Going to the Movies {+ Giveaway}

Today I’m taking a break from sharing books with you and instead invite you to go to the movies with me.

I have three faith-based DVDs I’d like to tell you about. The movies each feature a different type of plot, but all deal with hope, faith and overcoming the odds. With recent events around our nation and throughout the world, I thought a little inspiration and hope might be in order.

I’m not a movie reviewer. I’m only sharing my thoughts on each DVD and hope you will check them out yourself.

◊ AWAKENED THE MOVIE

◊ Number of Discs: 1

◊ Format: Color, NTSC

◊ Run Time: 107 minutes

◊ Program Type: DVD

◊ Genre: Drama, Horror, Faith-based

◊ Rated: Unrated

◊ Studio: World Films P&D

◊ DVD Release Date: May 3, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1DTMR35A

SYNOPSIS:

         

Newspaper reporter Jacob Harker (Rob Boltin) loses his job, forcing he and his wife, Haley (Gwendolyn Edwards), to move into a small rental house owned by Webster Cain (Michael Monks). In the process of moving in, Jacob discovers a discarded audio recording of 60’s blues singer Carol James (Hannah Hughes). Captivated by the voice on the recording, Jacob becomes haunted by an evil spirit. While the spirit seductively persuaders Jacob, drawing him deeper and deeper into its own malicious plot, the spirit attacks and terrorizes Haley, creating both fear and distrust in the Harker’s home.

Haley sees her husband turning into someone less recognizable each day. How can a marriage survive such attack, deception, and evil? Can the faith of one help restore the condition of another?

MY THOUGHTS:

This is a story of losing one’s way and how easy it can sometimes be to let evil into our hearts and lives.

Whether you believe in evil spirits or not, this movie demonstrates how easily we can be lead astray. The movie shows how doubt can play a major role in our lives. However, it also shows how faith, love and determination can overcome despair.

The actors did a good job of bringing the emotions to life. The movie deals with the issues in a positive manner. While not a huge major production, the movie has heart and relays a message of hope, inspiration and forgiveness.

Awakened The Movie by Word Entertainment LLC, A Curb Company; Written by Eugene Cuevas; Directed by Eugene Cuevas and Brian R. Reed; Produced by Michael Stiles and Scott Perkins; ASIN: B01DTMR35A; Run Time: 107 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from Edify Media, Inc. in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

*You can see a trailer of AWAKENED by clicking HERE.

◊ CHASING GRACE

◊ Number of Discs: 1

◊ Format: Color, NTSC

◊ Program Type: DVD

◊ Genre: Drama, Faith-based

◊ Rated: Unrated

◊ Studio: World Films P&D

◊ DVD Release Date: May 3, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1CUJ8GUE

SYNOPSIS:

         

A tragic accident threatens to destroy a pastor’s family and sets into motion a complex betrayal between two brothers, while exposing secrets no one wants to face.

          Pastor Jonathan Matheson (Michael Joiner) lives in a world of black and white, yet finds a way to navigate the “grey in-between” to work to his advantage, while facing one of the most tragic moments of his life. Set in small-town America and woven inside a tale of redemption, “Chasing Grace” is a story of how one family takes on the burden of guilt in order to make sense of their loss. While pointing the finger of blame at his brother, Pastor Jonathan also chooses to hide from the truth while trying to escape his own personal demons.

 “Chasing Grace” is loosely based upon true events and provides a powerful story about the redeeming power of forgiveness.

MY THOUGHTS:

The accidental death of a child is the catalyst that sends family members spiraling in different directions. The movie deals with forgiveness and how people handle it while not facing their own issues.

Dealing with alcoholism, violence, revenge and grief, the movie shows how model families can be dysfunctional underneath their perfect exterior. It shows how secrets and lies build and take on a life of their own until they destroy.

The message of forgiveness comes through as the family copes with the loss in their own flawed way.

Chasing Grace by Word Entertainment LLC, A Curb Company; Written and Directed by David Temple; ASIN: B01CUJ8GUE

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from Edify Media, Inc. in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

*You can see a trailer of CHASING GRACE by clicking HERE.

