#6 - Faith Like Potatoes

By Michelle

Summary: Based on the amazing true story of a hot-headed farmer whose life goes from bad to worse when he buys a new farm in South Africa. He finds himself in a losing battle with the hardships on his farm and with anger and doubt. In the midst of his crisis, he finds God. Undiluted faith fuses with this wild farmer to create a potent and formidable mix as he continues to face a variety of challenges, but this time with the power of God.

What's it all about: Angus Buchan, a tempestuous Scottish farmer moves his family to South Africa after the political unrest and uncertainties in their home in Zambia. Unfortunately, he discovers that his new farm presents even harder challenges than he had before. Angus works really hard to try and get his farm going, but as much as he fights, he finds that his doubts and anger start to take over his life building a mounting tension in his family life as well. Just as Angus is reaching breaking point and his wife is coming to her wit's end, he decides to give his life to God. Now this crazy Scotsman tries to work out what to do with his new found faith and is encouraged by his pastor to start sharing his faith. As he shares and exercises his faith in the different situations that arise, he discovers that despite the opinions of others that God can do amazing things (and even the impossible) if he will only trust Him!

Notable Quotes:

• "If God can pick up a crop of broken maize, how much more can He pick up your precious broken heart, your broken life!"
• "To hell with El Nino! Put your trust in God, not in a weather phenomenon. Put your trust in the Creator of heaven and earth, not in a promise of a drought from hell. That's where El Nino comes from and that's where it belongs! That's why I say 'Trust God!'"
• "The condition for a miracle is difficulty, but the condition for a great miracle is impossiblity."
• "Feel this potato. Smell it! Your faith in God must be just like that! It must be real."

Highlights: 

• Actor, Frank Rautenbach, as the passionate Angus Buchan.
• A scene of a bush fire that gets dangerously out of control on the farm. 
• A scene of one of his female workers whom Angus tentatively prays for after she was struck by lightning.
• Angus and his family dealing with their faith after a tragic accident – very powerful.
• The daring speech that Angus makes at the prayer gathering at King's Park Stadium.
• A song during the credits called, "A New Day" by Joe Niemand, particularly in context of Angus' life - this song touches me everytime!

Movie length: 116 minutes

Rating: 8 out of 10

Final review: Older children at a parent's discretion and with their guidance could watch this movie, however I woudn't recommend this movie for little ones because of an accident scene in the second half and the occasional swear word at the beginning. While this is not exactly a big budget movie, it does have some stunning cinematography and a nice musical score as well, and the acting is also pretty decent too. However, it really is the story itself that is inspiring. The account of how God took a farmer with an anger problem and a life out of control and made him into a powerful man of faith will really challenge and build your own faith. The real Angus Buchan that the film is based on continues to inspire and challenge people all over the world to simply trust God.

#5 - The Mysterious Islands

Summary: Documentary about a group of adventurers who go to the Galapagos Islands in 2009. They seek to demonstrate an alternative to Charles Darwin's findings, as it was his observations of animals on these islands, which led him to later publish his famous book, "The Origin of Species" in 1859 (2009 was celebrated by evolutionists as the 150th anniversary of Darwin's book). The film seeks to provide a counter argument for every one of Darwin's "evidences" of evolution and his understanding of  'natural selection' for the various kinds of animals there e.g. finches, flightless cormorant.

What's it all about: these adventurers from the USA go to the Galapagos with a great deal of excitement and enthusiasm. They include a wildlife enthusiast Doug, and his son, Joshua (who narrates the movie at times), film-makers, and a PhD geology scientist. It is clear that the father, Doug (whilst not having a science degree - neither did Darwin), has done a lot of research studying Darwin's theories, and his experiences on these islands. The group travels to different locations throughout the islands, and view the animals studied by Darwin e.g. Galapagos Giant Tortoise (who the film claims can live up to 200 years old - the one Darwin saw could still be alive there!). The movie also looks at Darwin's life before coming to the islands, to see what had shaped his ''world-view". This movie explains the processes of "natural selection" and "mediative design". It also shows how the Bible's creation account provides a legitimate alternative to explain all the anomalies shown by the islands' unique animals. The last 20 minutes of the movie is also critical in showing how evolutionary theory has been applied in its extreme to justify the most horrendous acts in modern history.  

