Movies Today

I have found it harder and harder to find movies today that go along with good Christian values. Since giving my life back to Christ ( I had a relapes in my teens and lasted till about 1 1/2 ago), I have been going through my movies that I always thought were child appropriate. And I have noticed some things in them that I never thought were there. I sat down and count at least 7 curse words in Shrek, one of my son's favorite movies. My kids love Disney movies, but I'm not sure about them anymore. A few of the movies (if not all) have sexual innuendoes that I had never noticed. Plus the fact that they promote and fund gay and lesbian functions. What happened to good clean movies. I have bibleman, veggietales and 321 penguins, but are there any other movies or companies that either have Christian values or clean entertainment? Does anyone know of any good movies out there that are both entertaining for kids and has a clean story line?

Keep praying to God about this one, it's a daily battle. Some of the PBS little kid shows seem okay too, but also not some of them (the Arthur bunny did an interview with lesbian family).I also recommend the Cherub Wings bible cartoons, my son watches this at bed time most nights (or else my own bible movies).

I like Veggies, too. Notice almost every Disney movie has a direct reference to evolution, witchcraft, or something of the like. I'm anxious to hear if there are some other good kid's movies besides Veg's, 321, Larry Boy, etc.

On one of the compilations found on SI I remember hearing a preacher say something like "Today people watch tv shows that 10 years ago people who weren't even Christians wouldn't allow to enter their house."

Turn the TV off and read to your children.Solid and good advice. I agree.

The answer is: Turn the TV off and read to your children. Up until 60 yrs ago no one had TV's. Now we act like we cant live without them.Trust me the tv is not my children's babysitter like some parents have turned it into. They have there book time, learning time, play time both inside and out and then there is tv time. I already got rid of cable due to the fact that on basic daytime tv they allow everything short of the f word. What happened to shows that are entertaining with out being vulgar.

A couple years ago my family felt the Lord wanted us to 'purge' our house of anything ungodly. Did we do it? You bet. We got rid of television (not movies, but no more channels), internet, all our movies/games/books/whatever that was even QUESTIONABLE. We cleansed the house and since then things have been wonderful in our home, peaceful, blessed, quieter, more calm, much more time spent with the Lord, much more sense of His presence, etc...We kept Christian movies, or, wholesome movies with Christian stuff in it (ie. Ben Hur). The biggest blessing is less time watching, more time talking, reading, fellowshipping etc. I think many people are afraid to take this step because they think they can't do without, but once it is all gone you find the sweetest honey that you never noticed before. Besides, reading and praying is far greater than watching a secular television show, come on!Just to give everyone an idea of some movies we own, to encourage and also to let you know what is out there to get; here are some:-Luther-Gospel of John-Matthew-The Ten Commandments-The Robe-The Bible-Pilgrim's Progress-Ben HurGood kids movies:-Polyanna-Prince of Egypt-Josephetc. Plus we have teachings on video and stuff like that.Fret not, Christians, we can live in this world and not of it!In Christ,-EliPS: I think it would be beneficial if others posted good movies, recommending what we, as Christians, should get.

I think it would be beneficial if others posted good movies, recommending what we, as Christians, should get.I want to add few more movies (beside some of the brother's Eli recommendations) that I have watched and was blessed:-Sheffey (I really reccomend this movie)Description: Inspirational true life story of Robert Sheffey, a circuit riding preacher during the 1800's. This full length feature film, over 2 hours long, begins with the conversion of a young Sheffey and follows his life as he rides through the Appalachain mountains proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is a well produced drama that shows what one person can do if they are fully committed to Jesus Christ and His word. Sheffey was a man of prayer, tireless worker, soul winner, and had a servant's heart of love which is clearly demonstrated in this film.Released in 1978.-The Bible: Jeremiah-BarabbasDescription:Dramatic biblical epic telling the story of Barabbas, the thief and murderer who was freed in place of Jesus and spent the rest of his life haunted by his ghost. Have in mind the movie is from 1961.If some others call to my mind i will add them.

What is everyone's opinion of Mel Gibbson's portrayal of Jesus' last hours 'The Passion'? I found it to be heart felt and I am happy that he went into such detail without going over the top and wasn't scared to tell how it was without sugar coating it. I'm sure there are lots of views out there.

However... the movie was extremely Catholic in doctine. Shouldnt surprise anyone since Mel is Catholic. Some of the movie was based on the Bible, but some of it was based on the writings of a Catholic nun who had "visions" of Christ's Passion. Her visions contradicted scripture, but again... most of what the RCC teaches contradicts scripture. Thank you for saying what I was thinking. Don't get me wrong I have no problem with Catholicism, it's just not my cup of tea, so to speak.

