AFA Staff
AFA Journal staff reviews movies, books and other resources
July 2005 – Paws & Tales:Seeing the Unseen
Chuck Swindoll’s weekly children’s radio drama titled Paws & Tales recently came to life in the form of 3-D animation.
In the first episode, Seeing the Unseen, Papa Chuck and his gang of young admirers go on an overnight camping trip where they learn about the existence of God despite their inability to see Him. The lesson comes about after a new friend of the furry animal crew expresses that he only believes in things that are proven through scientific evidence. Papa Chuck and the gang point out the reality of God in nature in an attempt to turn their new friend’s heart to one of belief.
An overt Biblical worldview is evident in the episode as it digs into the debate between science and theology. Although a meaty topic, the episode tackles the issue in a way that is understood by young viewers.
This first episode is available through Christian retailers as well as www.pawsandtales.com.
Viewing Family Summary
• Movie suitable for ages: 3+
• On a scale of 1-5 (5 is greatest value), how overt was the Christian message? 5. Not pushy; great delivery
• Response of child (boy, 6): Watched it over and over
• Overall impression: I loved it! Why can’t we have things available like this on Saturday morning TV?
• Would you recommend this movie to other families? Yes. I would like to buy it.
HoopDogz: Stealing's Uncool!
With hip-hop music, upbeat characters and an overt Bible-based story line, the second in a 10-episode animated series titled HoopDogz is as engaging and entertaining as the first episode which recently received the prestigious Parent’s Choice Award for its value and appeal.
Stealing’s Uncool! follows V.J. Bumpus and his canine friends in Wobble Hill as they learn the importance of living according to the Ten Commandments.
In this episode, V. J. and his friends realize that stealing is wrong after V. J. “borrows” his new friend’s Ultra Dunkinator 3000 basketball.
Stealing’s Uncool! is available on VHS or DVD in Christian bookstores nationwide.
Viewing Family Summary
• Movie suitable for ages: 5-9
• On a scale of 1-5 (5 is greatest value), how overt was the Christian message? 4
• Children’ s response (boys 3, 5): Understood the message; bored with evangelists’ segments
• Overall Impression: Message of “do not steal” was very clear!
• Would you recommend this movie to other families? Yes – every family with children would benefit.
Love Comes Softly
This Hallmark Entertainment production opens in tragedy for Marty Claridge when she and her new husband go west to find land and opportunity on the American frontier. Just as they find the perfect spot to settle, Marty’s husband is thrown from his horse and dies.
The story follows Marty’s marriage of convenience to Clark, a widower who befriends her. In fact, Clark is her key to survival through her first winter on the plains. He moves into a lean-to shed and lets her live in his home, promising to send her back east in the spring.
Based on Janette Oke’s novel, Love Comes Softly is the Hallmark Channel’s highest rated original movie of all time.
Available for purchase or rental nationwide.
Viewing Family Summary
• Movie suitable for ages: All
• On a scale of 1-5 (5 is greatest value), how overt was the Christian message? 4
• Children’s response (girls 10, 17): Precious
• Overall Impression: Extremely good
• Would you recommend this movie to other families? Yes. Everyone should see this film!
Love's Enduring Promise
This is the sequel to Love Comes Softly. Emerging as the central figure is Missie Davis. She is now an elementary school teacher with a passion for both the wild prairie and for the vicarious adventure she finds in her books and teaching.
The gripping drama and Spartan setting combine for an intriguing look at the Old West. Along with the adversities of life on the plains, romance enters Missie’s life and she is forced to make some difficult decisions.
This is quality family entertainment with a little spiritual and educational value at no extra charge. Michael Landon, Jr., son of Little House producer and star Michael Landon, co-wrote and produced this movie.
Available for purchase or rental nationwide.
Viewing Family Summary
• Movie suitable for ages: All
• On a scale of 1-5 (5 is greatest value), how overt was the Christian message? 4
• Children’s response (girls 10, 17): Wanted to cry
• Overall Impression: Sweet
• Would you recommend this movie to other families? Yes. Perfect for family movie night!
One we couldn’t recommend
Come Away Home (PG) is a heart-warming story of a typical 12-year-old girl named Annie who learns the significance of loving others after being forced to spend her summer vacation with her aging grandfather in the rural South. Complete with jovial humor and serious matters of the heart, the film sends a pro-family message with redeeming value. However, the use of one profanity, some mild sexual connotations, immodestly-dressed girls, repeated instances of lying and a reference to homosexuality cause the film to fall short.
