Quickie Movie Review: "Frozen"

Rated: PG for some action and mild rude humor
Starring: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, and Jonathan Groff
Released: November 27, 2013 (theaters)

Synopsis: Princess Elsa (Idina Menzel, Enchanted) was born with the power to freeze things and make ice...but, an accident that nearly leads to the death of her sister Anna (Kristen Bell, Veronica Mars) makes her ashamed of her power, and causes her to steer clear of her only sibling.  At Elsa's coronation, Anna announces that she wants to marry Hans (Santino Fontana), even though she'd only known him for one day, which makes Elsa so upset that her powers become out of control, causing the entire world to be frozen.  Anna knows that Elsa is the only one who can put a stop to the worldwide freeze...but will Elsa figure out how in time?
Based on "The Snow Queen" by Hans Christian Andersen.

My Review: This movie has been heralded as a return to classic Disney form.  As I was watching this movie, I was preparing my review to go something like this: "I know this is contrary to popular opinion, but I thought this movie was a travesty.  Though the animation is amazing, great graphics no longer make a movie good.  The musical numbers are overdone; the Mickey Mouse cartoon at the start is both overly long and inane; and, the film itself goes on for too long.  I know it's Disney, and people would expect me to like it, but most people don't realize that I like the Mouse House's live-action productions, such as Flubber, Sky High, and George of the Jungle, not to mention the various sitcoms on the Disney Channel."  However, even though I was a bit frustrated at times, the ending made my heart soar, and not just in a thank-goodness-it's-over kind of way.  Despite my annoyances with the film, I think the House of Mouse has done this one right.

Content Concerns:

• Sex: A couple of brief kisses. 4.5/5
• Nudity: Elsa and Anna both wear off-the-shoulder dresses. 4.5/5
• Language: Two uses of the term "butt". 4.5/5
• Violence: Comedic violence and fantasy violence are both present here.  Two people die in a shipwreck; mishaps with Elsa's powers lead to several near-death incidents; a man is punched in the face for being a jerk; cartoon violence is seen throughout the Mickey Mouse cartoon that precedes the film. 2.75/5
• Drugs: A guy is seen with a glass of wine. 4.5/5
• Frightening/Intense Scenes: Along with the deaths and near-deaths, a snow monster chases some of the characters. 3/5
• Other: Some people may have trouble with the usage of magic in the film.  Also, both the film itself and at least one of the previews preceding it make reference to flatulence. 4/5

Movie Review: "Man of Steel"

Rated: PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence, action, and destruction, and for some language
Starring: Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, and Michael Shannon
Released: June 14, 2013 (wide theatrical release) / November 12, 2013 (DVD/Blu-Ray)

Synopsis: Before the planet Krypton implodes, scientist Jor-El (Russell Crowe, Les Miserables) sends his son Kal-El (Henry Cavill, Immortals) to our planet for safety, where he is adopted by a young childless couple (Diane Lane, Secretariat, and Kevin Costner, Field of Dreams) in rural Smallville, Kansas.  As he grows up, he realizes there is something different about himself...but what could it be, and why does he have such abilities? When a group of criminals from Krypton come to Earth in search of Kal-El, they seem well-intentioned...until he and new friend Lois Lane (Amy Adams, Enchanted) find out that their actual intent is to destroy Earth solely to bring Krypton back to life.  Only a Man of Steel could even hope to stop them...but will he be enough?
Produced by Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight, Inception).

Artistic Merit

Plot: 5/5
You know a movie is amazing when you watch it on your iPad and it still has you glued to the screen.  Seriously, though the story takes liberties with the Superman legend--as you can see above--the story is the same kind of engaging, suspenseful yarn we've come to expect from Christopher Nolan.

Production Values: 5/5
Nothing to complain about in this department, either.  Amazing acting; outstanding special effects; great soundtrack; wonderful action sequences...what's not to like?

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 4.5/5
Superman and others--including his adopted father--put their lives on the line to save others.  The villains' desire to get their way no matter the cost is shown as evil.  A priest tells Superman, "Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith," and he does.

Sex: 3.5/5
The movie starts off with a childbirth scene, though nothing explicit is shown.  There is also some kissing.  Probably the most serious thing is this department is a crude remark about "measuring" private anatomy.

Nudity: 3.5/5
Superman is seen shirtless for a while, and Lara (Superman's biological mother) wears a dress that shows a bit of cleavage.  Baby Kal-El's private area is shown a couple of times.

Language: 3.5/5
The d-word, a-word, and h-word are used about three times each, and the s-word as well as a euphemism for the f-word are both used once.  God's name is misused a couple of times, and a slang term for a part of the private anatomy is used twice.

Violence: 2/5
The good news about the violence in this movie is that it's only slightly bloody and not the least bit gory.  The bad news? There's quite a bit of it, and it's rather intense.  People are shot at with both earthly and intergalactic weapons; two people are killed by having their necks snapped; one man dies from a tornado; explosions and Kryptonians slamming through buildings happen quite frequently; and, at the start of the movie, a planet implodes.

Drugs: 4/5
A couple of brief scenes have people consuming alcoholic beverages.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 1.5/5
Whether emotionally or violently, there's little in this film that isn't intense in some way.

Final Score: 4.5/5
After finishing this movie, all I can say is, "Wow." Christopher Nolan has done it once again, folks.  Some of the purists may bristle at the liberties that were taken with the story, but who wants to see the same exact tale told again and again? If you watch this movie...prepare to be amazed.

DVD Set Review: "X-Men" (Anime)

Rated: TV-MA (US) / PG (Canada)
Starring: Steve Blum, Cam Clarke, and Danielle Nicolet
Released: April 1 - June 24, 2011 (original TV premiere) / 2012 (DVD)

Synopsis: A year after the death of Jean Grey/Phoenix, the remaining X-Men are sent to Japan to find a missing young mutant, Hisako Ichiki, by request of her parents.  What they end up finding is more than they bargained for; a massive conspiracy unfolds involving an old enemy of theirs, a well-intentioned experiment gone wrong, a big secret that even Professor X doesn't know about, and mental trickery that could lead to world destruction! Only the X-Men could face something like this...but will even their combined powers be enough?

Artistic Merit

Plots: 4.5/5
The series starts out very intriguingly, and continued to keep me on the edge of my seat...until the final episode, which fell a little flat.  Still, it was almost entirely quite the thrill ride.

Production Values: 4.5/5
The animation within the series was fabulous; the character designs, backgrounds, effects, and everything else was well done.  I liked the American voice actors, though it would have been better if the cast of the film trilogy--or even the later film(s)--had reprised their live-action roles.  The one problem laid in the fact that the closed captions and spoken dialogue almost never matched up, sometimes having one character talking when you could hear someone else was! Maybe that was meant for people who watched it with the Japanese audio.

Moral Content

(Warning! Though I will try my best to avoid spoiling the plot details, even vague descriptions might give some of the story away! Proceed with caution!)

Positive Elements: 5/5
Like any group of superheroes, the X-Men work together, putting their lives on the line for not only each other, but the greater good.  Two parents realize that their son must die to save the world, but decide to let it happen, even being willing to die themselves if necessary.  Mutants and humans also learn to cooperate.  A girl takes a serious risk to save her friend...and the world.

Sexual Content: 4/5
It is implied that two unmarried friends had an illicit affair that produced a child, but the two of them are never seen in bed together or even kissing.

Nudity: 3.5/5
One female character's costume shows a great deal of cleavage, and another's shows some slight midriff.  Parts of male characters' chests are seen at times.

Language: 3/5
Though definitely not deserving of the "TV-MA," the language within this series alone could earn a "PG-13" from the MPAA.  D-words, h-words, b-words, and other "fit for TV" profanities are thrown around at least three or four times per episode.  There is also some occasional name-calling.

