God's Not Dead Movie Review (2014)

(Due to the nature of this film, I'm going to review this slightly differently without an actual rating. I'm going to give my commentary by the 3 target audiences I believe this movie was intended for.)

For the Non-Believers (Atheists/Anti-theists, etc): This may not be the movie for the average Atheist, and definitely not for the Anti-theists. I think this film poses the same problem for atheists similar to the problem believers would face if they were asked to watch Religulous, or to read The God Delusion. It's not because one of those books or movies will shut down someone's beliefs, but the simple fact that they will challenge people's beliefs, and not everyone is simply comfortable with that. Everyone isn't comfortable with dealing with extreme oppositions to their own personal views so, while I do encourage people to face their doubts and be seekers of truth, I can understand people just wishing not to be confrontational with their beliefs. This movie will provoke an internal confrontation for atheists.

For the "On the Fencers" (Agnostics): Despite the fact that this film may be pegged as a "Christian movie", it does a good job of presenting both sides of theism and atheism. I think that the references to Richard Dawkins (atheists), Steven Hawking (atheist), John Lennox (Christian apologist)or C. S. Lewis (Christian apologist) were excellent resources for people to really refer to and compare/contrast the different positions. What I think is the biggest takeaway for agnostics is that this movie isn't about proving God's existence or not, it's about what's more plausible to be true.

For the Believers: This film will more than likely be loved and appreciated by believers. (Especially Christians) The arguments presented aren't necessarily the same old rehashed claims that you'd normally hear in a Sunday sermon. This movie does a great job of at least presenting some of the reasons why believers can believe in God outside of just "Because the Bible tells me so". Both scientific and philosophical evidence are presented in a manner that, I believe, believers should really reflect upon in understanding their own beliefs. For Christians, it may bring 1 Peter 3:15 to mind.

Recommendation: This film is worth watching for those who feel compelled to watch it. A theater or viewing on DVD would be just fine. If my commentary doesn't move you to watch it, you probably weren't going to in the first place.

Oculus Movie Review (2014)

The Good: If you enjoy those queasy and gory moments, (like in Saw or Hostel (Movie)) there are about a few of them in this film that may make you want to look away. There is also a good level of suspense throughout the movie that keeps you engaged for most of the movie. The story line had a really interesting contrast between what society deems as "mentally crazy" vs ...well you know...ghosts, supernatural stuff, etc.

The Bad: The story line jumps all over the place. It doesn't do a good job of keeping the audience in the know of what's real or not. That may have been intentional, but I just don't think it paid off. The way the plot plays around with the flashbacks and possible delusion is similar to if someone spun you around multiple times, stopped you abruptly, and said "okay now walk straight". Despite the suspenseful scenes, it feels as though the actual scary parts either scare you just for the moment, or not at all. I think the movies Mama 2013 Movie and the The Conjuring did a much better job developing and setting up the evil spirit(s) at the end. Oh and the big reveal of what the evil thing was seemed pretty rushed and acknowledged with only a simple one liner. smh The film was about 1hr and 45min, and that was way too long to finally get to the scary stuff.

The Reason: It's been quite a while since I've heard such a collective groaning sound at the end of a movie from an entire audience. I even heard a few "I'm just disappointed" comments as well. I think the ending just felt like a complete let down after all the time you invested in hoping this would be scarier. I think that this is the type of movie that, if you're interested by the trailer, to watch it at home. Due to the fact that this movie will be a complete hit or miss with most people, I'd say just rent it, or stream it when it's available. Don't spend your hard earned money on it. It's just not worth the risk.

The Rating: 6.5/10

Captain America 2: Winter Soldier Movie Review (2014)

The Good: From the guns, to the high speed chases, to the hand-to-hand combat, you'll get more of your fill of non-stop action from beginning to end! When it comes to the story line, this movie strays away from your tradition comic book formula. It lends itself more so to being a conspiracy/spy type of movie so it's filled with lies, deceit, twists and turns. The acting was actually pretty impressive too. Chris Evans IS Captain America. All Scarlett Johansson had to do was walk and talk and she owned her role as Black Widow. (And more close ups would be appreciated! lol) For as powerful as Captain America is, the The Winter Soldier (played by Sebastian Stan) really gives the Cap a run for his money as a villain. Surprisingly enough, Anthony Mackie did a fine job as a supporting role as the Falcon. As with most Marvel movies, despite the high octane suspenseful action, there still managed to be a satisfying amount of comedic relief sprinkled throughout the movie. For the comic fans, or just fans of the Avengers movie franchise, you'll be happy to know that there are PLENTY of name drops and clues pointing towards the future of the Marvel Avengers franchise. So pay attention!

The Bad: I know, I know. In an interest to be fair, I have to point out at least something bad. Don't worry, it's not that bad though. The advertised 3D element was a complete waste. There was nothing in 3D that was memorable or worth paying the extra money for. Lastly, while there were many twists and turns throughout the movie, there may be some people out there that will still view some of the twists as predictable. (on a really minor scale.)

The Reason: This movie, I believe, has finally broken the mold and raised the bar for solo, comic character based movies. It completely stands on its own. In other words, if there were no Avengers movies, this movie would still be great! Please do not waste your money on IMAX and/or 3D. It's not worth it. It only makes the punches sound harder, which is nice but not worth the extra $$$$. And worry not, there are TWO bonus scenes, so don't be that person who walks out. Is this a must see? To that I would say, "Why are you still reading this and not in the theaters right now? Go!" You might as well get your Blu-ray pre-orders ready while you're at it.

The Rating: 9.5/10