Usually my husband watches all the movies I review with me. I value his input and perspective. Unfortunately, he was not at home the night I had to watch the movie so I was watching solo. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this movie but it sounded interesting so I was excited to watch it. I was intrigued by the true story being portrayed through the movie.

The real life events that THE FIRING SQUAD is based on took place in 2015, not even 10 years ago, but I hadn’t heard about it and you probably haven’t either. The bulk of the movie takes place in a prison camp in Indonesia. The warden of the camp, played by Tupua Ainu’u, is a man full of hate and torment-which he takes out daily as he abuses his inmates physically and verbally. The main character, played by James Barrington, is an inmate who suffers a lot of the abuse. During a stint in solitary confinement he has a lifechanging encounter with God. I don’t want to give away to much of the story because you need to go see it. The film’s tagline says all you need to know, “They faced death. And chose life.”

Mom Maven’s Thoughts

THE FIRING SQUAD is an intense, intriguing, powerful movie. The fact that it is based on a true story makes it even more powerful. As an American, it’s difficult to believe how different the justice system is in other parts of the world. I was gripped by the story and the filmmaking from the beginning. I was drawn in by the acting and by seeing a world I know nothing about. By the end of the movie I was in tears, it touched my heart deeply.

My husband came home about 2/3 of the way through the movie. He walked in and I rudely said, “Shhh” as soon as he walked in. I was so engrossed I didn’t want to pause and get him up to speed or hear about the event he was at, all of that could wait til I saw how the movie ended.

This movie is PG-13 but because of the heavy themes, I don’t know if I would have let my sons see it at that age. Parents, you know your kids best, use your judgement. There is no on camera blood or gore. There is talk about drugs as well as verbal and physical abuse. There are lots of guns as well.

The real theme of this movie is the redemptive power of a relationship with Jesus Christ. God is no respecter of persons, anyone can repent, believe, and live for the great Hope of eternity in heaven.

About THE FIRING SQUAD

The movie opens in theaters August 2, 2024. There are many pre-screenings going on now across the country to help get the word out. You can find out about them here. The movie’s website is full of information, including how you can invest in the film. The makers of the movie have set a goal of reaching 1 Million souls for Jesus through this film. Please share this post with your friends. Make plans to see the movie with the unsaved. God is moving and using this movie to touch hearts of stone, do your part and share it!

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About County Rescue

County Rescue is a new family friendly, light drama centered around a group of EMTs. We all know that being an EMT is a tough job that requires courage, focus, intellect, compassion, strength, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and much more. EMTs often see people at their worst and have to be able to care for others sometimes in very difficult situations.

In County Rescue season one, we follow probationary EMTs who are all vying for one open spot on the squad. As they put their training to the test in the field, they grow and change as both EMTs and people. Young people stepping into a demanding job learn a lot about themselves as they learn to step up and really be responsible not only for themselves but for their co-workers, patients, and the community they serve.

This show is not a medical drama. Very little time is spent on the medical aspect of their jobs. This is a human drama that includes friendships, rivalries, romance, family expectations, and, of course, faith.

Where to Watch

County Rescue come to Great American Pure Flix streaming platform on February 23rd. You can get a free 7 day trial here. I’m also giving away a 3 month membership down below. On February 26th you can watch it on Great American Family channel. Here is the channel locator.

Giveaway

One US winner will receive a 3-month subscription to Great American Pure Flix. Winner must reside in the US and have not won a 3-month subscription in the last 6 months. The winner will be verified and their name and email address will be sent to the sponsor for fulfillment.

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About Miracle in East Texas

Inspired by one of the most improbable true stories ever, this is the entertaining tale of two aging con men at the dawn of the Great Depression and the biggest oil strike in the history of the world.

Irving Tanner, Jr. (Lou Gossett, Jr.) recounts the 1930 legend. Times are hard when the unluckiest wildcatter in the world, Dad Everett (John Ratzenberger), teams up with Doc Boyd (Kevin Sorbo), a charming snake oil salesman. Together they convince several new widows (Sam Sorbo, Paula Boudreau, and others) to invest in their worthless oil wells.

Then, the unthinkable happens! Now our two Casanovas faced with a challenge: declare another dry hole for a clean escape, or bring the well in like genuine oil men and likely spend the rest of their lives in jail?