Violence: 2.5/5
Is the violence intense? Yes. Is it graphic? Not in the least bit! Characters hit, kick, punch, claw, blast, etc., each other throughout the series, but there's very little blood and zero gore.  I'm not sure why this was rated "TV-MA"; I think it deserved "TV-14" at worst.

Drugs: 4/5
The plot involves chemically-based transformations, but they're intended for usage only in the name of science.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 1/5
There's little within this series that couldn't be considered frightening and/or intense.  It is implied that a villainous group is harvesting mutant organs; more than one character undergoes a scary transformation; and, some of the projected visions are a bit freaky, if not emotionally intense.

Final Score: 4/5
Some discerning moviegoers had problems with the original X-Men film trilogy, especially the last two movies, if only because of the sexual content; that is pretty much not present here.  What is present is a gripping story, amazing animation...and a heavy dose of intense (though not graphic) violence, along with a moderate amount of language.  For those who don't mind such content, this is definitely worth watching.
A side note: It's funny how both the American and Canadian ratings would be wrong; the latter is too high, whereas the former is too low.  Previously, I prided myself on not watching anything rated "TV-MA"; I had no idea this series was until I looked the rating up for purposes of this review.  How a show like this can get the same rating as movies or shows that are too raunchy, violent, and/or profane to even be shown on network television--or Disney Channel Original Movies, which often get a "PG" from the Canadian raters, for whatever reason--is a complete mystery.  Come on, media rating people; get it together!

Quickie Movie Review: "The Secret World of Arrietty"

Rated: G for general audiences
Starring: Bridgit Mendler, David Henrie, and Will Arnett (English version)
Released: February 17, 2012 (US wide theatrical release) / May 22, 2012 (DVD/Blu-Ray)

Synopsis: In a secret world hidden beneath the floorboards, little people, known as Borrowers, live quietly among us...but, when tenacious and tiny Arrietty (Bridgit Mendler, Good Luck Charlie) is discovered by Shawn (David Henrie, Wizards of Waverly Place), a human boy, their secret and forbidden friendship blossoms into an extraordinary adventure.  Based on the award-winning classic novel The Borrowers by Mary Norton.
(Adapted from the back cover of the US DVD edition)

My Review: The animation in this movie is outstanding! This is definitely better in that respect than many of the "modern" cartoons you see on kids' networks these days.  Unfortunately, everything else is only mediocre at best.  The voice work is only passable, with Shawn sounding as if he is on drugs.  A dumb song by artist Cécile Corbel--who?--dominates and ruins the soundtrack, with Bridgit Mendler's musical contribution only heard during the last part of the closing credits.  Some of the characters were just plain goofy, and the plodding plot made this very hard for me to finish.  Unless you're a die-hard fan of Japanese animation, I really can't recommend this; these days, well-animated movies are everywhere, and pretty graphics can't save a dull story any more than they can save a poorly designed video game.

Content Concerns:

• Sex: None. 5/5
• Nudity: A girl's underwear is seen briefly. 4.75/5
• Language: One usage of the term "idiots." 4.75/5
• Violence: A crow gets caught in a windowsill, and a lady hits it with a slipper; a Borrower holds up the leg of a cricket, which he cut off to eat; another Borrower is placed in a jar by a regular human.  Not too much in this department. 4/5
• Drugs: Someone is seen drinking, wine bottles are seen in the background, and it is assumed that a woman was "hitting the sherry," though she actually wasn't. 4/5
• Frightening/Intense Scenes: The Borrowers encounter plenty of "big" things--people, a cat, a raccoon, etc.--which are shown from their perspective, making normally non-scary things bigger and scarier than they actually are. 3.5/5

Final Score: 2.25/5

Quickie Movie Review: "The Dust Factory"

Rated: PG for thematic elements and some scary images
Starring: Hayden Panettiere, Ryan Kelley, and Armin Mueller-Stahl
Released: October 15, 2004 (limited theatrical release) / March 22, 2005 (DVD)

Synopsis: After suffering accidents, Ryan (Ryan Kelley, Mean Creek) and Melanie (Hayden Panettiere, Heroes) meet in an enchanting new world called the Dust Factory, where amazing things happen. People walk on water and disappear in the mist, and Ryan's grandfather (Armin Mueller-Stahl, Shine), who has Alzheimer's, is now lucid. With magic everywhere, will Ryan and Melanie ever find the courage to leave this wondrous sanctuary and return home?
(Adapted from the back cover of the DVD)

My Review: I only learned one thing from watching this: Unless I am absolutely sure it will be good--i.e., I've seen it before, or it's from a series that I know I like--I will not buy any DVDs from the clearance rack at MovieStop! This absurd "movie" had low-quality special effects, poor acting at times, and an overall dumb plot.  I doubt even die-hard fans of the stars in this movie would like this mess.  If you're looking for a movie that is both strange and fun, go rent The Great Buck Howard, which was both good and like nothing I'd previously seen.  Honestly, the only place this movie belongs is in the bottom of a trash bin.

Content Concerns:

• Sex: The kids exchange a few brief kisses. 4.25/5
• Nudity: A woman shows some slight cleavage. 4.5/5
• Language: Some mild name-calling and occasional profanity. 4/5
• Violence: An implied death because of a train/auto incident, and a kid falling from a bridge that leads him onto his otherworldly adventure.  Nothing too serious. 4/5
• Drugs: Two kids make a "toast," though it is unclear exactly what they're drinking. 4/5
• Frightening/Intense Scenes: The entire movie's oddness is a bit scary, and could be off-putting to kids, especially ones who are too young to understand what's going on. 2/5
• Other: A comment from Ryan's grandfather implies that all roads lead to heaven, which contradicts John 14:6. 4/5

 Final Score: 0/5

Book Series Review: "Zion Legacy" by Bodie and Brock Thoene

Authors: Bodie and Brock Thoene
Published: 2000 - 2002 by Viking

Synopsis: The story that began in Zion Covenant and continued in Zion Chronicles lives on in Zion Legacy.  From war-torn Jerusalem to the time of Yeshua the Messiah, these six books describe tumultuous times in history.

Artistic Merit

Plots: 2/5
The series starts out great, with plenty of action and intensity.  However, from the fourth book onward, it begins dealing with stories during Bible times that have nothing to do with the beloved characters in the previous novels, which ends up being simply a segue into the authors' A.D. Chronicles stories.  What a bait-and-switch!

Writing: 5/5
The Thoenes are great writers, and this series is just as well-written as one would come to expect from their other writings.

Moral Content: 3/5

I said that I wasn't going to discuss content concerns of Christian entertainment unless I felt something in particular was worth noting; in this case, it's the violence.  Both the twentieth century and first century stories are rather violent, and it may be too much for some readers.  Preview the first book before buying the entire series.

Final Score: 2.5/5
I hate to give a series by the Thoenes a bad review, but they appear to have sold out on us readers.  When the last half of a six-book set is essentially an advertisement for another set, that's just unacceptable.  I'm not sure if I want to keep reading their books.

DVD Set Review: "Defenders of the Earth": The Complete Series: Volume One

Rated: TV-Y7 for fantasy violence
Starring: Loren Lester, Lou Richards, and Sarah Partridge
Released: 1986 - 1987 (original TV premieres) / October 10, 2006 (DVD)

DISCLAIMER: I did not watch the entire set, but feel that I watched enough of it--nineteen of the thirty-three episodes--to do a review.  Read on to see why I didn't complete the set.