I agree, the film was very Catholic, but I am glad it was made.Let's get back to posting good movie viewing that will benefit each other.

The best comment I heard concerning the Passion, I think came from Comfort. He said if someone you don't know, or someone you know is not saved, talks about the movie, simply use it as a springboard for the gospel. After watching the movie, I was moved emotionally, but it didn't move me toward God. The un-Biblical scenes just bothered me. If someone wants to watch it I suppose it's better than some other mess.Also, does anyone know where I can document the Arthur bunny interview with the lesbian family. I need to read or see sometehing like that for myself, as my wife just brought home a learning CD-ROM with Arthur on it. Just my conviction, but I am not going to support the gay agenda. To add to that, if anyone thinks I am be judgemental, both by parents turned out to be homosexual, and divorced when I was very young. So I know first hand what it does to kids.

letsgetbusy, I am problem being stupid right now so please excuse my ingnorance, but which un-Biblical scenes are you referring to. On your third paragraph concerning your parents, wow. You are not being judgemental at all!!!!!

I just saw the movie: "The Cross and the Switchblade", it was excellent! Watch it, you will be blessed!

Agape,From: http://www.av1611.org/Passion/passion.html'A few years ago, as Mel Gibson was rediscovering and renewing his Catholic faith, Mel Gibson purchased a library of hundreds of books from a closed nunnery. Mel claims as he was reaching for a book on the library shelf a supernatural intervention caused another book to "miraculously" drop into his hands. And that "miracle" book, not the Bible, not the Gospels, is the inspiration of The Passion. The book was The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to the Meditations of Anne Catherine Emmerich. Gibson claims like "magic" this book opened up a new world. "'Amazing images,' he said. 'She supplied me with stuff I never would have thought of"'Non-biblical scenes: Jesus falls three times while carrying the crossOnce when Jesus falls, Mary runs to Him, and He says, "See, mother, I make all things new."(Actually, Jesus said the following: "My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it." And to Mary: "Woman, what have I to do with thee?") Mary later asks Jesus, "When, how, where, will you choose to be delivered from this?"A woman who is the Catholic Saint Veronica gives Jesus a cloth to wipe his faceJesus’ cross levitates.Here are the 14 Catholic “Stations of the Cross”. Notice “stations” 3, 4, 6, 7, and 9 are not in the Bible. All 14 are unmistakably in Gibson’s The Passion: Jesus is condemned Luke 23:24 Jesus carries his cross John 19:17Jesus falls the first time NOT IN THE BIBLE Jesus meets his mother NOT IN THE BIBLESimon of Cyrene helps carry the cross Matthew 27:32 Veronica wipes Jesus’ face NOT IN THE BIBLEJesus falls a second time NOT IN THE BIBLEJesus meets the women of Jerusalem Luke 23:27-31 Jesus falls the third time NOT IN THE BIBLEJesus is stripped of his garments John 19:23 Jesus is nailed to the cross Mark 15:24 Jesus dies on the cross Mark 15:37 His body is taken down from the cross Luke 23:53 His body is laid in the tomb Matthew 27:60 These are just some. It is a Catholic film, obviously. We shouldn't argue that with someone who asks us about the film, we should just explain to people that they have sinned, and why Christ went to the cross, etc:Matthew 1:21 "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins."

Letsgetbusy,Is there anything wrong with the director depicting Jesus falling down? The Bible is not particular about the details surrounding the passion, thus, the director would have to interpret for himself, wouldn't he? I find it strange that you are opposing the fact he fell down. It's not Biblical, true, but neither do we know the color of the donkey he rode in on, etc... I just found that strange that you are arguing that.The passion is very Catholic. What can we expect from a Catholic director? You can't deny the film was not doctrinally incorrect in portraying Jesus as the Son of God, atoning sacrifice and risen Lord. There are added things but they don't seem to remove these fundamental elements (unless I'm wrong, anyone?).I don't seem to remember a levitating cross. When Jesus speaks to the crying women on His way to Calvary he actually says:"A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him. Jesus turned and said to them, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. For the time will come when you will say, 'Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!' Then " 'they will say to the mountains, "Fall on us!" and to the hills, "Cover us!" For if men do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?" - Luke 23:27-31But this is changed to something different in the movie.Anyway, thought I'd just add these points.In Christ,-Eli

:-) I really enjoyed it.