◊ LIVING HOPE

◊ Number of Discs: 1

◊ Format: Color, NTSC

◊ Run Time: 90 minutes

◊ Program Type: DVD

◊ Genre: Spirituality, Faith, Documentary

◊ Rated: Unrated

◊ Studio: World Films P&D

◊ DVD Release Date: March 1, 2016

◊ Language: English

◊ ASIN: BO1ARYO2XS

SYNOPSIS:

EVEN IN THE DARKNESS OF DESPAIR, THERE IS HOPE

LIVING HOPE is the story of three extraordinary individuals who have devoted their lives to serving the poor in South Africa. It is a feature length documentary created by filmmakers behind Journey to Everest, Apostles of Comedy, and Honoring a Father’s Dream: Sons of Lwala.

JOHN THOMAS, a pastor who is leading his church to serve the sick, hungry, and dying in the communities that surround them. Journey beside John through the neighborhoods where they work, meet the people their ministry has impacted and hear from his heart why they chose to make a stand for the poor.

JOEY LANKFORD, a businessman and father of four who moved his young family from the United States to Cape Town. Journey beside Joey as he equips men and women with job skills, and leads them out of the bondage of poverty.

LEONIE RUSTIN, a single mom and nursing assistant, who turned from a life of crippling drug addiction to follow Christ. Journey beside Leonie as she attempts to help others in her community unshackle the chains of addiction and prostitution.

MY THOUGHTS:

These three stories show how a few individuals can have such a huge impact on the lives of so many.

These individuals have surrendered their lives to help the less fortunate in South Africa. Their work inspires and gives hope to those in despair. The DVD shows how their efforts have touches so many.

The movie explores how these individuals – coming from different backgrounds – make a difference daily and why. The movie shows the depth of need in the area where they are. The stories will touch and remain with you long after the movie ends.

Living Hope by Word Entertainment LLC, A Curb Company; Narrated by Joel Smallbone; Written by Mitchell Galin and David Kiern; Directed by David Kiern; Produced by Mitchell Galin and David Kiern; ASIN: B01ARYO2XS; Run Time: 90 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from Edify Media, Inc. in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

Thanks to Elliott and the wonderful folks at Edify Media, I have a DVD to giveaway. The winner will select which one of the three DVDs featured they want. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. only and will end at 12 a.m. (EST) on Sunday, June 26.

To enter the giveaway, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load so please be patient. A winner will be selected by the Rafflecopter widget and I’ll send an email with the subject line “Thoughts in Progress Giveaway.” The winner will have 72 hours to reply to the email or another winner will be selected. PLEASE be sure to check your spam folder from time to time after the giveaway ends to make sure the notification email doesn’t end up there. If you win and you’ve already won the book somewhere else or you just decided for whatever reason you don’t want to win (which is fine), once again PLEASE let me know.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out these fascinating DVDs. Do you enjoy a story or movie that inspires you and gives hope? Do you have a favorite movie that has inspired you?

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Vampire Diaries vs. The Originals {+ Giveaway}

It’s the Labor Day weekend holiday in the U.S. and I hope everyone is having a safe and wonderful time. To celebrate I have the pleasure of being able to offer you an amazing giveaway featuring two of the CW’s most loved shows… The Vampire Diaries: The Complete Sixth Season and The Originals: The Complete Second Season.  

The giveaway is for either The Vampire Diaries (The Complete Sixth Season) or The Originals (The Complete Second Season). The actual prize will be chosen at random by Warner Home Video. Please see the end of the post for more details.

To give you a bit more insight into these two series, there are four exclusive interviews with the creator of The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, Julie Plec. These super fan videos feature Julie confessing her favorite moments and top 5 episodes from the recent seasons of both The Vampire Diaries (The Complete Sixth Season) and The Originals (The Complete Second Season).

There’s also a fun “Viewing Party Eats: Recipes to Satisfy Friends and Enemies” downloadable PDF that’s sure to impress. With index card recipes and party-ready place cards included, it’s easy to prep some snacks to satisfy during your marathon watch-party. 

Here’s a fun “Could You Be a Supernatural Being?” Quiz to find out if you have what it takes to be a creature of the night. 

• Scroll through all the images from the shows and come back every week for new unlocked content.


