firm conviction of one man spread, despite having to make changes in setting definite dates for the return of Christ, to a community of millions around the world. (I don't have to be in full agreement to enjoy watching a film.) The film looked great but I did get a bit confused when I first watched; that was remedied when I looked up a few facts to better understand who some of the people are. The music didn't seem to fit in as well with that time in history, BUT...it is really good. Overall, I think it's a very good movie and one worth watching.

Click on link to GET YOUR TICKETS FOR APRIL 17th or 18th.

 

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card. This is limited to US winners only.
Please submit your full name and email address by 4/26 to Enter.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Hope Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

LINKS: 

Website
Buy Tickets
Jean’s interview w/ Kyle (director of The Hopeful)
Instagram
Facebook

 

Someone Like You trailer

 Based on the popular novel by #1 NY Times Bestselling author Karen Kingsbury, Someone Like You is an achingly beautiful redemptive love story. Shocking news hits after young architect Dawson Gage loses his best friend, London Quinn. Now in his heartbreak, Dawson is compelled to launch an impossible search for London’s secret twin sister, twins separated as embryos. But along the way, Dawson never planned to fall in love.

Someone Like You will be releasing in theaters starting on April 2 (and showing ONLY through April 11). Pre-Order Tickets here!

Watch the trailer:

LINKS
TICKETS

www.someonelikeyou.movie 

Instagram

Karen Kingsbury IG
Facebook

Karen Kingsbury Author Page 

YouTube - Karen Kingsbury Productions

God’s Goodness for the Chosen

 

God’s Goodness for the Chosen is an eight-lesson Bible study for individuals or groups that follows each episode of Season 4 of The Chosen.

We see it repeatedly in the Bible: God brings good things out of bad things for the sake of His people and for His glory. But truth be told, when we personally experience suffering, we have a difficult time actually believing it. Yet, life is challenging even for the followers of Jesus, and hardship in the twenty-first century is no exception.

God’s Goodness for the Chosen takes readers through eight lessons which reveal how God uses suffering to bring about good things in the lives of those
He loves.

 

In this guide:
• Death is eclipsed by life
• Grief is eclipsed by praise
• Questions are eclipsed by resolve
• Confusion is eclipsed by grace
• Temporary things are eclipsed by eternal things
• Heartbreak is eclipsed by love
• Sin is eclipsed by obedience
• Pain is eclipsed by the fullness of God’s plan

The interactive Study Guides for each Season of The Chosen have been one of their more popular items. They are great for small groups, family devotions, or for individual study. Order your Study Guide here.

My Review: I loved it! I have only seen Episodes 1-3, but do have a general grasp of what happens in 4-8. Spoilers don't bother me, but if you don't like them, buy now but wait until Season 4 can stream on the app. (Message from Dallas) Using Scripture, Biblical explanations, "For Bible Nerds" deeper study, and scenes from the series, it adds a richer meaning. I also loved the Prayer Focus and the questions for the reader to answer. I definitely recommend "God's Goodness for the Chosen."

Giveaway: 1 copy of God’s Goodness for The Chosen Bible study (Note: This is limited to US winners only.) Please submit your full name and full mailing address by 3/29.

Disclosure: Many thanks to David C Cook for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

 

Forty-Seven Days With Jesus

 

Get ready for Easter by taking your family to see FORTY-SEVEN DAYS WITH JESUS! Yoshi Barrigas and Catherine Lidstone from "The Chosen" star in this film about a disconnected family who finds hope and unity through a cinematic retelling of Jesus’ final 47 days on Earth. Featuring original music, "Forty-Seven Days with Jesus" brings the Easter story to life and reminds us of The Gospel’s enduring impact.

"Forty-Seven Days with Jesus" will be in theaters ONLY
on March 11, 12, and 14! BUY TICKETS here!

See the trailer:

My Review: Just in time for Palm Sunday and Easter, "Forty-Seven Days with Jesus" gives a unique twist with both real-time and flashbacks to the final days of Jesus.

A workaholic husband is neglecting his marriage and family. The family patriarch has serious health issues. With the backdrop of an Easter weekend get-together with family, issues are confronted while the story of Jesus and his final days is told to the children.

As the narrative unfolds with musical numbers used in the scenes of Jesus and his disciples, everyone is impacted. With rising conflict, the powerful message of the cross and the resurrection is applied to how it affects each individual and their relationship with family.