Meanwhile, some of their investors are angry and fixing to do something about it. And one of them is truly a “mountain” of a man (Tyler Mane).

What happens next? Doc preaches, the Good Lord teaches, and a judge reaches a surprising conclusion. The mostly true story will make you laugh, shed a tear, and give you pride in the God-blessed American way.

Sorbo Studios

This movie is produced by Sorbo Studios. Miracle in East Texas is directed by Kevin Sorbo. It stars Kevin Sorbo, John Ratzenberger, Lou Gossett Jr., Tyler Mane, Sam Sorbo, and Braeden Sorbo.

Miracle in East Texas is only in theaters THIS WEEKEND October 29-30, 2023 so get your tickets NOW!

Who Should See Miracle in East Texas

If you are a US history buff, homeschool family studying American History, someone who enjoys uplifting entertainment or a lover of movies based on true stories, then this film is for you.

Homeschoolers, you can download free curricula for the movie here. There is also a discussion guide available here.

Mom Maven’s Thoughts

You know I am always honest in my reviews…I dozed off several times during this movie. While the underlying message of redemption and God’s provision is there and the acting is good, the story is slow and very repetitive.

The first part of the movie is Dad and Doc pulling the same scam over and over again on different widows, it felt like seeing this twice would have gotten the point across without boring the viewer.

We enjoyed the ending and seeing how God showed up for His people, I’m all for a happy ending-even in an historical piece. It is an important story from American history that needs to be told, one I wasn’t aware of, as a homeschool mom who taught a lot of American history, I enjoyed learning something new!

Make plans to go see this movie this weekend. You will learn some American history and see a story about hope, redemption, forgiveness and God’s provision.

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About Eleanor’s Bench

Eleanor Thomas’s success as a Washington DC juvenile court judge is challenged when her inner-city past comes to court and demands more than judgment, prompting her to return to her impoverished neighborhood of youth. Will her renewed sense of purpose reinvigorate her faith? Eleanor’s Bench is full of important lessons about following God’s calling, practicing self control, learning from your past and discovering that we are enough and deserving of God’s love. Eleanor’s Bench is a 6 episode mini series streaming on Pure Flix.

• Karen Abercrombie, Eleanor (HEAVEN SENT, WAR ROOM, AN ANGELIC CHRISTMAS, DISCARDED THINGS)
• Cameron Arnett, Reginald (Saved by Grace, RUNNING THE BASES, Vindication, DISCARDED THINGS)
• Demond Wilson, Isaac (Sanford and Son)
• T.C. Stallings, Apollo (WAR ROOM, NO VACANCY, Vindication, MY BROTHER’S KEEPER, GOD’S COMPASS)
• Lori Schultze, Pat
• Wesley Williams, Elijah
• Rebecca Rogers, Heather (LIFEMARK)
• Kamillah Matthews, Jewels
• Durrel Nelson, Eddie (director and producer of AN UNLIKELY ANGEL, TEXAS REIN)
• Caleb J. Avery, Drayvon
• Scotty Curlee, Attorney Banks (WAR ROOM, OVERCOMER, EXTRAORDINARY)

Episode 3

I was asked to tell you specifically about episode 3. That is hard if you haven’t seen the first two episodes and I don’t want to share any spoilers. Episode 2 ends on a cliffhanger. How this cliffhanger is resolved will literally change the trajectory of the story. Thankfully the cliffhanger is resolved right at the beginning of episode 3. The theme of this episode is how to live with defeat and failure, something we all have to do in our lives.

Eleanor is working through regret of a promise she made and didn’t keep. As she sees how badly things turned out without her help, Eleanor is feeling like a failure of a friend. She tries to take it upon herself to make everything right again, but that is just not possible, even for a rich judge. As she grapples with her humanness, she goes to God for direction and guidance as she embarks on a life changing plan to do what she feels is right.

Giveaway

You can only watch Eleanor’s Bench on Pure Flix. If you don’t have a streaming subscription yet, enter to win a 3 month trial subscription! The giveaway ends at 12:00am on Friday, July 21, 2023 it is open to US residents only who have not won a trial subscription in the last 6 months.

