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Reflections for Movie-Lovers

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Let's go to the movies! The power of the cinematic media should never be overlooked. At its best, and even at its worst, it can mirror society, bring issues to awareness, and make us reflect on ourselves personally.

Reflections for Movie Lovers by Matthew Kinne takes this influence to a new level. Consisting of 365 devotions, this book uses movies as its springboard for spiritual lessons and reflections. But beware, if you're an avid movie fan, as I am, your "to see" list will grow!

Each devotion starts with two short Scripture readings, a paragraph summary of the movie's storyline, then moves into the spiritual application and reflection for our "real" lives. I used Reflections for Movie Lovers as part of my personal devotions, but this could also be used in family devotions, small group study, and in youth groups. The movie devotions are broken down into a particular topic/genre per week. Every genre is included so there's something for everyone.

This book would be beneficial for young believers who love movies. Kinne does a great job at explaining the Bible lesson in a complete, simple, and concise way. You don't have to have a theological degree to understand the lesson. For example, Kinne retells the story of Israel's exodus from Egypt in 76 words, yet you understand what took place. If you want more information, the Bible reference is part of the scripture reading for the day.

Kinne does a superb job at summarizing the movie storyline. I read the book before reading anything about the author, and based on his skill at condensing a two-hour movie into one paragraph, Kinne's involvement with the movie industry was obvious. His resume is impressive: a freelance writer and film/video producer. He served as a development director for Messenger Films, as the East Coast editor of Movieguide Magazine, written several screenplays, interviewed Hollywood stars, and consulted for film production companies.

While some of the movies Kinne focuses on are R-rated, he states that it "doesn't mean I endorse it or agree with every little thing about it. Like all humanity, all movies portray sinners, usually depicting their sins. This doesn't mean I recommend that all Christians see all R-rated movies, as I believe that some people shouldn't see any at all. Your choice of viewing is between you and God - and your parents if you are under 17." The benefit of this book is that you can get the story and lesson without having to see what you don't want to.

Included in the heading of each devotion is the American Film Institute rating, the Academy Awards nominations and winners, the Motion Picture Association of American rating, and the year the movie was made.

Some of the devotionals seemed a bit of a stretch, but the author himself admits that not every movie will resonate in the same fashion for all readers. Even so, Reflections for Movie Lovers is definitely a worthwhile read. -- Leilani Wells, Christian Book Previews.com

I read this book to my Elementary and Middle school students. They love choosing what movie to read about. The connections with Biblical application with an aray of movies is very clever.Entertaining,challenging and inspiring.Well written.

Matt Kinne is a perceptive and wise movie reviewer. His book is amazingly helpful. He is a person of great integrity who looks at a movie from the standpoint of it's lessons for life, not mere entertainment. I have met him and was equally impressed. Get one!

Reuben H. Brooks, Ph.D.