The mixture of a current story intertwined with Biblical history is a very good way to show that the Bible is not just old stories of the past, but also very applicable to each of us. Added treats were the Biblical scenes filmed at Capernaum Studios and Cameron Arnett as Pontius Pilate. I enjoyed watching it and recommend you see it while available in theaters. Remember, March 11, 12, and 14th only!! BUY TICKETS HERE!

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card!
(This is limited to US winners only.) Please submit your full name and email address by 3/15 to enter to win.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Reel Big Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Social Pages:
Instagram
Facebook 
PinnaclePeakPictures.com 
ReelBigStudio.com
Tickets

Ordinary Angels

One of the most eagerly anticipated movies is coming to theaters on February 23, 2024! Based on a remarkable true story, ORDINARY ANGELS centers on Sharon (Hilary Swank), a fierce but struggling hairdresser in small-town Kentucky who discovers a renewed sense of purpose when she meets Ed (Alan Ritchson), a widower working hard to make ends meet for his two daughters. With his youngest daughter (Emily Mitchell) waiting for a liver transplant, Sharon sets her mind to helping the family and will move mountains to do it. What unfolds is the inspiring tale of faith, everyday miracles, and ordinary angels. WEBSITE

BUY TICKETS: Ordinary Angels tickets. Group tickets are also available!

My Review: My expectations were high...and they were met! Ordinary Angels is an outstanding movie with characters you grow to care about and an extraordinary story to tell. It is based on a true story, and from what I've read, does stay close to actual events. Writers Kelly Fremon Craig and Meg Tilly, along with director Jon Gunn, are to be commended. Actors Hilary Swank, Alan Ritchson, Nancy Travers, Emily Mitchell, and Skywalker Hughes (plus the rest of the cast) are fantastic.

The story is about a child desperately needing a liver transplant and a stranger who feels compelled to help the family with mounting medical bills. It sounds like a tear-jerker, but this film offers hope along with laughter that keeps the viewer fully engrossed. In my opinion, "Ordinary Angels" is a Must-See film! Once again Kingdom Story Company (Jon Erwin, Andy Erwin, and Kevin Downes) have produced an amazing film! Distributed via Lionsgate. BUY TICKETS: Ordinary Angels tickets.

Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card. Please submit your full name and email address by 3/1/2024 to enter. US Residents Only.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

RIP MEDICAL DEBT
Help us make the impossible possible. Every $1 you donate eliminates $100 in medical debt. Together with RIP Medical Debt, we aim to erase $10,000,000 in medical debt relief. The gift of debt relief is life-changing—and every dollar makes a difference. #OrdinaryAngelsMovie #KingdomStoryCompany ordinaryangels.movie/rip

County Rescue

 

EMTs are courageous, everyday heroes, but it’s challenging
to qualify for this critical job. This is the story of an EMT unit who save lives while
navigating their own life, love, and faith.

Check out this new family-friendly series, County Rescue, on Great American Pure Flix starting 2/23 and Great American Family starting 2/26! This new series stars Brett Varvel, Julia Reilly, Tim Perez-Ross, Riley Hough, Keller Fornes, Kristin Wollet, and Stacey Patino.
Created by Brian Baugh.

MY REVIEW: I have seen the first 5 episodes of County Rescue and I really enjoyed it. The actors I am familiar with gave their usual top-notch performances, and I was equally as pleased with those new to me. Of course there are dramatic moments---this is a series about EMTs. But there was also humor, quirky characters and traits, and a compelling storyline. I am looking forward to seeing to seeing more episodes in the future! Be sure to check it out for yourself! I recommend COUNTY RESCUE.

Links
Website: Great American Family (cable)
Trailer: Great American Family (cable)
Website: Great American Pure Flix (streaming)
Trailer: Great American Pure Flix (streaming)
IMDb

Giveaway: 3-month subscription to Great American Pure Flix! Please submit your giveaway winner’s full name and email by February 24, 2024.
(Note: This is limited to US winners only, and only to those who have NOT won a subscription in the last 6 months.)

Disclosure: Many thanks to Great American Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

The Chosen, Season 4, Episodes 1-3

 

Fans have eagerly anticipated Season 4 of The Chosen and the wait is over for those planning to watch in theaters. Episodes 1-3 are scheduled for February 1st through the 14th. You may buy your tickets here.

Season 4 is about... Clashing kingdoms. Rival rulers. The enemies of Jesus close in while His followers struggle to keep up, leaving Him to carry the burden alone. Threatened by the reality of Jesus’ growing influence, religious leaders do the unthinkable—ally
with their Roman oppressors. As the seeds of betrayal are planted and opposition to Jesus’ message turns violent, He’s left with no alternative but demand his followers RISE UP!

