Caged No More DVD

Inspired by real events, “Caged No More” is the story of Aggie Prejean (Loretta Devine), a godmother on a desperate search to find her two goddaughters, Skye (Cassidy Gifford) and Elle (Abigail Duhon), who have been kidnapped by their sinister father (Kevin Sorbo). As the details behind the girls’ disappearance begin to unravel, they have been discovered to have been taken overseas to be sold into the sex trade. Aggie enlists the help of the girls’ uncle, a well-respected local philanthropist (Sorbo in a dual role), and his son Wil (Alan Powell), who is former Special Forces. A global hunt ensues, and the team will stop at nothing to see the girls safely returned home. This drama on the horror of Human Trafficking is directed by Lisa Arnold, and also features Anthony Evans, Christos Vasilopoulos, George Kosturos, and Cynthia Gibb.

My Review: The compelling storyline drew me in from the beginning and kept my attention throughout the film. Based on true events, the subject matter of human trafficking is one that needs light and attention brought to public notice. Sorbo does an excellent portrayal of twin brothers who have chosen completely different lifestyles. Kassidy Gifford and Abigail Duhon also bring heartbreaking performances as sisters whose father has sold them into the sex trade industry. Loretta Devine, as Aggie, is their champion who will let nothing stop her from rescuing the girls she helped raise. There really were no weak performances in my opinion.


Caged No More is part of a trilogy that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next in the series, yet it is not unsatisfying as a stand-alone film. It is not a film for younger or overly-sensitive viewers, but is suitable for teens and older, and excellent for church screenings, awareness groups, etc. The subject matter alone is intense, but the movie is not overly graphic or detailed. In other words, it does not sugar-coat, but leaves much to the imagination. 


I received Caged No More compliments of Word Films and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a copy of this DVD in exchange for my honest and unbiased personal opinion.
 
CagedNoMore.com
Caged No More on Facebook
Caged No More on IMDb

Awakened

Awakened is a supernatural Christian thriller about spiritual warfare, written by Eugene Cuevas, who also shared co-directing credit with Brian R. Reed. Synopsis (from Amazon): Newspaper reporter Jacob Harker (Rob Boltin) loses his job, forcing he and his wife, Haley (Gwendolyn Edwards), to move into a small rental house owned by Webster Cain (Michael Monks). In the process of moving in, Jacob discovers a discarded audio recording of 60’s blues singer Carol James (Hannah Hughes). Captivated by the voice on the recording, Jacob conducts an investigation into Carol James’ life and death.  Through his pursuit, Jacob becomes haunted by an evil spirit. While the spirit seductively persuades Jacob, drawing him deeper and deeper into its own malicious plot, the spirit attacks and terrorizes Haley, creating both fear and distrust in the Harker’s home. Haley sees her husband turning into someone less recognizable each day.

MY REVIEW: To be fair, I need to say upfront that I am not a fan of horror films, especially those that have possibilities of happening. As a Christian, I do believe in spiritual warfare. So, it did take several attempts for me to watch it since I would periodically tune it out. Kudos, btw, to Charles E. Lee for his suspenseful music. I did not dislike the film, and actually liked it better than I expected, but it did not live up to it's full potential. There were some parts that I could not really understand what was being said; it seemed a bit muffled. I also thought the orange/brown tones were a bit overdone, although I do understand that it helps create atmosphere.

My larger concern, though, was how little the Harker's seemed prepared for dealing with spiritual warfare: Jake and Haley seemed to be more cultural Christians, although Haley was more open to embracing faith. The pastor in the film was very likeable and knowledgeable, and gave a truthful representation of what may be happening without either downplaying or encouraging the possibility of demonic activity. I just know that I would like a bit more prayer support from others than Haley seemed interested in receiving.

Hardcore horror fans may find it all a bit tame, but I thought the film did a good job of telling a story of a person who slowly slipped into evil without even realizing the grip it had on him. A few tweaks here and there would have made it a better film, and they were more on the technical side than the writing or acting. If you are a fan or suspense or thriller dramas, this is a film you should consider. It also can open a door to conversations about the reality of evil and unseen forces. It definitely brought Ephesians 6:12 (For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.) to life for me.

