Iesodo - Joy dvd

JOY is a special re-imagining of the Nativity story. Let your heart take flight and tweet along to holiday carols and all-new songs! Festivities are in full swing as the flock prepares to celebrate Iesodo's birthday! The Cypress Tree is decked out with holly berries and excitement is in the air. Everyone gathers as Rocky shares the incredible story of Iesodo's birth.

Unto Us A Dove Is Born: "Festivities are in full swing as the flock prepares to celebrate Iesodo's birthday! The Cypress Tree is decked out with holly berries and excitement is in the air. Everyone gathers as Rocky shares the story of this amazing day, and how it changed their lives forever."

My Review: In time for Christmas season, a new cartoon, and one that celebrates the birth of Jesus. This has been my favorite of the Iesodo series (still have not seen "Believe"). It tells the story of the nativity on a level that younger children would understand, and also has hints of what life was like during the final days Jesus was on earth. It gives a good foundational base for children, but without making it seem like a sermon. Kids will love the bright colors and songs that they will soon be singing along with. I confess that "We Three Kings" was my favorite, largely because it reminded me of the Claymation Christmas version...but with wise owls. I recommend this as a great new addition for your kids to watch, so pick up a copy.

For those, like me, who don't like to start Christmas season until after Thanksgiving, this would be a fun video for the family to watch together after decorating the house and putting up your tree. What better way to start the season off right, but by reminding your kids of the true meaning of Christmas and why we celebrate.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of the DVD from Edify Media to enable me to write a fair and honest review.

Iesodo website

Iesodo on Facebook

FULL SERIES: Iesodo (YAY-sa-doe) is a wise white dove whose name means "The Way of Jesus". He and his feathered friends bring your favorite New Testament stories to life in a whole new way.   Iesodo and his friends live in the Holy Land, in a beautiful Cypress Tree on the shores of a vast Lake (or as we know it, the Sea of Galilee). These birds are an unlikely group of friends, and though they have their differences, they have one thing in common: since they met Iesodo, their lives have never been the same. Now they’re out to spread his message of hope to the entire bird world!

Zaya Toonz, the animation company behind Iesodo, assembled a collaboration of animation experts with experience in both the children’s and Christian markets.  Directors for the series include Brian E. Ray whose credits consist of “Muppet Babies,” “My Little Pony Tales” and “Ed, Ed, and Eddy,” as well as Colin Brady, whose credits include “Toy Story,” “Toy Story 2” and “A Bug's Life.” Brady also served as the former animation supervisor for Pixar Animation Studios. Producer Eric S. Rollman, President of Rollman Entertainment, formerly served as President of Production for Fox Kids and Marvel, and writer/producer Rob Loos is an Emmy Nominee and writer/producer for “McGee and Me,” “Christmas Lamb,” “Kids 10 Commandments” and “Touched by an Angel.” The “Iesodo” series also features the voice of Erin Bethea (“Fireproof,” “Amazing Love”) as Maggie. For more information, visit http://www.iesodo.com.

About Capitol Christian Distribution: Capitol Christian Distribution is the market leader in Christian and Gospel music distribution, and also represents a diverse range of chart topping Christian films and books, reaching the US Christian specialty and general retail marketplace and physical and digital retailers in more than 50 countries around the world.  


*Except for my review, most of this is from the Iesodo press release. 

Iesodo - Faith dvd

Iesodo (pronounced Yay-Sa-Doe), is a wise dove whose name means "The Way of Jesus"! He and his lovable feathered friends live in the Holy Land in a beautiful Cypress Tree on the shores of a vast Lake (or as we know it, the Sea of Galilee). The birds are an unlikely group of friends, and though they have their differences, they have one thing in common: since they met Iesodo, their lives have never been the same!

Zaya Toonz and Rollman Entertainment, the animation companies behind Iesodo, assembled a collaboration of experts with experience in both the children’s and Christian markets.