MY REVIEW: There is so much to say about the first three episodes, but I don't want to risk SPOILERS! Yes, if you've read the New Testament, you will know the story and can anticipate some of the action. Yet, the writers and actors have made the familiar come to life in a way that will touch the hearts of everyone. The black and white (& sometimes red) words spring into full living color!

And the creative background stories that are woven into The Chosen have given us a new perspective into the actual persons from the Bible, plus several "plausible" characters we have learned to love...or loathe. Season 4 brings even more intensity than the prior 3 seasons. I know that I felt the full range of emotions as these stories unfolded. I loved all 3 episodes, but the end of episode 3 left me gasping and saying, "No!! Don't end here! I NEED episode 4 NOW!" 

 

LINKS

• Website
• Buy Tickets 
• Trailer
• Press Release
• Facebook 
• YouTube
• Instagram
  
  
  

 Season 4 will be outstanding on the big screen! Check your local listings for scheduled times (and remember this is over 3 hours). Also, some scenes are a bit graphic for younger or more sensitive viewers. BUY TICKETS

GIVEAWAY: A $10 Amazon gift card!
(Note: This is limited to US winners only.) Please submit your full name and email address by February 9, 2024 to be entered in drawing. Use #TheChosen4MIN

 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Come and See Foundation, Inc. for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Cabrini (2024)

 About CABRINI - Based on the true story of one woman’s fight for the equality, health, and happiness of immigrant orphans.

From Alejandro Monteverde, award-winning director of 𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘮, comes the powerful epic of Francesca Cabrini, an Italian immigrant who arrives in New York City in 1889 and is greeted by disease, crime, and impoverished children. Cabrini sets off on a daring mission to convince the hostile mayor to secure housing and healthcare for society's most vulnerable. With broken English and poor health, Cabrini uses her entrepreneurial mind to build an empire of hope unlike anything the world had ever seen.

Cabrini will be releasing in theaters on International Women's Day, March 8th.

***Disclaimer: This film is rated PG-13 and includes some (tastefully-portrayed) mature themes.

See the trailer below:

Pre-order Tickets

Website 

IMDb

Facebook

The Chosen: Season 4 Trailer

Season 4 of The Chosen will be released in theaters in February! Take a look at the exciting new trailer!!

Clashing kingdoms. Rival rulers. The enemies of Jesus close in while His followers struggle to keep up, leaving him to carry the burden alone.

Threatened by the reality of Jesus’ growing influence, religious leaders do the unthinkable—ally with their Roman oppressors. As the seeds of betrayal are planted and opposition to Jesus’ message turns violent, he’s left with no alternative but demand his followers RISE UP.

The Chosen is releasing all Season 4 episodes in theaters, with episodes 1-3 releasing 2/1, episodes 4-5 releasing 2/15, and episodes 6-7 releasing 2/29.

I was already eagerly anticipating Season Four, and this trailer just added to my excitement. I will have to wait for Season Four to be released on the app and online, but it will be totally worth the wait! But, for those who can experience on the big screen, see below for details:

Season 4 Theatrical
Release Dates:

Episodes 1-3: 2/1
Episodes 4-5: 2/15
Episodes 6-7: 2/29

Get Tickets

The Chosen website

Trailer Link 

Are you behind in Seasons, Episodes, Roundtables, or Extras? WATCH HERE!

CSB Life Counsel Bible

 

Have you ever felt stressed, or been anxious, or experienced grief? Have you ever wanted to know how to help a loved one through addiction, or marital conflict, or parenting challenges? I'm really excited to share with you an amazing new biblical counseling resource created in partnership with Holman Bibles and New Growth Press.

The Life Counsel Bible provides practical wisdom for all, equipping readers with biblical truth and counsel on a wide range of topics and tough life issues. With over 150+ articles, this Bible is full of useful tools and resources for life application and discipleship. It’s great for couples, parents, ministry leaders, and anyone who has ever struggled with tough life issues. Check out lifecounselbible.com today to see a full list of articles and order your copy!!

The CSB Life Counsel Bible features the highly readable, highly reliable text of the Christian Standard Bible. The Bible’s original meaning is captured without sacrificing clarity, making it easier to engage with Scripture’s life-transforming message.

