Noble and Happy Easter

As millions across the land celebrate this Easter holiday in various ways today, I want to share my thoughts on an inspiring DVD movie I recently watched.

NOBLE, A Dream Can Change A Million Lives

Christina Noble grew up a poor child in Ireland, but made a tremendous difference as an adult in Vietnam.

Losing her mother at a young age, Christina and her siblings were placed in an orphanage when her father couldn’t care for them. As she grew up, Christina continued to face various hardships, but was determined not to give up. While she couldn’t always understand why things were happening to her, she never gave up her faith.

Following a dream she had as a young woman, Christina traveled to Vietnam where she struggled to make a difference for the street children. She overcame barriers to aid the children that she was once like.

This true story show’s one woman’s determination to make a difference and the vision she created. The stunning setting drives home the gripping tale. Christina’s story is one of inspiration, hope and dedication.

The core actors (Deirdre O’Kane, Sarah Greene, Brendan Coyle, Liam Cunningham, and Ruth Negg) do a superb job bringing the story to the screen. Their performances will tug on your heartstrings. Viewers also get a glimpse of the real Christina Noble at the end of the movie.

NOBLE is a compelling, heartbreaking, compassionate, inspiring and determined story of a fearless Irish heroine with a human spirit that couldn’t be broken. This moving movie is rated PG-13, but is one the whole family can watch and learn from.

Noble, A Dream Can Change A Million Lives, directed by Stephen Bradley, Studio: Word Films P&D, @2016, 1 DVD Format Disc, Rated PG-13, ASIN: BO1AJZ8E3A, Run Time: 100 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this DVD was sent to me 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 for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out the movie NOBLE. I’m never quite sure what to include in a movie review other than to say it’s one you should watch. Do you enjoy watching movies based on true stories of inspiration?

For those celebrating Easter today, I wish you and your families a safe, happy and joyous outing with much love, family and friendship to surround you. HAPPY EASTER!!

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

A Day at the Movies

Sometimes we need a short break from reading to let our minds wander and focus on something else. Today I have two movies that are out on DVD that I’d like to share with you for a change of pace.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: THE DANCE

When Calls the Heart is a wonderful television series inspired by the writings of Janette Oke. This feature length film is taken from that series and is suitable for the entire family’s viewing pleasure.

Elizabeth Thatcher (played by Erin Krakow) is busy teaching youngsters in the mining town of Coal Valley. When a group of bachelor miners come to town to re-open the mine, one sees Elizabeth as a potential wife.

Local Monty Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) views the miner as trouble, as well as competition for Elizabeth’s attention even though Jack won’t admit it out loud. When items begin to disappear from the residents’ homes, Jack believes he knows the culprit. At a dance to celebrate the miners’ arrival, Jack puts his plan to catch the thief into motion.

Meanwhile, other residents in the town are adjusting to the new miners in different ways.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: The Dance is a wholesome, feel-good movie suitable for all ages. The movie blends romance, suspense and mystery with touches of humor for a well-balanced story.

When Calls the Heart: The Dance by Frontier Productions LLC (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Written by Ken Lazebnik and Sheryl J. Anderson, Directed by Anne Wheeler, ASIN: B00KSON3L6, Run Time: 87 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from a tour promoter 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.

THE PERFECT SUMMER

Life changes drastically for 17-year-old Jake (played by Adam Horner) and his mother Alyssa (Sydney Penny) when they move from Chicago to a coastal town to live with Alyssa’s father Lou (Eric Roberts). Jake is still bitter and unsettled following the death of his father.

There is little for Jake to do in the small town where Wi-Fi can only be found at a local shop. The owner of the shop, Cody (Jason Castro of American Idol fame) takes to Jake and looks out for him. Jake also makes friends with Kayla (Katie Garfield), a pretty young surfer, which causes trouble with her ex (J.D. Banks).

Surfing is the main attraction in the area and what all the kids do. Jake learns his grandfather is a surfing legend. As his grandfather teaches him to surf, he also teaches him some important lessons about life.

This is an inspiring and uplifting story suitable for the whole family. It deals with compassion, understanding, courage and hope. Viewers are also treated to some amazing surfing scenes in THE PERFECT SUMMER.

The Perfect Summer by Up Entertainment (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Written by Nathan Scoggins and Gary Wheeler, Directed by Gary Wheeler, ASIN: B00DQ6S5OS, Run Time: 120 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from a tour promoter 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 for stopping by today. I’m including the trailers for both of these films to entice you a bit more to check them out. What was the last movie you watched on DVD? Do you usually wait for a film to come out on DVD before watching it or had you rather go to the movie theatre to watch it?

*This post contains affiliate links.

 

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. 