About The Vampire Diaries (The Complete Sixth Season):

The Vampire Diaries continues its sixth season with more delicious drama to sink your teeth into. In season five, after a passionate summer with Damon, Elena headed to Whitmore College with Caroline, not knowing Bonnie sacrificed her life for Jeremy’s. Meanwhile, Stefan and Caroline’s friendship deepened as they stood up to the Travelers, a nomadic witch tribe driven to strip Mystic Falls of magic and cast out its supernatural residents. In the shocking season finale, Damon, fearing he would lose his loved ones on the crumbling Other Side, made a huge sacrifice to bring them all back — with catastrophic and heartbreaking results. Season six follows the characters’ journey back to each other as they explore the duality of good versus evil inside themselves. Matt Davis reprises his role as Alaric Saltzman, recently returned from The Other Side. Plus, the season will make you misty-eyed as the departure of a major character will turn lives upside down and leave us asking what happened to Mystic Falls.

Own The Vampire Diaries (The Complete Sixth Season) now on Blu-ray, DVD & Digital HD. Contains All 22 Episodes from the Sixth Season plus Two Featurettes, An Audio Commentary, the 2014 Comic-Con Panel, Deleted Scenes, And a Gag Reel.

You can find The Vampire Diaries on Facebook and Twitter. 

About The Originals (The Complete Second Season):

As Original vampire-werewolf hybrid Klaus Mikaelson returned to the vibrant, supernaturally charged city of New Orleans in season one, he was stunned to learn — along with his siblings Elijah and Rebekah — that Hayley, a werewolf, was pregnant with his child, and his vampire protégé, Marcel, whom the Original siblings had thought long dead, was ruling the French Quarter. Soon, a bloody war escalated between vampires and witches — the stakes raised by powerful teenage witch Davina and by Klaus’s bond with Cami, a student with a painful past — and a ruthless pack of wolves seized the opportunity to stage a violent coup. Now, in season two, a new status quo must be adjusted to, as the newly empowered werewolves control the city. Klaus struggles with weaknesses as Elijah desperately tries to save Hayley — now a hybrid — from a vicious spiral of self-destruction. Meanwhile, with the re-emergence of several Mikaelsons, “family is power” takes on new meaning.

Own The Originals (The Complete Second Season) now on Blu-ray, DVD & Digital HD. Contains All 22 Episodes from the Second Season plus Never-Before-Seen Featurettes and much more!

You can find The Originals on Facebook and Twitter. 

Julie Plec answers questions about The Originals (The Complete Second Season).


Julie answers questions about The Vampire Diaries (The Complete Sixth Season).


The Top 5 ‘Must Watch’ episodes of The Originals (The Complete Second Season) with Julie.


The Top 5 ‘Must Watch’ episodes of The Vampire Diaries (The Complete Sixth Season) with Julie.


GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

The giveaway is for either The Vampire Diaries (The Complete Sixth Season) or The Originals (The Complete Second Season). The actual prize will be chosen at random by Warner Home Video. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada and no post office box addresses can be accepted. The giveaway will end at 12 a.m. (EST) on Monday, Sept. 14.

To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load so please be patient.

Each household is only eligible to win (1) The Vampire Diaries Season 6 or The Originals Season 2 chosen at random via blog reviews and giveaways. Only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

FTC Full Disclosure –The assets included within this message were delivered to me to promote Warner Home Video. I am working with Warner Home Video and they will provide the giveaway item.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. Hope you’re having a great holiday. Which DVD would you like to win if you could select?

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The Flintstones & WWE Stone Age Smackdown Giveaway

If you are of a certain age, you probably grew up watching the Flintstones cartoon laughing at the antics of Fred, Barney and the rest of the gang.

Well it seems Fred and the gang are still around and up to a new adventure involving the WWE. Thanks to Warner Home Video and the good folks at PartnersHub, I have a Blu=ray+DVD Comb Pack of The Flintstones &WWE Stone Age Smackdown to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for more details.

About The Flintstones and WWE: Stone Age Smackdown

When Fred loses his family's vacation money, he hatches one of his hair brained plans to get it back. It's a sports entertainment spectacle that involves throwing his best bud, Barney into the wrestling ring with the likes of John Cenastone (John Cena), Rey Mysteriopal (Rey Mysterio) and even The Undertaker, with Fred himself as event promoter! 