Synopsis: The evil Ming the Merciless wants nothing more to overtake our planet, and has set up a base in the Arctic called Ice Station Earth.  The world's only hope lies with the Defenders of the Earth: magician Mandrake, strongman Lothar, a "ghost who walks" known as the Phantom, and intergalactic warrior Flash Gordon, along with their kids.  With Ming stopping at nothing to rule the world, our heroes will have to use everything they've got to stop him...but even that may not be enough.


Artistic Merit

Plots: 2/5
Sure, the series started off interestingly enough, but, after a while, it got tiresome.  It would have been better if there had been some multiple episode arcs; in other superhero series, those were always the best episodes, because the story was more convoluted.  Instead, things simply wrap up too quickly and easily.

Production Values: 1.75/5
The animation is mostly great, though it has its moments where the animators were simply being lazy, especially with the lip movements in some early episodes.  Most of the voice work is only tolerable at best, with some characters being especially annoying, namely Ming's cyber assistant Octon, who starts off every droning sentence with, "Sire..."  Though the music is decent--nothing special, anyway--the cyber monster in the "Chips 'N Bits" episode sounds terrible.  A lack of closed captions and subtitles in any language is likely to upset those who are hard of hearing or aren't all that well-versed in English.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 4/5
The Defenders constantly look out for each other, even putting their lives on the line for one another.  Some villainous characters make a change for the better by the episode's end.

Sex: 5/5
None.

Nudity: 4.25/5
In a few episodes, guys are seen in tribal garb that bares their chests and their legs.  Jedda (the Phantom's daughter) and one villainess wear outfits that show cleavage once each.  Still, the stylizing of the animation makes it less sultry.

Violence: 3.75/5
The "fantasy violence" is actually very mild; more so than most "E"-rated video games.  Though characters do engage in fisticuffs, intergalactic dogfights, and such, it's not really very intense.  Two characters do die, but one is resurrected, and the other "lives on" via cyber technology.

Language: 4/5
Ming often calls the Defenders and others "fools" and other G-rated insults.

Drugs: 5/5
None.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 4/5
Some of the monsters could be scary for kids; one of them looks like something out of a horror movie.

Other: 4/5
Some may be bothered by Mandrake's usage of magic, though it is much more in the style of Bewitched than Charmed.

Final Score: 2/5
I hate to not finish a TV season set, but, after watching at least two or three episodes of this mess a week over the past month or so, I'd just had enough.  Though most series tend to be a bit repetitive, this one's poor production values made it positively nerve-grating.  You might feel differently if you grew up with this series, but, I am ready to be done with it.

Movie Review: "A Christmas Carol" (1999)

Rated: G (Canadian Home Video Rating)
Starring: Patrick Stewart, Richard E. Grant, and Joel Grey
Released: December 5, 1999 (television premiere) / November 7, 2000 (DVD)

Synopsis: Patrick Stewart (Star Trek: The Next Generation, X-Men) breathes new life into the classic Dickens Yuletide tale! Miserly old Scrooge despises Christmas, and calls it a "humbug."  One night, he gets visited by three spirits: one who shows what was, one who shows what is, and one who shows what could be to come.  Will Scrooge end his miserly ways?
(Oh, come on; like you don't already know the story?)

Artistic Merit

Plot: 4.5/5
You can't beat the classics.  Seriously, if the original Dickens story was worthless, how could it have survived all these years?  Still, there are a few slow moments.

Production Values: 4/5
The acting is excellent, especially from Mr. Stewart.  The special effects are mostly great, though I did feel that one or two such scenes were a bit lackluster.  The soundtrack is good, but nothing special.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 5/5
Scrooge learns the error of his ways and makes a change for the better.  (You already knew that, right?) Also, the true reason for Christmas is shown more than in other holiday movies, as attending church is both mentioned and seen, and religious Christmas carols--"Silent Night," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"--are heard.

Sexual Content: 5/5
None.

Nudity: 4.5/5
A few women are seen in off-the-shoulder and/or low-cut dresses.

Language: 4/5
The d-word is used a time or two, and God's name is misused once or twice.  Name-calling is also present.

Violence: 4.5/5
Kids throw snowballs at Scrooge, and he throws them back.

Drugs: 4/5
Some people drink at holiday parties.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 2.5/5
The Ghost of Christmas Present shows two children, who are described as Ignorance and Want, and are rather repulsive-looking (intentionally so, mind you.)  Also, the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come is a mute, dark specter who has rather creepy eyes.  I can't help but think that those two things alone would have caused the MPAA to rate this "PG," especially by the tighter standards of 1999.
Also, a possible future situation shows the deaths of two characters, one of whom is Scrooge; his grave opens up, and he falls onto his own dead body before waking up.

Final Score: 3/5
I got this movie last year at a nearby garage sale, and finally got around to watching it in bits and pieces over the past two weeks or so.  Now that I have finished it, I don't think I will ever be watching it again.  Though there have been countless interpretations of Dickens' Yuletide ghost story, the one I grew up with was The Muppet Christmas Carol; in fact, I think that's the only version of the story I've seen more than once.  Sure, it's got the Muppet brand of silliness, but, when I watch other versions, they just don't seem to stack up...and that's exactly the case with this one.  If you're looking for a little-known Christmas movie this holiday season, this one might be worth a try; still, a rental is all I can suggest.

DVD Season Set Review: "Justice League": Season One

Rated: TV-PG for violence
Starring: Carl Lumbly, George Newbern, and Susan Eisenberg
Released: November 17, 2001 - November 9, 2002 (original TV premieres) / March 21, 2006 (DVD)

Synopsis: Superman.  Batman.  Wonder Woman.  The Flash.  Martian Manhunter.  Hawkgirl.  Green Lantern.  Though they have the same goal, they never fought together...until invading aliens bent on destroying Earth can only be defeated by the combined powers of the superheroes, who quickly become known as the Justice League.  Unfortunately, villains and villainesses will stop at nothing to thwart the League.  Whether it's an immortal sorceress intent on finding the powerful Philosopher's Stone, a rogue Amazon bent on destroying the world's male population, or a gorilla gone crazy, these heroes will have their hands full!
Based on DC Comics.  Features the voice work of Carl Lumbly (Men of Honor), George Newbern (Father of the Bride), and Maria Canals (Camp Rock, Wizards of Waverly Place).

Artistic Merit

Plots: 4.5/5
Yes, these are the usual "superhero group" plots, but they work quite well.  There's enough plot convolution and dashes of humor to keep it entertaining, although the three-parter that closes the series did feel a little long.

Production Values: 5/5
Here is where the series excels.  The animation is outstanding; the action sequences are spot-on; the soundtrack is great; the voice work is awesome; and, there isn't anything to complain about in this department.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 5/5
As you'd expect, the heroes constantly look out for both each other and their fellow man, regularly risking their lives to do so.  They also work in cooperation with the United States Military.  Subplots include a woman's dedication to her significant other, and him risking his life for her in return, as well as the necessity of both males and females in society.

Sex: 4/5
Mostly kissing and mild quips, though there is a scene with a "magazine publisher" who is an obvious nod to Hugh Hefner.

Nudity: 3.5/5
Wonder Woman's costume reveals a lot of leg as well as her shoulders, and a hint of cleavage at times; Hawkgirl's costume also does the latter two.  Other women are seen from time to time in bikinis or other revealing clothes.  Some guys are seen shirtless, and Superman gets a tear in his costume that reveals part of his chest.  However, the cartoon styling makes it all less sultry than it would be if it were live-action.

Violence: 2/5
Superhero movies--even animated ones--are almost always rated "PG-13" or higher by the MPAA, mainly because of violence.  Though the action sequences in this season set aren't the least bit bloody or gory, they're so frequent and intense that they may be too much for some kids.  Heroes, villains, and innocent bystanders get hit, kicked, blasted, thrown, smashed, electrically shocked, etc., countless times.  Vehicular accidents--not just with cars, but also trains and airplanes--happen quite frequently, too.  Some characters' deaths are implied.