Directors for the series include Brian E. Ray (Muppet Babies, My Little Pony, and Ed, Ed, and Eddy) and Colin Brady (Toy Story, Toy Story 2, and A Bug's Life). Brady was also the former animation supervisor for Pixar Animation Studios.Producer Eric S. Rollman, President/CEO of Rollman Entertainment, is the former President of Production for Fox Kids and Marvel. Emmy nominee Rob Loos (McGee and Me! Christmas Lamb, Kids 10 Commandments, and Touched By An Angel) is the writer/producer. Voices include Iesodo - Tony Oliver; Barry - Joey Lotsko; Jacob - Ron Allen; Maggie - Erin Bethea; and Rocky - T. W. Gibis. Music is by Ed Smart.

Episode 1: “Miracles are Everywhere” – A big event is happening! Thousands of birds from all over the world have gathered to meet Iesodo, but food is scarce and the flocks are getting hungry. Iesodo provides in a way no one could have expected.
Scripture: Matthew14:13-21; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-15

My Review: In this episode, Iesodo is confronted with the traditional "Hoopoes" who do not want any kind of change. They dislike what he teaches and make plans to disrupt when Iesodo speaks to a large crowd gathered to hear him. When Iesodo feeds all of the hungry birds, a lesson is learned in both having faith in his provision of needs and the importance of sharing what you have with others. Faith does need action: You do what you can, and trust God with what you cannot.

Episode 2: “The Wind and the Rain” – The flock is soaring through the sky on their way back to the Cypress Tree when a sudden storm approaches out of nowhere! Trapped at sea and frightened, they learn that when you have faith, anything is possible.
Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33; John 1:39-42; John 14:12; 2 Corinthians 5:7

My Review: This episode deals with having faith when you are afraid. When caught in a storm, the birds are frightened as they try to fend for themselves.  When Iesodo appears, walking on the water, he tells Rocky to walk out to him. As song as Rocky keeps his eyes ---and faith---on Iesodo, he can do it. A good lesson on trusting Jesus and knowing that you can do all things through Him.
* I really did not like that Iesodo was reading the scrolls of the "Ancient Sage", but will accept it as another name for God. 

Animation is really good, and kids are sure to be singing the songs. I do like the bonus features on the dvd, especially Tim Timmons. The website is really good. I recommend you check it out for more info, behind the scenes stuff, and the fun and games, including downloadables.

Iesodo website

Iesodo on Facebook


Disclosure: I received this dvd compliments of Word Films and Edify Media for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Iesodo - Love dvd

Iesodo (pronounced Yay-Sa-Doe), is a wise dove whose name means "The Way of Jesus"! He and his lovable feathered friends live in the Holy Land in a beautiful Cypress Tree on the shores of a vast Lake (or as we know it, the Sea of Galilee). The birds are an unlikely group of friends, and though they have their differences, they have one thing in common: since they met Iesodo, their lives have never been the same!

Zaya Toonz and Rollman Entertainment, the animation companies behind Iesodo, assembled a collaboration of experts with experience in both the children’s and Christian markets.

Directors for the series include Brian E. Ray (Muppet Babies, My Little Pony, and Ed, Ed, and Eddy) and Colin Brady (Toy Story, Toy Story 2, and A Bug's Life). Brady was also the former animation supervisor for Pixar Animation Studios.Producer Eric S. Rollman, President/CEO of Rollman Entertainment, is the former President of Production for Fox Kids and Marvel. Emmy nominee Rob Loos (McGee and Me! Christmas Lamb, Kids 10 Commandments, and Touched By An Angel) is the writer/producer. Voices include Iesodo - Tony Oliver; Barry - Joey Lotsko; Jacob - Ron Allen; Maggie - Erin Bethea; and Rocky - T. W. Gibis. Music is by Ed Smart.