If you are interested in "A" quality non-chessy productions let me suggest a couple of films. These films aren't Christian in an evangelical sense at all, but they do portray Christian themes as well as Christians in a profound and edifying light."To End All Wars "(2001)Based on a true story. Scottish and British prisoners during WWII are captured and placed in a Japanese P.O.W. camp during World War II. In the midst of humiliation, violence, and starvation, they have to decide whether it will be hate or forgiveness that feeds their souls. Half of the prisoners risk everything to take revenge on the gaurds, while the other half risk everything to secretly read a bible they have. Because of it's gritty depiction of suffering, this movie is rated R."I Am David" (2005) Teenage Children could watch this PG rated film. It's based on a a Novel "North to Freedom" which is the moving story of a little boy that has escaped a cold war concentration camp. As he finds his way into western Europe he has to learn the concept of trust. As the movie progresses it reveals an unexpected metaphor for the gospel. Well that's my movie review!8-) MC

All the info I got was from that site listed. I included the levitating comment hoping maybe someone would support or defend the statement, to bring light to it. I only saw the film once, so I don't remember the cross levitating either, to be honest, but I remember mentioning all the errors that I noticed while watching the film with my wife. It did brings tears, but it is not an accurate film.The 3 falls are part of the Catholic stations of the cross. Please check it out for yourself:http://www.theworkofgod.org/http://www.theworkofgod.org/Devotns/Stations/stations-wayofthecross.htmMy point was just to answer the question of whether or not it was a Catholic movie, and to show what scenes are heavily Catholic and/or non-Biblical. The 3 falls of Christ fall into both of these categories.I don't hate Mel Gibson, I don't even know him, but the movie was Catholic, not Biblical, just as Gibson is.My issue with the movie is that it adds to the Scripture, just as Catholicism does. Catholics believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and many other things we do, but add un-Biblical doctrine that is unnecessary. Believing that Jesus is the Son of God isn't enough, even demons believe and tremble. Wesley said:"For, even the devils believe that Christ was born of a virgin: that he wrought all kinds of miracles, declaring himself very God: that, for our sakes, he suffered a most painful death, to redeem us from death everlasting; that he rose again the third day: that he ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of the Father and at the end of the world shall come again to judge both the quick and dead. These articles of our faith the devils believe, and so they believe all that is written in the Old and New Testament. And yet for all this faith, they be but devils. They remain still in their damnable estate lacking the very true Christian faith."I respect your opinions, and I think you carry weight in your comments, so I'm surprised that you are defending the 14 stations of the cross. But I just kindly disagree with you on that point, I suppose. I have lots of friends that love the movie, have the book, watch it on Easter, etc. Maybe I am a little extreme, but I don't like anything that is not of truth, and there are things in the film that are not truthful. I am especially sensitive when Jesus is the subject. I love Him more than anything or anyone, so I tend to analyze things concerning Him.

Anyone here have an opinion on "Luther"? (2003)

I really liked "Luther." There was one scene that I thought was a little much (the comic with the flute, for those who saw). Luther was pretty heavy, though, from what I have heard and read. I did like the movie.What about "The Apostle"? I saw that before I was saved, and I remember just weeping after the movie. That guy who had stood by the preacher all that time getting saved at the end was just really heavy. Anyone have opinions of that one?

letsgetbusy,I have a fun memory related to the "the Apsotle"I had lunch with the fine preacher that Robert Duval studied to model his character after. (This fellow actually appeared in the beginning of the movie...he was the preacher running up and down the asiles jingling his car keys crying out "He's got the keys. He's got the keys".)Many pieces of Duvals character were borrowed from this preacher such as throwing the disruptive racist out of his church. (Not the incident witht the baseball bat mind you!!)Anyways, this joyful pastor knew how to tell a story. He said that on the Sunday Mr.Duval and some of his film company came to visit the church that the Lord told him to not lighten up his message for these guys. He said smiling, "So I hit preached 'em right between the eyes. I told 'em heaven is real and hell is hot!" Aftwerward he said he prayed heavily over each one of the visitors including Mr. Duval himself, annointing them with oil. He recalled each one of the visitors vividly saying things like "Oh we got a live one here..."He said, during the several weeks that the writing team was shadowing him, he was able to share the gospel repeatedly with them. It would be interesting to see what has transpired since then...MC

Thanx for the info about "The Apostle," guys. Now I want to watch it again.Neil,I will say with you that I am glad that a movie like the "Passion" is being made rather than others..."What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice."I was just answering posts concerning the doctrine of the movie. Mel most likely did it with the best intentions, but honestly this must be asked: Is Mel headed to the same place that all those saints killed by the Roman Church are? That is harsh, but it is the truth. I know that kind of talk is not acceptable to many, but what is acceptable to Him?Someone could be saved by the movie, but the film is not guiding them into ALL truth. I just like truth. Satan has mixed truth with lie from the Genesis 3. I just want people to know the truth.How about this? What do you think Ravenhill would say about the film? The man who this site basically got started on. I have heard little of Brother Len, but enough to know what he would have said about the "Passion."