Language: 4/5
About five or six exclamations of "Good L---!," and some name-calling.

Drugs: 5/5
None.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 1.5/5
There's hardly a scene within this first season that isn't frightening and/or intense.  Aside from what was listed under "Violence," some of the monsters themselves are scary-looking.

Other: 3.5/5
Some may have a problem with the fact that polytheism gets mentioned; Wonder Woman often talks about goddesses, and the heroes also have to fight an earthly incarnation of Hades.

Final Score: 4.25/5
This is how a superhero series should be done!  Warner Bros. deserves major kudos for making a multi-hero TV serial that is enthralling, exciting, and fun.  It has its weak moments here and there, but, the overall package is great.  Superhero fans who are eagerly awaiting the next comic-book-turned-blockbuster film should watch this in the meantime; they likely won't be disappointed.  Just keep in mind the above concerns before buying/renting it for a kid.

Movie Review: "Planes"

Rated: PG for some mild action and rude humor
Starring: Dane Cook, Stacy Keach, and Brad Garrett
Released: August 9, 2013 (theaters) / November 19, 2013 (DVD / Blu-Ray)

Synopsis: Dusty Crophopper (Dane Cook) is tired of the same crop-dusting routine every day; he dreams of flying high in the Wings Across the World race.  At first, his truck friend Chug (Brad Garrett, Everybody Loves Raymond) tries to help him train, but then the military veteran plane Skipper (Stacy Keach, The Word of Promise) decides to show him the ropes.  There's only one big problem: Dusty is afraid of heights.  When Dusty ends up qualifying for the race, his evil rival Ripslinger will stop at nothing to ruin his chances of winning.  Will underdog Dusty surprise everyone, or will he simply crash and burn...literally?

Artistic Merit

Plot: 4/5
Sure, we've all seen our share of celluloid underdog stories, both true and fictional; this film doesn't really tread any new ground with its story.  Still, as King Solomon wrote, "There is nothing new under the sun," and, even though the plot may be a bit formulaic, it's still quite fun.

Production Values: 4.75/5
The animation is outstanding, especially when you watch it on Blu-Ray, which I did.  The voice acting is great, too.  It only loses a quarter of a point because the soundtrack has one rather annoying song.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 5/5
Dusty regularly looks out for others, including his competitors (Matthew 22:39).  His fellow racers also take notice of his generosity, and they help him out as well (2 Corinthians 9:6).  An airplane mentions the adage, "Nice guys finish last," but ends up vilified.

Sexual Content: 4.25/5
Dusty sees a female airplane from behind and comments on her rear propeller.  Another airplane has lip prints all over himself as a result of a female airplane kissing him, which we hear but don't see.

Nudity: 5/5
Since there aren't any humans in this film, it shouldn't be a surprise that there's no nudity.

Language: 4/5
There's a bit of name-calling, though it stays G-rated.  A vehicle uses the name "Shelby"--not a character in the film--as a euphemism for another word, and other similar usages include "heck," "gosh," and "Dagnabbit!" Probably the crudest utterance in the film is when one plane tells another to "lug nut up."

Violence: 3.5/5
The planes do get in some altercations, including one where a plane loses part of his tail, and another one where a plane loses his antenna.  A flashback shows military planes fighting a war; it is implied that only one of them survived.

Drugs: 4/5
Planes are seeing drinking oil gas, which is presented in the same way people drink wine or beer.  One scene even shows oil or gas in a beer stein.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 3/5
Along with what was noted under "Violence," a plane crashes into the ocean, but is rescued.  Another scene involves a plane in a near-crash, then arriving somewhere and saying, "Am I in heaven?" (Spoiler: He finds out he isn't.)

Other: 4/5
Some bathroom humor is present, and reincarnation is mentioned.

Final Score: 4.5/5
My mom and I bought Planes for our family to watch on Thanksgiving.  I had my doubts, but I have to say I was pleasantly described.  Movies like this are proof that Disney knows how to make a movie that is both well-crafted and morally sound.  Sure, there are a few content quibbles, but most people won't even notice any of it.  This movie is definitely worth checking out.

Book Series Review: "Star Trek: Double Helix"

Authors: John Gregory Betancourt, Diane Carey, Peter David, Michael Jan Friedman, Christie Golden, Kristine Kathryn Rusch, Dean Wesley Smith, and John Vornholt
Published: June 1999 - August 1999 by Pocket Books

Synopsis: When a mysterious illness begins to plague an entire planet--as well as Enterprise crew member Deanna Troi!--it's up to Captain Picard and his crew to figure out the cure for the illness, as well as what--or who--is responsible.  Written by several of the Star Trek Expanded Universe's best-loved writers, this series spans galaxies and ages!

Artistic Merit

Plots: 3.5/5
The series starts off interestingly enough, but the fifth novel, Double or Nothing, is a bloated mess that ruins the entire series.  Still, up to that point, it makes for good reading.

Writing: 4.5/5
The writing throughout is great; even though I didn't like the story in the penultimate book, the writing was still good.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 3/5
The usual elements of self-sacrifice and working for the greater good are seen throughout this series.

Sexual Content: 2/5
I was a bit surprised by this: Not only do some of the space cadets visit a "pleasure planet," but it is mentioned that a woman is pregnant by a bi-gender alien, and then that said alien is also pregnant.  (Both turn out to be untrue.)  A male character also visits a brothel/nightclub of sorts, and locks eyes with a humanoid exotic dancer.

Language: 1.75/5
Profanities--both b-words, a-words, and especially d-words, h-words, and misuses of God's name--appear at least once every few pages.  There is also some slight name-calling.

Violence: 4/5
Though there are quite a few action sequences--and what is a space opera without them?--I don't recall any of them being bloody or graphic.

Drugs: 3/5
In one of the novels, a bar gets mentioned throughout, along with drinking alcohol.

Final Score: 2.25/5
It's heartbreaking when a series jumps the shark far too quickly.  Though most non-fans consider Star Trek and Star Wars to be essentially the same thing, they are about as different from each other as checkers is from chess.  The settings are dissimilar, especially the time-frame; the characters vary; and, most importantly, they are a mile or two apart content-wise.  Star Trek movies and books tend to have issues with profanity and sexual content, which is something you only see in small doses at worst in George Lucas' creation, both the original movies and the Expanded Universe.  Even though I knew that, I was still surprised by the content of Double Helix, and the fact that the next-to-last book in the series was a horribly bloated mess only makes things worse.  Star Trek fans can do better.

Movie Review: "Love's Abiding Joy"

Rated: PG for mild thematic elements (US) / PG: "Mature Theme" (Canada)
Starring: Erin Cottrell, Logan Bartholomew, and Dale Midkiff
Released: October 6, 2006 (limited theatrical release) / January 2, 2007 (DVD)

Synopsis: Missie LaHaye (Erin Cottrell) and her husband Willie (Logan Bartholomew, The Ultimate Life) are enjoying life in the Old West.  Missie is a teacher at a one-room schoolhouse, while Willie works the land.  However, it all comes to an abrupt halt when their baby daughter Kathy dies in her sleep.  With Missie unable to teach anymore, Willie takes a job offer to become sheriff of their town, while his adopted son Jeff (Drew Tyler Bell) falls in love with Colette (Mae Whitman, State of Grace), the daughter of a crooked businessman who is causing Willie nothing but trouble.  Will this family ever survive?
Based on the book by Janette Oke.

