Must See Movies and a Must Read Book

There are two movies (one currently playing and one to be released in December) that you need to put on your "must see" list. And there's a newly released biography you'll want to get from the library or purchase to read.

• The first is "One Night with the King," the biblical story of Esther who became Queen through a fascinating series of events and loyalty to God. You can find out more about the movie at http://www.8x.com/onenight/ This is not your typical, low budget Christian film-makers attempt to tell a biblical story. The cast boasts the presence of legendary actors Omar Sharif and Peter O'Toole. Tiffany Dupont plays the role of the Jewish Esther who rose to national prominence in the midst of Jewish oppression. God's placement and protection of Esther and His purpose for her life remind all of us that God is actively involved in the culture and simply wants His people to use their lives for His glory. Seasoned and respected movie critic, Michael Medved says this is "One of the most pro-Jewish movies I've seen in years. It's a handsome film, the production values are very high, the film is entertaining and inspiring....It looks like a much bigger budget production than it is. As somebody who tries to lead a religious, Jewish life it's a story we celebrate every year at Purim....I was stunned that a movie that is from a general market perspective has a deeper meaning behind it of Jewish teachings. It's a powerful testament of how the American Christian community loves the Jewish community. It's a love story to the Jewish people...Frankly if this had been produced by the Jewish community they would have been embarrassed to produce such a movie." Before you see the movie, read Esther's incredible story in the Old Testament. The movie is endorsed by the American Bible Society.

• The second movie will be released in early December. It's simply entitled "The Nativity Story". You can find out more details at www.thenativitystory.com. The movie is the incredible story of two people (Joseph & Mary), their enormous journey of faith and the "history defining" birth of Jesus Christ. The movie is produced and released by the nationally known and well respected New Line Cinema (Time Warner) company! Screenwriter, Mike Rich says: "We got the script into the hands of as many historians and theologians as possible. They have all helped elevate the authentic feel of this film, not only visually, but from a standpoint of culture and tradition." Here's a holiday suggestion. Invite your non-Christian, skeptical and seeker friends to the movie and go out for a cup of coffee afterward. Discuss why the story is so essential and important to Christ followers and the rest of the world. And by all means let them talk, question, and probe. Don't view them as your personal "evangelism project," just open the door for conversation and ask God to guide you.

• Neal Gabler has written the first biography of the legendary Walt Disney carrying the blessing and cooperation of the Walt Disney Company and the Disney family. It's entitled, "Walt Disney: The Triumph of the American Imagination." In one review, the author stated that one of Disney's daughters, Diane wanted to make sure the book didn't gloss over her father's faults, but to show the real Walt Disney. Syndicated columnist Cal Thomas' review of the book notes: "Forty years after his death in December 1966, the name Disney exemplifies safety and security for children and parents looking for wholesome entertainment. He may not have invented the the term 'family values,' but he perfected an art form through which he was able to transmit stories that American hearts enthusiastically received."

These three media offerings provide a ray of light in the middle of a dark culture and society. It's refreshing to see some pleasant alternatives to the non-stop violent, sex-saturated, amoral values that Hollywood continues to produce, market and sell! Being "in the culture" doesn't mean we have to accept or swallow everything that comes down the pike. It also doesn't mean that organized campaigns and protests are the best way to get through to those responsible for such entertainment options. Perhaps the best way is for Christ-followers to support healthy and redemptive media offerings. Record amounts of money at the box office on such redemptive, wholesome offerings will speak louder than any organized protest!