Disclosure: I received this DVD compliments of Word Films and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. They are also offering a giveaway copy of this DVD. Please let me know through a comment on blog (or Facebook) that you want to be entered. All entries must be received by Saturday, June 25, 2016.

Chasing Grace DVD

Chasing Grace, starring Michael Joiner (‘The Grace Card’), David Temple ('The Last Passport'), Rusty Martin (‘Courageous’) and Ashlee Payne (‘Red Dirt Rising’), tells a story of two brothers who are opposites in many ways, yet have an undeniable bond. When an unthinkable accident occurs, blame and unforgiveness tears the brothers apart and impacts the lives of family and friends. Slowly, as more secrets are uncovered, the truth emerges, but not without a lot of pain and consequences as each person deals with the loss of Grace. share a close bond, despite the different paths they have taken, until an unimaginable event takes place. As the story unravels, buried lies--- and truth are both discovered. Chasing Grace is loosely based upon true events and is an adaptation of writer/director David Temple's novel Discovering Grace. This powerful story about the redeeming power of forgiveness also stars Billy Dec, Leon Pridgen, Mitzi Corrigan, Vanessa Ore, and Abigail Rose Cornell as Grace. It is produced by Catalyst Pictures, LLC and distributed by Word Films.

My Review: This is another I am a bit on the fence about. I liked it, but I didn't love it. Great message, but it was a little slow in getting to the purpose of the film and I sometimes got confused during the telling of the story. Layers of the story were revealed throughout the film, but some never did make complete sense to me. Of course, part of my experience was simply a personal inability to comprehend why anyone would act or react to a situation the way they did. I needed more indepth into characters than what was provided; there was some black, white, and a few shades of gray, but not enough color to characters for many to feel a connection. The acting, music, and cinematography were all good, but my mind did tend to wander. It's more of a 3.75 for me, but I will round up and give it 4 stars.
 
Disclosure: I received this DVD compliments of Word Films and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. 

Chasing Grace website

Living Hope: The Documentary DVD

LIVING HOPE is the story of three extraordinary individuals who have devoted their lives to serving the poor in South Africa. It is a feature length documentary created by the filmmakers behind Journey to Everest, Apostles of Comedy, and Honoring a Father’s Dream: Sons of Lwala.  John Thomas, a pastor who is leading his church to serve the sick, hungry, and dying in the communities that surround them. Journey beside John through the neighborhoods where they work, meet the people their ministry has impacted, and hear from his heart why they chose to make a stand for the poor.  Joey Lankford, a businessman and father of four who moved his young family from the United States to Cape Town. Journey beside Joey as he equips men and women with job skills, and leads them out of the bondage of poverty.  Leonie Rustin, a single mom and nursing assistant, who turned from a life of crippling drug addiction to follow Christ. Journey beside Leonie as she attempts to help other in her community unshackle the chains of addiction and prostitution.

My Review: I am not always a fan of documentaries, but this is a well made film that draws you into the lives of the people who have been impacted by Living Hope Ministries. The stories were not necessarily connected, but were smoothly woven together to give an overall view of the impressive work being done by those who simply want to love Jesus through others, and how the results have made a difference that keep giving. I loved the way Living Hope is split into 4 ministries that deal with specific issues:
Living Care -   Healthcare
Living Grace - Homeless and addiction
Living Right -  HIV education and prevention
Living Way -   Economic empowerment

 John Thomas, a pastor who is leading his church to serve the sick, hungry, and dying in the communities that surround them. Journey beside John and his wife, Avril, through the neighborhoods where they work, meet the people their ministry has impacted, and hear from his heart why they chose to make a stand for the poor.

Leonie Rustin, a single mom and nursing assistant, who turned from a life of crippling drug addiction to follow Christ. Journey beside Leonie as she attempts to help other in her community unshackle the chains of addiction and prostitution. She now works as a nursing assistant at Living Care Health Care and speaks to others who are going through the Living Grace system.

