Will you love the man of steel as he has been James Gunn-ed?

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

The feeling is that we have seen the majority of this new version of Superman, given the hype and publicity surrounding this latest entry into the franchise from writer/director James Gunn (Guardians of the Galaxy). As the man behind the cape attempts to salvage the DC Universe and Warner Bros., this reinvention of the conventional superhero film, one of the most beloved superheroes, will polarise fans in the weeks ahead.

Inspired by the All-Star Superman comic book series by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely, we enter the world of Clark Kent (David Corenswet) as Superman is at one of the most vulnerable stages of his life. The Man of Steel is exposed to having more weak spots than mere Kryptonite, as Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) has developed a multi-layered media and military campaign to bring the superhuman down. While this is all happening around his super persona, he must determine how to balance his work at the Daily Planet with his love for Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). With the aid of the Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Mr Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), Superman must find a way to maintain world peace as he is personally attacked and as a superhero from all sides.

To take on this iconic figure is a feat that will require the strength of Atlas and the wisdom of Solomon to accomplish, given the numerous alliterations that have occurred on both the big and small screens throughout the decades. James Gunn has conquered Marvel with his quirky and endearing introduction of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise and his twisted reboot of The Suicide Squad. The reality is that this version of Superman would be unique. That is what audiences will get: a new vision of the man in the blue tights that will force fans to determine if they are ready for the change. As it contains more comedy and humanity in the character’s world, there is a light heartedness that may cause some to cheer and others to yearn for Christopher Reeve or Henry Cavill once again.

On one side, we gain a world where Clark Kent and Lois Lane show how their worlds struggle to fit together. A Metropolis where metahumans are accepted and where villains are more campy than villainous. Jonathan and Martha Kent (Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell, respectively) are less noble and more homespun, with the heart of the film going to his furry and less-than-disciplined sidekick, Krypto, who proves once again that no one should mess with the dog in the hero’s journey. These storyline strengths are hampered by a multitude of characters and plot points that make this a storyline that is difficult to follow. David Corenswet has the charisma to carry this franchise on his shoulders. Still, James Gunn has burdened him with so many story devices that some may find it hard to embrace this version of the most familiar superhero on the planet.

Superman has been reimagined by James Gunn, and fans will need to see if they can move on from all that has preceded them in comics, television, and on-screen with this character to embrace this new future of Kal-El. It is a new world for this Man of Steel. Are you willing to shed the past and fly into the future with him once again? The box office will tell.

Reel Dialogue: How Do You Define A Hero?

This is a question that can take on a multitude of answers. As James Gunn redefines one of the world’s iconic examples of superheroes, this is a question we need to address once again. From the fictional character to the unsung, humble members of our community, the label of hero can transcend cultures, genders, ages, and nations.

Hero: a person noted for courageous acts or nobility of character

This broad definition can be applied to many individuals throughout history. Still, there is only one person who truly fits into this without blemish. One whose courageous act was enough to save the world. It is hard to look past Jesus as the true definition of hero. All others pale in comparison, not to diminish their value, but merely to point to the one who set the standard for true heroism.

Who Is The True Superman Of This World?

Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

They were terrified and asked each other, “who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” – Mark 4: 36-41

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐ (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Racing cars is a rite of passage for the aging movie star from Steve McQueen to Paul Newman. Films that incorporate the yearning for the adrenaline rush and skirting the edge of danger that permeates the hearts of men worldwide. Brad Pitt (Once Upon a Time in… Hollywood) ventures into the world of motorheads in top-tier racing as he jumps behind the wheel in Formula One. 

He embodies the seasoned and pieced-together journeyman driver Sonny Hayes. After years of driving every type of car in venues worldwide, the racer is approached by Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), APXGP team owner, former F1 driver, and friend. The company owner needs help mentoring rookie prodigy Joshua “Noah” Pearce (Damson Idris) and helping save his driving team. Despite his reluctance to jump in the seat of the F1 racing machine, Sonny decides to take this chance to redeem himself from his past and does his best to salvage this floundering team.