The crowds roar, the "clams" are pouring in from ticket sales and even Mr. McMagma (Vince McMahon) is taking notice of all the hoopla. Including all-star appearances from The Boulder Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) Marble Henry (Mark Henry) and Daniel Bry-Rock (Daniel Bryan), it's time to get the whole family together for hard-hitting, side-splitting laughs from the most epic event in all of prehistory! #FlintstonesWWE

The Flintstones & WWE Stone Age Smackdown is available on Blu-ray Combo, DVD and Digital HD.


 

• Take the quiz to find out which Flintstones & WWE Stone Age Smackdown Star YOU are? 

• Download the fun activities - and do them together as a family while you watch the film at home. 

• Watch the official trailer & click the box art to bring the film home today! 

Take the quiz and leave a comment with your Stone Age Smackdown Star alter-ego! You can also find the Flintstones on Twitter with the hashtag #FlintstonesWWE for more fun and entertainment.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

 
This giveaway is for one Blu-ray+DVD Comb Pack of The Flintstones & WWE Stone Age Smackdown. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only and no post office box addresses can be accepted. This giveaway has a short run and will end at 12 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25. 

To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and following the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient. The winner from this giveaway will have 48 hours to respond after being contacted or another winner will be selected. The email will have ‘Thoughts in Progress: The Flintstones” in the subject line, just so you know what to watch for (in case it goes into your spam folder).

FTC Full Disclosure –The assets included within this message were delivered to me to promote Warner Home Video. I am working with Warner Home Video and they will provide the giveaway item. Each household is only eligible to win One (1) The Flintstones and WWE: Stone Age Smackdown Blu-Ray Combo Pack via blog reviews and giveaways. Only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. Did you watch The Flintstones when you were growing up? What was your favorite cartoon?

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Noah and Why Do We Call It Christmas {+ Giveaways}

Discovering new books and DVDs for youngsters is always fun. Today I’m sharing my thoughts on an amazing picture book and a charming DVD that will delight not just the youngsters, but the entire family.

Thanks to the wonderful folks at Propeller Consulting, LLC, I have a copy of each (a book and a DVD) to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for more giveaway details. Now for my thoughts.

NOAH: A Wordless Picture Book by Mark Ludy

The story of Noah and the great flood has been told throughout the ages, but author/illustrator Mark Ludy tells it in a new way with his wordless picture book.

Following the biblical narrative, Ludy explores the relationship of Noah and his family as they prepare for the great flood. The story follows as the rain falls and the aftermath of God’s plan.

The beautiful, vivid drawings tell the story without words. The captivating illustrations draws you in quickly. As you turn the pages, you become immersed in the story and forget there are no words.

A fun bonus is finding Squeakers the mouse on every page. The tiny mouse isn’t as easy to locate as you might think.

NOAH is a stunning picture book that will become a favorite of the whole family. This delightful book says so much without a word. Enchanting and mesmerizing, this book will entertain and inspire youngsters of all ages.

Noah: A Wordless Picture Book by Mark Ludy, Plough Publishing, @2014, ISBN: 978-0874866391, Hardcover, 64 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mark Ludy has written or illustrated eight children’s books including The Farmer, The Flower Man, The Grump, When I Was a Boy I Dreamed, When I Was a Girl I Dreamed, and Jujo the Youngest Tribesman. When he’s not immersed in his sketchbooks, you’ll find him in schools promoting art and literacy. 

He lives in Colorado with his wife, daughter, and two sons.

For more on Mark and his writing, visit his website and visit the official NOAH website.

BUCK DENVER ASKS…WHY DO WE CALL IT CHRISTMAS?

If your youngsters (or yourself) enjoys the VeggieTales, then you’ll be delighted by what creator Phil Vischer does in the DVD, BUCK DENVER ASKS…WHY DO WE CALL IT CHRISTMAS?

Vischer introduces viewers to intrepid newsman Buck Denver and his friends as they discover Christmas and its meaning. They explore the story of Christmas, not the Christmas story.

This quirky story is entertaining and informative as Buck seeks answers to why we cut down trees, why we hanging stockings and how Santa Claus become a part of the season. The gang also explores what is Hanukkah, who is Emmanuel and much, much more.

This delightful DVD will have you smiling within minutes and be a fun way to talk to your youngsters about the questions they may have concerning Christmas, the birth of Jesus and Santa Claus.

Buck Denver Asks…Why Do We Call It Christmas?, Jellyfish Labs, @2011, ASIN: B005FQZMK2, Rated G (General Audience), Run Time: 60 Minutes. 