Joey Lankford, a businessman and wife Courtney, along with their four children, moved from the United States to Cape Town. Journey beside Joey as he equips men and women with job skills, and leads them out of the bondage of poverty as part of Living Way. (Today Joey is the executive director of Nashville-based Cul2vate poverty alleviation ministry).
 
'Living Hope' also features President George W. Bush, Dana Perino and Michael W. Smith with narration by Joel Smallbone of King and Country and was created by the filmmakers David Kiern and Mitchell Galin. 'Living Hope' was the official selection at the UK Christian Film Festival. To learn more about Living Hope Ministries, the website is www.livinghope.co.za

I received Living Hope by Word Films compliments of Word Films and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. I did not receive any compensation aside from a free copy of this DVD.

Uncommon

When the students of Rosewood High School lose their theater, music and dance departments due to budgets cuts, they create their own. Struggling to find the right script, music & choreography the students get advice from an uncommon source; the Bible! Each student becomes uniquely influenced as they discover that God takes them personally. Equipped with unique talents, they bond together to prepare the perfect production by exploring the diversity of parables taught in the Bible.

Fighting overwhelming challenges, the teens fight against political correctness to defend their privilege to worship, meet and perform.

Will months of constant bullying by the establishment defeat the production and dismantle their faith?

Armed with expert legal counsel and unexpected help from Christian music’s finest, these teens realize what it means to be…UNCOMMON!

My Review: I really wanted to like Uncommon. There were so many aspects about it that appeal to things that matter to me. But, I found myself rolling my eyes too often to really enjoy the film. The potential for a really good film is there, but I don't feel like it reached any where near what it could. Stereotypical characters and less than stellar acting, along with some bad dialogue, ruined much of the film for me. There were some great moments that touched me and a few really good performances. I especially loved the song performed by Stacey Bradshaw near the end of the film. It actually caused me to raise my initial overall bad impression, but I still can't say this is a good movie. It was not even the "Come on, kids! Let's put on a show!" theme, since I actually have always liked those (Andy Hardy, Little Rascals, Shirley Temple---all films that did this well). Perhaps I am just naive or live in a place that is more embracing of Christianity, but this just seemed too over the top and the resolution fell into place too neatly. Definitely more of movie made for the church crowd, so it will find its niche.

I was given the opportunity to preview this film by WORD films. No compensation was provided and I was not required to write a positive review.

The Father's Love DVD

Sarah moved to New York City to pursue her love of filmmaking. When she meets the man of her dreams; charming, handsome, and wealthy, Reece becomes her world.

As their story unfolds, Sarah is taken on a journey of heartbreak and forgiveness, exploring the meaning of her relationships both past and present. In the end, she emerges with new found strength to inspire others when they need it most.

Trailer for The Father's Love  


 

REVIEW: This film is a is the story of Sarah, a woman who was abandoned by the father she loved as a child, and her search for a relationship as an adult. Happily involved with her friends and dating to find the "perfect" man, her hopes seem fulfilled when she meets Reece. Wealthy, handsome, and charming, he is the epitome of her romantic fantasies. Sarah is devastated when Reece abandons her too.

Already starting to go to church through the encouragement of her friend, Tricia, Sarah begins to lean more on God while recovering from her broken heart. When Reece reappears in her life, she must come to a decision. The elements of forgiveness and restoration play heavily into this film as Sarah learns the true meaning of love.

Really more of a "chick flick" type film in many ways, but it kept my attention and I thought it was a satisfying film. I prefer the more subtle way of telling the story with elements of faith being a natural progression and the journey that may not always be a smooth path. I thought it was a well done film that opened doors to others to learn to forgive.

I received The Father's Love by Word Films compliments of Word Films and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review outside the complimentary copy of the DVD.

