2001
top ten Dove Films:
1. Jimmy Neutron
(Paramount) MPAA: G – DOVE: Any Age
Synopsis:
In this
fast moving, computer-animated fantasy, Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon
Movies team up once more to provide a fun, fascinating comedy-adventure for
kids. Jimmy Neutron, a 10-year-old techno-genius, has all sorts of sci-fi
techno-gadgets in his house and even makes contact with a hoard of aliens,
called Yokians. But the aliens swoop down on his town of Retroville and abduct
all the parents. Without parental supervision, the children go on a wild party
spree, but soon come to regret it and wish their parents were back. So, with the
technical inventiveness of Jimmy Neutron, the kids build some rudimentary space
ships and are off to rescue their parents. They end up doing battle with the
Yokians and their monstrous, wrathful pagan god.
Review:
The frantic
action and battles are non-stop and include some scary monsters and
circumstances which could be too intense for very young children. One crude
remark by a young girl and a comical, suggestive quip by a robotic dog tarnish
the dialogue, but the film is reasonable acceptable for viewers 4 years and
older. And the theme of children finding out the importance of parental love and
care is very commendable.
2. Monsters Inc.
(Walt Disney) MPAA: G – DOVE: Any Age
Synopsis:
The same
team that produced the hit TOY STORY films has another family winner with
Monsters, Inc. Set in a fantasy world of weird, funny and colorful monsters, the
company takes pride in their slogan: “We scare because we care.” The
company’s top scare performer is Sulley, voiced by John Goodman. A likable
critter with blue fur, purple spots and horns, Sulley’s assistant is his
feisty, wise-cracking friend and roommate, Mike, a green, one-eyed monster
voiced by Billy Crystal. The monsters may scare kids, but it isn’t easy. They
think children are toxic and must avoid touching them at all costs. A grand
adventure gets under way when Boo, a small girl voiced by Mary Gibbs, takes a
liking to Sulley and Mike. The monsters try desperately to avoid her until they
discover she’s really harmless and even lovable. But try to explain that to
the monsters at the plant when Boo finds her way into the factory. The action is
non-stop in this fast-paced, hilarious and touching story
Review:
The action
is non-stop in this fast-paced, hilarious and touching story. MONSTERS, INC. is
refreshingly free of any suggestive elements, foul language or crude humor.
There are some comical, scary scenes and it’s filled with threatening chases,
wild rides on a conveyor belt, some struggles and mild fights. Scenes where Mike
and Boo are threatened by an ominous machine could upset very young children.
So, with a cautionary note that some scenes may upset very young children,
MONSTERS INC. is a welcome addition to family entertainment.
3. Princess Diaries, The
(Walt Disney) MPAA: G – DOVE: Any Age
Synopsis:
Mia
Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway) is a shy San Francisco teenager who has fun with her
single mom and struggles with the many problems high school girls go through.
Her life becomes a fairytale when her formidable grandmother, Queen Clarisse
Renaldi (Julie Andrews), visits her for the first time, informing her that she
is the heir apparent to the crown of the small European principality of Genovia.
Mia is given a makeover, personal security (Hector Elizondo) and time to adjust
so that she can prepare herself for an important ball which will determine if
she wants to leave her normal life to become the ruler of a far-off country or
remain with her family and explore a budding romance with her best friend's
(Heather Matarazzo) brother Michael (Robert Schwartzman).
Review:
Director
Garry Marshall who brought us “Pretty Woman” and “Runaway Bride”
revisits the realm of every girls fantasy (becoming a princess and living
happily ever after) and puts a different spin on an age old story. The different
“spin” is that Mia doesn’t want to be a princess because she feels awkward
and unsure of her ability. In fact, she actually fights the idea. That’s
probably the hardest thing to accept about this story. After being inundated for
years with stories about royalty and seeing them get married or hawk diet
products on TV, it’s hard to believe that a teenage girl of today, wouldn’t
jump at the chance to become a princess and rule a country. There are lots of
“cute teenage scenes” of rock climbing with mom, riding razors with a
friend, getting a first kiss, going to a beach party, having a fight with a best
girlfriend, giving a speech in front of students, etc. that will ring true with
most kids under 17. There’s a song sung by Mandy Moore (the spurned girlfriend
of the guy who likes Mia), a message about not believing in labels people assign
to you and of course, the one about following after your own heart.