When Calls the Heart: Lost & Found, plus a Giveaway

You may recall back in December I reviewed a DVD entitled WHEN CALLS THE HEART and noted that the Hallmark Channel was debuting a series of the same name.

Well, the series debuted on the Hallmark Channel to more than 3 million viewers. I recently had the opportunity to view WHEN CALLS THE HEART: LOST AND FOUND, a feature length film from the first two episodes of the series.
In addition, thanks to Elliott and the nice folks at Edify Media Inc., I have a copy of this enjoyable DVD to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for the giveaway details.  

This movie, as well as the series, is based on the bestselling books by Janette Oke. 

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: LOST AND FOUND

Accustomed to living in high society, Elizabeth Thatcher finds life in the mining town of Coal Valley harsh and challenging. As a young teacher, Elizabeth discovers her students are not the only ones learning life’s lessons.

The town and the mining company have suffered a great loss when an explosion in the mine kills the foreman and a dozen or so men. To make matters worse, the widows will soon be evicted from the company houses to make room for new miners. Determined not to lose anything else, the widows go to work in the mine.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth tries to find another way to help the women keep their homes. She learns that with determination and the help of friends, one can overcome hardships.

The story blends a bit of romance and humor with the arrival of Constable Jack Thornton. When he learns who Elizabeth’s father is, Jack believes he has been sent to Coal Valley just to watch over her keeping him from a career path more exciting.

Based on the novel, When Calls the Heart by Janette Oke, this movie is heartwarming and inspiring. It will tug on your heartstrings and make you laugh.

The performances of the cast draws the viewer in. The main actors – Erin Krakow (Elizabeth), Daniel Lissing (Jack) and Lori Loughlin (Abigail Stanton, the foreman’s widow) – do a wonderful job in their portrayals. Director Michael Landon Jr. does a fine job bringing the story to screen and Brian Bird does a delightful job writing and producing.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: LOST AND FOUND begins a bit different than where When Calls the Heart ended. The biggest difference is in this story Elizabeth and Jack are not friends to begin with and must come to know one another before beginning a friendship.

This is a charming movie that the entire family can enjoy together. 

When Calls The Heart: Lost & Found by Word Films (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Based on the book by Janette Oke, Directed by Michael Landon Jr., Run Time: 89 Minutes


FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD and a copy to give away from the DVD promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy and giveaway copy did not influence my review.

First, let me share some information about the director, the writer/producer, 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.

Brian Bird- Writer/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.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

This giveaway is for one DVD copy of WHEN CALLS THE HEART: LOST AND FOUND. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. only. 

To enter the giveaway, click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. It make take a bit for the widget to appear, please be patient.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thanks so much for visiting today. What was the last DVD you watched?

When Calls The Heart and a Giveaway

Note: The winner of this giveaway is Ann @ Cozy in Texas. Congratulations. Thanks to all that entered.
 
This time of the year, thoughts go to family and friends. I recently watched a delightful DVD – WHEN CALLS THE HEART - that embodies this, as well as finding love and following one’s heart.

Thanks to Elliott and the nice folks at Edify Media Inc., I have a copy of this enjoyable DVD to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for the giveaway details. 

This movie is based on the bestselling books by Janette Oke. The movie 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 (coming out in January 2014 on the Hallmark Channel).

WHEN CALLS THE HEART

How often have you read a book and thought it would make a fun movie? WHEN CALLS THE HEART, based on a book by bestselling author Jeanette Oke, is now a heartwarming movie on DVD.

The story follows two generations and their desire to follow their calling – to be teachers. The story is told with flashbacks via entries from a diary.

Elizabeth Thatcher (played by Poppy Drayton) is a cultured young woman in 1910 who wants to teach school. When given the chance to teach out west, she gathers strength from a secret diary belonging to her Aunt Elizabeth (played by Maggie Grace). Her aunt’s journey to teach in the west gives Elizabeth the courage to accept the position in a frontier coal mining town.

On her journey to her new job, Elizabeth reconnects with Edward (played by Daniel Sharman), a family friend who has become a Royal Canadian Mountie. Much like her aunt who fell in love with Wynn (played by Stephen Amell), also a Mountie, Elizabeth discovers love sometimes finds you when you least expect it.

The actors do a wonderful job in their portrayals. Director Michael Landon Jr. does an amazing job bringing the story to screen.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART is a tender love story that will inspire. The story flows smoothly and at a steady pace. However, those looking for a nice tidy ending will be a bit disappointed. The movie concludes with a few lose ends, but is well worth the viewing.

When Calls The Heart by Word Films (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Based on the book by Janette Oke, Directed by Michael Landon Jr., Run Time: 89 Minutes 

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

First, 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.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS …..

This giveaway is for one DVD copy of WHEN CALLS THE HEART. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. only.

