Gospel

Starring:James Cleveland, Walter Hawkins, Twinkie Clark, Shirley Caesar
Director: David Leivick, Frederick A. Ritzenberg
Studio: Monterey Video
Product Type: DVD

Description

An epic in the spirit of THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST, this widely acclaimed motion picture is a meticulous recreation of the turbulent era of Jesus and the events that changed the course of history! Narrated by Golden Globe nominee Christopher Plummer (Best Supporting Actor, AMERICAN TRAGEDY, 2000), it's the bold and powerful story of Jesus as told by his disciple John. The best-loved but least understood of the gospels, John presents a uniquely human portrait of courage and passion encompassing Jesus' entire three-year ministry, the final years of his life. Intimate and reflective, THE GOSPEL OF JOHN offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the incomparable life and times of Jesus Christ.

Customer Reviews:

Why does Jesus have that weird smirk on his face?.......2007-07-04

My brother raved about this movie, and so I foolishly bought it without seeing it first. What a disappointment. It was long and boring, but worst of all, Jesus walks around the whole time with this odd, vacant half-smile on his face, as if this is just a game. If you want to see a realistic view of Jesus' experience, watch The Passion. Gross, but true-to-life.

My last word on the subject: "loving" does not equal "always smiling and soft-spoken." Ugh.

Inspirational!.......2007-06-15

It is so nice to finally have a modern film about the life and ministry of Jesus Christ!! What I mean by that is while I love films like "The Nativity Story" and "The Passion of the Christ", they focus on the parts of Jesus' life that almost every human being knows, has already seen, read about, heard about etc. It's like Christmas and Easter. Christians always show up for church for those two days out of the entire year and thats all they know or care about because those are the "glamorous" parts of Christianity. What I love about "the Gospel of John" is that it spends more time on the LIFE of Christ, emphasising His ministry, His teaching...really the true heart of Christianity. For those of you who want more than the Nativity Story or the Easter Story this is the film for you. The actor who plays Jesus is perfect. While I appreciate the interpretation of Jesus in films like "Jesus of Nazareth", I always wanted to see a Jesus that was less "scary". In "The Gospel of John" Jesus is human, accessible, inspirational, beautiful, tender, strong and one can definitely see how he was able to capture our hearts and really tick off a lot of the religious scholars of His day! The rest of the cast is quite good as well with the exception of Mary (the mother of Jesus). I think she must have known the director or something because she was seriously miscast. Fortunately she is barely in the film.

Another reason I enjoyed this film is that it includes Mary Magdalene in almost all the scenes with the disciples. I appreciate that because I believe she usually gets stuck in the whole prostitute role (which I don't believe). Here I think she gets a little more credit but still not as much as she probably deserves.

I hope you enjoy "The Gospel of John" as much as I did!

Fatally Faithful to the Fourth Gospel.......2007-06-14

Unlike most Jesus films, which tend to be harmonizations of all four gospels, this movie attempts to be strictly faithful to the Fourth Gospel. And that's just what's wrong with it. John's gospel insists that faith in Jesus as the Son of God is what's necessary for salvation. Those whom he calls will believe and be saved; everybody else is damned. Unlike Mark, Matthew and Luke, in which Jesus is an apocalyptic prophet proclaiming the coming kingdom of God and the way to behave until it comes, John's Jesus is a self-aware God demanding faith in himself, and he's plenty angry at those who won't give it. Thus John has no Beatitudes, fewer miracles, no eucharist -- but plenty of long exhortations.

The movie The Gospel of John stays very close to this portrayal, and the results are quite disappointing. Cusick does what he can with the role of Jesus, but the script demands that he spend so much time scolding his fellow Jews and proclaiming his own divinity that it's hard to understand what anybody sees in this guy.

Moreover, many of the episodes we've come to expect in a Jesus movie -- episodes that tend to add drama and sympathy for the character of Jesus -- are missing from this film. Where's the nativity? The temptation in the desert? The baptism by John? The agony in the garden? They're not here -- because they're not in the gospel the film is based on. Instead, there are plenty of interminable speeches, many of which are circular and redundant. By insisting on sticking to the text, the film winds up being very uncinematic, despite all the lavish production values. Unfortunately, you can't fire a screenwriter who's been dead for two thousand years.

By the time the Gospel of John was written, Christians were facing a growing straightforward rejection by mainstream Judaism, and the gospel reflects the bitterness and recriminations of the community for which it was written. So if you're looking for real anti-semitism in a Jesus film -- one in which Jews are truly depicted as hard-hearted dolts squandering their last chance for salvation -- forget about The Last Temptation of Christ or even The Passion of the Christ. For anti-Jewish antagonism, nothing beats The Gospel of John.

A story as old as time...........2007-06-08

This was the most moving thing I have seen in my life. I sat spellbound with tears streaming down my face the first time I saw this. What a great depiction of the boundless, endless, timeless love the father has for us, his children. There may be a few inaccuracies in the film, I have not checked them out yet, but regardless it is a true masterpiece. Highly recommended and well done for a 'religious' film. Better than 'The Passion' by Mel!

Must see!.......2007-05-20

Very good movie.Just as the gospel of John does,this movie is very detailed on the ministry part of Jesus life.No skimping on the dialog or teaching/miracles.Doesn't have the big Hollywood feel to the movie which makes it more realistic.See it now!

