AFA Staff

AFA Journal staff reviews movies, books and other resources

July-August 2012 – For Greater Glory CAUTION
For centuries, Christians have wrestled with questions of how their faith should impact culture and how far they should go to promote a just society. For Greater Glory, which debuted in theaters June 1, dives head first into such thorny issues. This powerful film examines the response of Catholics in Mexico in the 1920s to growing persecution. Plutarco Calles, the president of Mexico, instituted severe restrictions on the Catholic Church – restrictions which turned increasingly violent. The film shows priests being executed by hanging and by firing squad, churches being desecrated and worshipers shot by soldiers during services.

Catholics in the country divided over whether to respond by accepting their suffering or by armed revolt. The result was the “Cristero” Rebellion – a term that derived from the loyalty of the rebels to “Cristo Rey,” or “Christ the King.” For Greater Glory clearly presents the Cristero Rebellion as the proper response to Calles’ efforts, although it also shows the courage of those priests who preferred martyrdom to armed conflict. It is well-written, fast-paced and has some star power, with Andy Garcia, Eva Longoria, and Peter O’Toole headlining it.

The movie is rated R for graphic violence. There is no profanity, but the film does include drinking and smoking. In one scene, women are shown in undergarments (of the time period) as they seek to hide ammunition intended for the Cristeros.
Review by Ed Vitagliano

Act of Valor CAUTION
There have always been two sides to freedom. On one side people enjoy their freedom in safety and security. The other side is stained with the blood of heroes who sacrificed for that freedom. Those who live on the safe side seldom see the dark side.

20th Century Fox’s Act of Valor shows both sides of freedom with stunning realism. Act of Valor uses active duty SEALS in a fictionalized account of an actual operation. The mission begins when members of SEAL team 7 uncover a terrorist threat to the U.S. The movie does not end until the men return home.

Battle scenes are depicted realistically, as are the sacrifices of those left behind. From the moment of deployment to the possibility of having a loved one make the ultimate sacrifice, family members are seen as the heroes they are.

Act of Valor is rated R for violence, death and profanity throughout. 
Review by Teddy James