Notable Quotes: "Darwinists called these islands a laboratory for evolution, but there's another perspective - these islands are a showcase for the wisdom of the Creator"; "As Darwin had inherited a legacy of skepticism from his grandfather, Erasmus, he too would leave a multi generational legacy through advocates who would take his ideas and apply them to their logical extreme - applying the biological thesis of Darwinism to social theory".

Highlights: personal history of Darwin, explaining how his beliefs were formed; brilliant theme music (although surprisingly loud at times) that builds a sense of mystery and suspense; scene of Doug and his son running to 'catch up' to the giant tortoise; the last 20 minutes, which to me, explained well how evolutionary theory can be so dangerous when applied to humans in a social context e.g. promote selective breeding.

Movie length: 97 minutes

Rating: 9 & 1/2 out of 10

Final review: if you are struggling with the whole evolution/creation science debate, I strongly suggest that you see this movie. It should at least give you an understanding of how different 'worldviews' shape the way in which we interpret our belief systems. The first 30 minutes of this movie is a bit slow, but keep watching because I found this movie intriguing, especially towards the end (There are 2 discs available, but I haven't yet watched the bonus footage disc). Overall, a fantastic movie for the whole family (although some people/kids may find disturbing, some photos of the Holocaust). Definitely, one of those faith movies, that you can watch over and over, and gives you a feeling of hope by the movie's end.

#4 - The Pilgrim's Progress

Summary: 2008 movie adaption of John Bunyan's famous story published in 1678 which he started during his imprisonment and translated into more than 200 languages. Story of ''Christian'', a regular guy living in a modern city, who convicted of his sins, begins a journey from his city to save his family from destruction. The plot of the story and characters encountered, are an analogy - represent the journey of the Christian faith.

What it's about: Christian sets out from his city after seeing visions of his city being destroyed (after reading the Book - the Bible). His aim is to reach 'the Celestial City' (Heaven), and get rid of his ever increasing burden (conviction of his sins). He is encouraged by 'Evangelist' - a godly man, at the start of his journey, and during difficult stages. Christian is played convincingly by an experienced actor of faith movies, Daniel Kruse.  During his journey, he comes across worldly and godly characters e.g. Obstinate, Faithful, who you guessed it, who have characters that are described by their names. Christian's journey is also fraught with dangers e.g. ''Doubting Castle'', "Vanity Fair". One of the themes that come up constantly in this film, is that there are no short-cuts on the path to Heaven - you need to trust in Jesus Christ for your salvation, and have faith in His forgiveness of your sins.

Notable quotes: as Christian approaches a house, he needs to go between 2 menacing growling lions, the owner  says - "Is your faith so small? You have nothing to fear. They are here to test your faith. Stay on the path, and you'll be fine".

Highlights: Christian's battle with Apollyon (satan); trial in Vanity Fair against Christian and Hopeful; general visual effects are impressive for a faith (non-Hollywood blockbuster) movie; visions shown by godly man to Christian that represent aspects of a life of faith.

Rating: 8 out of 10

Final review: Good movie for the family with older kids - a few scary scenes and characters might give the little ones some nightmares (received a  ''Dove Foundation" award - "known for its activities of rating, reviewing and endorsing films, and for campaigning against the portrayal of sexual activity and violence in Hollywood films" - Wikipedia) for ages 12 & up. This movie makes you think about dangers and pitfalls Christian believers face in their 'spiritual' journeys. It encourages you to stay true to the Gospel -  simple faith in Him, to be forgiven, saved, and led by Christ. Definitely ''Pilgrim's Progress" is worth a look.

#3 - The Lion, Witch, and the Wardobe

Summary: fantasy story based on one of CS Lewis' - "Narnia" childrens' book series (written in the 50's). Follows a family of 2 brothers and 2 sisters who stumble into an imaginary world, 'Narnia' which is 'ruled' by an evil witch, but the true king, a mighty lion, helps them to became leaders and rulers of that world. The characters originally created by Lewis, an English writer, represent real characters in the spiritual world e.g. the lion, ''Aslan", represents Christ.

Whats its all about: the children, the 'Pevensie' children (Peter, Edward, Susan, and Lucy), accidentally stumble into a wardrobe - which is like a portal into Narnia. The land of Narnia has a lot of fantasy animals, that can talk (each has its own personalities, and most have taken sides for good or for evil). The land is under a dark cloud (perpetual winter) caused by the White Witch, who is threatened by the arrival of the Pevensie children, and threaten her rule. A lion character, Aslan (voiced brilliantly by Liam Neeson), who created Narnia, helps the children to fulfil their destiny to rule the land. This leads eventually to a battle with the White Witch, and her followers. Narnia fans of the book series, say that this movie is reasonably faithful to the book (although not as close as following movies).

