A New Year's Gift For Me!

Happy New Year! I stayed up late to welcome in the new year, then started 2026 by watching Seeking Persephone, a movie based off of Sarah Eden's book of the same name. The movie was SO good! I can't wait to watch it again. The acting was really well-done, (my compliments to the casting director, they nailed it!) the story had me riveted, the entire production truly was so, so good. I hope we can get more movies like that!

Movie Review: Once I Was Engaged

We watched Once I Was Engaged, the sequel to Once I Was A Beehive. We were excited that the same girls from the original film were returning and the trailer looked cute. 

Bree Carrington's mom was the girls' camp uber planner in the last movie. In this movie, her daughter Bree gets engaged and they only have a couple of months to plan the wedding. But the couple hits a few bumps in the road, which leads to some self-realization. There was some good character growth in Bree and she's really relatable in the show as she navigates the consequences of her decisions. There's also some cute comedic moments, and it was good to see the other girls, especially Lane, from the first movie. The cinematography was well-done (I loved the Hawaii scenes) and the story was sweet, but the ending was definitely unexpected for me. Overall, it was a fun family night at the movies with this one.

Here is the teaser:

A new romantic comedy from the creators of Once I Was a Beehive! When Bree Carrington gets engaged while at BYU Hawaii, her loving but over-the-top mom goes all out to create the wedding of the century. But both mother and daughter must overcome the pressure of perfection when this happily ever after story doesn't go quite as expected.

Here is the trailer:

Movie News and a Giveaway!

Our family really enjoyed the movie, Once I Was a Beehive, and the sequel to it, Once I was Engaged, is coming out on July 21st! It sounds so fun. Here's the teaser:

When Bree Carrington gets engaged while at BYU Hawaii, her loving but over-the-top mom goes all out to create the wedding of the century. But both mother and daughter must overcome the pressure of perfection when this happily ever after story doesn’t go quite as expected.

The movie will be in Utah theaters on July 21, 2021 and theaters in Idaho, Arizona, and Las Vegas, on August 6th and nationally August 13th. A perfect summer show. You can get tickets and more information HERE

Watch the movie trailer and then don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

Here's a little more info: Written and directed by Maclain Nelson, ONCE I WAS ENGAGED brings back all the original film’s favorite cast of characters, including Bree (Clare Niederpruem), Holly (Hailey Smith), Lane (Paris Warner), and of course, Carrie Carrington (Lisa Valentine Clark). And this film introduces a couple key new characters, including Curt Carrington; Carrie’s husband and Bree’s father, played by High School Musical’s Bart Johnson; and Thys Chesterfield, played by Studio C’s Tanner Gillman.

“Fans have been screaming for a sequel ever since we released the first film,” exclaimed Nelson. “And we are beyond excited for everyone to get back to the movie theatre and experience the next chapter in the lives of their favorite campers.”

The story takes place about two years after ONCE I WAS A BEEHIVE. The young women and their leaders have grown up (some more than others), and Bree’s surprise engagement and the whirlwind of wedding planning brings them all back together – with hilarious and touching results.

“This movie is the warmest and funniest thing you’ll see this year,” quipped Lisa Valentine Clark. “Not to mention audiences get to see some men in the mix this time. We added the one-and-only Bart Johnson and the charming and hilarious Tanner Gillman. I’m not going to say they steal the show, but I’m not going to not say that either. You’ll just have to come see for yourself.”

Even though the story is a sequel to the first film, audiences will also get to see the original girls as their much younger selves for the first time. “I won’t give away too much, but old and new fans alike get to learn so much more history of the girls,” explained Clare Niederpruem, who plays Bree. “Audiences will absolutely adore them, and who knows, maybe there’s a prequel story to BEEHIVE that needs to be told.”

In the years since ONCE I WAS A BEEHIVE was released, many cast members have been busy in the entertainment industry, especially Clare Niederpruem. ENGAGED signals her first return to being in front of the camera in quite a few years. “We’re so excited to celebrate at the premiere and mingle with the fans. We want this to be the party of the summer,” said Niederpruem who has become a sought-after director for feature films, TV movies and TV series, including an adaptation of LITTLE WOMEN and multiple TV movies for the Hallmark Channel. 

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The Forgotten Carols Christmas Tradition

One of our favorite family traditions at Christmas is watching The Forgotten Carols. The story is so heartwarming and sweet, with some truly funny moments and lots of great music. 

This year, we couldn't watch it be performed on stage, but there is a 2020 Theatrical version of it! I wasn't sure I would love the DVD version as much as seeing it live, but I did! The sets were great and there were a few changes to the show with some new music and new dialogue in some scenes. Michael McLean is amazing, as always, and the actress who plays Constance really shines. All of the extra touches, combined with the story and acting, really added to the overall charm of the show and finding the true joy of the season. Our whole family enjoyed it! 

