Category Archives: Film reviews

Film reviews

Sound of Freedom Review

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I understand how powerful and moving the Sound of Freedom can be. The film tells a true story that is both realistic and inspiring, showing audiences the importance of sacrifice and faithfulness. Jim Caviezel’s performance is truly captivating, and his character serves as a beacon of hope in these difficult times. The film tackles important issues like human rights and safety, making it difficult to look away. It’s no wonder that this movie leaves a lasting impact on those who watch it.

The film begins with Tim Ballard (Caviezel), a detective working for Homeland Security in California. His job is tracking down sex trafficking operations. When he arrests an individual, he gets an idea of how the operations are carried out, and then slowly realizes there is more to the operation than he has intended.

Shortly thereafter, Ballard is assigned to the case to find a young girl named Rocio (played by Cristal Aparicio). From his knowledge, his research, and his background, Ballard must go deep to get a glimpse of what dangers exist with children and sex traffickers. His boss Frost (played by Kurt Fuller) allows him to travel to the Colombian jungle to find the young girl. The girl’s father Roberto (played by Jose Zuniga) feels all kinds of emotions. Ballard treats Roberto’s daughter like she is his own child and makes heavy sacrifices to get Roberto’s daughter back. Ballard must blend in by acting like he is a criminal or with a criminal enterprise. Ballard’s ability to be an impostor and act like he is part of the operations leads him closer to Rocio’s whereabouts.

There are certain situations in which taking risks can lead to severe consequences. Ballard’s current expedition through the dangerous and underdeveloped jungle is a prime example. With a corrupt government and no laws to deter criminal activity, finding Rocio proves to be an arduous task. Nevertheless, Ballard remains steadfast in his mission to save lives, despite the difficulties. This factual account underscores his resolute commitment to his purpose.

As the film progresses, the audience becomes aware of the unwavering determination that drives Ballard forward. Right from the beginning, Ballard is presented as a committed individual, ready to go great lengths to achieve his goals. However, his daring choices come at a price and may even endanger his prospects.

Sound of Freedom is one of the best films I have seen this year. It captures the harsh reality of sex trafficking among children in a genuine and impactful way. The standout quote, “God’s Children are not for sale!” is a powerful sentiment embodied by actor Jim Caviezel who delivers a monumental performance. Caviezel’s courage both on-screen and in real life is truly inspiring, as he actively promotes the film to make a difference in the world. Overall, I highly recommend this four-star film. It is one of great value and carries an emotional and enticing message that is unforgettable.

Film reviews

Mission: Impossible-Dead Reckoning Part One

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The franchise continues. Tom Cruise is back as Ethan Hunt, Simon Pegg is back as Benji Dunn, Ving Rhames is back as Luther Stickell, and Rebecca Ferguson is back as Ilsa Faust. Mission: Impossible-Dead Reckoning Part One is the start of a new adventure where the mission goes deeper, the risks become more dangerous, and Cruise is still doing his own stunts. The film starts off seeming like it could be a drag, but that all changes as soon as Cruise comes in and the storyline starts to develop.

In Mission Impossible-Dead Reckoning Part One, Ethan has a new mission, one that is tedious and frustrating, but many lives around the world are at stake. He must collect a key that holds the ability to give someone a lot of power, and has the potential to cause serious destruction, financially and otherwise. Benji and Luther are back to help Ethan with this mission. The team must contend with the enemy Gabriel (played by Esai Morales), and both Gabriel and the team have to deal with Grace (played by Hayley Atwell), who has a similar background to Ethan, Benji, and Luther. She has a relationship to the key and she stands to earn redemption if the mission is pulled off successfully. And as the team moves forward with the tasks and operations seemingly under control, there are moments where trust is questioned. Could it be that there are both allies and enemies within the IMF?

The technology on display in Mission Impossible-Dead Reckoning Part One is next level, so the team is advanced for success but also has its moments of failure. I was intrigued by the innovations that Benji and Luther exhibit. I was also intrigued by the many layers of suspense—ten times the suspense of the previous films. Cops, criminals, and the IMF having a brawl of multiple vehicles through different countries, disguises with surreal twists, and Cruise riding a motorcycle off a mountain, free-falling then opening a parachute and trying to land and save a train, are all part of the formula.

A film with Cruise doing his insane jumps and stunts makes for a pure Mission Impossible expedition. Seeing Cruise jump off buildings, make it through collisions, and perform many other amazing stunts proves that this franchise is far from over. If the stunts sell, the movie sells. The technological elements and creative advancements also make Mission Impossible-Dead Reckoning Part One mind-blowing on a whole new level.

But could this new mission be too much for Ethan to tolerate? Is the IMF at risk of imploding from within? Mission Impossible-Dead Reckoning Part One will enthrall its audiences from the very opening, with layers of unexplained events bringing anticipation. Three and a half out of four stars for Mission Impossible-Dead Reckoning Part One.

Film reviews

Every Body Review

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The term intersex is at the center of Every Body. For those unfamiliar with this term, intersex refers to people born with genitals, chromosomes or reproductive organs that don’t fit into a male/female sex binary. It is a story of individuals who have encountered many hurdles before owning and accepting their bodies. Every Body is a daring documentary and a revolutionary achievement. Every Body is a film that proves how hard it can be to be accepted. I found the film engrossing because the stories are touching and courageous. The exploration of fear experienced by the starring individuals is where Every Body stands as a sentimental struggle.

Every Body shares the stories of Sean Saifa Wall, Alicia Roth Weigel, and River Gallo. These individuals shine by being brave as they share their secrets about their own bodies. They talk about how medical advice and shame have brought them mental challenges throughout their tough journeys. The film is brilliant in capturing their emotions as they elaborate on hiding the truth about themselves. Every Body is a sensory experience and an important and invigorating documentary.

It is said in the film, “Surgery is not medically necessary.” This quote reminds us that one’s gender is about how one chooses to live their life. Someone may want to live with the body parts they were born with.  Others may elect surgery to help them feel like they are their true gender. Every Body is a scientific ride which reveals the traits, personalities, and complex challenges of Wall, Weigel, and Gallo. Their success is illustrated in this documentary as all three intersex individuals have had to overcome many rough encounters while dealing with their unique gender scenarios.

I respect those who identify in different ways. I feel I have even more empathy for those who feel the way they do after watching Every Body. The in-depth descriptions and topics are emotional and compelling. The stories described in the film display how there is increased awareness and more support for gender diversity in society today. The topic is still quite sensitive, but the film demonstrates the resilience of those impacted by being intersex and the hope that there is increased understanding. The documentary shines a light on the positives of being open and honest about the issues that are highlighted in Every Body.

The emotional content of the film is sensitive and requires empathy. It is a documentary of a serious topic told in a highly personal way. The concept of delving into individuals’ feelings connected to their gender and anatomy is bold. Every Body carries a strong and powerful message that everyone no matter what their gender should be accepted. The talents that Wall, Weigel, and Gallo carry with them add to the unique way they each identify with the world around them. Every Body is an intriguing documentary focused on awakening acceptance and being an ally for those who identify differently. Three and a half out of four stars for Every Body.