Entertainment Review By Pauline Creedin
On DVD: Soul Surfer is an inspiring movie. It is the story of Bethany Hamilton, a young girl whose life revolved around surfing until the day that a tiger shark bit off her left arm. The movie explores the question that so many seekers have about God: “Why do bad things happen to good people?” It also tackles the question that some Christians face when in the valley: “Can I really do all things through Christ who strengthens me?” (Phillipians 4:13) Hollywood has watered down the inspiration that this movie could have provided. Christian values such as homeschooling, praise music, prayer, and quoted scripture are quietly displayed in the movie. Meanwhile worldly motivations such as sneaking out behind parents’ backs, beer drinking, teens wearing and modeling bikinis are openly presented. The result is a lukewarm message. Like Jesus, I would rather that it were hot or cold. I would rather that it were either a secular movie or completely Christian. As it is, I cannot recommend it wholeheartedly the way that I wanted to. But that said, there are scenes and dialog that are very inspiring. And during the credits, there are some home videos of the real Bethany Hamilton, whose witness shines through as she claims the name of Jesus. So in conclusion for Faith Filled Family, I give this movie a grade of C+. Soul Surfer was released on DVD August 2, 2011 and is available at retailers everywhere, MSRP $19.99. Appropriate for viewers over 13; Rated PG.
On your Mp3: Sweet, Sweet Sound by Sarah Reeves is worth looking up on iTunes or Amazon. The music is reminiscent of the “pop” sound that teens listen to right now like Katy Perry or Miley Cyrus. Instead of singing about partying or boys, Sarah Reeves sings about Jesus and His amazing grace. If you like the upbeat music that gives you an “earworm” of praise, this is your album! I enjoy every song on the album, which is rare for me. The songs lift up our Savior and are not afraid to say the name of Jesus – like some songs on the radio are. I was happy to stumble upon this Mp3 album on Amazon. For Faith Filled Family, I give this album a grade of A+. Sweet, Sweet Sound by Sarah Reeves is available at music sellers everywhere. On iTunes and Amazon.com the album is available for MSRP $9.99. Appropriate for listeners of any age.