Artistic Merit

Plot: 4/5
It's been a few months since I saw the film that precedes this one--this is part of a long series, in case you didn't know--so, some of the references to the previous films were lost on me.  However, even though I didn't quite understand everything, the plot was engaging if slow-moving.  Though it may start off very tragically, it has its happy moments.  Still, Missie exclaims something in one scene about it being the first time she could feel the rain that didn't exactly make sense.

Production Values: 3.5/5
The sets were great; the soundtrack, good, but nothing special; the acting mostly good, although there was a spot or two where it was overdone.  Not much to say other than that.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 5/5
You'd expect a movie based on a Christian novel to be full of positive elements...and you'd be right.  Overcoming tragedy, the gift of a family, respect for God, and selflessness are themes seen all through this movie.

Sex: 4.5/5
Some mild kissing.

Nudity: 5/5
None.

Language: 4.5/5
The main antagonist uses the h-word once.

Violence: 4/5
A man fires a gun, but only shoots at objects and doesn't hurt anyone.

Drugs: 3.5/5
The main antagonist is seen smoking a few times and drinking at least once.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 2.5/5
The scenes where Kathy's death are mentioned are emotionally charged, especially when it first happens.  Also, a scene where it appears a boy will die for a crime he didn't commit is a bit startling.

Final Score: 4/5
It's amazing how well the Love Comes Softly series continues to do.  Though many of them have been released direct-to-video, they wouldn't keep making them if they didn't make money.  Maybe Hollywood needs to learn that there actually is money to be found in positive entertainment for adults.  Regardless of that, those of you who have seen the previous films know what to expect from this series...and that's exactly what you get from Love's Abiding Joy.  If you didn't like the earlier movies, you won't like this one, but fans of these flicks--of which I am one!--will find plenty to like about this one.  It'll sure take a long time to finish all of them, though...

I'm Done with "The X Factor"...and My "Celebrity Crushes"...For Good This Time!

Rated: TV-14 for language and off-color dialogue
Starring: Mario Lopez, Simon Cowell, Demi Lovato, Kelly Rowland, and Paulina Rubio
Released: September 21, 2011 (Fox series premiere)

This is sort of an entertainment review, so, I'll post it here: A few weeks ago, I started watching The X Factor on Fox.  Though I like competition shows--as long as they're relatively morally decent--the main attractor for me was Demi Lovato, who was serving as judge.  Though I've liked her for a while, I made her my "number one" after I couldn't stop listening to her songs several weeks ago.  However, I am now giving up on the show.  Why? Simply because the people voting--and even the judges--have no idea what they're doing.  When they were down to the top forty-eight acts, I was a big fan of Victoria Carriger and Danie Geimer...but they got eliminated before America could vote.  To make matters worse, the two best acts in the competition--in my opinion, anyway--got voted off this past week, which makes no sense.  Even Rolling Stone writer Katy Kroll said, "You're joking, right, America? Because there's no way X Factor viewers cast their votes with a straight face this week. It's got to be pure sabotage." After this week's results, I've simply had enough, and will spend my weekday evenings with a book, a DVD, and/or the Disney Channel.

It's not just that, though; I'm done with the whole "celebrity crush" thing in general.  Though I'm not going to wipe my hard drive clean of anything related to Demi Lovato and friends--after all, celebrities and entertainment are my trademarks--there is no reason for me to have a celebrity that I call my "number one".  That's just a leftover bad habit from the days when I was hopelessly obsessed with whatever or whoever.  I can like a celebrity, and appreciate his/her work, but I don't need to bandy his/her name about like he/she is my best friend.  There's no need for me to bend over backwards to see a show with Demi Lovato in it that isn't even that great in the first place.

You all know that entertainment is my thing...and it will continue to be.  You probably also know that, as long as it is Christian-themed and/or morally decent, it's fair game to me.  What I think I need to do is expand my horizons a bit, and not just align with certain genres of entertainment, or movies/shows that feature my favorite stars.  Just after Christmas last year, when I ventured out of my normal territory and watched an episode of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, I was surprised at how awesome it was.  Maybe I need to do that more; there are likely various pieces of entertainment that I have avoided, but would like if I actually gave them a chance.  (Isn't that what I've been telling you all to do with my shows?)  You can expect to see the reviews on here!

Final Score:

X Factor: 0/5
Celebrity Crushes: 0/5

Three words: Who needs them?

DVD Set Review: "Early Edition": The Complete First Season

Rated: Unknown, but likely TV-PG for language and violence
Starring: Kyle Chandler, Shanesia Davis, and Fisher Stevens
Released: 1996-1997 (original CBS premieres) / June 24, 2008 (DVD)

Synopsis: After his wife throws him out, and he ends up living in a hotel room, Gary Hobson (Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights) finds a cat on his doorstep with an issue of the Chicago Sun-Times.  However, he ends up discovering that the paper reports events that have yet to happen.  His longtime best friend Chuck Fishman (Fisher Stevens, Short Circuit) wants to use the paper for personal gain, but his other friend Marissa (Shanesia Davis), who is blind but seems to have more sight than either of the two guys, advises him to use it for good.  Between murders, accidents, and all the other bad news you can read in any daily paper, it's up to Gary to stop it from happening!
This season features appearances by Pauley Perette (NCIS), Max Wright (ALF), Cynthia Nixon (Sex and the City), and M. Emmet Walsh (My Best Friend's Wedding), as well as cameo appearance by film critic Roger Ebert and figure skater Tara Lipinski as themselves.

Artistic Merit

Plots: 5/5
This is the best part of the series.  Every episode is engaging and convoluted, with the plot taking all sorts of twists and turns.  Sure, you may know how it will end, but actually watching it will make you think otherwise!

Production Values: 4/5
The acting is great, but, these stars are top-notch.  Shanesia Davis deserves high praise for amazingly playing the part of a blind woman, despite not being blind herself.  The soundtrack isn't anything special, but it works.  Where it loses a point is the actual paper itself, if only because some of the articles don't match the headlines; seriously, one of them looks like it was cut and pasted from a Macintosh "read me" file.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 5/5
Gary regularly puts his life on the line to save others, not only people he doesn't know, but even ones he doesn't like, such as a former boss who fired him or his ex-wife.  Marissa also dispenses some very wise advice.  Though Fishman may be a bit of a jerk, it is shows that his action do not help his case at all.  The episode "Faith" shows belief in God in a positive light, almost in a Touched by an Angel sort of way.

Sexual Content: 4/5
For the most part, kissing is as bad as it gets, though some kisses are passionate.  Sexual dialogue and references are seen or heard briefly a scant few times.  Most notable in this department is that, even though two different episodes show a woman staying in Gary's hotel room, you do not see them waking up next to each other, but instead him sleeping on his bed, and her on the couch.  That kind of morality is the exact opposite of what you'll find on Friends or Big Brother.

Nudity: 4/5
Gary is seen bare-chested in the opening sequence and a few times within the show; Fishman is shirtless in an episode or two as well.  Women wearing midriff-baring or low-cut tops are seen only about three or four times briefly.

Language: 2.25/5
The amount of profanities in each episode ranges from two or three to as many as seven or eight.  Though mild by today's standards, some discerning viewers may opt to watch this via a filter for that reason.

Violence: 2/5
With a show that involves thwarting murders, terrorist attacks, and car accidents, you'd expect there to be plenty of violence, right? Well, there is...but it's almost all the kind you would see on a family-friendly network like The Hallmark Channel.  (It's no surprise that reruns of this show previously aired on Fox Family and PAX.)  Only a select few times does it get even the least bit bloody; probably the most significant scene in this department is when a guy is seen with a bullet hole in his head.  Still, this is definitely not CSI or Saw.

Drugs: 3.5/5
Gary, Marissa, and Fishman tend to hang out in a bar and drink...a lot.  Also, smoking is seen a time or two.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 1.5/5
There's little in this series that isn't intense or frightening; Gary and others end up in perilous situations throughout this series.  Bombs go off; people are shot at; some are nearly killed in various ways.