This is a timeless classic and one you'll definitely want to have in your family's library.

You can get your copy here

See the movie trailer here

Here's a little more about the show:

The Forgotten Carols stage performance tells the story of Connie Lou, a nurse whose empty life is changed when Uncle John, a new patient she is attending, recounts the story of Christ’s birth as told by little known characters in the nativity story. The accounts from the Innkeeper, the Shepherd and others help the nurse discover what the world has forgotten about Christmas, ultimately encouraging her to open her heart to the joy of this special season.

Movie Review: Lucy Shimmers & the Prince of Peace

 This new Christmas movie, Lucy Shimmers and the Prince of Peace, is one that will tug at all your emotions. Lucy Shimmers is five-years-old and had a dream about a sad man who Jesus wanted to help. When she suddenly falls ill, she meets that man in the hospital and the movie becomes her journey in how she helps Jesus help him.

I thought the little girl who played Lucy was the star of the show and stole all the scenes she was in. She was articulate and sweet and really made her character believable. The story is original, but it is tragic. Of course there is hope and inspiration among the tragedy, but for me, it's just too sad. If you watch the first fifteen minutes of the show you can guess what's going to happen at the end, so there is time to brace yourself and break out the Kleenex. However, there are still plenty of sweet and tender moments to enjoy in this Christmas movie with a message that will touch your heart.

Don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

Get your copy here

Here is the back copy:

Second chances start when a hardened criminal crosses paths with a precocious little girl who is helped by an angel to change hearts during the holiday season.

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Book Review: The Christmas Apron

 I loved this heartwarming story about a Christmas apron that makes Christmas wishes come true. My daughter was an extra in the movie that was made about this book and it was such a memorable experience for us!

Millie is thrilled when her ballet teacher tells her she's finally ready for en pointe shoes (my own daughter just received hers this year so we know what a big deal that is!) The problem comes when she overhears her parents talking about what little money they have for Christmas this year. But Grandma is coming with her Christmas apron and surely her wish for en pointe shoes will be granted. When Grandma comes, however, Millie learns so much more about what Christmas is truly about.

I loved how the author connected the family through the stories about the apron. I loved the underlying messages of service and thinking of others. The story will tug on your heartstrings and the pictures really bring out the best of the characters. My children really enjoyed The Christmas Apron and I know it will be family favorite in the years to come.

Get your copy here

Here is the back copy:

The children in Millie's family can't wait for Grandma to arrive with her special Christmas apron. According to tradition, each grandchild will write down the gift he or she wants most in the world and then slip that wish into the apron's pocket. Then, on Christmas morning,those wished-for gifts will be magically waiting under the tree. But eleven-year-old Millie overhears her parents: the family can't afford gifts for all the little ones. She pictures the disappointment on her siblings faces nothing to open on Christmas morning.

Is Millie willing to sacrifice her own whole-soul wish so someone else's can come true? Full of tender emotion and delightful surprise, this story reminds us of the miracles that unfold when we think of others before ourselves.

And just for fun, here's a little behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Christmas Apron movie!

Movie Review of The Santa Box and a Giveaway!

 

I was super excited to be part of the blog tour for The Santa Box. It's hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner and I loved snuggling up with my family to watch this adorable Christmas movie.

Kallie Watts is a teenager who has been through a lot---including her house burning down, her father dying, and her grandfather dying, all at Christmas time. She believes she is cursed by Christmas and when they move to a new town that has Christmas decorations everywhere she looks, she is not impressed. 

She starts attending her new school and meets a mean girl who loves to point out the flaws in others. The mean girl's mom is also up to no good and trying to evict an old German man named Otto in the neighborhood. Kallie befriends the man and in a Karate Kid sort of way, and learns from his wisdom. (He even has a garden!) Otto helps her to see the qualities of love and forgiveness as he deals with those who seem to hate him for no reason. (The interaction between these two was adorable.) But the heart of the movie is when Kallie receives a mysterious Santa box and even though she hates Christmas, her heart is slowly opened as she begins to find joy in the season again. 

I thought this movie was original and cute. There are a lot of themes going on throughout including love and loss, kindness and cruelty, war and sacrifice, and seeing beyond a person's outer appearance. The characters were really relatable and our entire family was entertained. We laughed and cried and just enjoyed the first Christmas movie of the season together. It was fun to be reminded of the magic of Christmas and what's really important. This movie is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit!

