In 1993, twelve movies made the Dove approved list, but only three were recommended for viewers under age 12. In 1994, seven out of fifteen Dove approved movies were recommended for all ages. The next two years 50% of the family-friendly seasonal titles (14 and 16 respectively) were suitable for all ages.

This holiday season has seen a remarkable change in direction for reasons that are difficult to pinpoint. Overall, Hollywood did pretty well during 1997 by releasing 38 wholesome movies, or about 7% of the yearly total. Dove was able to rate 26 of them as appropriate for all ages. However, between November 1st and December 31st, 1997 only eight films met Dove’s standards. Those that Dove recommended for 12+ audiences - due mostly to rough language, mild sexual overtones or violence - are "Seven Years in Tibet," "Flubber," "Mr. Magoo," "Home Alone 3," and the newly released DreamWorks SKG comedy, "Mouse Hunt." Of the three remaining films, Plaza Entertainment’s "Grizzly Mountain," Disney’s re-release of "The Little Mermaid" are suitable for all ages. Twentieth Century Fox’s animated extravaganza, "Anastasia" is a work of art. But the evil scenes are too intense for pre-schoolers.

In case you didn’t notice, none of the films released this season had a distinctly Christmas theme, like we saw in recent years with "Jingle All the Way," "The Santa Clause," "Miracle on 34th Street" or "Dear God." Sadly, none of them dealt with the Reason for the Season. Film executives argue that seasonal themes are more difficult to market because home video releases are responsible for up to 50% of the total revenue. Video release dates follow theatrical dates by 3 - 5 months, and lose the seasonal connection.

The news about so few family Christmas movies seems bleak. But, it’s important to look at the total picture. Film makers recently stated their belief that R-rated movies are not as financially fruitful as Hollywood once thought. Most of the major studios announced their commitment to make more PG-13 movies in the coming year. While Dove will continue to encourage Hollywood to move in an even more family-friendly direction, we are encouraged by this change in position. Not long ago, studio execs were seriously examining the income potential of NC-17 fare. Thankfully, consumers voted "no" to the likes of "Priest," "Kids," and "Showgirls." It’s important for each one of us to let Hollywood know exactly how we feel about their craft. One powerful way you can express yourself is at the boxoffice.

Another way you can influence Popular Culture movers and shakers is to continue supporting the work of The Dove Foundation. We have been greatly blessed and empowered by the faithfulness of many of you who receive this newsletter. Your financial gifts are a blessing and an encouragement to stay in the fight. This past summer hundreds of you pitched in with gifts from $5 to $1,000. That generosity was gratefully received, and it helped us develop new programs to advance the cause of family entertainment. I will have some very exciting developments to report in the first quarter of 1998.

For those of you who are familiar with our Children’s Hospital Dove Movie Channel, you will be pleased to know that we have installed the 24 hour, wholesome movie channel in 26 hospitals so far this year with many more targeted for 1998. The Dove Family Film Festivals are now appearing in 13 theaters throughout the Midwest. Our mailing list has surpassed the 10,000 mark.

We are grateful to God and to each one of you for the blessings we have received this year. A reply card is attached if you wish to share your resources with Dove as we begin the challenges of 1998. All donations are appreciated and are tax-deductible.