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this DVD was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

To learn more about this charming DVD, visit the official website and watch the DVD trailer HERE.

DVD GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

This giveaway is for one print copy of BUCK DENVER ASKS…WHY DO WE CALL IT CHRISTMAS?. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only and will end Sunday, Nov. 23.

To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and following the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient. The winner from this giveaway will have 72 hours to respond after being contacted or another winner will be selected. The email will have ‘Thoughts in Progress Buck Denver DVD’ in the subject line, just so you know what to watch for (in case it goes into your spam folder).

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

NOAH GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

This giveaway is for one print copy of NOAH: A WORDLESS PICTURE BOOK. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only and will end Sunday, Nov. 23.

To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and following the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient. The winner from this giveaway will have 72 hours to respond after being contacted or another winner will be selected. The email will have ‘Thoughts in Progress Noah Picture Book’ in the subject line, just so you know what to watch for (in case it goes into your spam folder).

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope you’re safe and warm and having a wonderful Saturday. Remember with Christmas just over a month away, this book and DVD would also make great gifts. What are your thoughts on picture books? Are you a VeggieTales fan?

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Second Chances Can Make A Difference {+ Giveaway}

Enjoying a wide variety of movies, like books, can be entertaining especially if the movies are inspiring. I especially like finding movies that the whole family, including youngsters, can watch together.

Today I want to tell you about three DVDs I recently watched that are appropriate for all ages and reminds us that sometimes we all need a second chance. After each review, I’m going to include a bit about the directors, producers, writers and such to give you some more background.

Thanks to the wonderful Elliott at Edify Media, Inc., one lucky visitor to Thoughts in Progress can win one of these DVDs (their choice of title). Please see the end of the post for more details on the giveaway. In addition, I’ll include a trailer for each movie to give you an even better look to help you decide which one you’d like to win.

First up is the latest movie in a series of movies I’ve shared with you, followed by a sports-theme movie that’s a little behind the season but can still be applied no matter the game, and ending with a movie that deals with believing in one’s family despite hard times and hardships.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: SECOND CHANCES

Once again a charming movie has been produced from the television series, When Calls the Heart, inspired by the writings of Janette Oke. This time around several townspeople in Coal Valley are hoping for second chances.

Local Mounty Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) is trying to figure out how to get back in the good graces of local school teacher Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow). He previously upset her concerning her almost involvement with a con man. They struggle to restore their friendship (and growing attraction) as Elizabeth helps a student with a learning disability and Jack assists the local townspeople with various issues.

Meanwhile, Abigail Stanton (Lori Loughlin) deals with getting on with her life without her husband and son, both killed in the mine accident. Abigail battles with whether to tackle a new challenge in her life and move from her home or remain stuck in the past.

Also dealing with second chances is Adam Miller, returning home after recovering from the mining accident. Adam has to learn to overcome his new disabilities to have a second chance at happiness with his family.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: SECOND CHANCES is heartwarming and inspiring. It’s a blend of people learning to deal with their problems and overcoming their hardships with a good dose of humor mixed in.

The actors do a wonderful job in their portrayals’. The setting is lovely and takes you back to a different way of life. This is a fun movie for the entire family to enjoy. 

When Calls the Heart: Second Chances by Frontier Productions LLC (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Written by Kim Beyer-Johnson and Jon Nappa, ASIN: BOOMEA938Y, Run Time: 85 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from Edify Media, Inc. in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

Director:
Michael Landon Jr., son of the late television legend Michael Landon, has been in the film business for over 25 years. With two of the highest rated films in the history of the Hallmark channel, and several top ten releases targeted to the Christian market, Michael has become known for creating heartfelt, inspiring films that connect to the family. He has developed and/or produced, directed, and written screenplays for Fox, CBS, NBC, Disney, Sony, Lifetime, and others.

Producer:
Brian Bird is co-founder with partner Michael Landon Jr., of Believe Pictures, a film and television production company. He was co-executive producer and writer on the successful television series, Touched by an Angel. Adding to Brian’s success, he had also written and produced episodes of Evening Shade, Step by Step and The Family Man. Most recently, Bird wrote and produced Gametime, a two-hour television pilot for NBC, The Shunning, inspired by the novel by best-selling author Beverly Lewis, for the Hallmark Channel, and Not Easily Broken, adapted from the novel by T.D. Jakes and released theatrically by Sony/TriStar.