Unfortunately that message may be lost in the material world of a princess to-be
(Mia gets her own limo, personal escort, money to buy her car, etc.). But the
idea that anyone could become a princess these days, isn’t lost. It is
wonderful to see Julie Andrews on the big screen again and rather nostalgic –
an emotion I’m sure Disney is counting on. This is an entertaining,
warm-hearted story that will make an enjoyable outing for any mother/daughter,
girl or woman, who has dreamed of becoming a princess. But what’s really the
best part about this modern day fairy tale is, she does it without having to
marry a prince! The only complaint I have with this movie is that it could have
been a Disney TV movie-of-the-week. I’m a proponent of family friendly films
and don’t take issue with the fact that this is a G rated story but these days
there’s no excuse for making a movie look and feel as if it were made for TV
instead of a feature film. I sat through the entire movie thinking of ways this
story could have (and should have in my opinion) been done on a grander scale.
Andrews is almost like royalty to boomers who grew up watching her in “The
Sound of Music” and “ Mary Poppins.” I found myself yearning for more of
her character and more screen time to develop who she really was. Garry Marshall
failed to give this fairytale a “magical” feel to it and any girl knows,
that’s the most important part of a story like this. Family movies with talent
like this, should look like (and be) a cut above anything you could find on
television. Dealing with an important issue like losing your estranged father
(who happened to be a King) to death and discovering he wanted his daughter to
follow in his footsteps needs to be focused on and developed. Issues about
Mia’s mom dating her teacher, or handling a mean-spirited betrayal from the
girls at school, or getting to know a grandmother who had never even existed,
needed more time, development and a chance to tap into our emotions and connect
the audience with the characters. Adding a little more drama in with all the
comedy would have allowed the audience to savor the importance of Mia’s
decision, get emotionally involved in it and make some profound statements about
the importance of family, heritage and how we are effected by the choices we
make in life. Instead, the story is so predictable and cliché, all it needed
were commercials. The movie still entertains in a big way. I just feel it could
have been better.
4. Left Behind: The Movie
(Cloud Ten Pictures) MPAA: PG – DOVE: 12+
Synopsis:
Based on
the runaway best selling series of books by Jerry Jenkins and Tim LaHaye,
“Left Behind” introduces us to several people abruptly facing an apocalyptic
event referred to by religious theologians as the Rapture of the Church. The
film’s central characters, journalist Buck Williams (Kirk Cameron) and airline
pilot Ray Steele (Brad Johnson), look for answers amid chaos and anarchy after
millions of people around the globe suddenly vanish simultaneously in the
twinkling of an eye.
Review:
Left
Behind, The Movie has been bathed in prayer, before, during, and after its
production. It contains two very important messages: God is ultimately in
charge, and we must accept Jesus Christ as Savior. From viewing previous works
by producers Paul and Peter Lalonde’s it’s clear that this is their
ministry. I for one, intend to make this movie known to as many unbelievers as
possible. With a $17-million dollar budget, “Left Behind” is the most
expensive Christian film ever made and the money was well spent. All production
values are extraordinary, and some are downright astonishing, considering that
similar movies made by Hollywood cost $50 million and up. This is due in part to
the expertise of Producer (and Dove Foundation Advisory Board Member) Ralph
Winter. Winter’s film credits include special effects hits like two Star Trek
movies, Mighty Joe Young, Inspector Gadget, and X-Men. Director Vic Sarin moves
the storyline along with good pacing and sensitivity. The musical score by Jim
Covell supports the action sequences and gentler moments without overwhelming
the listener. And George Jiri’s cinematography puts us in the center of the
action and keeps us glued to the screen. Cloud Ten is releasing the picture on
home video through mainly Christian outlets on October 31 (Halloween). The
producers are banking on a groundswell of support from the religious community
to help spread the word of this film’s theatrical debut on February 10, 2001.