In this video, writer/producer, Rob Loos, talks to Movieguide about the Iesodo series:

There are 2 episodes on each dvd. Both are short enough for young children to be able to pay attention and brightly colored birds who portray the characters are fun to watch. Music also is a vital role in keeping most kids entertained, and they are sure to enjoy the lively tunes included in the episodes and the theme song.

“Birds of a Feather, Fish Together” – The wedding celebration of Freddie and Fiona Finch is headed for disaster! Iesodo steps in to calm everyone’s ruffled feathers and make the event a success.
Scripture used - Luke 5:1-11, John 2:1-11, John 21:1-11

My review: Although it is weaving 3 different stories together, they do all tie in to the theme of working together and provision. There are several ways to get a lesson to the kids and the songs and images will help them remember. The sibling rivalry between the Pelican Brothers was my favorite part. Good job of tying in both a lesson you want the kids to learn, plus Biblical stories that can be expanded upon to share your faith.


“Love Your Enemies” – Zack, the tax collector, doesn’t play by the rules. Iesodo shows the flock that treating those who are mean to us with kindness really does make a big difference.
Scripture used - Luke 19:1-10, John 8:1-11

My review: This time there are 2 stories within the episode that deals with treating others with kindness and forgiveness. Zach the tax collector is taking unfair advantage through his position and his portion is even greater than the government requires. Through Iesedo, he learns that this is wrong and he repays all he is stolen. The flock learns about forgiveness.

The sub-story is the story of the adulterous woman (and it is presented in a kid-friendly method). At first I thought I would like the way this lesson was going to be turned into one of forgiveness, but then..........
STOP!! Major Problem!!
 
 Iesodo: "Are you sorry for what you did?" 

Angelina Blackbird: "Mmm-hmm. I was wrong and I deserve to be punished. But I am so very, very, very sorry."

Iesodo: "Honestly saying you are sorry means a lot. Go back to your flock and follow your heart to do what is right from now on." (emphasis mine)
"Follow your heart to do what is right"??!!?? Maybe it's just the people I know, but when I questioned several, they all said the first thing that had also popped into my mind: "The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?" - Jeremiah 17:9 (FYI: We all did not use the same translation, but we all said the same verse.) There are also numerous Scriptures about man doing what is right in his own eyes---and none of those are an encouragement to do so.

I know this series is meant for younger children, but most pre-schoolers I know do not automatically do what is right when they follow their heart. I would be okay with "...and do not take what is not yours from now on" or a variation, but I would not want the current message to be one a child hears. They are going to have a large enough struggle with others telling them the distorted message as they grow older.

So, great for animation, music for kids, and a great website. I also like the Special Features section that gives additional info on Bible verses, the stories, the lessons, and the music. The first story is good, but I would proceed with caution on the second. I realize it is just the wording and not the message that is intended...but it still bothers me. So, except for one line, this is a video I would recommend. However, that one line is a stumbling block for me. On the other hand, I could use it to teach a lesson or two also.

Disclosure: I received this dvd compliments of Word Films and Edify Media for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Iesodo website

My Name Is Paul

My Name is Paul (Quiet No More Films) is the story of Paul, a man blinded by hate and intent on destruction, determined to find and kill Peter, the enemy of his Leader. However, a terrible accident and a miraculous discovery take him off course and on a road of self-discovery where he learns to live and love the Way. (dvd cover description)

Starring Andrew Roth, Michael Joiner, Patrick Keenan, Cranston Johnson, Shannen Fields, Vanessa Ore, Karyn Elyse Abercrombie, Tim Ross, Abigail Cornell, Isaiah Stratton, Torry Martin, Gary Ray Moore, Davis Osborne, and Joe Coffey. Written by Tara Lynn Marcelle and Vanessa Ore, My Name Is Paul is directed by Trey Ore. 

An interesting modern twist on an old story. The action is set during a time when Christians, known as followers of The Way, are once again being hunted and persecuted. However, it also closely follows the Biblical account of Paul as told in the book of Acts. Since I am familiar with that story I followed the plot through that perspective. I admit that I am curious to know how this story would be viewed from someone who does not know about Saul of Tarsus/Paul.