Average customer rating:

Wouldn't recommend this to anyone
MEN CRY IN THE DARK
Men have feeling s
I Can't Rate This to High....
Men Cry In The Dark

Men Cry in the Dark
Starring: Allen Payne , Rhona Bennett , Richard Roundtree , and Christopher Williams
Director: Je'Caryous Johnson
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Similar Items:

The Maintenance Man
Friends & Lovers
Playas Ball
Restraining Order
Flip the Script

ASIN: B000KGGZYE
Release Date: 2007-02-06

Description

The future has never looked better for Derrick Reed. Bachelorhood is great, he has a group of guys he can really call friends, and he's the publisher of a magazine that he named after his philosophy of life, Happily Single. Little does Derrick know that appearing on Atlanta's hottest radio station morning talk show will send him on a whirl-wind ride, which will eventually take him to the heart of a woman who will change his life forever. He finds the perfect woman and the perfect reason to stop womanizing and make a commitment. This mystery woman is about to have a lasting impact on Derrick's life by changing the way he thinks and feels about women and relationships.

Customer Reviews:

Wouldn't recommend this to anyone.......2007-07-07

I purchased this DVD because I heard from a friend that it was good. I liked the play the Maintenance Man, so I assumed this would be just as good...I was totally wrong. This was the longest and most boring play I have ever seen. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone---save your money.

MEN CRY IN THE DARK.......2007-05-24

THE MOVIE QUAILTY WAS GOOD & AMAZON SHIPPED THIS REALLY FAST & THAT'S THE ONLY REASON WHY I'M GIVING THIS 4 STARS. THE STORY LINE SUCK.

Men have feeling s.......2007-05-23

Women think man don't have feelings and don't hurt, but this movie showed a man can hurt like us. Great job.

I Can't Rate This to High...........2007-05-21

I only bought this because I'm such a fan of Allen Payne. Sorry but this play was sooooooo utterly boring.

1. There were two scenes that I had to just fast forward through because they lasted so long and were so dry, and then I just stopped the DVD altogether.
2. It was too much like the movie, "the Brothers." Now had this been called, "The Brothers (the Play)", I could have gotten in to it. But it wasn't so I couldn't. There was the sexy light skinned guy getting getting engaged, there was the bitter black guy who didn't like black women, there was the super sexy player who could never commit, and the fat guy was the comic relief. There was nothing original about this play and I hated it. The 15-20 minutes that I saw of it anyway.
3. Someone said this was "so real", but no it wasn't! It was cliche matter of factly.
4. Allen Payne is pretty good actor but I don't think the stage is his forte. He may need a little more practice at stage plays because he really wasn't that good here.

Like someone else said, rent or borrow before you buy. This play was awful.

Men Cry In The Dark.......2007-05-15

Very good presentation. Outstanding vocal performances. Would like to see more plays with this crew of actors.

Average customer rating:

Great First at your place movie
black stage play
THE MAINTENANCE MAN
Ja'Caryous has done it again!!
Maintenance Men

The Maintenance Man
Starring: Darius McCrary , Billy Dee Williams , and Arnez J.
Director: Je'caryus Johnson
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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Men Cry in the Dark
Friends & Lovers
Playas Ball
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Flip the Script

ASIN: B000KGGZUI
Release Date: 2007-02-06

Description

As an expensive male escort, Malcolm Tremell (Darius McCrary, Family Matters) seems to have it all - fancy cars, an abundance of cash and an endless supply of gorgeous women who pay him for sex! Yet as the years pass, he longs for more as he dreams of a career in music and a family. When he meets a beautiful dancer, he believes his prayers may have been answered. Yet can he change his entire life for one woman ... does he dare to risk heartbreak? From the bestselling novel by Michael Baisden, The Maintenance Man also stars Billy Dee Williams(Lady Sings the Blues, Undercover Brother) and BET's Comicview host Arnez J.

Customer Reviews:

Great First at your place movie.......2007-07-08

I really enjoy the live play, but viewing it in the comfort of my own home and with my special guy at my home was even better. Afterwards we had a lot of topics to discuess and a chance to see each other's views about things. It's not too heavy and will keep you laughing!

black stage play.......2007-06-08

great play! Truth be told!! I went to school with Darius McCrary, he was a great actor and did a great job playing the main character! Definitely a movie to reccommend to the single girlfriends who need some light shed on the dating game!

THE MAINTENANCE MAN.......2007-05-24

THE MOVIE QAUILTY IS REALLY GOOD & AMAZON WAS REALLY GOOD W/SHIPPING IT FAST & THE ONLY REASON I'M GIVING THIS A 4 STARS, BUT THE MOVIE ITSELF STORY LINE SUCKED IT COULD HAVE BEEN A GOOD MOVIE BUT BAD ACTING.

Ja'Caryous has done it again!!.......2007-05-09

This play was great! All of the actors were funny and Darius-Oh My God!! can he sing or what!! I watched this play every night when I first got it for about 3weeks straight and I still watch it now. This was just awesome! I hadn't read the book but I'm going to now.

Maintenance Men.......2007-05-07

This was an excellent play. I didn't think I could got passed remembering him as his character from "Family Matters, but five minutes into the play, I realized there was no comparison. Darius is now a mature and confident young man. If your looking for laughs (Arnez J) and sometimes tears (Billy D., this is a good DVD to purchase.