Highlights: themes of sacrifice, courage, and forgiveness are very strong in this film. The scenes involving Peter protecting his brothers and sisters against some evil creatures (wolves), whilst struggling with his own fear, are powerful and insightful.The battle scene at end of the movie is visually impressive with excellent background music, and yet contains no graphic violence (hence the PG rating, although young kids would be scared by some scenes).

Notable Quotes: Edward "there's an army out there that's willing to follow you", Peter "I can't", Edward "Aslan believed in you. So do I'' (faith in each other strengthened them)

Film length: 143 minutes

My rating: 7 and 1/2 out of 10.

Final review: enjoyable movie, with inspiring characters e.g. Narnian creatures, who often display heroism. The movie starts off slowly, but builds momentum towards the end. Some of the characters I found irritating, but others were wonderful and unique. A good film overall, and sets up the series well for following movies, based on the Narnia books.

#2 - A Perfect Stranger

Summary: This is basically a conversation between 2 strangers - a woman, and a man who claims to be Jesus Christ, who meet for dinner and have an absorbing conversation about life, faith, and who God really is.

What it's about: Introduced to a family who have recently moved into an area, and the lawyer wife / mother (Nicky), is struggling with her relationship with her husband. She comes across an invitation to have dinner with Jesus and thinking it was a surprise invitation from her husband,  goes along with it that night to one of her favourite restaurants. She meets this 'stranger', who claims to be Jesus. She is disbelieving at first, but then decides to play along (thinking he's an actor set up by her friends), and asks him some of life's deep questions e.g. sin, faith, meaning of pain and suffering. As Jesus answers her intelligent questions well, the conversation eventually turns to her own personal questions e.g.  whyGod let her go through some of the painful experiences in her life. As the night draws to a close, she begins to discover the true identity of the stranger, and this proves a turning point in her life {This is the first of the 'Perferct Stranger' series, including about 9 movies/episodes, that each involve a different character's face-to-face experience with Jesus}

Highlights: this movie has an understated, subtle sense of humour the whole way through. For me, a simple analogy about sin using items on the restuarant table was very well done. A lot of conversations covered Christian apolegitics - defending the faith in a rational, logical way. The actor playing Jesus (Jefferson Moore) conveys warmth and love at the right times - does a great job. Shots of people enjoying their conversation in restaurant nearby helps build realism, and helps with identifying with the characters.

Notable quotes : "People call me lots of things - my friends call me Yeshua''; "God created people to have relationship with Him, so that they could enjoy His love.''

Running time: 93 minutes (about 70 mins actual film time, extras incl interviews)

Rating: 9 and 1/2 out of 10

Final review: A thought provoking, mature movie (OK for kids, but they may struggle in understanding some concepts), that most people can identify with, because it covers lot of questions that people struggle with in their faith and understanding of God. Definitely a must see, and something you can watch over and over and still get something out of it.

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#1- The Cross

Summary: This is the inspirational story of the life of Arthur Blessitt, an American who has walked around the world for 40 years, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

What its about: This could be described as half documentary/ half biography. Arthur Blessitt has walked in every nation, and inhabited island group in the world (around 300 countries), carrying a 12 ft cross. He was actually in the Guinness Book of Records (2000) for having the record for "Longest Ever Walk" (over 38,000 miles). Arthur shows in this movie his heart, and simply goes around with his cross, showing the love of God to all he meets. He shares his life experiences since beginning his trek with the cross in the late 60's, when God called him to walk around America (then later around the world), up until today.

Highlights: Stories and footage of his experiences incl meeting Yassah Ararat during a war in Lebanon, miraculously being saved from being shot by a gang in Nicaragua, and crossing an impenetrable pass in Panama. Also seeing Arthur with his cross recently pray for people , by letting them know how much Jesus loves them.

Notable quotes: "Let your vision be no more than the next person you meet"; "Circumstances don't alter the call of God''.

Running time: 93 minutes

Rating:  10 out of 10

Final Review: this movie leaves you amazed at Arthur's faith and obedience in spite of enormous odds, and inspired to listen and act on what God has called us to do. Also reinforces the importance of the cross to the Christian faith. Watch it as soon as you can! This movie will inspire you.