In this telling, many of the names remain the same from Biblical accounts, but Paul's god is the government and he is their best agent. While many seek to incarcerate Way People, Paul will ruthlessly terminate any who fail to comply. Yet when he is blinded and is nursed back to help by those he once persecuted, he reaches out to the One they follow. The transformation from killer to protector of God's people is a clear demonstration of the forgiveness and new beginning offered to those who choose to repent.

I enjoyed the fresh look at a story I have known most of my life. The historical accuracy was preserved enough to recognize, yet the futurist look to the film gave one a greater grasp on the possibility that Christians may once again be persecuted for their faith, even in areas that proclaim religious freedom. It was understandably dark in many ways, but the viewer is still left with hope. There were comic touches sprinkled through the story, but the ability to laugh through fear and tragedy is in our nature. The soundtrack was excellent! Jurgen Beck (who is also one of the producers) is one of my favorite composers, and his music was the perfect touch for the film. There is no profanity, nudity, or graphic images, but some of the scenes are too intense for children, so 12+ should be okay to watch.

Quiet No More Films website 
My Name Is Paul on Facebook 

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this product from Edify Media at no cost to me for the purpose of writing a review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.

Let God movie

In the Winter of 1848, a caravan of pioneers headed West. Only one survived. This is her story.

As rumors of gold in California spread across the United States in 1848, Levi decides it is time to head west with Amelia, his young housewife, to stake their claim and build a better life. Against her better judgment, Amelia honors her husband’s demands, leaving her home and family. Secretly, they join the last wagon caravan of the season dangerously late, leaving behind a string of bad debts. On the trail, they encounter unimaginable danger that will ultimately change the course of their lives.

After a savage attack takes her husband, Amelia is left alone and without resources. For the first time, Amelia must take life into her own hands, battling winter, hunger, and the unknown. As she grows weaker by the day, she finds strength in a mysterious and unexpected guide. Survival becomes a race against time and Amelia must find something greater than herself to help survive the frigid winter along the Oregon Trail.

Winner of "Best Feature" and "Best Actress" at the 2013 Breckenridge Film Festival.
Official selection at the 2013 Gideon Film Festival. Earned the Dove “Family-Approved” Seal for any age.

Let God (AKA The Trail), written and directed by William Parker, has beautiful cinematography and the acting is very good. Yet there are a couple of things that don't quite make sense to me. Some of it was within the storyline, but I could throw in my own reasoning and let it go...for most of it. The issue I struggled with the most, though, was how remarkably CLEAN Amelia (Jasmin Jandreau) stayed throughout the film. I am not one who enjoys graphic visuals of all details, but a drop of sweat or smear of dirt would have been reasonable. The cold did not seem to bother her a whole lot either---no shivering nor condensation. Unfortunately, I can get hung up on details like that. I also had to accept some some of the parts were meant more as symbolism, and not to be taken at face value.

However, it just meant that I watched the film again and ignored the little things that probably only distracted me. It is a strong story of someone who faced life head on and persevered. She did struggle to do it on her own, but many of us are guilty of that. When she finally did Let Go...and Let God, she learned that while the journey remained tough, she was not alone. There were hardships, but also unexpected blessings to lighten her load. As I mentioned, I had a few areas where the story just did not make a lot of sense, but it is a fairly good film. The scene stealer for me was Amelia's mysterious companion (Shannon Brown); he spoke very little, but my attention was drawn to him in each scene he appeared in. The most positive part of the film is the transformation of Amelia from a meek female who merely went through the motions of life and faith. The more she leaned on God and trusted Him, the stronger she became and her faith became real. The transformation was worth the journey. This is a good family film.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this dvd from Word Entertainment and Edify Media in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Season of a Lifetime