To help guarantee a grand opening weekend, two theater passes will be included
with the purchase of each video. As for the story itself, I was somewhat thrown
by the depiction of neatly laid-out clothing left where fully dressed people had
been. True, when Christ arose, His grave clothes were left behind. I only hope
non-Christian viewers don’t find this sight humorous. While the entire cast
gives acceptable performances, several leading characters lack the depth and
complexity required to fully carry off the dramatic and explosive moments
portrayed in this riveting story. The film’s star, Kirk Cameron, formerly of
television sitcoms, “Growing Pains” and “Kirk”, still has a youthful
appearance that reminds one of a student who’s running late for his high
school gym class. Brad Johnson, the handsome ex-model for Calvin Klein and
Marlboro Cigarettes, lacks the charm and persuasive depth to meet the demands of
his onscreen role. Chelsea Noble, Clarence Gilyard and Janaya Stephens fare much
better, in spite of a few stilted scenes and occasional awkward dialogue. In the
final analysis, the powerful story in Left Behind makes up for the film’s
minor flaws and does a great job of holding the viewers’ attention – not to
mention capturing their imaginations. REVIEWER’S NOTE: A few weeks ago I awoke
to the strident voice of a radio newscaster claiming, “Iraq aims missiles at
Israel.” If you are somewhat aware of biblical prophesy, that’s pretty
ominous news to wake up to. And although each generation of Believers has
suspected that they were living in the final times predicted by the Scriptures,
present-day Middle-Eastern hostilities beckon Bible scholars to keep a close eye
on the Holy Land. Several books of the Bible also indicate rather strongly that
he will return like a thief in the night (Matthew 25:13, 2 Peter 3:14, 1
Thessalonians 5:11-13, 2 Peter 3, 1 Thessalonians 5:4, Revelation 3:3, Matthew
24:43). However, Scripture also tells us that there are specific signs we will
witness that will tell us the Lord’s return is near. The incendiary activities
taking place in the Middle East should not be ignored, for they may well be
forewarnings of the apocalypse. If the theories of the Rapture are correct,
Cloud Ten Productions’ “Left Behind” could one of the most important films
ever made. The producers of this suspenseful and insightful action movie are
commissioning viewers to get out the Good News to the world – before it’s
too late.
5. Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon
(Sony Pictures Classics) MPAA: PG-13 - DOVE: 12+
Synopsis:
Li Mu Bai
(Chow Yun-Fat), a weary martial arts warrior anxious to hang up his 400-year-old
sword, must first dissuade a young woman from seeking a life of adventure by
following his old nemesis Jade Fox (Cheng Pei Pei). With the aid of Yu Shu Lien
(Michelle Yeoh), a female warrior Li Mu Bai has loved in silence, he soon
discovers that the young beauty is nearly as proficient with a sword and the art
of battle as is he. When the ancient sword is stolen, the stage is set for the
honorable warriors to battle Jade Fox, who is determined to destroy Li Mu Bai.
Review:
Bruce Lee
made physicality the central element to the success of Chinese action films.
Jackie Chan added humor and precision to the genre. Now, director Ang Lee brings
astonishing visual effects to martial arts. He adds magic to the mystique of
Asian kicksuey. His warriors don’t merely jump higher than physically
possible, they literally fly. Indeed, much of the film has its heroes chasing
their adversaries over rooftops and, in one instance, through forests, stopping
to sword fight atop towering trees. The film is action-packed, equally splitting
time between romance and confounding fight sequences. It is, to say the least, a
very visual film. Although it has a woman praying to a shrine, “Crouching
Tiger, Hidden Dragon” is not about promoting Eastern religious beliefs. Nor
does the exuberant choreography suggest legitimate sorcery. Nothing in it,
except for the themes of love and honor, is to be taken seriously. It is
fantasy. The fly in the dim sum, however, is the film’s one sexual encounter
between an unwed couple that seems to imply the unimportance of marriage. But it
is a short scene with no nudity, and it is clear that they truly love each
other. The violence, while continuous, is artful and nearly bloodless. While we
suggest caution concerning the brief sexuality, the film’s positive message is
that good will conquer evil if we continue to battle it.
Content
Description:
It contains
one sexual situation between an unmarried couple, but it is not graphic, nor
does it exhibit nudity. It receives its rating for the many fight scenes
6. Cats & Dogs
(Warner Brothers) MPAA: PG-- DOVE: 12+
Synopsis:
Unbeknownst
to humans, the struggle for world domination between cats and dogs has been held
in check by an uneasy truce. But that period of peace is about to disintegrate.