To enter this giveaway, just send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win When Calls the Heart.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The contest is open to residents of the U.S. only and no post office box addresses can be accepted. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win a copy of the WHEN CALLS THE HEART DVD is 8 p.m. (EST) on Wednesday, Dec. 18.

Now here’s a movie trailer for WHEN CALLS THE HEART for your viewing pleasure. Thanks so much for stopping by today.

Movies That Inspire

When it comes to reviewing movies, I’m never really sure what to share. However, today I have two movies on DVD I want to tell you about with the main recommendation being - BE SURE TO WATCH THEM!

Both of these movies are appropriate for the entire family and I’d recommend watching them as a family unit. Much can be discussed about each. Both are good lead-ins to discuss social issues, disease, carrying for fellow humans, and compassion.

The first movie was inspired by true stories and the second is a documentary of a Georgia high school football coach. 

CAMP

Fair warning, it would be a good idea to have a box of tissue handy when you watch CAMP, released last month on DVD by Word Films.

This is a heart-wrenching story that deals with abused and neglected children. It tells of a camp where these youngsters get to feel loved, needed and respected (for many, the first time) for a week. 

CAMP tells the story of 10-year-old Eli (played by Miles Elliott) who has been neglected and abused by his parents most of his life. It also deals with a pompous financial advisor always working an angle to make money. To snag a wealthy client who helps sponsor the camp, the advisor Ken Matthew (played by Michael Mattera) volunteers to be a camp counselor for the week.

Ken is ill-equipped to be a counselor and could really care less about Eli, the child he’s been partnered with. In time the two do bond and camp becomes a healing place for both.

The move and the actors make a tremendous statement about the problems youngsters like this deal with. For me, knowing these stories the various youth portrayed were based on real events broke my heart. At the same time, learning what the CAMP offers these youngsters gave me hope.

A the close of the movie, real counselors talk about actual children’s stories and what the CAMP has done for them. CAMP is an emotional movie depicting the anger and betrayal these youngsters face daily. It’s also a movie of hope, faith, and determination to help foster youngsters overcome these adversities.

CAMP is an inspiring movie for the entire family and has been awarded the Dove Foundation’s ‘Family-Approved’ Seal.

For more information about CAMP, Royal Family KIDS, Inc. and more, visit www.campthemovie.com  

Camp by Word Films (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Written and Directed by Jacob Roebuck, Rated PG-13, Run Time: 111 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

*** SIDENOTE: The producers of CAMP are donating $3 from each copy of CAMP sold before September 30 to Royal Family KIDS, a non-profit that serves as the nation’s leading network of camps for abused, neglected and abandoned children *** 

SEASON OF A LIFETIME

 

Football is an important element of life for many, especially in numerous small towns across the nation. But when football goes hand and hand with inspiration, faith, and courage, then it takes on a whole new perspective for me. 

SEASON OF A LIFETIME was released last month on DVD by World Films. This joint venture between Endorphin Entertainment and Fisheye Media Productions details the courage and inspiration of Jeremy Williams, the head football coach of the Greenville Patriots in a small Southern Georgia town with a population of approximately 1,000.

Coming off a winning season, Williams knew the next year would be a bit more difficult having lost most of his best players to graduation. What Williams would soon learn was he would also face his own personal struggles when he is diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease). Rather than retire, Williams decided against doctors’ recommendation and his deteriorating health to coach one more season in 2010.

The cameras follow Williams as he molds his rookie players into shape in their quest for the Georgia state championship. In addition, the documentary shows the toll the ALS takes on Williams and his family. It also shows his resilience to forge ahead with faith and his family.

A clip is also included from an episode of Extreme Makeover Home Edition where the show gave the Williams family a new wheelchair-friendly home. Williams’ son has spinal bifida and is also confined to a wheelchair.

The movie shows the strength and courage of not only Williams and his family, but the entire community which came together for a fund raising event to benefit ALS research in Williams’ honor. In addition, Williams instills faith and courage in his players, many of whom are underprivileged and look to their coach as a father figure.

Finishing the season and showing this team they can overcome obstacles in their path, Williams retired from coaching. SEASON OF A LIFETIME weaves faith, hope, family, friends, determination, courage, and strength into a story of inspiration on and off the football field. 

For more information about Williams, his team and more, visit http://seasonofalifetime.tv/.

Season of a Lifetime by Word Films (Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb Company), Endorphin Entertainment and Fisheye Media Productions, Run Time: 89 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - I received this DVD from the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Thanks for dropping by today and visiting. I hope I’ve done these stories justice and enticed you to at least check them out a bit more. If you do watch either or both of these movies, please let me know what you think. Now turn on the microwave and get the popcorn going. BTW, there are movie trailers for each of these DVDs on their websites to give you an even better idea of what they are about.