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When The Game Stands Tall

| Faith and Family Films

 

When The Game Stands Tall

When The Game Stands Tall is in production in New Orleans and is slated to hit theaters in the Fall of 2014 (Sony Affirm Films). I have to say that I am excited to see this movie because of the lead actor (Jim Caviezel) who plays the coach in the movie.  Jim is a good actor and I really have enjoyed his film work over the years. I always remember the movie “Frequency” and loved the story and the father son relationship in Frequency.  Anyway – back to “When The Game Stands Tall.”  As I read the description for the film I am enthusiastic about the film because it is a sports film that in the end is not about sports. Sports is the vehicle that was used by the coach to teach the lessons of life to the high school kids in his care. It’s not about winning – but rather putting forth your best effort. Teaching about values, life and loss. The real stuff that happens in life and the game of footballs help high schooler’s prepare to navigate thru their journey.

So based upon what I see so far . . .

I am marking my calendar to see “When The Game Stands Tall” August 22,  2014!

Here is the Films Description:
When The Game Stands Tall – which tells the true story of legendary De La Salle High School football Coach Bob Ladouceur, (Caviezel), and his assistant coach Terry Eidson, (Chiklis), who took the Concord California Spartans prep team from obscurity to a 151-game winning streak from 1992 to 2003 that shattered all records for consecutive victories in any American sport. Known as “Coach Lad”, Ladouceur had little experience coaching football when he was hired at De La Salle, but through his unyielding focus on character-building, faith, responsibility and commitment, created one of the country’s greatest football dynasties.

Inducted into the National High School Hall of Fame and widely considered the greatest prep football coach of all time, Ladouceur’s spectacular achievements during his 34 years with the De La Salle Spartans include a historic 12-year, 151-game run of consecutive wins, 20 undefeated seasons, seven national titles, five CIF Bowl championships, 17 state championships and 28 CIF North Coast titles. When Ladouceur retired in January 2013, he was the all-time winningest coach in California having amassed one of the highest-winning percentage of any coach (.934 percent) with his 399-25-3 record.

“On the surface, it appears that these players just won a lot of football games, but what makes this story so special is that this is a coach who placed little value on winning, instead focusing his players on giving ‘a perfect effort’ in life,” said producer David Zelon. “Underneath it is a resounding testimonial about how much more kids can achieve when they are challenged with responsibility and commitment.”

Here is a trailer for When The Game Stands Tall:

Veggietales MacLarry Coming Soon!

| Faith and Family Films

Veggietales-Maclarry-Stinky-Cheese-Battle-Christian-Film-Movie-DVDBig Idea is set to delivery a new episode from the award winning kids series VeggieTales. This time Larry The Cucumber takes the lead as “MacLarry” and brings us a lesson in getting along with others. Always a great reminder for kids and adults for that matter and as always audiences are served a brand new Silly Song (caution, may cause extreme laughter and singing unexpectedly in the car). The bad news is that you will have to wait until July 27th to secure your own copy.  The good new is that we have the trailer for you to view. Oh, and by the way you can pre order your copy from http:///www.kidzonearth.com.

 

Overview of  MacLarry:

A long time ago, in a land flowing with beards and kilts, there lived two clans who were locked in a longstanding feud! The tribes plotted against each other with various pranks, including water balloon ambushes, bad haircuts, and a host of other hijinks! Dwelling amongst these perpetual pranksters is “MacLarry” — a well-meaning young inventor who just wants to make kooky gadgets!

Try as he may, he has never mastered the art of pranking, even after much training from the Chief prankster himself; his father, Chog Norrius. Discouraged, MacLarry sets on a journey to find the great inventor “Archie-medes”, in hopes of finding a place he can belong. Meanwhile, the feud is escalating and Chog’s clan is plotting their biggest prank yet; releasing the stinkiest cheese in the land on their rivals! When the cheese caper goes afoul, Chog and the people realize they aren’t able to solve the situation on their own — they need MacLarry’s special skills to save the day! Will Chog and the tribe find MacLarry in time to convince him that his unique and God-given gifts are just what is needed to help both clans from being overcome by the loathsome Limburger and resolve their differences for good?

Pre order from http:///www.kidzonearth.com

Home Run The Movie Hits Theaters Today!

| Faith and Family Films

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The long awaited release of the new baseball themed movie Home Run hits theaters across the nation today ( check the films web site for theater listings). Baseball, hot dogs, apple pie and freedom are apart of America. Well freedom is also the central theme in this new theatrical release from Samuel Goldwyn Films. Home Run takes you on a journey of a man with a bright future, but is haunted by a troubled past. Home Run is a must see film that will entertain and inspire audiences and will also remind us all that there is hope in our  journey of life. There are multitudes who are living life without hope and their addictions have completely overtaken and ruined their lives. My hope is that this movie will not only entertain, but will cause many to look inside and deal with their hurts, habits and hang ups that are keeping many from experiencing FREEDOM!

PLEASE NOTE: The movie is rated PG13 and is for junior high and above. The movie deals with some challenging topics and is not a movie for younger children.