Average customer rating:

Excellent Cast
Do you see yourself in this relationship?
awesome cast!
~
friends & lovers

Friends & Lovers
Starring: Leon , Arnez J , Jackson , and Calhoun
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

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Men Cry in the Dark
The Maintenance Man
Playas Ball
Restraining Order
Flip the Script

ASIN: B000KGGZT4
Release Date: 2007-02-06

Description

What happens when friends cross the line and become lovers? Lies fly, emotions erupt, and the stage is set for a totally uncensored, hilarious, and outrageously entertaining adventure in seduction, betrayal, heartbreak, revenge, and oh-so-sweet true love. Shelby Daniels and her best friend Debra Mitchell have just gotten off the sex-before-marriage merry-go-round with men. Each has gone looking for love, found love, lost love, and at this point, sworn off men forever-- until Debra meets Leonard DuBois, an aspiring stand-up comedian who tries to laugh his way into her heart. But the laughter stops when he is forced to confront some hurdles of his own. Debra has devoted her mind, body, heart and soul to God, so if he wants to ride with her, he'll have to produce the ring. In the meantime, feisty, nosy, attitude-packing flight attendant Shelby keeps intervening in Debra's business. Needing someone to run interference and get rid of Shelby, Leonard calls on his best buddy, Tyrel, a sexy and charming computer software designer unable to design the perfect woman. On the rebound, Shelby keeps her heart locked away, but when Tyrel finds the key, the attraction is instant and so are the consequences. Their relationship moves at warp speed, leaving Shelby confronting a decision that could turn her whole life around and break both of their hearts. As a result, friendships fall by the wayside, jealousy come into play, and sisterhood is torn apart. It takes tragedy on a grand scale to reunite lovers destined for each other and teach both couples that friendship is perhaps the most valuable gift they've been given in this hilarious tale of friendship, love, and faith that speaks directly to the heart. Based on the best-selling novel by Eric Jerome Dickey (EJD).

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Cast.......2007-05-29

I loved this book so I was a bit wary to see this - however I was pleasantly surprised. As other reviews have mentioned the cast and the chemistry was excellent- they stayed true to the book and it did not give off the "low budget vibe". All in all- an excellent choice and a must see/ have.

Do you see yourself in this relationship?.......2007-05-27

Women will see how men think and how desperate they can be. Women will see how strong they can be. This play will help you decide what type of relationship you want.

awesome cast!.......2007-05-07

The chemistry between these actors was great! There were parts that made you laugh and made you cry, but you felt all of the joy and pain the characters allowed you to see! I would recommend this play for anyone who enjoys seeing Tyler Perry or David Talbert. It is not low budget and was filmed in a way that makes you feel like you are right there in the theater! I applaud the realistic nature of the script and reaction of the actors!

~.......2007-04-01

I think that this play should have been made into a feature film. It was ok... but it could have been better.

friends & lovers.......2007-03-31

wonderful play. this was an excellent cast that had very good chemistry together. the funny parts were very funny. the dramatic parts were very well delivered. a must have for my collection.

Average customer rating:

THE CLARK SISTERS
Good...But wish Houston was on DVD!!
Disappointed
LET'S START A PETITION!
Highly Disappointed, but it is The Clark Sisters

The Clark Sisters: Live - One Last Time
Starring: The Clark Sisters
Manufacturer: EMI Gospel
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

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Live: One Last Time
Journey: Live in New York
V2... The J Moss Project
Thirsty
Celebration of Gospel - Taking You Higher!

ASIN: B000QFAFSQ
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Customer Reviews:

THE CLARK SISTERS.......2007-07-02

This DVD may not be the CD recording but its a good concert. Anyways just like the other person said they mentioned that the DVD was recorded in Nashville in March 2007. So overall it's a pretty good concert and They bring on the DVD Clark Sister Dance moves just like how they use to do back in the day. This was A Great DVD, and I would get the DVD

Good...But wish Houston was on DVD!!.......2007-06-21

Okay, I was at the Houston recording and it was PHENOMINAL!! If you are a real supporter and keep up with The Clarks ministry, you would have known that they recorded a DVD recording in February in Nashville because Houston would not be released on DVD. After the recording, the concert aired on Gospel Music Channel (GMC) and it was Front Row Live. No, the DVD is nothing like Houston, but it is still good. So in my eyes, the DVD is not garbage or bad. The girls have some other things coming out later this year. They are going on a 25 city tour in October, so be happy about that. They have so much going on. I guess many are upset because they did not know HOUSTON wasn't going to be released. But many supporters KNEW what the deal was, and what was being released. I because I'm a Clark fan, and support their endeavors, I will get the DVD!! Jacky did great on the DVD!! So lets quit whinning, and just SUPPORT!!

Disappointed.......2007-06-21

I pre-ordered this DVD and I'll NEVER do that again. Next time I'll wait and read some reviews. This is a major disappointment. If you're going to have a dvd to correspond with a cd, at least make the dvd the SAME performance or BETTER than the original. This is not even on par with the original. :(

LET'S START A PETITION!.......2007-06-21

Look everyone who is reading this we all know that this DVD is horrible and not what some of us expected or wanted. We do know that this The actual recording was put on video because there have been 1 or 2 clips shown on various gospel shows, so with that in mind we should all flood EMI GOSPEL'S Mailbox requesting that they work out whatever the problem may be with the original video and put it to DVD I think we as the fans of the Clarks deserve it.

Highly Disappointed, but it is The Clark Sisters.......2007-06-20

Just like everyone else, I thought that the DVD was the live recording of The Clark Sisters. The ladies did sing well, however, everyone but Karen did not put enough emphasis and enthusiasm into their singing as they did with the CD performance. The DVD also did not have all of the songs that were on the CD. For example, "Save my Soul, World, My Reedemer, and others. Futhermore, Twinkie did seem disinterested and was sitting down at the organ with her fingers on the keys but was not playing anything!!! How strange? Anyways, I am one of The Clark Sisters' biggest fans, so I would recommend buying the DVD because they will always have the voice. Unfortunately, I really wish that everyone would have taken inspiration from Karen and really allowed they spirit to move in the building.

Average customer rating:

get it for the music
"Drama in the church"
The Prodigal Son Returns
Great gospel music
Interesting movie, but...