A power-mad Persian cat, Mr. Tinkles, has broken from the fray to lead a massive
feline movement against man’s best friend. The crack canine agents, who have
been protecting the entire human race, are in trouble. One of their top field
dogs has been put out of commission and they have been forced to employ the use
of a rookie Beagle puppy agent named Lou. As the maniacal Mr. Tinkles and his
army of highly trained soldiers begin a mass mobilization, the fate of humankind
rests in the paws of a young pup that has yet to prove himself in battle.
Review:
This
digitized live action family comedy about power-crazed cats and secret agent
dogs pays hysterical homage to the best of Warner Brothers cartoons. And with
salutes to the covert plots of “Mission Impossible,” “James Bond” and
“Get Smart,” that studio gives us a fanciful farce about a power-mad
pussycat that looks like Ernst Stavros Blofeld’s pampered feline and behaves
like a deranged Frasier Crane. But it’s not easy wanting to take over the
world while saddled with the moniker “Mr. Tinkles.” Like the Brain in
“Pinky and the Brain” (yer darn right I watch it!), Mr. Tinkles has
delusions of grandeur. He wants to rule the world. Trouble is, the housemaid
keeps dressing him up in frou-frou outfits and pink bows, bringing secretive
snickers from his minions. If you think the old Bugs Bunny/Wile E. Coyote
cartoons are too aggressive for your little ones, then you might want to resist
taking them to “Cats & Dogs.” But I found the producers used great care
and sensitivity with the action sequences. I think it is obvious that no animals
are really hurt during the slapstick battle sequences. The producers are also
careful about the amount of dog poop gags. Unlike many of today’s comedies,
including the wildly successful “Shrek,” its humor is not based on crudity.
It’s magic time in Hollywood. Warner Brothers continues to break ground in the
digital world of computer graphics. The expressions, including dogs that wink
and smile, are simply outstanding. There are a lot of visual gags as well as
truly clever dialogue and situations. And although many singles may experience a
tinge of embarrassment when purchasing tickets to this one, most parents will
find themselves laughing as much, if not more, than their little ones.
Content
Description:
I heard two
“My God’s” and one “For God’s sakes,” but I caught no other
language. There are many slapstick situations, a few explosions, lots of
wreckage, and a secret animosity between cats and dogs, but I found nothing
overly excessive. The film’s family grows closer by the ending, and love and
honor are lifted up. Cat owners may protest that their beloved pets are
portrayed as the film’s villains. They may object to the premise that if they
could, felines would enslave all of mankind. Personally, I’m just glad cats
aren’t as big as us!)
7. Shrek
(Dreamworks) MPAA: PG-13 - DOVE: 12+
Synopsis:
Once upon a
time in a far-away swamp, there lived an ornery ogre named Shrek (Mike Myers)
whose precious solitude is suddenly shattered by an invasion of annoying
fairy-tale characters. There are blind mice in his food, a big, bad wolf in his
bed, three little homeless pigs and more, all banished from their kingdom by the
evil Lord Farquaad (John Lithgow). Determined to save their home – not to
mention his own – Shrek cuts a deal with Farquaad and sets out to rescue the
beautiful Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) to be Farquaad’s bride. Accompanying
him on his mission is a wisecracking donkey (Eddie Murphy) who will do anything
for Shrek---except shut up. Rescuing the princess from a fire-breathing dragon
may prove the least of their problems when the deep, dark secret she has been
keeping is revealed.
Review:
Shrek is a
very funny animated film. It even contains some valuable messages about not
judging others by their outward appearance and friends forgiving one another.
But much of the material is the opposite of what parents would like their little
ones to be learning. First off, sexual innuendos and double entendres abound.