HERE IS A SYNOPSIS OF THE MOVIE FROM THE HOME RUN WEB SITE:

Baseball all-star Cory Brand knows what it takes to win in the big leagues. But off the field, with memories of his past haunting him, his life is spiraling out of control.

Hoping to save her client’s career and reputation after a DUI and a team suspension, Cory’s agent sends him back to the small town where he grew up. Forced to coach the local youth baseball team and spend eight weeks in the only recovery program in town, Cory can’t wait to return to his old life as quickly as possible.

As his young players help him experience the joy of the game, Cory discovers his need to find freedom from his past and hope for his future … and win back the love he left behind. With this unexpected second chance, Cory finds himself on a powerful journey of transformation and redemption.

Based on thousands of true stories, HOME RUN is a powerful reminder that with God, it’s never too late … freedom is possible.

Check out the Home Run Movie trailer and than buy a ticket and go see Home Run this weekend!

Not Today The Movie – In Theaters April 12

Video | | Faith and Family Films

This Friday is a BIG weekend for a few films that will deliver a poignant message that is sure to impact the psyche of our culture. The movie “Not Today” is most definitely one of those films and was birthed out of a desire to educate and challenge society to do something to stop slavery.  This is a giant issue to tackle and can be a challenge to really understand what a person can do to make a difference. Some may just ignore the issue and miss this movie altogether. So here’s a cliff note version of what your actions can do and simply start right here. First,  please understand that as you support the film and spread the word this helps create a successful opening weekend. As a result more people will be hearing about the movie and this issue and will explore their roll in helping to fight against slavery. Secondly, your ticket to see the movie is their ticket out of slavery. As a result of spending your money you are partnering with Friends Media and the Dalit Freedom Network who have committed to building 200 schools that will assist in rescuing thousands of children out of the human trafficking business and will give them a new life full of hope.

Not Today is a film that will grab your heart and leave you compelled to do something well beyond the credits. Please check out the movie, invite some friends, talk about the issue and how you can make a difference. Please note that Not Today is not necessarily a family movie because of the subject matter ( PG-13).

SYNOPSIS OF THE MOVIE:

Caden Welles has the world at his disposal. With the resources of his wealthy father, he’s living life as large as any 20-year-old could dream. But what happens when that dream becomes a nightmare halfway around the world?

Traveling with his friends to Hyderabad, India on a whim, Caden’s expectations of a never-ending party crash hard. But not as hard as his conscience when he refuses to help a starving man and his little girl. Haunted by the images of Kiran and Annika, Caden attempts to right his wrong—only to discover Kiran has been forced to sell his own daughter.

Caden’s eyes are now opened to a world few Americans know still exists: a thriving human-trafficking trade. Add the dehumanization of Kiran and hundreds of millions of other Dalits due to India’s caste system, and Caden could easily turn his back.

Yet spurred by a true purpose, an unlikely new friendship, and the prayers of his mother and girlfriend back home, Caden chooses to help in Kiran’s unlikely search to find his daughter.

Starring Cody Longo, Walid Amini, Shari Rigby, and John Schneider, NOT TODAY challenges moviegoers with a purpose that goes beyond its gripping story. The movie was produced by Friends Church Yorba Linda, a congregation committed to educating the Dalits and ending human trafficking in India.

NOT TODAY is a powerful reminder that change is possible if we’re willing to open our eyes … today.

“If not now, then when? If not me, then who?” Jewish leader, Hiller the Elder

Thanks for reading!

Peace

Dave Almgren

42 is a Must See Movie!!

| Faith and Family Films

ImageThis past week I had the chance to preview the new film called “42”. This is the story about Jackie Robinson and the Brooklyn Dodgers. This is a film that engages and inspires you well beyond the credits.  I say this because of the multiple layers in the movie and the fact that the movie is based upon a true story. The acting was superb and allowed you to become invested in the characters. The film is cut well, has high production value and the story keeps you engaged throughout the entire 128 minutes. This film is part love story, a lesson in over coming adversity, an inspirational story and a history lesson that leaves you thinking beyond the credits about the man, his mission and commitment to do things right.

I have to say I have followed baseball over the years and have been very familiar with Jackie Robinson and his life in baseball. Or at least I thought I did . . . But there are a few things that I learned from this film regarding the era, Jackie, his life and his convictions.

42 is a must see movie that will inspire you to do what is right. Challenge you to stand up for what you believe in and motivate you to stay the course.   Jackie Robinson is truly an American legend who changed baseball and also challenge the nation to make a change in the right direction regarding race.  I overheard some younger people in the audience that stated “who is Jackie Robinson?” I would imagine there are many from younger generations that are being introduced to Jackie and his story for the very first time. Mr Robinson is the kind of hero that we need today. Thank you Warner Brothers for telling the story and thank you Jackie for your example and staying the course!!