Each year provides viewers with another option of racing glory, but what gives this project a heightened excitement goes beyond seeing Brad Pitt and Javier Bardem together on screen. The intrigue comes with the man in the director’s chair; Top Gun: Maverick‘s Joseph Kosinski will have audiences salivating for a viewer experience that moves from jets to race cars. This anticipation is rewarded from the opening credits as the filmmaker puts the audience in the driver’s seat and keeps the foot on the gas for 156 minutes. A run time that could be argued went one race too many. Still, the overall entertainment experience makes it worth the trip to the cinema. 

Most of the film resides on the greatest race tracks in the world. Still, many want to know if Pitt and Idris are more than eye candy to draw you to the cars. Once again, viewers can thank the production of Maverick for screenwriter Ehren Kruger for delivering a great story, albeit familiar, to complement the races. The team dynamic and chemistry amongst all players take this production from mere racing to a story that draws in those who may not be interested in the racing component. Kerry Condon (The Banshees of Inisherin) holds her own in a world of alpha males. At the same time, Tobias Menzies (The Crown) plays the smarmy interloper needed to keep the characters honest. 

F1 will have audiences feeling like they are in the driver’s seat and they merely need to hold on for the ride. Pitt, Idris and Bardem push the limits of danger and expectation in this breathtaking and compelling film that will make you want to fly!

Reel Dialogue: Mentorship

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another – Proverbs 27:17

What is the value of a good mentor? At the heart of F1 is an example of Biblical mentorship. Sonny and Joshua’s relationship is one in which one man directs another’s path for his development and for the benefit of their team. Amongst all of the relationships within this film, their eventual friendship leads to some of the most endearing elements of the film.

And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also – 2 Timothy 2:2

Mentorship and training are seen throughout the Bible. Jesus had his disciples, but a fascinating study can be found in the coaching relationship between Paul and Timothy. The apostle wrote some of the most personal letters to his trainee. These men set a precedence for the value of an older individual investing in the life of someone younger. Like Sonny and Joshua, the allegiance between Paul and Timothy benefits trainees today. It does lead to the very thing that genuinely benefits mankind.

Letters that show the mentoring role of Paul to Timothy: 1 & 2 Timothy

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

We all need to head back to the Hawaiian islands for one more adventure.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

As the rollout of Disney live-action treatments of their classic films continues, many may groan at the idea of remaking the 2002 surprise hit Lilo & Stitch. Yet, this unbelievable sci-fi family may translate to the big screen better than recent offerings if the House of Mouse can capture the heart of the original. Especially with the advancements in cinematic technology and animation, this film could shock fans as it becomes the unexpected family film of the season.

For any parents who haven’t had the original film on regular repeat for their children over the past two decades, let’s get you up to speed on the Hawaiian exploits of this furry blue alien. Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders) is the creation of mad-genius Dr. Jumba Jookiba (Zach Galifianakis) who has been arrested for this abomination to the United Galactic Federation council. Yet, during the trial of the scientist and his creature, Stitch manages to escape to the planet Earth and lands on the island of Hawaii. As he is pursued by this creator and Agent Pleakley (Billy Magnussen), a Plorgonarian agent who is an Earth “expert,” the fugitive creature is unexpectedly adopted by a lonely little girl named Lilo (Maia Kealoha) and her sister/guardian, Sydney (Nani Pelekai). The combination turns into an intergalactic refugee story that twists together aliens, government authorities and family that will capture the hearts of new and old fans.