Other: 4/5
Gary and Fishman use the paper to gamble--well, maybe; if you know the results, is it truly gambling?--though Gary only uses it to get money for people who need it.

Final Score: 4/5
Early Edition is one of the few network shows I watched prior to it being in reruns; still, my mom and I weren't into it until the second season, so, Fox Family helped us see it from the beginning.  Though I remembered some moments from watching it on TV, the plots were all a surprise, as I didn't remember how each scene fit into the plot as a whole.  I probably won't watch this season again, but it was definitely an enjoyable journey.  Though a bit too intense for kids, teens and older would likely love this show if they gave it a chance.

Book Series Review: "Left Behind" (1-6)

Authors: Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins
Published: 1995-1999 by Tyndale

Synopsis: In an instant, millions of people all over the world vanish, sending those left behind into a panic as they search for their missing loved ones.  Among those still on Earth are Rayford and Chloe Steele, a father and daughter who lost the rest of their family in the disappearances, and Cameron "Buck" Williams, reporter for the worldwide news magazine Global Weekly.  When a preacher by the name of Bruce Barnes shares Biblical prophecy that sheds light on the mass disappearances, Rayford, Chloe, and Buck take it on themselves to reach those who are still living before it's too late.  Unfortunately, world leader Nicolae Carpathia, who is not what he seems, is against the Christians, and claims that he himself is the Messiah.  Biblical prophecies come to life in these novels, alongside plenty of action, suspense, and even a little romance, in the first half of the bestselling Christian book series since The Chronicles of Narnia.

Artistic Merit

Plot: 2.5/5
Though I have read Revelation through at least four times, the visions that John has in that book are so strange, it's hard to come down with an exact interpretation of what they are talking about.  Other end-times prophecies, whether from Jesus or in the Old Testament, are just as difficult to interpret.  That said, though this series gets off to a good start, some of the events contained within sound more like something from a SyFy channel movie than anything that will ever actually happen.  In the last two books, when demons are visibly seen attacking and killing people, I couldn't believe what I was reading.  Your feelings may be different based on your interpretation of Biblical prophecy.

Writing: 2/5
Despite some complaints elsewhere, I thought the dialogue was done well; however, there seemed to be too much of it.  Instead of luridly describing what happens to the victims of the various judgments, the authors talk about it for a few paragraphs, then go right back to what's going on with Rayford, Chloe, Buck, and Hattie.  Seriously, if you want people to realize how terrible the "bowl judgments" would be, why not make it more detailed?

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 4/5
Regardless of the theology behind the series' events, Chloe, Buck, Rayford, Bruce, and others put their lives on the line to spread the message of Jesus, and regularly show courage in the face of fear.

Sexual Content: 4/5
It is implied that a woman is pregnant as a result of an illicit affair.  A minor female character is said to be a lesbian.

Language: 4/5
Slang expressions such as "heckuva," "dang," and "bull" are used a few times each, and there is some name-calling.

Violence: 3/5
As mentioned above, the mass attacks aren't gone into detail that much, though your mind's eye may find them disturbing.  Though not terribly graphic, there is quite a bit of violence contained within these books.

Drugs: 4.5/5
Smoking and drinking are referenced, but shown to be wrong.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 2/5
There's little within these books that isn't intense.  Between the aftermath of the mass disappearances, the deaths from the disasters, and the killings by the hordes of demons, this is pretty scary stuff, though it could have been scarier if more details had been given about the latter two subjects.

Other: 4/5
Some people may have problems with the theology behind this series...but, if you do, why would you read it?

Final Score: 2.25/5
Christian fiction is my favorite genre of literature.  Though I've read countless books by numerous authors over the years, nothing keeps me coming back like the works of Frank Peretti, Ted Dekker, Bill Myers, Bodie Thoene, and their contemporaries.  I'm glad that Left Behind brought Christian fiction to the masses; unfortunately, it seems to also have given it a bad name, as countless online critics--including some Christians--have found the whole thing to be a travesty.  I had intended to read the entire series; now, I think I'll stop at number six.  This series may have legions of fans, but I'm not one of them; I'll stick to my favorite authors.

Movie Review: "The Good Witch"

Rated: TV-PG (US)
Starring: Catherine Bell, Chris Potter, and Catherine Disher
Released: January 18, 2008 (Hallmark Channel premiere) / January 5, 2010 (DVD)

Synopsis: Cassandra "Cassie" Nightingale (Catherine Bell, JAG) recently moved into a supposedly haunted house in the quiet town of Middleton, raising all kinds of suspicion, especially by "concerned citizen" Martha Tinsdale (Catherine Disher), who also happens to be married to the town's mayor.  The town's police chief (Chris Potter, Heartland) is intrigued by her, and his kids immediately make friends with her.  Still, there's something different about her: She makes potions, talks to animals, and has a strange shop called Bell, Book, and Candle.  Who is this woman? Will Martha and her minions force her out of town?
The first in a series of telefilms from the Hallmark Channel.

Artistic Merit

Plot: 3.5/5
Since this is the first in an annual series--that will apparently continue at least to next year, according to IMDb--this movie alone leaves you with a lot of questions, almost like a TV series' pilot.  However, the story, although nothing terribly special, was good enough to draw me in, though it seemed to drag slightly towards the end.

Production Values: 4/5
Though there wasn't anything excellent in this department, it still worked well.  The acting was great, and so were the sets.  The soundtrack was decent, but nothing special.

Moral Content (Warning! Spoilers in this section!)

Positive Elements: 4/5
Martha and her minions discriminate against Cassie, and are vilified for it.  A boy learns to love his enemy and that revenge is not the answer.  Cassie also shows forgiveness towards two young men who vandalize her shop.

Sex: 3/5
There was kissing, but that wasn't a big issue.  What was shocking to me was Cassie selling a woman a aphrodisiac potion; Cassie tells the lady that, since she doesn't have any kids, she doesn't have to worry about "sending them off to Grandma's." Later, the two meet again, and the customer says, "It's like a second honeymoon, but this one is so much better." Towards the end, the customer tells Cassie that, after years of being barren, she is now pregnant; it is implied that the potion had some sort of effect.

Nudity: 4.25/5
Cassie wears a gown that shows her shoulders and her cleavage in one scene, and a translucent shirt that shows her bra in another.

Language: 4.5/5
Mild name-calling.

Violence: 4/5
Surprisingly, there isn't the kind of fantasy violence like you get from Harry Potter.  A girl trips and gets a mild scrape on her knee, and two windows are smashed through.

Drugs: 3.5/5
Cassie sells potions, and she and others use them.  She and the police chief are also seen drinking wine.  It is mentioned that a boy has a father who is a drunkard.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 3.5/5
A dog chases two kids, but is stopped by Cassie before he can hurt them.  A boy's father--not the police chief--is implied to be abusive.  The same boy is seen bullying the police chief's son, though he learns the error of his ways.

Other: 4/5
Though the movie doesn't show her actually casting spells, the ending implies that she will show further magical abilities in later films.

Final Score: 3.75/5
Believe it or not, Catherine Bell was one of my earliest celebrity crushes, before anyone even knew who Hilary Duff, Anne Hathaway, or Victoria Justice were.  Though I've since moved on--come on, I was only eleven when I had her on my desktop!--there was still a lingering attraction there for me.  Though the movie wasn't terrible, it wasn't spectacular, and the surprising addition of sexual dialogue put a slight damper on things for me.  Still, this is just the beginning, and the makers were apparently intentionally making a series.  Hallmark Channel fans should catch this either on the network or on DVD.