Then, in keeping with today’s filmmakers’ infatuation with flatulence humor,
there is also a crudeness associated with the lead character and his pals,
including belching in front of others, flatulence jokes, and other forms of
toilet humor. Even the princess burps to show the guys that she’s, well, one
of the guys. ****** The comedy in general is aimed at an adult audience, with
much of its significance going over the heads of the littler seat holders. I
laughed out loud and loved the funny, uplifting ending. The screening audience,
which consisted mainly of teenagers, also seemed to have a great time. But
beware, most comedies these days incorporate crudeness as a main source of
humor. “Shrek” does not aspire to challenge this new standard. ****** If you
feel the content and humor to be too suggestive for your children, try my video
alternative: The Emperor’s New Groove. David Spade is extremely funny in this
animated Disney film as the selfish ruler who learns life lessons about
friendship and the rights of others. The music is bouncy, the drawings colorful,
and the story involving – especially if you haven’t been on this planet long
enough to have seen it several times before – and from the same studio. Rated
G, I found nothing objectionable. The villainess uses potions and magic to place
a spell on the lead character. But this serves to further the story, not promote
sorcery. Due to a few scary scenes, parents should attend with little ones, just
to reassure.
Content
Description:
Contains
two mild expletives, but I caught no harsh or profane language: there are
several sexual innuendos and double entendres; some crude toilet humor,
including flatulence jokes; the princess uses martial arts to beat up attacking
hoods; a dragon spews fire and chases our heroes; one character is eaten by the
dragon; the nasty king drinks a martini; and some dark humor.
8. Atlantis: The Lost Empire
(Walt Disney) MPAA: PG- DOVE: 12+
Synopsis:
An
inexperienced young adventurer becomes the key to unraveling an ancient mystery
when he joins up with a group of daredevil explorers to find the mythical empire
of Atlantis.. . . . . Naïve but determined museum cartographer Milo Thatch
(voice of Michael J. Fox) dreams of completing the quest begun by his late
grandfather, a famous explorer. When a long lost journal surfaces, providing new
clues to the location, and an eccentric billionaire agrees to fund an
expedition, the action shifts into high gear. Milo ultimately leads Captain
Rourke (voice of James Garner) and his team to the elusive undersea kingdom. But
Milo soon discovers treachery among his co-explorers, who are bent on stealing a
power source, even though it will lead to the destruction of this submerged
civilization.
Review:
Nobody does
animation better than Disney. Nobody! Once again, the artists at Disney Studios
manage to incorporate equal doses of comedy and adventure with state-of-the-art
cartooning that stimulates both the eye and the imagination. And one thing more:
while keeping up with the ever-evolving world of animated filmmaking, the folks
at Disney never abandon the charm factor. Although computer-generated images
have taken this genre to new heights, films like the original "101
Dalmatians" and "Sleeping Beauty" are still highly watchable due
to that studio's mysterious ability to enchant with its vocal and visual
characterizations. "Atlantis…" carries on in this noble tradition.
The film casts a spell with its eclectic crew of eccentric, funny and memorable
characters, aided by an involving story, lots of action, and that intangible
something that seems to elude most other animation filmmakers. . . . . .RED
FLAG: Alas, there is a problem. While many classic Disney films have included
either sorcery or other forms of spiritually questionable concepts in their
stories, I have usually been able to dismiss the content as essential to
conveying the parable's message. But "Atlantis: The Lost Continent"
has this hidden world protected by an unknown force, with magical crystals worn
by each of its inhabitants. With the New Age popularity of crystals as a healing
and meditative element, which many people devote religious energy to, I felt the
subject matter might be confusing to adolescent minds, and possibly intriguing
to their older siblings. Since I can find no affirmative biblical instruction
concerning the use of crystals as a healing element, and because sorcery and the
occult are frowned upon in both New and Old Testaments (Leviticus 19:31, 1 John
4:1), I question where the true power source of these crystals comes from. . . .
. "Phil, it's just a story." True, but I felt you should be warned
that many consider the use of crystals as an occultic practice. You should
deliberate with your pastor or rabbi concerning the influence of this custom
before allowing your children to view this film . . . . . . Due to this
spiritually misleading content, I cannot bring myself to recommend
"Atlantis…" for all ages. Even the 12+ crowd should be wary of the
New Age Theology. If you feel comfortable discussing with your older children
the questionable subject matter of life forces that come from gods and
goddesses, then your family may enjoy the picture as a teaching tool to
reinforce your Christian principles.