Hi letsgetbusy...!I find it odd that some people on this website criticize The Passion of the Christ so tenaciously, yet they are willing to watch (and sometimes personally endorse) Veggie Tales or movies like The Apostle or even The Lord of the Rings trilogy. I am not going to comment on whether or not someone should or should not watch movies, television, etc... Such an issue could be (and probably has been) discussed in another thread. And I am definitely not going to judge those that do (or those that do not).However, it just seems so strange to attack a film that had an underlying message of introducing the sacrifice of Christ to the world (even with a few subtle "catholic" references). The film was seen by tens of millions in a short period of time, and ended ranked in the top 10 films of all times. The depiction of the crucifixion in this film is probably much more medically accurate than any other film in history. I attended a screening at a large, sold-out theatre, and there were loud sobs heard throughout the film. Yet the film is criticized often because of some apparent "catholic" references, as well as some artistic discretion. Yet some of these same believers boast about watching The Lord of the Rings, a film filled with sorcery and witchcraft -- and with a story that Tolkien himself (a very devout Catholic) repeatedly insisted was not a Christian allegory. I believe that it is good (and quite appropriate) to point out the discrepencies between the film and the Word of God (you could tell people that the "book is much better!"). But it is disheartening to see believers spend so much time and effort criticizing a film that is much more "scriptural" than films like The Apostle, Lord of the Rings, etc...As a side note, I do know that Leonard Ravenhill did have a television in his house. Of course, I imagine that he was quite selective on what he watched. :-)

The Passion of the Christ isn't the only bible movie out there with quality production! ;-) Christian based movies can only withstand so much rigorous scutiny. Afterall they are intended to be only a couple hours of dramatic art. Still there are plenty of quality bible efforts out there that I wouldn't hesitate recommending. While these movies aren't always perfect bible they do show respect for the major themes in an edifying way. Two films that I enjoy watching from time to time are Jesus of Nazareth (The made for television masterpiece) and the newer "Gospel According to John". If you guys haven't seen the latter, I really reccommend it. Obviously any film portraying the Lord is latent with controversy...The Lord means to much to any one of us for a single artist to claim the definitive potrait. Each film made is woefully short...but perhaps complimenting one another. Just like paintings of Christ continue to speak to us through the centuries without obscuring scripture. I am glad that quality films with a respect for the bible are continuing to be made. The Gospel According to John is one of those films.Also to be recommended for a home collection are the Turner Bible series. While they have compressed some scripture events for the sake of movie pacing...the quality is really up there. The series includes Abraham, Jacob, Joseph (my favorite), Samason, David, Solomon, Jeremiah,(My other favorite)and Esther. MC

chris,I respect your opinion. I hope I can say this to make my point clearer instead of stirring up trouble among us.You brought up TV, but TV wasn't my point. I don't think that people who watch TV are evil. Honestly, I am just bored by it. There's just nothing there. I have also heard Ravenhill describe the baby giraffe being born on TV, so I know he had one. My point was that Ravenhill said we should have no graven image of God. He refused to have pictures of Christ around, because they paint a picture that is not accurate. If you disagree, so be it. We should all be fully convinced in our own mind.I am sorry that some take my comments on the Passion as rude, maybe I am missing something. I'm not into Lord of the Rings, and the Apostle was a movie devoid of sex, murder, and lewdness, and ended up with a young man getting saved.The reason I can't swallow the Passion is that it intentionally mixes in untrue events with the truth.My goal is not to judge those who watch whatever, I am stating my opinion on the film. I am willing to put everything I do through God's siphon, and ask Him if it is acceptable. I had to do this with XBox Live, as it got to the point that I would spend hours day and night playing video games, and ended up losing out on devotional time to Him. So I'm not judging anyone, I am just willing to examine the film, the way that I examine myself. To the uttermost detail.