Movie Review: "Vanished"

Rated: Not Rated
Starring: John Hagee, Bill Lake, and Robert Collins
Released: February 5, 2002 (DVD)

NOTE: Since this is technically a documentary, and features footage from previously released films, not to mention its entire length is under an hour, this review will not be as in depth as mine usually are.
Synopsis: When millions of people from all over the planet vanish into thin air, those who are left behind are unsure what to do.  A new world leader ushers in a time of peace...but he is not what he seems.  Minister John Hagee explains what the End Times will bring, and his words are illustrated by film clips from Apocalypse and Left Behind.


Artistic Merit: 3.75/5
Documentaries aren't usually my thing, but this one was decently made.  Some of the film clips could have been better produced, but many viewers aren't likely to notice that.  Whether or not you agree with the message within is a different story.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: ???
It depends on your view on the End Times.  If you think the Rapture and the Seven Years are going to happen, then you'd give it a five.  If you disagree with that interpretation of Scripture, then you should avoid this movie.

Sex and Nudity: 5/5
None.

Violence: 3/5
As a result of the disappearances, vehicles crash, buildings are lit on fire, etc.

Language: 4.5/5
God's name is misused once in a film clip.

Drugs: 4.5/5
Drinking alcohol is referenced once.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 2/5
Along with what is listed under "Violence," the whole somber tone may be too much for some kids.  Also startling is a scene where a family is hauled away from their house by police.

Other Negative Elements: ???
Again, it depends on your interpretation of Biblical prophecy.

Final Score: 4/5
It's short, it's decently made, and it makes its point...so, for that, I'll give it a four.  There are far too many films that fail in one or more of those regards.

DVD Set Review: "Batman Beyond": Season One

Rated: TV-Y7 for fantasy violence
Starring: Kevin Conroy, Will Friedle, and Sherman Howard
Released: 1999 (original TV premieres) / March 21, 2006 (DVD)

Synopsis: Once Gotham City's best line of defense, Bruce Wayne (Kevin Conroy, Justice League) is unable to fight crime as Batman due to old age.  When Bruce's company's employee Warren McGinnis (Michael Gross, Family Ties) is allegedly murdered by Bruce's business partner Derek Powers (Sherman Howard, Day of the Dead), Warren's son Terry (Will Friedle, Boy Meets World) teams up with Wayne and ends up becoming the new Batman.  However, though technology and society might have changed, criminals are still up to their same tricks.  With several villains on his trail, the new Batman will have to learn to think on his feet...or else, the criminals will win.

Artistic Merit

Plots: 5/5
I love superhero stories, even when they're not based on comic books.  Sure, the ending is obvious--the hero(es) will win!--but they're still entertaining, especially when they're as full of action and suspense as this series is.  It's not as happy or sprightly as Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers, but the darker tone serves this series well.

Production Values: 4.5/5
Though rough in a spot or two, most of the animation contained within this set is spot-on.  The voice work is great, though that's to be expected when you have screen veterans making up most of the cast.  No serious complaints in this department.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 3.5/5
As with many superhero stories, the main moral is simple: Crime doesn't pay! Terry also shows respect for his elders and people in general, even going as far as preventing his main nemesis from being killed.  Bruce Wayne is also there to offer advice, and serves as a second father after Terry loses his own.  Using strength-enhancing drugs is vilified.

Sexual Content: 4/5
A bit of kissing.  The dancing seen in a couple of episodes and in the opening sequence is mildly suggestive.

Nudity: 4/5
Most of the young women seen in these episodes wear revealing clothing, including the villainess in one episode.  Terry is also seen shirtless once.  Still, it isn't as sultry as it could be thanks to the stylizing of the characters.

Language: 4.5/5
One or two misuses of God's name.

Violence: 2.25/5
Wasn't this show on Kids' WB? Maybe so, but it's decidedly more violent than what I remember seeing on Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh!.  Batman, the villains, police officers, and other random citizens get hit, kicked, blasted, punched, tossed around, shot at, etc., countless times.  There are even at least three scenes with (slight) bloodshed.  Explosions are also somewhat frequent.

Drugs: 4.5/5
As mentioned above, the usage of strength-enhancing drugs is vilified.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 1.5/5
Along with what was described in "Violence," the whole tone of the series is bleak.  Not only that, but the main villain--who isn't seen in every episode, but still in right many of them--is scary-looking, and a mishap turns an ordinary guy into a hideous man-blob.

Other: 4/5
The new Batman's quest starts out a bit vindictive, but he learns his lesson by the season's end.

Final Score: 4/5
Me and this series have an interesting history.  It first premiered when I was in fifth grade, and I avoided it like the plague, even though one of my best friends at school loved it.  When another friend of mine and I saw a scene during a middle of an episode thanks to leaving the TV on after watching Pokémon, it didn't make sense to us, and he said, "I don't understand that show." Looking back, I realized we probably would have if we'd seen the entire episode.  However, after discovering superhero cartoon series thanks to a random purchase of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Fast Forward at a garage sale, I purchased the first season of Batman Beyond, and I have to say that I pretty much enjoyed it...but not quite as much as I thought I would have.  Still, if you're a fan of DC Comics' animated television shows, and you haven't seen this...what are you waiting for? As long as the above content concerns don't bother you, you should definitely check out this different take on the Caped Crusader.

Book Series Review: "Star Wars: Jedi Prince" by Paul and Hollace Davids

Authors: Paul and Hollace Davids
Publisher: Bantam Skylark
Published: 1992 - 1993

Synopsis: After Darth Vader's defeat in Return of the Jedi, the galaxy was finally at peace...or so it seemed.  Trioculus, a three-eyed son of the Emperor, intends to bring the Empire back, and will stop at nothing to stop the likes of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia from thwarting his plans.  With Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda both gone, Luke and friends are in for a tough challenge.  Will they be able to bring order to the galaxy again?

Artistic Merit

Plots: 4/5
Yes, the characters aren't like they were in the movies; still, I found these books to be engaging action/adventure stories in the style of old-school Saturday morning serials.  It was so fun and fast-paced that all the "negative" plot elements didn't bother me that much.

Writing: 3/5
Nothing too special in this department; it's written for kids, so, of course the language and details are going to be simplistic, but it was still moderately well-written.

Illustrations: 3.5/5
I read the omnibus editions, so I didn't get to see the actual cover art, but most of the interior line drawings I liked.  Still, the drawing of Princess Leia was a little off.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 4/5
Good and evil are clearly defined; the heroes show courage and determination to win.  It's pretty much what one would expect from old-school Star Wars.

Sex: 4.5/5
Some kissing between Han and Leia.

Nudity: 5/5
None.

Language: 5/5
None.

Violence: 3.75/5
Most of the violence remains bloodless, just like most of what's in the movies, but there is one scene where dripping blood is mentioned, though not shown in the illustration.  Blasters are fired, lightsabers are whipped out...you know, the usual.

Drugs: 5/5
None.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 3.5/5
If this were a modern-day TV series, it would likely be rated "TV-Y7-FV"; that is, only for children over the age of seven because of fantasy violence.  Still, if a kid is old enough to read and understand this, it's probably not too much for him/her.

Other: 4/5
Burping is used as a gag.  Han and Lando play "sabacc," which is an intergalactic form of poker, and involves gambling.

Final Score: 3.5/5
From what I have seen online, it seems like the Davids' Star Wars books are among the most universally disliked.  However, I found these to be somewhat enjoyable, despite their flaws.  Other adult readers may disagree, but this "kid at heart" found these to be fun intergalactic adventures.  Don't believe all the negative hype; check these books out for yourselves and see if you like them.