Just as the initial tale captured the imagination of a generation, this live-action version of Lilo & Stitch manages to keep the tradition alive. Granted, audiences will need a certain level of imagination to embrace this crazily destructive little, blue hero, but all will be rewarded for coming along. Children will laugh at all the shenanigans of these two unlikely friends, and parents can relish the trusted family fun unfolding on the big screen. Some scarier elements might make this best for children over five. Still, everyone else who comes along will enjoy the family-centred messaging and the ridiculous combination of science fiction and the beauty of the Hawaiian islands. Some modern twists bring this screenplay into this era. At the same time, the production team keeps to the fundamental core of the story that families have come to love over the years.

All those who have grown sceptical of Disney’s reimagining of these movie favourites might want to give this one a chance. Maia Kealoha is a gem. It embodies the heartfelt nature of Lilo, and the animation supports Stitch coming alive on the sandy island beaches. It is a great beginning to the upcoming season that yearns to welcome families back to the cinemas.

What Do Parents Need to Know About Lilo & Stitch?

Every parent can let out a sigh of relief that Disney has finally stayed true to what made this film a hit. They remain to the storyline that parents can trust to entertain and open the door to amazing conversations with their children. This story is loaded with excellent links to discussions about loyalty, the difference between good and bad, plus the opportunities to talk about the value of family is worth the price of admission.

Great Biblical Support For Talking Points:

Family: Proverbs 22:6: – “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Loyalty: Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Over the past 15 years since its initial release, How to Train Your Dragon has become a franchise beloved by young and old. The Isle of Berk, Toothless, and Hiccup have managed to capture the hearts and minds of fans who have gone on to embrace the fantasy world of dragons and their riders. Yet, when Dreamworks considered bringing these cherished characters to the real world, many would be justified in wondering if this live-action version would still carry the same magic.

A sigh of relief could be heard throughout the fanbase as Dean DeBlois was given the reins of this project as writer, director and producer. If anyone could keep the vision accurate to the original storyline on the right course, the animated film’s director was the man for the job. Hiccup (Mason Thames) comes to life on screen as the misunderstood son of the Viking leader, Chief Stoick the Vast (role reprised by Gerard Butler). As they defend the isle of Berk from dragons, the inhabitants must search for the nest of the creatures. During the adult’s absence, the young train for the ongoing battle between humans and the fire-breathers. Until Hiccup manages to bring down a Night Fury and befriends the flying beast, who the young Viking names Toothless. The pair must overcome fear, prejudices and misunderstandings to unite these warring parties to fight a common enemy.

The trend of turning animated classics into live-action films has proven to be a hit-or-miss proposition for Disney over the years. This studio practice might cause some concern for Toothless fans. Yet, this fear will prove unwarranted as DeBlois stays true to the original film with only a few nuances added to complement the story. Each character comes to life, and as things unfold, Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, and Gerard Butler all manage to fill the helmets and saddles of their animated alter egos. Yet, the locations and the CGI-created dragons make this a convincing transition to live-action.

The Irish Isles provide a fantastic backdrop for the filming as this taps into the visual inspiration of Game of Thrones and Avatar. The flying scenes are convincing, and the island sets will convince the audience that there truly is a Viking settlement in the real world. Still, the part that will convince the greatest sceptic of this move will be the visual effects that will bring the dragons to life. Granted, the Deadly Nadder, Gronckle, and the Hideous Zipplebacks seem a bit cartoonish, but Toothless looks so convincing that the viewer would think they could reach out and touch him like Hiccup does.

Between the outstanding computer generation, the beautiful settings and the compelling performances from the whole cast, How to Train Your Dragon will satisfy the devoted and draw a whole new audience to this amazing franchise. A film that needs to be experienced on the big screen to truly be appreciated and celebrated once again.

Reel Dialogue: What Does Being a Father, Not Merely a Viking, Mean To Your Children?

‘Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with His enemies in the gate.’ Psalm 127:3-5

One aspect of this franchise that stands out is the importance of the father’s love and acceptance. The relationship between Hiccup and Stoick is integral to this storyline and shows how essential it is in the lives of children everywhere.