About Word Entertainment:
A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

Every Boy Needs A HERO

Viewers of HERO learn obsessing to better one’s life can sometimes backfire causing you to lose the most important things.

Legendary small town baseball coach Joe Finn (Burgess Jenkins) left his family for a chance in the major leagues in hopes of making a better future for them. Returning home several years later just prior to his wife’s death, Joe learns he’s lost more than he ever gained.

Joe becomes determined to rebuild a relationship with his son David (Justin Miles), who is coaching an underdog little league team. Forming a new league, Joe and David try to work on their own issues while helping the team. Joe sees the importance of the parents’ involvement with their children and he works to bring them all together.

HERO is a movie that tugs on your heartstrings. It deals with loss, understanding and learning the importance of family. It shows how sports can be used to help a build bond between parent and child. 

The all-star cast blends humor and inspiration to present an entertaining and uplifting movie. The film also includes a musical score by Grammy winner, Michael Omartian.

You don’t have to be a baseball or sports fan to enjoy this delightful movie that is engaging for viewers of all ages.

Hero by Brightline Pictures and Advent Film Group and distributed by Capitol Christian Distribution, Directed by Manny Edwards, Run Time: 94 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from Edify Media, Inc. in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

About Capitol Christian Distribution:
Capitol Christian Distribution is the market leader in Christian and Gospel music distribution and represents a diverse range of chart-topping Christian films and books reaching the U.S. Christian and general retail marketplace, and the international Christian marketplace. Since this distribution division was launched, Capitol Christian has had more charting titles annually on Billboard’s Top Christian charts than any other Christian distributor and has been named Billboard Magazine’s Top Christian Music Distributor 15 times since 1995. For additional information, visit http://www.capitolchristiandistribution.com.

A LONG WAY OFF: Modern Day Story of Prodigal Son

A retelling of the classic Bible story of the Prodigal Son, A LONG WAY OFF gives a modern spin to the age-old father-son relationship.

Jake Abraham (Jason Burkey) and his brother Seth (Dave Blamy) work for their father (John Diehl), a successful produce farmer in North Carolina. Jake doesn’t care for the farm and wants more excitement in his life. Seth is content on the farm and works hard.

Having his fill of farm life, Jake asks for and is given his inheritance. He heads for the city to start a new life and make his fortune in the stock market. Jake soon learns that people aren’t always as they seem when he encounters an opportunistic temptress (Joanna Jowett) and her mysterious boyfriend (Robert Davi). He soon loses everything and fears for his life.

Down on his luck and living in a homeless shelter, Jake is given advice from a new friend. With nothing else to lose, Jake returns home to his father and family searching for unconditional love.

A LONG WAY OFF is a story of family, forgiveness, learning and acceptance. It deals with values and temptation. An inspiring movie the whole family can watch together.

A Long Way Off: Modern Day Story of Prodigal Son by ProdigalFilm LLC (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Co-Directed by Michael Davis and John Errington, Written by Jon Macy, ASIN: BOOJPO97MO, Run Time: 100 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from Edify Media, Inc. in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

About Word Entertainment: A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

MOVIE TRAILERS:

Now for the movie trailers. I’d like to share trailers from each of these DVDs for your entertaining pleasure.




GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

This giveaway is for one of these three DVDS. The winner select which movie they would like to receive. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. only and no post office box addresses can be accepted. The giveaway ends at 12 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 28.

To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out at least one or all of these charming movies. Do you have a favorite genre of movies you enjoy watching? What’s your favorite snack to enjoy while watching movies?

*This post contains affiliate links. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Movie Night {+ Giveaway}

From time to time it’s a nice change of pace to watch a movie that’s not all about special effects and never-ending battles for world survival action. It’s fun just to have a movie night without someone taking over the world.


I have two movies I want to tell you about that are more easy-going, yet very poignant in the messages they deliver.
Thanks to Elliott and the good folks at Edify Media Inc., one lucky visitor to Thoughts in Progress can win one of these DVDs. Please see the end of the post for the giveaway details.  