Word Films just released the Endorphin Entertainment  / Fisheye Media Productions inspirational documentary “Season of a Lifetime” on DVD. The film follows Greenville High football coach Jeremy Williams as he perseveres and inspires his team throughout their winning 2010 season in the face of his progressing ALS disease. For his final season as coach, Williams’ beloved small-town Greenville Patriots battle to the playoffs and adopt his never-surrender attitude. “Season of a Lifetime” is produced by Rick Cohen, Bob McAllister and Jason Haley and executive produced by Chris Pullaro. Cohen also served as director and editor of the film. (press release)



  


"Faith, Family, Football" is what is on the dvd cover, and that sums up the 3 most important things in Jeremy Williams life...and in the order of their importance. This documentary on the final coaching season of Greenville High School (GA) football coach, Jeremy Williams, due to ALS (aka Lou Gehrig's Disease) could be a tear-jerker that leaves you feeling sad. It is not! This is an inspiring story of one man who, while facing an incurable progressive neurodegenerative disease, continues to love his God, his family, his players, his friends, and puts others ahead of his own needs. Many would have given up after such devastating news, but Jeremy quickly went into action to do what was best for others. He surrounded himself with a community of family and friends who would work with him as a team to accomplish what needed done while he could still do it.

Interspersed with highlights of the games played during William's final season of coaching, we also see both his faith and family in action. He was still speaking at churches, encouraging others to trust in Jesus at all times, and taking part in activities that support ALS research. His family, though, are as amazing and strong as Williams himself. Jeremy's bravery is echoed by his wife, Jennifer, who says, “This is God’s story for the Williamses." Their son, Jacob, born with Spina Bifida, is confined to a wheelchair, but positive outlook, determination, and sheer joy made me smile several times. Daughter, Josey,is a remarkable young girl who cheerfully helps her dad and younger brother with tasks they are unable to do. Her giggles when Williams is teasing her about something prove her to be a loving cheerleader who is very proud of her dad and a loving caregiver, but one who still knows the joy of childhood. This is a family who knows how to lean on one another and their faith when things are rough.
 
The special features in this 89 minute dvd includes footage featuring images from Williams’ college days, footage of the 2009 Greenville football team and the “Extreme Makeover Home Edition” segment. If you are looking for a film on team spirit and about the importance of "going the distance", this is about a man who goes beyond expectations. Very inspirational.

I received a copy of this dvd at no charge from WORD in hopes I would review it. No expectations were given for a good review, but for an honest one. All opinions given were my own.

For further info, visit www.seasonofalifetime.tv. 
Season of a Lifetime on Facebook 

The Williams family
July 2010

Camp

CAMP is the story of a summer camp for abused and neglected kids. The main storyline is about Eli (Miles Elliot, “The Mentalist”), who has been abused and neglected his entire life and an investment advisor, Ken (Michael Mattera), who signed up to be a counselor just to impress a prospective client. Both are last minute additions to camp, and are paired together for the week. The angry boy and the apathetic man get off to a rocky start...and it goes downhill from there. Slowly their attitudes change as Eli begins to trust Ken and Ken learns to look beyond the behavior to see the hurting boy who needs love.  

Camp director, Tammie (Grace Johnston), who had a crush on Ken in high school, has her hands full with trying to make Ken understand that his focus must be on Eli and trying to break through the barriers he has built around himself. Experienced camp counselor, Samuel Smith (Asante Jones), who is a former camper whose life was impacted by a counselor, along with his camper, Redford (Matthew Jacob Wayne)...who believes he is an alien stranded on Earth...are teamed with Ken and Eli as cabin mates as Samuel tries to show Ken the importance of bonding with his camper.