The role of fatherhood that tends to get overlooked is that it is not only a responsibility but also a privilege. Children are truly a blessing. It can be hard to remember this during early morning feedings or the latest car smash, but these incidental things should not diminish the gift that they are in our lives.

Fathers need to look at this opportunity as an honour and do all that can be done to be the men our children need us to be. Some days are harder than others, but thankfully, the Bible gives us the instruction manual to help mould our children, and prayer provides the comfort to watch over them in all situations.

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” – Joshua 24:15

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5 STARS) 

The Salt Path: Searching for the Perfect Combination of Salty and Sweet of Survival

The Salt Path is the interpretation of the memoirs of Raynor (Gillian Anderson) and Moth (Jason Isaacs)Winn, who went through their lowest point in life and discovered themselves. This harrowing true-to-life story has this couple journey along the 630-mile (1,010 km) South West Coast Path of England after losing their home and a devastating health diagnosis. Famed stage director Marianne Elliott takes on the Winn’s heart-rending story in her feature directorial debut. 

Raynor and Moth lived idyllically in the English countryside with their family until two significant events occurred. Firstly, Moth was diagnosed with corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and was looking at an uncertain future. Then came the disastrous courtroom drama that led the couple to lose their home and livelihood. As the creditors knocked on their door, they decided to take all they had financially and begin the daunting trek on the South West Coast Path. Homeless, physically struggling due to the illness and desperate for money, they grew together as they found something they didn’t know existed before in their lives, hope and determination to live.

As one sits in the theatre and experiences the Winn’s story as it unfolds on screen, there is a disjointedness to the storytelling that is both discombobulating and telling of this couple. Their situation isn’t fully explained as the narrative unfolds until flashbacks explain their story. Initially, this storytelling method is uncomfortable as the audience yearns to know how this middle-aged husband and wife ended up in this circumstance. Yet, for those willing to hold on to the explanation, the style of filmmaking begins to complement what is unfolding on the screen. 

Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs are unnervingly and brilliantly convincing as this pair is trying to figure out how to survive and what the future holds for them. Initially, nature presents as their enemy, but eventually, it becomes their solace and proves to be what they need. Their relationship goes through waves of difficulty and opposition and gets pushed to the limits of survival. Yet, once they realise they don’t need the creature comforts of the world to sustain them, they eventually show how this season of their lives established their resolve to live. The Salt Path shows the beauty and the unmitigated pain that comes from living, which can be worth fighting for if you can do it together.

Reel Dialogue: Where Is God In All Of The Suffering? 

One element never addressed in this film is the role of God in the Winn’s suffering. Yet, for many, the question of God’s existence as suffering occurs throughout their story is one worth considering. People have asked these questions throughout human history and will continue to ask them until the end of time. 

Something that people can find in the Bible is the answer to this profound question and more. Even though the God of the Bible is not the maker of evil, he allows it to make its way into people’s lives to help mould their lives and draw them closer to himself. This might sound counterintuitive, but this truth makes more sense for those willing to study this subject in detail. Also, the God of the Bible did provide a solution to the world’s evils with the introduction of Jesus to this world. His sacrifice can provide salvation for anyone who believes in him for all eternity. 

1 Peter 5: 10 – And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

Will the conclusion satisfy the devoted fans?

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (OUT OF 5 STARS) 

Over the past three decades, significant franchises have defined the era, but none as consistent as Mission: Impossible. Another uncommon aspect of this series is that it continually improved throughout the years as the stunts and storyline escalated. Now, we look to be coming to the conclusion of this action series, and the pressure is on to finish well by giving these beloved characters their due recognition. 

The world has progressed into turmoil as The Entity began to infiltrate all online systems worldwide two months after the events from Dead Reckoning. Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his IMF (Impossible Missions Force) team hold the key to controlling this artificial intelligence. Despite the opposing efforts of Gabriel Martinelli (Esai Morales) and most of the world’s governments, Hunt must do one final impossible task to save humanity. They must coordinate their skills and exceptional timing to travel the world and it’s oceans and do all they can to outsmart this omniscient and omnipresent enemy.