The first movie is WHEN CALLS THE HEART: A TELLING SILENCE. This movie is based on the bestselling books by Janette Oke. The original movie, WHEN CALLS THE HEART, played on The Hallmark Channel and was the number one movie of the week. In addition, it led to the first television series inspired by a Christian author (which began in January 2014 on the Hallmark Channel). You may recall I reviewed the first DVD, WHEN CALLS THE HEART, in December 2013 and the second, WHEN CALLS THE HEART: LOST AND FOUND, in March of this year. This is the third DVD of the series.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: A TELLING SILENCE

Teacher Elizabeth Thatcher (played by Erin Krakow) is busy with her students in the small mining town of Coal Valley. One student, Rosaleen (Mamie Laverock), hasn’t spoken since the mining tragedy that killer her father and many other miners and she’s frightened by a drunken miner. When the young girl goes missing, Elizabeth fears the worst as the town residents search in vain.

Meanwhile, a young boy has a crush on Elizabeth and holds the key to helping unravel an arson investigation.

The company pastor (Adrian Hough) is being pressured by the coal company owner to bring his congregation back from the Sunday meetings held by widow Cat Montgomery (Chelah Horsdal). The Rev. Anderson, believing his burned church is at the heart of the matter, asks Constable Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) to investigate. The Constable gets new help at the jail in the form of Rip, a loveable but lazy Basset Hound.

This film deals with family, friends, loyalty, and a community coming together. It’s a good mixture of suspense, mystery, hope, friendship, humor, and a touch of romance.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: A TELLING SILENCE is a movie the entire family can watch together and draw from its teachings. The scenery is beautiful and the costumes are realistic for the time period. The actors do a wonderful job bringing the characters to life.

This is a heartwarming, wholesome story that you will want to watch again and again.

When Calls The Heart: A Telling Silence by Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company, Based on the book by Janette Oke, Directed by Michael Landon Jr., Written by Ken Lazebnik and John Wierick, ASIN: B00J2G4ZJU, Run Time: 85 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from the DVD promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy and giveaway copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are solely my own, given honestly and without influence.

Now let me share some information about the director and the movie company.

Michael Landon Jr. – Director:
Michael Landon Jr., son of the late television legend Michael Landon, has been in the film business for over 25 years. With two of the highest rated films in the history of the Hallmark channel, and several top ten releases targeted to the Christian market, Michael has become known for creating heartfelt, inspiring films that connect to the family. He has developed and/or produced, directed, and written screenplays for Fox, CBS, NBC, Disney, Sony, Lifetime, and others.

About Word Entertainment:
A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

VEIL OF TEARS: HOPE IS ON THE WAY

Knowing very little about India and its culture, I found VEIL OF TEARS: HOPE IS ON THE WAY a fascinating and heartbreaking film.

This documentary details how women in India are persecuted simply for being female. In addition, this gripping film tells how some are reaching out trying to change these views toward women.

VEIL OF TEARS is a journey of persecution, abandonment, and tragedy mixed with glimpses of triumph.

Grammy-nominated recording artist Natalie Grant narrates this film. Shot on location across the beautiful landscape of India, this film takes viewers into some of the most remote tribal villages in the world. Viewers see the sharp contrast between how the wealthy of India live and those born in poverty. 

This is a heart-wrenching story that much be seen to be completely comprehended. Through despair there is hope in this amazing documentary.

Veil of Tears: Hope is on The Way by Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company, Narrated by Natalie Grant, Directed and produced by Kenny Saylors and Kyle Saylors, ASIN: B00J2G4ZEK, Run Time: 90 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from the DVD promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy and giveaway copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are solely my own, given honestly and without influence.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

This giveaway is for one DVD of either of these films. The winner will select which DVD they want. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and will end Monday, June 30.

To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and following the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, so please be patient. The winner from this giveaway will have 72 hours to respond after being contacted or another winner will be selected. The email will have ‘Thoughts in Progress DVD Giveaway’ in the subject line, just so you know what to watch for (in case it goes into your spam folder).
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have you been watching the When Calls the Heart series on Hallmark Channel? Have you been keeping up with the troubles in India?

Here is a trailer for VEIL OF TEARS to help better understand what the film represents, as well as a trailer for WHEN CALLS THE HEART for your viewing.




*This post contains affiliate links.

**SIDE NOTE: Author Megan Abbott was scheduled to visit today, but was unable to. We hope to reschedule her visit in the very near future.