The Gospel (Special Edition)
Starring: Boris Kodjoe , and Nona Gaye
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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The Gospel
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Preaching to the Choir

ASIN: B000CBP02A
Release Date: 2006-01-03

Amazon.com

The Gospel is by no means a great movie, but it has enough heart, simple decency, and fine music to make it appropriate viewing for families of all kinds. Director-screenwriter Rob Hardy's story revolves around David Taylor (played in his adult years by Boris Kodjoe), a devout youngster who, disillusioned by the death of his mother and mistrust of his pastor father (Clifton Powell), leaves the fold and goes on to become a hip-hop star. But when Bishop Taylor falls ill and David returns home to find his church in dire financial straits and about to be taken over by the Reverend Charles Frank (Idris Elba), once David's best friend but now a self-promoting, money-obsessed hypocrite, well, let's just say that one needn't be an oracle to predict how things will turn out. So the dialogue is hackneyed and the story short on nuance (the title of David's big hit, "Let Me Undress You," is typical of the general lack of subtlety). What this modest film has going for it is a refreshing dearth of cynicism and pretension, not to mention a total absence of profanity, violence, and graphic sex. And in shedding light on an African-American church's place in its community, a role that is not just spiritual by financial, social, and more, The Gospel also gives us some wonderfully infectious contemporary gospel music, performed by singers like Yolanda Adams and American Idol finalist Tamyra Gray. In fact, the music might even inspire some viewers to check out the music of some of the genre's real-life giants, like the great Rev. James Cleveland. And that is high praise indeed. --Sam Graham

Customer Reviews:

get it for the music.......2007-06-14

The story was not all to my liking, but I found the characters likable, so I cared about what happened. But I bought the movie for the music. If you like good gospel or worship music, see this movie. The story was not satisfying, but the music was the real story.

"Drama in the church".......2007-03-31

The movie was good with a very strong cast. This movie shows how people can go to church and still have evil thoughts on how to scheme. With those type of schemes, you should never receive a high title, such as: the Pastor of the church. If you're a spiritual person and you haven't seen this movie yet, then you should check it out. There is a positive point to the movie.

The Prodigal Son Returns.......2007-02-12

This movies plot line is simple and old, it is as I titled my review, the return of the prodigal son retold. The son who turns his back on the church and his family is David Taylor, played by Boris Kodjoe. The son of a pastor he loses his faith when his mother dies feeling that God and his father let him down. He and his best friend Charles Frank played by Idris Elba were both studying to become reverends.

David leaves and we jump forward fifteen years, and becomes a very popular secular singing idol. We see his decadent life style where he wants for nothing. But then he gets a call that his father is ill and he heads back home. His father is played well by Clifton Powell. And by this time his best friend Charles is a self-centered egocentric man that is using the church to try and promote himself. The real story is to give us a look inside of black church society and at the same time it is a story of redemption for both of these young men. The gospel music does add to the film. It changes along with the times and what is transpiring within the church community.

So we have a low budget film about morality, faith, hope and recovery with some good original gospel music. The acting was not great and the plot line did have some holes for the supporting cast. But the story line of the main character is engaging and entertaining. So as other have said, just sit back and enjoy this simple tale.

Great gospel music.......2006-12-23

Boris Kodjoe plays the part of David, a pastor's son who plans to follow in his father's footsteps. When tragedy strikes their family, David becomes disillusioned with his father and leaves home. He becomes a pop star and his career is advancing well when he receives a phone call telling him that his father is ill. He returns to his home town, only to discover that his old friend Frank is taking over the church and leading it to be a showcase for him rather than a house of worship. Several topics are touched on in the movie--the difficulties of being a "preacher's kid", pastors whose egos influence their decisions, and the ugliness of church politics. It's not the most polished movie around and it does not have the best script, but when the gospel numbers come on, they light up the screen and draw in the audience with their sheer exuberance. My advice is to to forget the flaws and just enjoy!

Interesting movie, but..........2006-10-27

This movie was interesting, sort of like how looking at an automobile wreck on the highway as you drive by is interesting.

The basic plot was easy enough to pick up on, but it was so weirdly put together that it was hard to follow who to be rooting for, and what character's motives were. Perhaps this was intended; I'm not sure. Either way, I did not enjoy watching the movie, except for the last fifteen minutes or so.

Average customer rating:

Truth about History
Excellent interpretation of our relativistic era.
Vintage Schaeffer
Perspective

How Should We Then Live? (DVD)
Director: Frank Schaeffer
Manufacturer: Gospel Communications
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

How Should We Then Live?: The Rise and Decline of Western Thought and Culture
25 Basic Bible Studies
The Complete Works of Francis A. Schaeffer: A Christian Worldview
A Francis A. Schaeffer Trilogy: Three Essential Books in One Volume
A Christian Manifesto (DVD)

ASIN: B000BS70P4

Product Description

This is Dr. Francis Schaeffer's spectacular series on the rise and decline of Western culture from a Christian perspective. This special edition includes an intimate in-depth interview with Francis and Edith Schaeffer, which is available only in this package. This program presents profound truths in simple language and concludes that man's only hope is a return to God's biblical absolute--the Truth revealed in Christ through the Scriptures. Each episode focuses on a significant era of history while presenting answers to modern problems. The series is divided into twelve thirty minute sections; The Roman Age, The Middle Ages, The Renaissance, The Reformation, The Revolutionary Age, The Scientific Age, The Age of Non-reason, The Age of Fragmentation, The Age of Personal Peace & Affluence, Final Choices, and the two-segment interview with Francis & Edith Schaeffer: Living with Suffering & Sickness, and God's Leading in L'Abri & Our Lives.

Customer Reviews:

Truth about History.......2007-01-19

Show your teenagers, Show your College Students,Show your Small Group.This Dr.Schaeffer is doing exactly what God's Word require's all whom have been trusted to teach,rebuke,correct with patience,and gentleness what a great-work for "Christ's Kingdom and His workers."