Initially, this franchise tapped into various directors and screenwriters to guide it on the next impossible adventure until the partnership of Christopher McQuarrie and Tom Cruise formed during Rogue Nation. From this time in the franchise’s history, the narrative began to solidify, and the continuity of the storylines provided the trajectory over the past decade. The highlight culminated in the Fallout chapter, which continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. Still, we seem to have come to the end of this stage in the series’ history. The challenge is to wrap three decades of characters, storylines and stunts that continue to set the standard for action. 

At a lengthy 170 minutes, the pair do their best to honour the past, the people involved and the audience with an emotionally charged screenplay that takes time to build, but eventually kicks you in the guts with multiple scenes that have defined the series. The first hour is weighed down with explaining the links to the past as a set-up for the following climatic moments. Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Pom Klementieff and Angela Bassett add to the story, honouring their roles throughout the years and giving a nod of appreciation for being part of the journey. Still, this film lies solely in the hands of Tom Cruise, who puts his body and soul into every scene without abandon. The submarine and bi-plane sequences are at the price of admission and justify being shown on the biggest screen possible. 

Tom Cruise, Christopher McQuarrie, and company are justified in taking their time building the arc of Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning story. As they work to tie off thirty years, they may not have delivered the best in these films, but they have honoured the franchise with a strong and satisfying conclusion.

Reel Dialogue: Is Ethan Hunt A Christ-Like Figure? 

I was recently asked how Mission Impossible‘s Ethan Hunt was Christ-like. This agent is constantly sent on impossible missions. He has his disciples whom he sacrifices for, and his goal is to save the world. I do enjoy the Mission Impossible franchise, and it’s fun to consider Ethan Hunt a saviour figure, but he isn’t Jesus. 

Jesus may not have had the gadgets, masks and willingness to do crazy stunts, but His role in this world was much more. Yes, He did miracles and walked on water, but the real purpose of His mission was to save the souls of this world. Also, His method was to give His life as a sacrifice for us all. 

Ethan Hunt may be a cinematic hero, but he can’t measure up to Jesus, who accomplished the mission that many would qualify as impossible: being the world’s true Saviour.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie Trailer Still

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (OUT OF 5 STARS)

Food is how humanity shows its love for one another in every culture. No one does it better than grandmothers, as they include all of their special touches in every dish, which gives them that special touch unlike anything else you taste. My grandmother’s special noodles, my mother’s ham balls, and my great auntie’s Johnny Bull Pudding are dishes that still bring back special childhood memories for me; how about you?

Based on the true-to-life tale of Joe Scaravella (Vince Vaughn), a mechanic with a close bond with his mother and Nonna (grandmother). He loved the memories of being in the kitchen of his Italian relatives throughout his formative years. Later in life, after his mother passes away, he decides to pool all of his money and open a unique restaurant on Staten Island. This Italian eatery was special because the women in the kitchen were all grandmothers (nonnas) who brought their special recipes and cooking techniques to be shared on the menu. Yet, the challenge will be to convince the community and the city’s foodies that this unique offering is worth experiencing and more than a gimmick.

When a production brings together the beautiful atmosphere of Italian cooking, grandmothers, friendship and family memories, there is bound to be something special on the menu. Nonnas found the right recipe for a film that will appeal to everyone’s taste as it unpacks the magical atmosphere of a grandmother’s expression of love in the kitchen. Whenever there are too many cooks in the kitchen, there is potential for disaster in bringing together screen legends with the inclusion of Susan Sarandon (Dead Man Walking), Lorraine Bracco (The Sopranos), Talia Shire (Rocky) and Brenda Vaccaro (Once Upon A Time… in Hollywood). Yet, these amazing actresses seem to know their roles. Talia Shire’s character, in particular, shows how faith and prayer need to be part of the mix in all of life. For this movie to work, they need to add their bit of spice without overpowering the whole story’s robust flavours. Each brings their own special element that gives this narrative the heart it needs to be convincing.