MY REVIEW: Do you have questions about problems that come up in our lives, especially in a world that is rapidly changing? Sometimes you simply aren't sure who to turn to or whom you feel comfortable discussing private concerns with. The tremendous range of topics included in this Bible can lead you to beneficial Scripture to encourage you and help articulate what you may not be able to put into words. (I know I sometimes get feedback that clearly shows that my words were not truly heard. I am guilty myself of formulating a response instead of focusing on what another is telling me.) I was truly astonished at the wide range of topics!

But... there's more. Word studies, a great concordance, maps, and room to write and make notes in the margins are a great addition. The print is a bit small for me, but my vision is getting worse. I believe it would be comfortable for most people. I highly recommend you get this Bible for your personal library.

Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard!
(Note: This is limited to US winners only.) Please submit your full name and email address by 12/8 to be entered. You can leave a comment on a post, too, if you want to order.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

LIFE COUNSEL BIBLE FEATURES:

• More than 150 full-length articles from respected Christian counselors and scholars on topics like anxiety, depression, abuse, sexuality, marriage and divorce, parenting struggles, finances (full list available at lifecounselbible.com)
• Callout quotes placed near each article provide truth, hope, and encouragement to apply to life
• Over 100-word studies focusing on key words applicable to personal healing, growth, and counsel
• Book introductions including “Circumstances of Writing,” “Structure,” “Contribution to the Bible,” and a special “Truth for Healing” section with an overview of key truths related to healing from each book of the Bible

My Christmas Hero

 

In My Christmas Hero, US Army reservist and orthopedic physician, Nicole Ramsey (Candace Cameron Bure) is dedicated to serving military service members and their families at the Joint Military Base in Lacey, Washington, home of I Corps and the 62nd Airlift Wing. This Christmas, with the help of many dedicated heroes, Dr. Ramsey is on a mission to honor a special fallen soldier and bring much needed healing to her own family.

Watch My Christmas Hero on Great American Family starting November 24th & Great American Pure Flix starting December 1st!

MY REVIEW: My Christmas Hero, written by Jim Head and directed by Martin Wood, and starring Candace Cameron Bure and Gabriel Hogan, is the story of an army reserve doctor (Bure) who tracks down her family’s military history with the help of a new romance (Hogan). This is a very heartwarming movie that is not only faith-based, but also recognizes and pays tribute to our military veterans and to the time-honored tradition of providing for the needs of all who have served or are currently serving. With Christmas, Faith, Family, Veterans, Helping Others, Traditions, Loyalty, and Romance...there is something for everybody! Personally, I loved all of it!!

Giveaway: One winner receives a 3-month subscription to Great American Pure Flix! Please submit your full name and email no later than December 5, 2023 to enter.
*This is limited to US winners only, and only to those who have NOT won a subscription in the last 6 months.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Great American Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Surprised by Oxford

SURPRISED BY OXFORD WILL BE AVAILABLE TO RENT OR BUY FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER. Step inside the beauty of Oxford University and discover a timeless story about asking life’s big questions. Directed by Ryan Whitaker.

Caro Drake, a brilliant but emotionally guarded American student, arrives at the University of Oxford with the goal of attaining her PhD. Through a turbulent friendship with a charming young man, she begins to open herself up to mystery, vulnerability, and love.

Buy or Rent Surprised by Oxford during the month of November! LINK

 

 

 

 

MY REVIEW: 
Caro Drake (Rose Reid) had a turbulent childhood, but it made her more determined to achieve academic success. Receiving a full academic scholarship to Oxford University was a dream come true, and one that led her to where she never expected to go...into a faith she had dismissed as childish.

This journey also led her to a fellow American in Oxford who happened to be a devout Christian. Kent Weber (Ruairi O'Connor), also known as TDH, patiently pursued her as a love interest but was one of the main people who helped teach Carolyn that faith and intellectual facts are not opposite. Surprised by Oxford explores Christianity on a more intellectual level than many faith-related films which appeals to those who may not be reached by the average Christian film.

The movie is based on the memoir of Carolyn Weber, Surprised by Oxford. Of course, the title of the film is a nod to the book, Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis... another Oxford scholarship recipient who discovered his faith in Christianity as an adult. Overall, it's a good film. There are a couple of PG-13 type swear words and adult situations spoken of, but nothing that merits a warning. See it for yourself at Surprised-by-Oxford

Giveaway: A free Vimeo download code to watch the film (Note: This is limited to US winners only.) Please submit your full name and email address by 11/22/23 using #SurprisedByOxfordMIN

Disclosure: Many thanks to Evolve Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.