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Reviews
The Voyage That Shook the World (2009)
Excellent thought-provoking production
This documentary is an excellent portrayal of the life of Charles Darwin. It illustrates how his writing of the book, "On The Origin Of Species" in 1859 was the product of his interpretation of various scholarly works of the time but also his own inquisitive nature as well as some personal tragedies in his family. It also shows the shortcomings of some of his assumptions wherein his personal world view affected his opinions and writings, and how the light of modern science shows up some inconsistencies in his theorizing.
Cinematography includes on-site footage of the Galapagos Islands and other parts of South America, with species of tortoise, iguanas (including naturally occurring hybrids) and various bird species.
Re-enactments of the life and times of Darwin depict him as a boy, a young man and various other times of life right up to his more well-known depiction as an aged gentleman.
Interviews of modern scientists and historians give a balanced view of Darwin's scientific ability. As these experts come from a range of belief systems, the viewer is left to make up their own mind on the theories that Darwin postulated, and the film helps to foster a desire to explore the origins of life for oneself and to make up one's own mind about the deep mysteries of the origins of life that Darwin sought to address.
The Story of Jesus for Children (2000)
An excellent way for children to learn about who Christ is.
At last! A movie which tells Christ's story in a way that will appeal to children of all ages. This re-edited version of the Jesus Project movie, "Jesus", has an intro and other segments spliced in, in which children living at the time of Christ tell each other what they have heard and seen about this extraordinary man who has the power to heal palsy, blindness and even death itself.
This new format makes the selected scenes "child-friendly". True to the Biblical version of events, it allows children to decide for themselves who Christ is, and whether he is either lunatic, liar or indeed LORD. I have shown this film to children in state-sanctioned religious education classes in Australian state schools, with a positive response from students. With so much audio-visual material confronting children in a negative way (violence, sex and drugs), it is good to see at least one movie which gives children a positive alternative.
The movie covers the major events of Jesus' life, including his birth, healing and preaching ministry, and the crucifixion and resurrection. All scenes follow the gospel narrative (according to Luke). Fictionalised content is mainly restricted to the activities and conversations of the children themselves, who tell the story via flashbacks etc.
A modern interpretation of an age-old story that will never lose its relevance to the needs of a spiritually hungry world.
Off the Map (2003)
Wonderful feel-good movie.
Sometimes a really good movie comes along, with characters that remind you of people you know (including yourself) and the ability to weave a plot around everyday life. This is one of those. The character development is its centre-piece and strength. Though it doesn't say it's a "True Story", it depicts truth and you know you've been there before with some of the scenes. A film for all ages - don't let the "nudity" warning put you off - This film depicts very real people is a very real country setting that is fast becoming something we only remember from our childhood. As the ocean of the past recedes, and the sky of future comes, learn again to enjoy the horizon of the present!