While my final Top 10 list is still awaiting the viewing of some key films--namely Silence--here are the scenes from 2016 films that stood out for me. In no particular order: Sing Street - The prom dream dance sequence. It's pure teenage fantasy joy as Cosmo imagines his life … [Read more...] about Top 15 Favorite Scenes from 2016
Half-Year Favorites of 2016
The first six months of 2016 have come and gone, and with them have been a. Lots of superheroes. Lots of sequels. Lots of animated or CGI talking animals. Even a sequel about CGI talking-animal superheroes, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows. Somehow, none of … [Read more...] about Half-Year Favorites of 2016
Reviewing the Classics: Make Way For Tomorrow
When Leo McCarey won an Academy Award for directing The Awful Truth, he began his acceptance speech with the following: “I want to thank the Academy for this wonderful award, but you gave it to me for the wrong picture.” That same year also saw the release of one McCarey’s … [Read more...] about Reviewing the Classics: Make Way For Tomorrow
Top Youth Ministry Films: Part 7
I love movies, but I am also in youth ministry--the spiritual and identity formation of teenagers and young adults. When those two passions find congruence, it's a wonderful thing. Here are ten more films about adolescence, youth culture, mentorship, coming-of-age, and identity … [Read more...] about Top Youth Ministry Films: Part 7
The Year in Liturgical Cinema: Easter
Note: “The Liturgical Year in Cinema” is an ongoing series, a personal exploration of the thematic connections between the Christian calendar and films. We celebrated Easter Sunday on March 27. This installment explores the connection between our personal Christologies and the … [Read more...] about The Year in Liturgical Cinema: Easter