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About Miracle at Manchester

Brycen Newman is a beloved member of his Catholic high school’s football and baseball teams. He starts experiencing unexplained headaches. As the headaches continue and other symptoms crop up, Brycen’s parents take him to the hospital for evaluation where a very rude ER doctor dismisses them as dehydration and/or puberty symptoms. Brycen’s father, at the urging of a friend, seeks help from a neurosurgeon who determines that Brycen needs surgery immediately.

The rest of the movie is filled with the roller coaster of emotions that dealing with a tragic diagnoses will bring. A father questioning his faith, students praying for their friend, and a community supporting a family during difficult times.

Mom Maven’s Thoughts

Miracle at Manchester was a well made movie. It’s based on a true story and I always like that. It honestly just felt like we had seen it before. Nothing new in the kid gets horrible diagnosis/community prays for and rallies around the family type movie.

This movie is for you if:

• You have teens and tweens that need to be inspired by the power of prayer.
• You need hope in a time of despair.
• You like a good underdog story.
• You like sports stories.

Watch Miracle at Manchester on Pure Flix starting March 31st!

About Pure Flix

Pure Flix is a one-stop shop for faith and family-friendly movies and shows where you can confidently stream in your home with the entire family. With new premium and exclusive original entertainment choices every week, Pure Flix streaming service has the largest variety of high-quality, curated, positive, encouraging, wholesome movies, series and kids’ content in one service. Pure Flix is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Pictures Entertainment, alongside AFFIRM Films.

Pure Flix Giveaway

One US based winner will receive a 3 month subscription to Pure Flix. The winner cannot have won a Pure Flix subscription in the last 6 months. The giveaway ends at 12:00am EDT on April 8, 2023. The winner will be verified and their email will be forwarded to the sponsor for fulfillment.

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About His Only Son

His Only Son recounts one of the most controversial moments in the Old Testament—when Abraham was commanded by God to sacrifice his son Isaac on the mountain of Moriah. While traveling to the place of the sacrifice, alongside Isaac and two servants, Abraham is flooded with vivid memories from the years he and Sarah spent longing for the son they were promised—the son he must now lay upon the altar.

From the Director David Helling

Since my time as a Marine in Iraq, when the Lord got ahold of my heart and drew me to His Word, my life’s mission and desire has been to illustrate and exposit the Bible through film– so that others can see what I saw in Scripture… and in seeing they might believe… and in believing they may have life in His name.

The endeavor of this film began with the desire to bring clarity to one of the most infamous moments in redemptive history. However, once I began writing the script nearly five years ago, I began to experience the darkest, loneliest, most heart-wrenching years of my life– a season that, to a significant degree, continues to this day. But through this trial, never could I have imagined that the message of this film would act as such a timely comfort in my bleakest nights. 

It stands as a reminder to me and all of us, that even in our most dire circumstances, the Lord has a purpose in it all– and for those of us that love Him, that purpose is for our good.

https://invest.angel.com/son

MomMaven’s Thoughts

This film, His Only Son, was a timely one for me. Last fall we spent several weeks teaching on the life of Abraham in our Children’s Church environment and this year I have again undertaken the call to read the entire Bible chronologically in a year. At this point in the year I have already re-read the life of Abraham so this story is very fresh in my mind and soul.

The first word we both used when the movie was over was, “Wow”, in an awe-filled tone. The movie was aesthetically beautiful, the acting was top-notch, and the story was told with care for all the nuances it has in the Bible.

Abraham was a man called by God, but, like all humans, he was far from perfect. Even though he knew what God had promised him, he and his wife, Sarah, had a difficult time waiting for God’s perfect timing, and tried to push God’s hand, a move which, of course did much more harm than good.

In His timing, God did bless them with their long-awaited son, Isaac, through his lineage we get David and Jesus. Of course, God gives Abraham the biggest test of his life when he is called to sacrifice Isaac on the altar at Mount Moriah. Even though we know the story, when the sacrifice ram appeared in the thicket, I felt more at ease than I had a few seconds prior. The sacrifice of Abraham and Isaac parallels the sacrifice of Christ on the cross.

His Only Son hits theaters this weekend, 3/31/23. I promise you this movie will impact you and deepen your worship this Easter season. His Faith Was Tested. Our Hope Was Born.  Tickets are available now. Make plans to see this moving film this weekend.