Excellent interpretation of our relativistic era........2006-03-11

If you have never read a general book on apologetics or seen a DVD on this subject or perhaps the history of philosophy, How Should we then Live is an excellent start. Schaeffer not only has a deep appreciation of scripture (which is not preachy & sparingly used) but also see the philosophies of the past & realizes how important it is to know that "IDEAS HAVE CONSEQUENCES". Understanding this, Schaeffer creates a systamatic approach toward today's cultural shortcomings by taking the manhy pieces of history, theology & philosophy & weaving this patchwork pieces into a grand blanket of scriptural, historical & social truth of our age.
My favorite part is not very enjoyable but a vivid reminder of the 21st century foibles as seen from the 1st century. Early in the DVD, Schaeffer answers the questions, Why did the Roman Empire persecute the Christians?" Many think it is because they worshipped Christ that they underwent so much punishment in the first 400 years of the church. But schaeffer skillfully shows that it was the treason of the church to buck the trend of the time and worship Christ along with Jupiter, and many other gods. The church was seen as hardheaded & treasonous because everyone was expected to say "Caesar is Lord!!" in public & then allowed to worship any religion they wanted to in private. But the Christians said "Christ is Lord" alone & would not bow to any other god/goddess. Thus they were sent as a threat to the culture of your scratch my politcal-religious back & I'll scratch yours. The Christians seemed so bull-headed & then people tried to condemn them by pointing out they could not be trusted, they were blasphomous toward emperor worship & thus, were seditious because the Christians seem to "eat blood & flesh"in secret meetings they called a Lord's supper, so they were obviously up to no good for the Empire.
Schaeffer does a great of showing that which gave the western civilization Lex Rex and the present Constitution the US has.
This is enjoyable for religious, spiritual, historic or philosophic students.

Vintage Schaeffer.......2005-11-15

This is Francis Schaeffer at his best. Francis gives calm, well-reasoned, and interesting analysis of history. He teaches with the view that history is going somewhere, it isn't just an endless flow of nothingness. And he give a sensible view of why both form and freedom are necessary, and why society needs a stable basis for what it tries to accomplish.

This video contains some drama and acting, but a lot of it is Francis standing a talking, usually to a semi-interesting backdrop (ie. historical sites, etc.).

This video is wonderful as study material and should be mandatory viewing for anyone who wants to understand history, particularly the history of culture from a Christian perspective. The interview with Edith & Francis is also a great treat!

I recommend the purchase of this wonderful resource!

Perspective.......2005-11-15

This is more than just an informative historical overview of history. Schaeffer's knowledge of history, philosophy and theology increases understanding of the past and helps comprehend the present (even though the film dates from the seventies, I think). The thread that ties all of history together, however lies in the central theme that through the person and work of Jesus Christ God has come to rescue sinful men of all generations. The series begins with the Roman Age and progresses through to the twentieth century. The beautiful places he visits and his explanation of works of art are fantastic as well. We see how people in the past have lived according to their faith in spite of hardship, thus we are encouraged consider how to live and confess our faith in this age.

Average customer rating:

Perfect Mother's Day Gift
The Preacher's Wife
A Hallelujah Good Time
A new holiday classic!
Great Story And Music Combine In A Terrific Christmas Movie

The Preacher's Wife
Starring: Denzel Washington , Whitney Houston , Courtney B. Vance , Gregory Hines , and Jenifer Lewis
Director: Penny Marshall
Manufacturer: Buena Vista Home Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

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The Preacher's Wife: Original Soundtrack Album
The Bishop's Wife
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Christmas in Connecticut

ASIN: B000065V3J
Release Date: 2002-08-13

Amazon.com

This tedious remake of the classic Christmas movie The Bishop's Wife falls on its face by significantly altering the careful design of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Robert E. Sherwood's story for the original film. In Sherwood's version, a rather wooden, inept bishop and his lonely wife unknowingly take into their lives a heaven-sent angel who aids the former and ends up falling in love with the latter. In this unnecessary update, an inner-city preacher (Courtney B. Vance) and his estranged spouse (Whitney Houston) are visited by a celestial goof (Denzel Washington), whose unsolicited offer of help is enough to galvanize Vance's character to fix his own problems. What that means is this: by the second act, there's no reason to have Washington's angel in the story. Even his infatuation with the missus isn't enough to warrant his hanging around this movie; the change is a colossal blunder by director Penny Marshall. Vance ends up stealing the film from Washington, but it's a Pyrrhic victory; for the most part this movie just seems like a series of random scenes between opportunities for Houston to belt out songs. --Tom Keogh

Description

Starring Academy Award(R)-winner Denzel Washington (Best Actor, TRAINING DAY, 2001; Best Supporting Actor, GLORY, 1989; REMEMBER THE TITANS, THE HURRICANE) and multi-talented Whitney Houston (THE BODYGUARD, WAITING TO EXHALE), here's a delightful romantic comedy to send spirits soaring! Washington plays a charming angel named Dudley who's sent to earth to help a young minister (Courtney B. Vance -- DANGEROUS MINDS) and his beautiful wife (Houston) revive their marriage! But things take a hilarious twist when Dudley accidentally falls in love with the preacher's wife. From director Penny Marshall (RIDING IN CARS WITH BOYS, A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN) and featuring screen favorite Gregory Hines (RENAISSANCE MAN), this critically acclaimed comedy hit also showcases nine dynamic songs by Grammy Award(R) winner Houston, including the Top 10 hit "I Believe In You And Me."

Customer Reviews:

Perfect Mother's Day Gift.......2007-06-13

I sent this to my mother as apart of her mothers day gift...she loves this movie and I couldn't find it anywhere. It arrived in excellent condition just as ordered! :o) Thank you!

The Preacher's Wife.......2007-02-06

It was excellent! It should be a classic. I don't know why it's not played more around the Christmas holiday!