I took the advice of Tears_of_joy and went out and got the movie Sheffey. It is an absolutely wonderful movie and it goes right along with the vision of Sermonindex, Greg, you would love it. If you're interested in vintage preachers, old-time revivals, all in a wholesome film that lifts up the Lord Jesus Christ, get this movie.Blessings,-Eli

Hi letsgetbusy...!I apologize if my remarks seemed pointed directly at you. That wasn't my intent, and I apologize if it seemed that way. I definitely do not hold any monopoly on the Truth concerning television and movies (or music, etc...). It's just that I have seen quite a few sanctimonious remarks by fellow believers on this, and a wide array of topics.Over the last year and a half, there have been quite a few critical remarks about The Passion, with very little justification for such remarks (other than the obvious catholic references). Yet many of those who have made such remarks have almost endorsed other movies, songs or books that are much more questionable in nature. A couple of believers endorsed the film, Jesus of Nazareth and King of Kings, which took much more artistic discretion in the creation of the film (thus, more inaccuracies). Critical analysis of any "Biblical" film should always be applauded -- including pointing out the inaccurate parts of the film. You mentioned that Brother Ravenhill said "we should have no graven image of God." I do happen to disagree (so be it). :-) I believe that the reference in Exodus 20:4-6 concerns the creation of idols. Other versions phrase it in this way, and many KJV Bible dictionaries reference it as such. Otherwise, if all images of "heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath" are forbidden, then the Ark of the Covenant could not have been built with depictions of angels. It is my personal belief (mine, not the Lord) that such a film offers a much more "accurate" picture of Christ's suffering. I speak about the crucifixion, not the person who portrayed Christ. Yes, there are some inaccurate Catholic references in the film -- and these should be pointed out. But the overall effect (and hatred for the film by the media) is because of the depiction of our Saviour's torture and suffering. That is what brought many people to tears. It depicts the event in such a way that causes a realization of Christ's incredible gift to many unsaved and "unchurched" people. I know of two guys at my University who gave their hearts to the Lord shortly after having watched the film. One of them, a coach on our football team, said that he could not sleep for two weeks after having watched the film (because he kept dreaming about the crucifixion). I gave him a Bible, and he asked me to pray with him several times. This experience opened the door for me to explain the truth of the matter. This coach recently transferred (just before the summer), but he now faithfully attends Church and is wholeheartedly seeking the Lord. As a teen, I would often go and testify at the malls, shopping centers, and even on the streets at night in my hometown. One Friday night, I had a friend who asked if he could join me on the streets. We preached, passed out Bibles, and had a great time telling people about the Lord. I did most of the speaking, but he would also share. Just before we left, we began talking with a particular woman. This woman told us that she was also a Christian, and that she was glad that "you're doing what you're doing." My friend was skeptical about her claim of knowing Christ. While she was speaking, she told us that she was beginning to think about the things of God, and liked watching a particular preacher on television. My friend immediately jumped in, "You mean you have a TV -- and watch so-and-so on television??? You're not a christian, lady!" I couldn't believe it! This lady immediately closed to what we were saying and became angry. She asked us to leave, which we did. As we were leaving, my friend stated, "Well, I knew we were going to be persecuted for the sake of righteousness!"That is the attitude that many Christians display. They sometimes seem to "strain a gnat and swallow a camel." The funny thing was that my friend was quite addicted to certain video games at the time. When we returned to his house, he immediately began playing this particular game that is filled with blood and violence. Oddly, my friend was willing to tell a woman that she was not a "real" christian because she currently listened to a certain preacher, yet he went home to do what some believers might think was worse.Anyway, I have probably said too much. I do believe that we should be patient with those who have differing opinions. All too often, there are believers that participate on this website who boldy and obstinately share what they believe to be truth. Any person that disagrees with them is sometimes viewed as an "immature believer" or just plain wrong. The range of topics by which we can disagree (from music -- to eternal security -- to Bible versions) is about as vast as nearly every topic on this board. Everything that we say should be spoken with patience and love, knowing that we will be judged for all of our words. On a side note, I have spoken with many believers who came out of a Catholic background. I have asked many of them when they became believers. Often, many of them say they came to the Lord while still attending the Catholic Church. But as they continued to seek and grow in the Lord, they realized the fallacy of the Church, and left. Perhaps that could happen with Mel Gibson. Perhaps he is quite sincere, but just misinformed. It is possible that he too will one day abandon the practices of the Catholic Church as well. :-)

chris, Excellent post.