When Calls the Heart - Season 2

The series is inspired by Janette Oke’s bestselling book series about the Canadian West. “When Calls the Heart” tells the captivating story of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a young teacher accustomed to her high society life, who receives her first classroom assignment in Coal Valley, a small coalmining town where life is simple, but often fraught with challenges. Lori Loughlin plays Abigail Stanton, a wife and mother whose husband, the foreman of the mine, along with a dozen other miners, has just been killed in an explosion. The newly widowed women find their faith is tested when they must go to work in the mines to keep a roof over their heads. Elizabeth charms most everyone in Coal Valley, except Constable Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) who believes Thatcher’s wealthy father has doomed the lawman’s career by insisting he be assigned in town to protect the shipping magnate’s daughter. Living in a turn of the century coal town, Elizabeth will have to learn the ways of the frontier if she wishes to thrive in the rural west on her own.

We already know that Elizabeth has know charmed Jack and that they have acknowledged they have feelings for one another. There also looks like a possible romance for Abigail. And will Jack's former flame cause dissent between Elizabeth and Jack? Season 2 opens with several changes in the air...


Episode 1 – April 25, 2015 – “Trials of the Heart” Part 1 – Coal Valley’s trial gets underway in the town with a new Judge presiding over it. Elizabeth gets unsettling news from Hamilton regarding her family, and must return. Abigail’s case is presided over by an unlikely prosecutor. Elizabeth’s family meets, Jack. 43min.


Episode 2 – April 25, 2015 – “Trials of the Heart” Part 2 – The trial’s verdict is rendered by the Judge, which effects the whole town. Elizabeth readjusts to family life in Hamilton. Abigail is reunited with a family member. Jack has to reevaluate his importance in Elizabeth’s life. A new man comes to town with a prospect that can change the townspeople’s entire future. 43min.

I confess that I was privileged to preview the April 25th episodes of "When Calls the Heart" and I can guarantee that fans will not be disappointed. The drama, romance, comedy, suspense, and every other element essential to mesmerizing television is still present. I can't give away anything that happens, but I advise you to tune in. You don't want to miss a moment!

Also keep up with news and other fans. You can search social media sites using #Hearties
Follow @WCTH_TC on Twitter
Like When Calls the Heart on Facebook
Join the Hearties FB Fan Page Group

GREAT NEWS!! For one blessed winner, I have a Season 1 boxed set of DVDs, courtesy of Word Films. Many thanks to Word and to FlyBy Promotions for giving me the opportunity to preview the 1st 2 episodes of "When Calls the Heart" and for the boxed set to give away. This is a perfect gift for either a fan of the series or for someone new who wants to catch up. Enter by leaving a comment no this blog post no later than 10pm (CDT) Thursday, April 30, 2015.

In Plain Sight DVD

In Plain Sight, is an inspiring documentary featuring the work of six female abolitionists as they fight against sex trafficking in the United States. Journeying to six US cities, the film opens the viewer’s eyes to what’s happening down the street ‘in plain sight.’  Through engaging interviews with numerous victims of sex trafficking, the force, coercion, and deception of the children and women becomes apparent. In the midst of the darkness, stories of hope and freedom emerge as each survivor shares how she was impacted through the work of a sex trafficking aftercare home founded by one of the featured abolitionists.

My Review: Narrated by Natalie Grant who also co-executive produced with David Trotter, In Plain Sight: Stories of Hope and Freedom, features six modern-day abolitionists, along with some of the women who have been rescued from a life of prostitution and sexual abuse. The statistics continue to shock me, but the greatest impact is made by the stories of the victims themselves. Many were sexually abused as children and grew up believing that they were undeserving of any other life style. There has been a growing awareness in recent years that human trafficking is not just happening "somewhere else", but is a growing industry here in the United States.

But, more than just a documentary about the tragedy of human trafficking, In Plain Sight, offers HOPE and HEALING. Each of the safe places featured understand that there are trust issues and the need to just simply breathe for a while. Even more poignant to me than watching the faces of the women who agreed to be interviewed, was watching their hands. Their hands expressed more than their words could convey. This is a great DVD to help bring awareness of the issue of human trafficking, and, more importantly, it provides ideas of ways YOU can make a difference.