A Hallelujah Good Time.......2006-06-30

Whitney and Denzel make a phenomenal team. The soundtrack makes the movie all the more wonderful.

A new holiday classic!.......2005-12-14

Ever since I saw this film in theaters with my family in 1996, I knew this film would become an annual holiday tradition and it has. It's amazing to think how far Whitney has fallen since her role as the singing Preacher's wife, but I do consider this to be the best role she has played on screen (surpassing "The Bodyguard", "Waiting to Exhale", and "Rogers and Hammerstein's Cinderella"). It was a role tailor made for her, as she did start her singing career in church and always wanted to make a Gospel album.

The cast is also magnificent, as I love the lady who plays Whitney's mother with her sassy comments ("don't talk about your behind, I gave you that behind!"; "I'm not one to pry..."), the Preacher's somewhat flustered secretary ("first he took the picture, then he took the car and moved to Cleveland", "Please Santa, put that man under my tree...if he can fit!"), Courtney Vance as the Preacher who's lost his spark, the boy who plays the son and narrates the film, and of course Denzel Washington as the angel who comes to offer help. Gregory Hines plays the villain role, and Lionel Ritchie has a cameo as Whitney's old flame. And cameo of cameos, Whitney's own mother Cissy plays a member of the choir.

My favorite scene coincides with my favorite song on the film's soundtrack: "My Heart is Calling" when Whitney and Denzel go ice skating while Courtney is stuck in traffic and growing frustrated. That song should've been a single, but whatever genius decided to release the melancholy "I Believe In You and Me" probably killed a great opportunity to ignite Whitney's career at the time. As I remember, this film didn't do well at the box office and the soundtrack didn't fly off shelves. Had they chosen "My Heart is Calling" (one of Whitney's best songs ever), it might have had a different outcome. Oh well...the film remains as a must see holiday classic that I never get tired of.

A year ago, I finally watched the original "The Bishop's Wife" and I must say that they definitely improved upon the original. To call "The Preacher's Wife" a remake is somehow missing the picture. They are completely different in style and I prefer the musical and modern "Preacher's Wife" over the 1950s/1960s film. "The Preacher's Wife" just makes you feel good when its all over, it's a rare family film that doesn't have any embarassing moments and one that the whole family can watch and enjoy together. Don't miss it!

Great Story And Music Combine In A Terrific Christmas Movie.......2005-10-12

As a rule I dont tend to warm to remakes of classic films however the Penny Marshall directed Christmas story "The Preacher's Wife", is a definite exception and has become one of my favourite festive season viewing experiences. Based on the classic Samuel Goldwyn film "The Bishop's Wife", which starred legends Cary Grant, Loretta Young and David Niven, this 1996 effort has a charm and slant on the essentially same story all its own. Denzel Washington in the role of an angel sent down to earth to sort out the life of a preacher who has lost sight of what really is important, is a most worthy successor to Cary Grant in the original film and Whitney Houston in the female lead displays a warm screen presense and great musical talent that couldn't be bettered in this type of story. Amazingly I only saw this film for the first time 3 years ago but it has become a firm favourite of mine ever since. Combining a traditional and much loved Christmas tale with some truly wonderful gospel singing gives this effort a really upbeat feel which however never sacrifices for one minute the more touching aspects of the story.

"The Preacher's Wife", focuses on the parish of St. Matthews run by Rev. Henry Biggs (Courtney B. Vance), a well meaning and dedicated preacher who has been trying to be all things to all people in his needy area. Along the way through court cases for wrongly convicted minors, leaking furnaces, and offers by local big wig Joe Hamilton (Gregory Hines), to "upgrade", to a new flashy parish of the future, Henry has lost sight of his wife Julia (Whitney Houston), and their small son Jeremiah (Justin Pierre Edmund). Just when things look the blackest and Henry feels he is acheiving nothing an unexpected answer to his prayers for help comes in the form of debonair stranger Dudley (Denzel Washington), who has a hard time convincing the embattled preacher that he has been sent down to earth by "the big guy", to help him with his problems. Dudley has his work cut out for him as Christmas approaches and Henry gets more and more ground down by his duties in the parish. Dudley begins to provide the warm understanding companionship that Julia craves much to the growing alwarm of her well meaning mother Beverly (Loretta Devine). The pair go skating, and even go out at night to the jazz club where Julia used to perform and where Henry proposed to her. Warned off by Beverly, Dudley begins to see that he is falling in love with Julia and that that was not why he was sent back to Earth. Some well timed intervention in Joe Hamilton's crass plans for Henry makes the preacher begin to see where his real value is and what is important to him, first and foremost his family. All things come together for the Christmas pageant and service where Henry reaffirms his faith in God and his family and his place in the world. Dudley realises his work is done on earth and in a poignant finale blesses the family with a beautifully decorated Christmas Tree after which they will not recall his presense in their lives at all. Dudley attends the Christmas service at St. Matthews but the adults have no memory of him, however Jeremiah still so young at heart does still know him and wishes Dudley a Happy Christmas before he returns to Heaven with his task successfuly completed.