You can get your DVD at these retailers:

Amazon

Deseret Book

Seagull Book

Here's a little more about the movie. Don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

The Santa Box tells the story of teenager Kallie Watts. For the past five years, Christmas has spelled disaster for her and her family. When a fire leaves Kallie and her mother homeless just before the holidays, there’s only one conclusion: Kallie is cursed by Christmas. When Kallie and her mother relocate to a small California town, Kallie is confronted by her worst nightmare come true: a town overflowing with holiday decorations and Christmas cheer. But Kallie’s life will soon change forever by the gift of a Santa box, which helps her rediscover the magic and true meaning of Christmas.

See the movie trailer HERE

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Heart of Africa Movie Review & A $50 Giveaway!

This movie, The Heart of Africa, is unlike anything I've seen before. It was filmed entirely in the Democratic Republic of Congo and it shows the raw and visceral feelings of a people who have suffered from decades of oppression. The movie is mostly told in the native language with English subtitles, adding to the feeling of being immersed in another culture.

We first meet a young man named Gabriel who is trying to find his place in the world. His parents have died and he's been taken care of by a revolutionary leader who assures him of his great destiny. However, Gabriel soon finds himself running away after a terrible accident. Homeless and hungry, Gabriel meets the missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He is first drawn to the church because they give him food and shelter, but then joins and serves as a missionary. He's given a white companion and a charge to build an orphanage---in the hometown he's escaped from. There, Gabriel must face his demons and find his true identity.

This is a story that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled. There is a wild beauty in the setting and a chaotic stillness as we experience Gabriel's search for self. The story is sometimes hard to follow because there are flashbacks that aren't clearly delineated and if you look away for even a moment, you will miss the subtitles and possibly necessary information that would further the plot. I wish there had been more time to flesh out the secondary characters, as well as the deeper issues of Gabriel's conversion and how the losses he's experienced affected his relationships, including with his companion. However, the story presented is heart-wrenching and inspirational and reminds us that faith gives us strength---no matter where we are in the world or what road we're on in our mortal journey.

Don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

You can get your DVD here

Here is what it's about:

A Congolese man runs from a terrible accident and finds himself at a revolutionary camp, where he is told that he has a great destiny. He tries to escape and start a new life by going to another town, joining a new religion, and becoming a missionary. Ultimately, though, he finds himself back in the very place he had tried to leave. He must face his fears and his shame—but also his magnificent possibilities.

Heart of Africa is the first full-length, faith-based film to come out of the nascent Democratic Republic of Congo film movement. After decades of colonial oppression and civil war, the country's scars run deep. Cinema is emerging as a cathartic new medium, and director Tshoper Kabambi is a leader of a new kind of revolution: one driven by stories that he hopes will heal the hearts of his people and the DR Congo.

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Heart of Africa Movie Spotlight & $50 Giveaway!

I am super excited to see this movie! It sounds amazing. It's the first Congolese-American co-production of a feature film and was filmed entirely in the Democratic Republic of Congo by a Congolese film crew. It's coming out in mid-March and I think it will be on my don't-miss list!

Here's a little more about it:

Gabriel Ngandu is a young Congolese revolutionary running from the terrible mistakes of his past. His journey of escape leads him to new experiences and even a new religion that challenges long-held beliefs about his destiny and world around him. He find himself torn between the influences and expectations of two very different father figures- Mwabila, his revolutionary leader, and President Kabasubabu, his new religious leader. Called to serve as a missionary, he is sent back to his native village to build an orphanage with Jason Martin, an American who also has a tragic and secret past. Together, they struggle to understand and overcome their histories, cultures, and prejudices to serve the people around them.

Caught between enmity and reconciliation, revenge or forgiveness, intolerance or understanding, they begin to see the potential for a better; more peaceful future for themselves and for the Congo. Worlds finally collide when explosions rock the new orphanage and Kabasubabu is kidnapped by Mwabila's revolutionaries. Gabriel is faced with choosing between the two different worlds of these father figures... or finding his own path toward a new world inspired by understanding and redemption.

You can see the movie trailer HERE

Find out more information about this phenomenal film HERE

And don't forget to enter the giveaway!

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Music and Movies and a Giveaway . . . Oh MY! You'll Love These!

What is Live All In?