Vince Vaughn delivers an endearing performance as the grieving son who merely wants to hold onto his mother’s memory. His friendship with Joe Manganiello (Magic Mike) as Bruno who becomes his restaurant’s project manager and the potential romance with his high school sweetheart played by Linda Cardellini (Avengers: Endgame) as that dash of humanity that makes the whole story work. Ultimately, Nonnas delivers a heart-warming drama that will take you back to your grandmother’s kitchen and make you yearn for your favourite childhood dishes that will bring these incredible women back to life in vivid living colour and a bouquet of aromas from the past.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5)

Tragic events occur worldwide every day that rarely make the news on the other side of the world. Yet, the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes had an impact that sent ripples worldwide and continues to affect the island nation’s conscience. Writer/director Miki Magasiva (We Are Still Here) taps into the personal shockwaves that continue to run through the various communities impacted by the quake.

Mareta Percival (Anapela Polataivao) had spent much of her life teaching music in many of the underprivileged schools in her community to help the students many had left behind. Until her daughter travelled to the city to qualify for a music scholarship but was killed in the earthquakes during her fateful trip to Christchurch. This sent Mareta into an emotional and spiritual tailspin for over three years. She would have gone on longer if her government benefits weren’t threatened by her lack of work. The overqualified instructor applies to a wealthy, conservative private school as a substitute teacher to appease the government. Surprisingly, the grieving teacher gets the job, eventually sees the opportunity to start a choir, and encourages the students to participate in the national Big Sing competition. Yet, as she attempts to rebuild her life and that of many students, internal and cultural opposition put up barriers for her to hear the music again.

Initially, this film felt like a typical tragedy-to-triumph project with a lesson in race relations added for good measure. Except Miki Magasiva delivers something unique that will capture the hearts of all willing to let go of their expectations and let the music permeate their lives. At the heart of this deeply affecting story is the understated, commanding performance of Anapela Polataivao. In her subtle manner, the veteran actress carries this film on her shoulders. She draws the audience into the depth of her grief and beautiful passion for the music that can save her soul. She is surrounded by an outstanding cast that includes Beulah Koale, Antonia Robinson and Dalip Sondhi whose characters all carry their own internal demons. Yet, all rely on the seismic force of Polataivao’s story arc that travels through this tale, which contains unexpected twists and emotionally rich relationships that will have aftershocks well after leaving the theatre.

Tinā is the type of movie that audiences have been yearning for over the past few years. A story for those who thirst for an emotionally charged film that entertains and inspires positive change in the human spirit. Like all things affected by earthquakes, noticeable plot holes and soft points could potentially sink this film. Still, none of these minor weaknesses can undermine the overall bittersweet encounter that this will have on all who discover this New Zealand gem.

Reel Dialogue: Can Joy Really Come Out of Tragedy?

Miki Magasiva plunges into the deep hole of grief through tragedy. Yet, in Tina’s unlikely musical story, he gives us an unexpected lifeline to show us the way out of this heartbreaking ordeal. Her tale manages to show that beauty can be found in injustice, tragedy, and suffering. It is a rough and raw depiction of the lives of many across the world who face racial and emotional opposition.

This could be said of the heart of the good news of the story: the life and death of Jesus.

Jesus’ story is one of tragic beginnings and a horrific end, but throughout his short time on earth, this tale of potential woe does contain a certain beauty and offers hope to the world. His death symbolises everlasting joy for many, and his life continues to provide an overwhelming expectation of what is to be. If you see little hope or joy in your life, it may be a good time to check out Jesus’s story. Jesus offers people hope in a forever that goes beyond their wildest dreams.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

All images: Movie publicity

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.