A truly inspirational and touching story filled with some beautiful music and comic pieces is the best way to describe this beautiful little movie. I love all three lead performances here and it's a joy to see Denzel Washington, normally the star of some intensely dramatic films, in such a charming and light hearted role as Dudley. He displays a fine comic talent and teams especially well with the other two leads. If ever there was a proper successor to Cary Grant in this role then Denzel Washington is it. Whitney Houston does very well in the role of Julia and she displays a nicely touching persona especially in her scenes with her screen son. She of course comes alive in the musical numbers many of which she produced herself. I've become a big fan of gospel music after her terrific rendition of such numbers as,"Step by Step", and especially the show stopping "I believe in you and me". Courtney Vance playing the earlier David Niven role of Henry is also excellent and his performance contains alot of the dramatic meat of the story as the essentially kind hearted preacher who is torn too many ways and sees himself loosing his family. His work with Denzel Washington in particular is note worthy especially in the scenes when he can't seem to understand just "where", this mysterious helper has suddenly come from. Other standouts in the cast are Loretta Devine as Julia's mother in a very funny performance full of great lines and wry observations about what is happening in the Biggs household, and Gregory Hines as sharp business man Joe Hamilton who in turn is also affected by Dudley's presense in his previously rather shallow life. The look and feel of "The Preacher's Wife", makes it a wonderful newer Christmas viewing experience and much of the credit goes to the church scenes with the St. Matthew's choir taking centre stage. Their singing and expert handling of all the gospel music is perfect and really gets you into the feel of the season.

As a "modern", Christmas story I personally feel "The Preacher's Wife", is a most worthy successor to the well known and greatly loved earlier classics like "White Christmas", and "Miracle on 34th Street". Taking a very different slant on the story than the earlier 'The Bishop's Wife", it manages to be wholly original in its own way and makes delightful seasonal viewing. Try and see this touching film next Christmas and I'm sure it will become a treasured part of your holiday viewing like it is in my home.

Average customer rating:

Say Amen, Somebody
Gone Too Long
Not the first release of this wonderful documentary but I suspect the best
Hallelujah, It's Finally On DVD!
SAY AMEN SOMEBODY IS A REAL GEM!!!

Say Amen, Somebody (Bonus Deluxe)
Director: George T. Nierenberg
Manufacturer: Rykodisc
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Dreamgirls (Two-Disc Showstopper Edition)
Say Amen, Somebody
The Story of Gospel Music
Gospel
When the Levees Broke

ASIN: B000KHX7HG
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Amazon.com

There's good news aplenty in this DVD reissue of Say Amen, Somebody, director George T. Nierenberg's 1980 film focusing on some of the giants of modern gospel music and the younger singers whom they inspired. That's "good news" as in the word of God, and what better way to express the power of faith than through this powerful and uplifting music? Liner notes writer Anthony Heilbut describes the film as an exploration of "the golden age of gospel music in its dying hour," and Nierenberg (whose informative and illuminating commentary track, like Heilbut's lengthy notes, is one of the several features that justify the DVD's "bonus deluxe" tag) focuses principally on two senior citizens: Thomas Dorsey, often credited as "the father of gospel music," and Willie Mae Ford Smith, a St. Louis-based singer and an innovator who helped popularize the modern gospel singing style, with its emphasis on exaggerated, open-mouthed vibrato and careful articulation of the lyrics. Dorsey is an engaging raconteur who explains the origins of modern gospel (once a secular songwriter who wrote for Ma Rainey and others, he added rhythm to traditional hymns and spirituals, essentially "bringing the blues into church") and speaks movingly of the trials and tribulations that led to his writing the classic "Precious Lord." For her part, Smith is not only a tireless worker but something of a feminist pioneer who insisted early on that women have just as much right as men to spread the word (her own son's remark that "women ought to stay in their proper place: behind the man" illustrates what an uphill battle that was, and is); this chauvinism, along with the creeping commercialism that makes singers like the O'Neal Twins wonder if they're compromising their evangelical calling, are among the deeper issues Nierenberg's film addresses. But in the long run, of course, it's all about the music, and the DVD package includes 18 complete performances accessible via separate menu, as well as a 15-song CD. All of this will prompt not only a few "amens," but no doubt some "hallelujahs" too. --Sam Graham

Amazon.com

The first-ever DVD release for this legendary documentary film that explores the lives and music of the pioneers of modern Gospel music. Features Willie Mae Ford Smith, Thomas A. Dorsey, The Barrett Sisters and The O'Neal Twins. Includes bonus 15-song audio CD and deluxe "hymn book" packaging with essays, lyrics and rare photos. Bonus features include newly recorded director's commentary, photo essay and theatrical trailer.

"The music is as exciting and uplifting as any music I've ever heard on film…a great experience" - Roger Ebert

"exuberant and revitalizing" - Rolling Stone

"even a tone-deaf atheist will say `amen!'" - Time

Customer Reviews:

Say Amen, Somebody.......2007-07-09

Regardless of anyone's race or creed, this movie provides rare nourishment for the soul. With its message of love and hope contagious, Director Nierenberg fashions a touchingly human and uplifting portrait of gospel music that translates how this special music has sustained people through adversity. A humbling and glorious film.

Gone Too Long.......2007-05-08

As great documentaries have gained a new audience in independent film, it's fun to revisit some of the movies that transformed the genre and infused it with more humanity and feeling. While the Maysles' works were fundamental, it would be tough to omit SAY AMEN, SOMEBODY from the list of greats.

This beautiful, uplifting film focuses largely on the late-life careers of Thomas A Dorsey and the amazing Willie Mae Ford Smith. In an unsentimental and elegaic way, we witness the end of era -- one that shaped American culture, and also gave immeasurable help to people of color from the 1920's through the mid-eighties, when commercial producers replaced the veterans at leading labels.

One of the most amazing qualities of this beautifuly photograhed, edited and recorded film is that its emotional magnetism would convince an atheist to examine the faith of others with more introspection. It is not the scenes of ministers speaking in tongues or parishioners being annointed that matter here as much as the infectious lyrics and rhythm of indelible performances. Couched somewhere between traditional blues and early R&B, gospel haped part of what it means to be American --and this beautifully designed set pays it the homage it deserves.

For a VERY low price, I received a 70-minute CD with 15 of the best performances from the film, and the remastered film on DVD with a photographic gallery and other features. The two dics are packed in a hardcover long-pack with an informative booklet -- all of it well-designed.