The Giveaway

Enter to win a pair of tickets to see His Only Son here. The giveaway ends March 31, 2023.

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Way back in 2011 I told you about the Kendrick brother’s fourth movie COURAGEOUS. I actually wrote 7 posts about this film and the important message it has about fatherhood. It’s hard to believe that this movie is 10 years old! This weekend, September 24, 2021, COURAGEOUS LEGACY is being released in theaters!

Ron and I watched COURAGEOUS LEGACY last night. This is a remastered, special-edition release for a new generation. This updated version of the film includes an enhanced look and sound along with impact stories, new scenes, and a new bonus ending you don’t want to miss! Get your tickets NOW!

A lot has happened in the decade sine COURAGEOUS hit theaters, but God’s plan for families and for fathers has not changed. God has called fathers to lead their families well, to disciple them, provide for them, and to protect them. This movies is just as powerful as the original was 10 years ago. I cried, several times-even though I knew what was coming because I’ve seen the original many times.

The statistics on how fatherlessness effects the lives of children are staggering. Honestly, if men would step up and be the father that God intended them to be crimes, drug use, suicide and many other social problems would decrease dramatically. The Kendrick brothers know this well, COURAGEOUS was their first film on the subject and earlier this month they released the documentary SHOW ME THE FATHER, which shares a lot of the staggering statistics surrounding fatherlessness.

In the movie, the men sign a resolution and vow to hold each other accountable for upholding this resolution. The resolution starts with “I … , Do solemnly resolve before God to take full responsibility for myself, my wife, and my children.” It continues on will 11 more “I Will” statements. Just think what this world would be like if more husbands would truly commit to taking full responsibility for their families. So many lives would be changed!

Maybe you are reading this and feeling like you have failed your family; stop that right now! None of us are perfect, we all make mistakes. One of the themes of this movie is that while we may not have started well, we can finish well! Ask God and your family to forgive you for not being the parent that He has called you to be. Then ask God to help you to walk out what He has called you to. Praise God that He is a God of second, third, fourth…etc chances! He wants to help us all be closer to Him, but we have to take the first step. If you have questions or need help, please reach out to me. I’m here for you.

Courageous Legacy Ticket Giveaway

I am giving away a pair of Fandango codes so that you can go see COURAGEOUS LEGACY in theaters! The giveaway is open to US residents only. The giveaway ends at 12:00am on Saturday 9-2-21. Please follow all rules listed in the giveaway.

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Get you opening weekend tickets NOW!

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Follow Your Heart Synopsis

Kathy, an established travel writer, tells her manager that she is exhausted from all the traveling and is contemplating doing something new, maybe writing ‘poetry’. Right before her next trip, Kathy gets a call from her estranged younger sister Miriam, who lives in Amish Country, informing her about the death of their father. Kathy comes home to settle their dad’s affairs and her relationship with her sister. Kathy is reminded of her life before she leaves the Amish community, including her old love, Isaac. Will Kathy returns to her traveling lifestyle or will she stays to return to her roots?

Mom Maven’s Thoughts

We enjoyed the movie. It was different than a lot of Hallmark movies. Follow Your Heart didn’t follow the typical Hallmark movie formula, which was nice. We enjoyed going on the journey with Kathy, Miriam, and Isaac and not being able to guess what was going to happen next.

I have been a fan of Amish fiction for years so the fact that most of the movie takes place in Amish Country made me happy. Ron felt the movie was a little slow at points, I did not.

Follow Your Heart is a sweet story of forgiveness and love that is well told and well acted. The characters were believable and vulnerable, you feel like you know them, which, of course, get you more invested into the movie.

If you love a light romance with an Amish twist, mark your calendar or set your DVR for October 4, 2020 at 9pm EDT/8pm CDT on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

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About Overcomer

Award-winning actor/writer/director Alex Kendrick (WAR ROOM, COURAGEOUS)delivers aninspirational victoryin the family-friendly sports drama OVERCOMER debuting on digital November 26 and coming to Blu-ray and DVD December 17, from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, AFFIRM Films and Provident Films.

The third Kendrick Brothers film to earn a rare A+ CinemaScore®,OVERCOMER also stars Priscilla Shirer (WAR ROOM, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE), Shari Rigby (OCTOBER BABY, WILDFLOWER), Cameron Arnett (MEET THE BROWNS, STAND YOUR GROUND) and newcomer Aryn Wright-Thompson.