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About the movie:
“42” based on a true story of two men-Jackie Robinson, the baseball great who broke the Major League color barrier, and Branch Rickey, the iconic Brooklyn Dodger GM who brought Robinson to the team. Their brave stand against racism forever changed the world by changing the game of baseball. “Your enemy will be out in force, but you cannot meet him on his own low ground”……..”I want a player who’s got the guts not to fight back.”- Branch Rickey

Cast:
Harrison Ford (Branch Rickey), Chadwick Boseman (Jackie Robinson), Nicole Beharie (Rachel Robinson), Christopher Meloni (Leo Durocher), Lucas Black (Pee Wee Reese)

Release Date:
4/12/2013

Rating:
PG-13

Running Time:
128 minutes

Veggietales The Little House that Stood – Review

| Faith and Family Films

Veggietales The House That StoodIntroducing Brycen’s new review called “Brycen’s Review to You!”  Each segment will feature reviews of  new children’s videos and products. What better than to hear from an eight year old regarding her feelings about new stuff available to families and kids?  On Brycen’s first review post she gives an overview  and her insightful thoughts about this new Veggietales episode The Little House That Stood.

Click here to secure your copy of Veggietales The Little House That Stood

Thanks for your time and remember this – the choices you make today will determine who you  are tomorrow.

Summer Staycation Ideas for Families!

| Faith and Family Films

SUMMER STAYCATION IDEAS

Summer staycation ideasIt’s summer time once again and it is also time to be creative with regards to family outings that will not break the bank. Gas prices are still very high and the cost to travel can add up very fast. We have a few ideas that will apply to specific events in Portland Oregon – but many cities will also feature similar events for families. Be creative and use the local resources in your community to enrich your family summer experience. As a result you will not spend more money than you need to – but you will create some lasting memories for your family.

GREAT FAMILY PLACES TO EAT!

Check out The Grilled Cheese Grill in North East Portland (Alberta Street area). This cool eatery sits on the  corner and is an old Air stream Trailer and you order your Grilled Cheese Sandwich ( that is all they serve) any way you may want it served. Than you can mosey on over to the old school bus where you can grab a seat for the entire family and enjoy your Grilled Cheese master piece.

KIDS EAT FREE!

Many restaurants offer FREE meal for kids with with the purchase of an adult meal. These offers can really help this summer and can keep costs down as you plan you Staycation events this summer. Do a Google search to find all the kids friendly restaurants in your community. Consider going out once a week with your family and create some summer time memories. 

FREE MOVIE NIGHTS IN THE PARK!

Check your local parks for Free movies for families. Portland Oregon has a full summer schedule of Free movies in the park. Check your local parks and Rec web site for more details on times and locations and movies playing.

CREATE YOUR OWN FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

images-1It is Friday night. What are you going to do? Going to a movie at the theater can set you back $50.00 or more images-2after popcorn, drinks and tickets. We suggest that you buy or rent a family movie and show it at home. Make some popcorn, roll out the blankets and enjoy the evening together. Another option is to check out the secondary theaters that usually show family movies during the summer at a reduced rate.

NEIGHBORHOOD MOVIE NIGHT

Or create a family movie night for your block with families in the neighborhood. This is a great way to meet your neighbors and to get outside the walls of your house. This past summer one entire street was blocked off and a screen was set up in the middle of the street for the movie. Everyone had a great time and neighbors were talking and creating memories together.

KidzOnEarth.com features a wide variety of faith and family movie titles that will deliver a great entertaining story.

Click here to view the movie titles at KidzOnEarth.com


321 Penguins Are Back & You Are Going to Love Them!

| Faith and Family Films

The Penguins from Big Idea are back with an all new episode that is due to hit the street July 12th, 2008. This series has been around for a number of years and has been re-energized for a new generation. Kid and parents will love this unique and lovable series.

Go to kidzonearth.com for information about purchasing Penguins DVDS.

Huckleberry Larry is Coming Down Stream

| Faith and Family Films

Huckleberry Larry ad Bob SawyerMeet Tomato Sawyer & Huckleberry Larry – two friends homesteading along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River. Tom & Huck look forward to owning their own land, building a home and opening Huck’s Jerkey Land and Tom’s Tax Service. But everything changes when they meet a mysterious stranger who is on the run and trying to find his mama. Will Huck & Tom risk losing all they’ve worked for in order to help someone they hardly know? A lesson in helping others.

This new episode is the latest all new Veggietales episode to arrive on the scene since the Pirates Movie. Rumor is that Phil Vischer wrote this story – if this is true it will be a great episode. There was a screening last night for a conference in the south (April 14th). If anyone happened to be at this screening of Huck Larry – please chime in and let us know what is in store with this clever spin on Huck Fin.

Find out in this all-new adventure Veggietales – Big River Rescue! Coming to DVD this July 12th, 2008. Pre order this new title at Kidzonearth.com.

If you live in Portland Oregon – Mark your calendars for ( Saturday July 12th 10:30am) the big screen premiere of Huckleberry Larry. This event will be held at the Hollywood theater in Portland Oregon.

Click here to view a trailer of the new Veggietales episode.