Content
Description:
Lots of
edge-of-your-seat action sequences, with several characters killed off-screen;
the villain pushes his assistant to a possible death; the villain is
crystallized, with an agonizing look on his face; an elder passes away; a lead
character is scantily dressed, but she is an innocent, with noble intentions;
the use of crystals to heal; the force that protects the lost world is never
clearly defined.
9. Recess: Schools Out
(Walt Disney) MPAA: G - DOVE: Any Age
Synopsis:
The school
year is finally over, and T.J. Detweiler is looking forward to a fun-filled
summer. Boredom quickly sets in however, until he uncovers a scheme to do away
with summer vacation! Former principal Dr. Benedict, who once tried to eliminate
recess from the school day, now plans to use a laser beam to alter the weather
and create permanent winter. It sure would be tough to have to go to school
year-round, so T.J. calls in all his friends for help. Just when the kids appear
to be facing their final test of strength against the mad educator, the faculty
joins together in order to help save summer vacation.
Review:
Recess:
School's Out, is the big screen version of Disney's Saturday morning TV cartoon
by the same name - sort of a grade school version of the preschoolers cartoon,
Rugrats. Its no accident that most kids like this cartoon because it features
their favorite school-time activity...RECESS! This film, like Rugrats has the
look and feel of its TV counterpart - no big screen effects. The story is
fantasy at its finest. What kid hasn't imagined him or herself pitted against
evil forces to save summer vacation - and coming out the winner. (OK, so maybe I
am the only one.) This film also wins in the sensitive way it handles
teacher/pupil relationships. There's enough humor for moms and dads to enjoy as
well - and without the usual sexual innuendo found in many of today’s G-rated
fare.
10. Extreme Days
(Providence Entertainment) MPAA: PG
- Dove: Any Age
Synopsis:
What it’s about: A group
of lifelong college-age friends Brian (Ryan Browning), Corey (Dante Basco), Will
(AJ Buckley) and Matt (Derek Hamilton) take a summer road-trip in their Joyota
(part Jeep, part Toyota) that will include surfing, skating and snowboarding up
the West coast. Along the way they get word that Corey’s grandfather has died
and left him money and a car, so the group head for Seattle to claim his
inheritance. Along the way they meet Matt’s cousin Jessie (Cassidy Rae) who
joins the group on their crazy journey up the coast. When Brian gets a crush on
Jessee and tries the moves that usually work on girls, he quickly learns that
Jessee has a unique faith and set of standards that make her different from
anyone he’s ever dated before.
Review:
The good: The theme song
and slogan to this movie is “We’re living in Extreme Days”.
Unintentionally that expression has never been more accurate and eerily
appropriate than ever before. Which is exactly why this fun-filled, extreme
sports story that carries subtle messages about appreciating life, friendships,
a faith in God and just plain having fun, has never been more important or
relevant to the youth culture of today. In light of recent tragic events, our
kids and teens could use some light-hearted, youth-friendly entertainment that
will make them laugh and this novel approach to a road-trip movie directed by
first-timer Eric Hannah is just the trick! It not only includes incredible real
footage of extreme sports (surfing, snowboarding, skateboarding, motorcross) but
a couple of cool paint-ball wars, zany teen antics and humorous dialogue and
behavior that girls and guys can appreciate (except for maybe the flatulent war
that takes place with the guys and lighters in a dark room). My 15 year-old
enjoyed every minute of it (especially the professional extreme sports footage)
including the loud but very cool soundtrack that gives the story an energetic
boost throughout. The story is told with jerky camera movies, goofy behavior, a
loud soundtrack, moral themes subtly woven into the story and realistic issues
and characters all ages can relate to. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and I
happen to be proud of the fact that I play a small role as a flight attendant in
the last scene. This carefree journey will remind adults of how cherished and
fleeting youth is, how much fun road trips can be and how important it is for
the youth of today to value and appreciate the precious gift of the American way
of life they live. The not-so-good: Although it’s a lighthearted romp, there
are a few serious themes about losing a grandfather, falling in love and
respecting the life God has given us but nothing too serious for kids. If
you’re an adult who expects a dramatic plot, developed characters and you hate
loud music, don’t go to this movie – you won’t “get it”.
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