Inspired by true stories from Royal Family KIDS, Inc., this is a film that draws you in, breaks your heart, makes you laugh, and leaves you with both hope for these kids and a desire to make a difference. My attitude, much like Ken's, changed from when I first started watching the movie as I begin to see beyond the actors and situations that seemed like standard characters/plots that set the standard for many formulaic films. There is [mild] bad language coming out of the mouths of some of the kids (PG 13), but it fits the defiant characters of some. I also confess that I initially disliked the Redford character, but his optimism and vulnerability melted away my reserve as I both considered the pain this child has suffered and admired the joy he displayed and the kindness he genuinely displayed toward others.

I attended a few church camps when I was younger, and the film brought back memories of friends, activities and the required camp singalongs! The difference is that these kids are those who have been abused, neglected, abandoned, and this week of camp may be the only fun in their lives for the year. There are only 5 short days to show the kids that they are valuable, loved, and have a reason to hope...but it is well worth it. My favorite character, Sgt. Sam, tells Ken, "You're not the foster parent or the caregiver. You're not the teacher. You're just here to help the kid have fun for one week."

Directed by Jacob Roebuck, CAMP is a film that you can enjoy watching for the story, but one that I hope inspires more to make a difference in a child's life. The acting was good and the scenery was gorgeous. Glimpses of the inner fears of the kids break your heart, but the way the counselors handle each situation demonstrates a hope that the kids can cling to for their future. The letters of encouragement sent and shared were among my favorite scenes. A film on a tough subject, but interspersed with enough humor to keep it uplifting. There are several BTS & personal story videos included in Special Features, plus there is a Director's Commentary!! Well done!

Disclaimer: I was provided with a copy of  this dvd for review purposes. I was only asked to give a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

CAMP movie website
CAMP Facebook Page
CAMP on IMDb
Royal Family KIDS, Inc.

 

A Portion of the Proceeds from Roebuck Media’s Inspirational Film About Abused and Neglected Children Benefit Royal Family KIDS, Inc., a 501 (c) (3)

Break Away

Break Away ( Baroudeur in South Africa) is a new film coming out from the producers of Faith Like Potatoes. Former rugby player/celebrity Francois (Frans Cronje) is a hard working husband and dad that gets laid off from his job. Despite nights of working on proposals and meetings with potential clients, there are no job offers. When his car quits he is forced to use an old bicycle in order to provide for his family by making deliveries. A group of pro-cyclists who pass him every day brings out his competitive spirit, so with the help of his “black sheep” brother (Etienne Janse van Renburg, and a bicycle shop owner (Morne Theunissen), and a curious sports reporter, Francois makes some life-changing discoveries about his life, career and faith in God. 

View the Break Away trailer.

Written and directed by Cronje and Theunissen, this is one of those films that can make a powerful impact. There were a couple of things that did bother me with the dvd, though. First was my initial difficulty in understanding some of the accents, so I really wish closed captioning had been an option. I did adapt, and it got easier, but it was still a stumbling block. The second was some sound issues. There was one spot in particular where the sound of people walking overpowered the voices, so the film definitely needed some ADR work.
 
However, this is also one of the more powerful films I have seen about relying on God through the tough times. Using the parable of the loaves and the fishes, there is a message to give God all you have and see what He does with it. In one scene, his wife (Leone Pienaar) tells him that he is to follow God, and she and the children would follow him. While he did go through moments of despair, Francois takes what is available for him to use---including his talents---and simply gives his best and relies on God to see him through. This is an excellent testimony on trusting God to provide for your needs and adapting to His plan, no matter how it looks to others.
 
The soundtrack was better than average for me. There were a couple of songs I wasn't fond of, but I loved the majority of the music--there is a version of "How Great Thou Art" that is outstanding! I was also impressed with the partnership the film has with Jacob's Well. This is a ministry that aims to build up a growing network of churches, organizations, businesses and individuals working together to help people in their communities who have lost regular income or do not have a self-sustainable income. 

I received this movie free from Word Films as part of their Blogger Review Program, via Blogger Gateway. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Be sure to check out this and other films on Word Films on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

Frans Cronje also has a new website, FransCronje.tv. Make sure you check out Lifestyle Revolution, his online television program.