In Plain Sight website 
WORD Films website 
31 Ways to Take Action to End Human Trafficking 

Disclosure: I received a copy of this DVD from WORD films and  Edify Media Inc at no cost to myself for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own

About Word Entertainment:  A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

When Calls The Heart: Second Chances

When Calls the Heart- “Second Chances” is a feature length film from the episodes of the When Calls the Heart television series.  The When Calls the Heart television series debuted on the Hallmark Channel to more than 3 million viewers, making it the No. 2 for the night on all of cable for the primary telecast at 9 p.m and No. 3 overall in households.   Distributed by Word Entertainment, previous DVD’s are available to purchase in Christian Retail.

Synopsis-  As Elizabeth and Jack fight to restore their relationship, she searches for ways to help one of her older students learn how to read. Meanwhile, Adam Miller struggles to adjust to his new disability. With so many difficult changes affecting the community, can Elizabeth create a Founder's Day play that will spark hope in everybody's hearts?

My Review: Once again this multi-talented team has produced a high quality film with a storyline that draws you in. Hope and moving on from the past and handicaps is key to this film. Jack and Elizabeth finally decide to pursue a courtship, Abigail moves on to a new level of independence in opening a restaurant, Adam Miller (the only miner to survive the explosion) returns and his family must adapt to his diability, and Elizabeth works to help a student overcome a reading disability.

Watching as each character overcomes fears and failures and works hard to attain goals is inspirational and, not only teaches a lesson to the viewer, but entertains as well. A wonderful balance is struck between the drama and the humor and makes for a wonderful film suitable for the entire family.

 I received this DVD compliments of Word Films and Edify Media for my honest review. I was not required to write a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

The Perfect Summer dvd

In The Perfect Summer, fatherless teenager Jake (Adam Horner) has to leave Chicago and move with his mom (Sydney Penny) to a small surfing town to live with her father (Eric Roberts) when she needs help supporting them. With no home internet, cable, or friends, the transition isn't easy and Jake isn't quite ready to accept the changes.

While using the internet at the local surf shop, owned by Cody (Jason Castro), Jake is attracted to a young surfing prodigy, Kayla (Katie Garfield)... which makes him an instant enemy to the town bully, Tyler (JD Banks). In an effort to fit in, and spend more time with Kayla, Jake agrees when his grandfather, Lou, offers to teach him how to surf. Through these surfing lessons, Jake also learns lessons in life about determination, facing fears, and rising above the challenges when all seems to be crashing around you.

"The Perfect Summer" was written by Nathan Scoggins and Gary Wheeler; Wheeler also directed the film. The dvd is 85 minutes long and suitable for most audiences. The bullying scenes may be too violent for younger viewers, but it is a clean, wholesome movie. Watch the trailer below:

 My Review: Despite some criticisms I have, I honestly did enjoy watching this movie. It has a message about moving along with your life no matter how awful things may seem, whether it is due to your own mistakes or when circumstances occur that causes life to pivot. Yet, it is not told in a preachy manner that will turn off the audience it is intended to reach. It can be enjoyed as a simple entertainment or used to start a discussion based on topic or characters

The film moves along in a predictable direction and I did think some of the roles were caricatures of the same type that appears in countless films. That's not to say that the acting was not good; I have just seen these people in nearly every beach film from when I watched "Beach Blanket Bingo" as a child on up to the most recent films. There were also a couple of things that did not quite make sense to me.

The movie is worth watching. Being predictable is not always a bad thing, and I did think the acting was solid. I enjoy watching Eric Roberts in everything I have ever seen him in, and this film is no exception. Both Sydney Penny and Louis Mandylor are seasoned professionals who give great performances. With the exception of Jason Castro (whom I know only as a singer), I don't know the younger actors in the film, but felt they all did justice to their roles.

 I received The Perfect Summer compliments of Word Films and Edify Media for my honest review. I was not required to write a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

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