I rank this documentary with SALESMAN, HARLAN COUNTY, USA; TOSCA'S KISS, GREY GARDENS, WHEN THE LEVEES BROKE and perhaps five or six other fwonderful ilms. Personally, I wouldn't miss this DVD-and-soundtrack set for the world.

Not the first release of this wonderful documentary but I suspect the best.......2007-03-31

"Say Amen, Somebody" was released on DVD by Xenon Pictures in 2001; so, this is not the first release, but it is still an amazing documentary. I had the pleasure to go on a Caribbean jazz cruise on which the Barrett Sisters were scheduled to sing the first Saturday night with little fanfare. They were so thrilling that the ship cancelled the Wednesday's evening shows for both those on the jazz cruise and the rest of the passengers and subsituted the Barrett Sisters (featured here. To say they brought down the house (or ship if you must) was an understatement. Willie Mae Ford Smith, Thomas A. Dorsey and The O'Neal Twins plus The Barrett Sisters make this essential watching even if you think you won't be moved by Gospel. This is one amazing documentary. It was premiered at the Telluride Movie Festival and Roger Ebert told me one of the most thrilling moments of his life was seeing the film followed by the stars appearing live after the movie. I wish I had been there but seeing the Barrett Sisters was close enough. Search out their few CDs; they are brilliant. If you have not watched the recently Paul Simon Gospel All-Star DVD do so. It's a close second to "Say Amen, Somebody."

Hallelujah, It's Finally On DVD!.......2007-03-09

I was wondering which would come first....the rapture, or the DVD release of Say Amen, Somebody. This fantastic and uplifting documentary on the founders of gospel music is definitely my favorite documentary of all time. I had an old VHS that was pretty much worn out - this is one movie that you can watch and enjoy over and over again - so when I found out that Say Amen, Somebody was not only being released as a 'Bonus Deluxe' DVD, but that it would also include a CD of the soundtrack, I was shouting for joy! Pop the DVD in your home player, or the CD in your car stereo, and you'll be uplifted.

The packaging is very impressive, including a booklet with articles on the movie as well as the featured artists, a director's commentary, and indexed musical numbers for when you want to skip ahead to the good stuff. Lots of vintage photos, both in the booklet and on the DVD, add to the quality and collectibility of this DVD set. This was true history in the making. Even if you're not a fan of gospel music, this movie will make you a believer!

SAY AMEN SOMEBODY IS A REAL GEM!!!.......2007-02-19

Years ago the producer of this awesome documentary "Say Amen Somebody" Karen Nierenberg, loaned me her video copy for viewing. I was so impressed with the gospel singing, the high caliber and multi-facited informational content of this film that I requested a copy for myself. At the time she didn't have access to any others and thought perhaps if I looked around I could find a copy.

Well, at that time there were no DVDs; I went on line to obtain a video copy and found a few copies that were new or used, however they were expensive.

Over the years I never forgot about this film,and so a couple of months ago, I went on line to see if a DVD had been made available and found out that a deluxe DVD was being produced; I was elated and pre-ordered a copy. I have recently received this DVD and find it to be REAL GEM!!

For openers, it isn't packaged like a DVD. It looks like a small hard covered book that includes 24 pages of original rare photos and essays by gospel music scholar, Anthony Heilbut, as well as DVD commentary by the director, George T. Nierenberg. As a bonus, a 15-song soundtrack CD is also included.

I feel blessed to have found out that this wonderful film has been formated to DVD and at an affordable cost

Many thanks to the producers of this extraordinary documentary.

Ybati

Praise Baby Collection: My Father's World

Average customer rating:

FABULOUS!!
Excellent !!!!
Loved it!!
Our twins love the whole series

Praise Baby Collection: My Father's World
Starring: Various Artists
Manufacturer: Brentwood
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

Music & Arts | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( M ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Praise Baby Collection: Born to Worship
The Praise Baby Collection: Praises and Smiles
The Praise Baby Collection Gift Set
The Praise Baby Collection: God Of Wonders
Baby Faith: God Made Me

ASIN: B000LPR6E2
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Description

1. Better Is One Day
2. He Is Exalted
3. How Great Is Our God
4. Blessed Be Your Name
5. Great Light of the World
6. O Worship The King/This Is My Father's World
7. You've Given Life To Me
8. Your Love, Oh Lord
9. God Of All I Am

Customer Reviews:

FABULOUS!!.......2007-07-08

My 15 month old LOVES, LOVES, LOVES this video. She has several favorite parts and knows when they come in the video. The images of the kids, animals and animation are great and keep my daughter's attention, as you know can be difficult to do with a toddler. She loves Elmo, but has no interest in any other videos except this one. And mommy and daddy enjoy the video as well -- it is very well done. And we know this is a great way to teach her about God as well. We will certainly be adding other Praise Baby videos to the collection.

Excellent !!!!.......2007-07-01

Great buy! The music is soothing to babies and uplifting to the Mom at the same time. The images of the other children and animals keep my 17 month's old attenion. She enjoys watching them. After using Baby Einstein for the past 15 months with my baby I was delighted to learn of a christian alternative. God bless those who were inspired by God to create the Praise Baby Collection, Great work!!!!

Loved it!!.......2007-05-27

This DVD was just as good as the others that came out before it. It was refreshing to see new scenes. My 2 year old loves the cartoon Elephant and asks for the Elephant worship when he wants to see the DVD. It was nice that most of the taping was done outdoors and the special effects with the double images were catchy (at first I thought "how many twins are in this new Praise Baby?"). I do recommend it, I enjoyed it as much as my boys did. Whether or not you have the previous Praise Baby DVDs, this one is a must.

Our twins love the whole series.......2007-03-27

Excellent music and video with many active kids holds our kids' attention well. While under 2 they are beginning to sing the last words of many of the worship songs.

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