Movie Review: "Seven Days in Utopia"

Rated: G for general audiences
Starring: Robert Duvall, Lucas Black, and Deborah Ann Woll
Released: September 2, 2011 (theaters) / November 29, 2011 (DVD)

Synopsis: Golfer Luke Chisholm (Lucas Black, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift) has a major meltdown during a televised tournament that is seen around the world and puts a rift between him and his father.  With nowhere else to go, he ends up in Utopia, a small town with residents such as the pretty waitress Sarah (Deborah Ann Woll, True Blood) and former golfer Johnny Crawford (Robert Duvall, The Godfather).  When they see the televised account of Luke's worst moment, they take it on themselves to rehabilitate him and help him find the right way.  However, can he ever get back what he lost? Will he be able to make amends with his father? Will he go right back to golfing, or is there something more to life than just smacking a ball around with a club? One thing is for sure: Life is never the same once you've been to Utopia.
Based on the book by David L. Cook.

Artistic Merit

Plot: 3.5/5
While not exactly original--but, hey, King Solomon wrote, "There is nothing new under the Sun"--the plot works moderately well.  However, some of the questions presented are not answered by the time the credits roll.  If you're expecting everything to be resolved by the movie's end, you've got the wrong movie.

Production Values: 3/5
The actors are all great; the soundtrack is decent; the sets and such look real enough, though that's probably only because of the Golf Channel's sponsorship.  However, the opening scene--which has a quick-cutting, repetitive montage of the events leading up to the start of the film--was a bit hard to get through, so much so that I debated quitting watching at that point.  I was glad I stayed, but others may not be able to endure that as well.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 5/5
Christian faith is portrayed in a positive light.  A character says he is glad to have given up alcoholism.  Seriously, moral-wise, there isn't much that isn't positive.

Sexual Content: 4.5/5
One near-kiss.

Nudity: 4.5/5
Sarah wears some outfits that are either off-the-shoulder or slightly low-cut.

Violence: 3.75/5
The movie starts out with a non-fatal car crash.  During Lucas' meltdown, he angrily snaps one of his clubs in two.  Some guys--including Luke--participate in a rodeo; though the usual throwing around is seen, there's no blood or gore.  A small plane nearly crashes into a field.

Language: 4.5/5
One usage of the h-word.

Drugs: 4/5
As mentioned above, a character says that he is glad to have given up alcohol.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 4/5
See "Violence".

Other: 3.5/5
Some of the guys are seen gambling.  Manure is referenced and seen on a guy's face.

Final Score: 3.5/5
I had high hopes for this movie; it was touted as a wonderful flick by Christian critics everywhere, and it even featured right many mainstream stars.  Though it was still pretty good, a hard-to-get-through beginning and an abrupt ending kept it from being all it could have been.  Fans of Christian cinema and/or golf may enjoy it--in fact, it's a lot better than Birdie & Bogey, the last golf-themed movie I tried watching--but others may end up somewhat disappointed.  If you think you'd love to see this, rent it first; otherwise, you may end up shelling out a bunch of money on something you'll never watch again.

DVD Set Review: "Home Improvement": The Complete First Season

Rated: TV-PG for language and violence (US) / G (Canada)
Starring: Tim Allen, Patricia Richardson, and Richard Karn
Released: 1991-1992 (original ABC premieres) / 2004 (DVD)

Synopsis: One of the best-loved television series of the 1990s, Home Improvement is about Tim "The Tool Man" Taylor (Tim Allen, The Santa Clause), host of the local access TV show Tool Time, and his family: his wife Jill (Patricia Richardson, The Jensen Project) and three sons, troublemakers Brad (Zachery Ty Bryan) and Randy (Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Tom and Huck), as well as innocently naive Mark (Taran Noah Smith).  Though Tim is all about working with tools, he is also prone to accidents, which leads him and his family into many a debacle.  With his much-loved Tool Time assistant Al Borland (Richard Karn, Family Feud), the beautiful "tool girl" Lisa (Pamela Anderson), and the Taylors' wise, advice-dispensing neighbor Wilson (Earl Hindman), it's a recipe for love, laughter, and more power!
Based on the stand-up comedy of Tim Allen.

Artistic Merit

Plots: 3.5/5
Sitcoms have existed pretty much since the dawn of television, so, there's little ground that hasn't been trodden previously within the genre before this series came out.  Though the stories contained within are standard fare, they are made more fun because of the off-beat approach; you can definitely tell the stars were having fun while filming the series.  Still, beloved secondary characters such as Harry and Delores, Al's love interest Ilene, Tim's brother Marty, and Bud, the owner of Binford Tools, are nowhere to be seen.

Production Values: 3.5/5
One of the hallmarks of this series is the fact that, during the credits, you can see the bloopers from the filming of the episode; that, unfortunately, is mostly absent here.  The acting isn't perfect, but, any fan of the show knows that's to be expected from this show.  Though the scene transitions are clever, they aren't as funny or advanced as the ones in later episodes.  Still, this was the first run of the series, so the makers deserve a little credit.

Moral Content

Positive Elements: 4/5
Tim and Jill both impart words of wisdom to their sons, and Wilson also gives Tim great advice, even quoting 1 Corinthians 13:11.  It is also mentioned briefly that the Taylors attend church.  Most of the episodes feature Tim making a mistake, and learning the error of his ways by the time the credits roll.  When a guy makes romantic advances on Jill, she sends his away.

Sexual Content: 1.5/5
There are times where the ratings people get it wrong, and this is one such case.  While watching the episodes within this set one after another, I was surprised how much subtly sexual banter there was between Tim and Jill.  Though each remark by itself would only get a "PG" from the MPAA by itself, when put together, it made it a bit too much.  I think this deserved a "D" under the "TV-PG" for off-color dialogue.

Nudity: 4/5
Tim and Mark are seen shirtless a time or two, and Jill wears a low-cut dress.  She also is seen in a bathtub, but all you see are her face and her bare shoulders.  A scantily clad woman is seen in an image from a car magazine.

Language: 2/5
D-words, h-words, and misuses of God's name appear anywhere from one or two times to as many as seven times, depending on the episode.  Milder expressions such as "darn," "heck," "butt," and "shut up," as well as some name-calling, appear a little less often.  A character is stopped short of saying a profanity at least twice.

Violence: 4/5
All the violence contained within this season is slapstick and played for laughs.  Most of it is a product of Tim's mishaps, whether on Tool Time or at home; still, there isn't any blood or gore to be seen.

Drugs: 3.75/5
Tim and/or Jill drink beer or wine a few times, and one episode features guys smoking cigars.

Frightening/Intense Scenes: 4.5/5
The episode where Tim and Jill pretend to be aliens to get even with Randy and Brad is slightly freaky.

Other: 3.25/5
Bodily functions are referenced fairly often.  Also, Tim pokes fun of Al for being single, and it isn't always vilified.

Final Score: 2.25/5
Out of all the shows I have watched over the years--and, believe me, there are many--Home Improvement is probably the one I have watched more than any other, mostly thanks to reruns airing on various cable channels.  Though the series originally ran on ABC from 1991 to 1999, I can still remember watching a syndicated episode on our local CBS affiliate on Christmas Day 1995; since then, it has been shown on channels ranging from The WB to Nick at Nite to, currently, the Hallmark Channel.  However, since the DVD has the original broadcast episodes, I felt like I was watching them for the first time.  Though each of the episodes has a core plot that is at least decent, the profanity, innuendos, and crude references ruined things for me.  Was I immune to such content all this time? One wonders.
A post-script: Though I have nothing against Canada, I don't know what the Canadian raters are thinking.  They rate this "G," yet they take a seven-episode DVD of Shake It Up and rate it "PG" and say it is "Not Recommended for Young Children"?  Are they confused, or do they just hate the Disney Channel? Again, one wonders.