OVERCOMER is from the creators of the #1 box-office hit War Room. Life changes overnight for coach John Harrison (Kendrick) after he loses his basketball team and is challenged by the school’s principal, Olivia (Shirer), to coach a new sport he doesn’t know or like. As John questions his own worth, he dares to help the least likely runner take on the biggest race of the year. Filled with a powerful mix of faith, humor and heart, this inspirational story will have you on the edge of your seat.

The Blu-ray, DVD and digital release come with an extensive array of bonus material, including 10 minutes of extended and deleted scenes, fun bloopers, exclusive commentary by the Kendrick Brothers, moving in-depth looks at the power of forgiveness, identity and more.

A special Kendrick Brothers Six Movie DVD Gift Set will also be available exclusively at Walmart beginning December 17. The set will contain fan-favorite films OVERCOMER, WAR ROOM, COURAGEOUS, FIREPROOF, FACING THE GIANTS, and FLYWHEEL.

Overcomer Bonus Material

Blu-Ray and Digital Bonus Features

• The Heart of Overcomer:See how the heart of Overcomeris grounded in personal growth, faith and identity.
• Creating the Opening DroneShot: See how the stunning opening drone shot of the film was realized with a lot of ingenuity and a well-organized crew.
• Working with the Kendricks:Watch how Alex, Stephen and Shannon Kendrick found their path to filmmaking through authenticity and faith.
• Looks Behind-the-Scenes of: Editing, Composing, Coloring and Sound Design
• “Enough” (Lyric Video) Featuring Koryn Hawthorne
• Don’t Mess with the Editors: Check out what the editors of Overcomer created on the side for a little fun.

Blu-Ray, DVD, and Digital Bonus Features

• Feature Audio Commentary with Director Alex Kendrick and Producer Stephen Kendrick
• Bloopers& Outtakes
• 10 Minutes of Additional Sceneswith an introduction from the Kendrick Brothers.
• The Making of Overcomer:Learn about how the crew worked together with faith and prayer to create this incredible film.
• The Theme of Identity: In this piece the cast and crew discuss what the theme of identity means to them.
• The Power of Forgiveness:  Describes why forgiveness is such an important theme of this film.
• “Overcomer” (Lip Sync Music Video) Featuring Mandisa
• Overcomer in 60 Seconds: a quick fun film recap.

I’m sure you have already thought of at least one person on your gift giving list who needs to see Overcomer this holiday season. The movie is available on Amazon and where ever movies are sold starting December 17, 2019 with pre-orders available now.

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Every Kendrick brothers movie that has hit the big screen has been full of the Gospel, broken people who need Jesus, and a message of love, grace, and redemption. Couple that with deep storytelling, talented cinematography, and great acting and you know you are always going to have a movie worth seeing…more than once.

About Overcomer

Life changes overnight for coach John Harrison when his high school basketball team’s state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news. When the largest manufacturing plant in town suddenly shuts down and hundreds of families begin moving away, John must come to grips with the challenges facing his family and his team. Urged by the school’s principal to fill-in and coach a sport he doesn’t know or like, John is frustrated and questioning his worth… until he crosses paths with a student struggling with her own journey.

Filled with a powerful mix of faith, a twist of humor, and a ton of heart, the Kendrick Brothers return to theaters with OVERCOMER, their newest feature following FACING THE GIANTS, FIREPROOF, COURAGEOUS, and the #1 box-office hit, WAR ROOM. The inspiring family film stars Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, Shari Rigby, Cameron Arnett, and introduces Aryn Wright-Thompson.

Mom Maven’s Thoughts

We loved Overcomer and we can’t wait to see it again. Even Ron, who never wants to see a movie in the theater twice, cannot wait to go again. Overcomer is a film for the whole family. I feel kids ages 9+ will enjoy this movie, though I think 12+ will grasp the themes and be able to dig into the message and grow from seeing this movie.

Of course, this movie needs your support opening weekend, THIS weekend. I am trying to figure out when we can go. Maybe Sunday evening! We have class Friday, we are at Disney Saturday, so hopefully we can gather some friends and go Sunday evening. Grab your friends and family and go see this faith-filled, inspiring movie this weekend!

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