LIVE ALL IN IS A MONTHLY MUSICAL TOOLKIT THAT INCLUDES:

• POWERFUL MUSIC to inspire, comfort and bring joy to you and your family
• UPLIFTING LYRICS to remind you of your unlimited potential
• SONG STUDIES to help you create moments of stillness and draw closer to God
• PRINTABLES to beautify your home
• SHEET MUSIC that will allow your talents to shine
• KARAOKE TRACKS that will bring out your brave every time you perform
• CUSTOM COLORING PAGES to invite quiet contemplation and colorful creativity
• EXCLUSIVE FACEBOOK GROUP to connect with others also striving to be the best version of themselves

Have you heard of Hilary Weeks? She writes inspirational music and she has a new program called Live All In where you receive a brand new Hilary Weeks song every month. It's more than just a song a month, though. She also provides scriptures, quotes, coloring pages, printables, sheet music and talks about what inspired her to write on that particular subject. I have loved listening to her new music, getting all the behind-the-scenes and being able to share the lyrics and music that touch part of my soul with those around me. It's like having an amazing musical banquet delivered to you every month!

If you'd like to be part of Hilary's Live All In, you can get a 2020 membership for the early bird price of only $49, and if you use the coupon SALE15, you get 15% off, so it's only $42! What a deal! That's under $4 a month for your family to enjoy an entire year's worth of gorgeous monthly music, sheet music, coloring pages, printables for your home, song studies and beautiful lyrics with messages that help us as we navigate our world. And you can connect with other people just like you on Hilary's exclusive Facebook group. I'll see you there!

Don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

You can go HERE for more information and ordering details.

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I also want to tell you about the new Christmas movie that just came out, Christmas Jars. We watched it as a family and it was amazing! It's based on the book by New York Times Bestselling author Jason Wright and it is perfect for this holiday season.

We are first introduced to a waitress who finds an abandoned baby in the diner and adopts her, naming her Hope. Hope grows up very loved, but after her adoptive mother passes away, she is heartbroken. After a burglary at her home adds to her feelings of grief and loss, Hope finds a Christmas Jar filled with money outside her door. When she realizes that people across her city have been receiving anonymous Christmas Jars for years, she goes undercover to find out who is the anonymous giver. Her investigation takes her to the door of the Maxwell family, a close-knit clan who have a few secrets of their own.

I loved the family feel of this film and watched it with my kids who had several favorite parts. There were some really fun moments as Hope figures things out, a little bit of romance that reminded me of While You Were Sleeping, and an ending that will make you smile and reach for the Kleenex at the same time. You'll want to add this to your family Christmas movie collection because it will be one you'll watch again and again!

Get your DVD here

Don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

Here's more about the movie:

Hope is an aspiring reporter who has had her fair share of tragedy in life. Abandoned at birth, she's grieving the recent death of her adopted mother when her apartment is burglarized of all her possessions. While reporting the burglary to the police, Hope discovers a jar full of money, labeled "Christmas Jar." Shocked and grateful for this act of kindness, Hope discovers that people all over her hometown of Columbus, Ohio, have been receiving Christmas Jars for years during times of need. The jars are always anonymous and always contain different amounts. In this heartwarming Christmas classic, Hope goes undercover to discover the secret behind the Christmas jars, putting into motion a series of events that will change her life, and her community, forever.

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Movie Review & A Giveaway!

I was so thrilled to be with my good friend Michele Ashman Bell at the premiere of A Candle in the Window, the movie based off her book of the same name. I loved her Christmas story when I read it years ago and was excited to see it made into a movie. When Michele was at our book club a few months back she gave us the behind-the-scenes of what it was like to visit the set and see your words come to life. What a fantastic experience! I am so happy for her and for how well this movie turned out.

A Candle in the Window features a family who has lost their mother and is experiencing the holidays without her for the first time. The littlest girl has such faith that her mother will visit them on Christmas Day, but the middle child is still upset about not having her mom there for all the things they used to do together. I thought the man who played the father did an excellent job in portraying his hidden grief while trying to be there for his girls. All of the performances were well done, but the littlest girl truly stole the show with every scene she was in. Adorable!

This is a story about miracles and love and is definitely one your family will want to watch every holiday season. We really enjoyed it!

Don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway!

See the movie trailer here

Get your copy here

"Papa, would it be okay if we put a candle in the window so Mama can find her way home?"

John's family is struggling to face Christmas without his loving wife. However, six-year-old Emily is full of faith. Even though her older sisters try to gently lower her expectations, the young girl truly believes her mother will visit on Christmas Eve. In fact, she is so certain her mother will come that she puts a candle in the window to guide her mother on her journey home. Before she passed away, their mother made sure the most cherished holiday traditions would still be there—beautiful handmade dresses, new patent-leather shoes, and a lovingly crafted doll for little Emily. But on the way to a Christmas Eve celebration, the doll is lost, and Emily is heartbroken. Emily—and her grieving sisters—need their mother more than ever. Inspired by true events, A Candle in the Window is a beautiful reminder that our loved ones never leave us and prayers really do get answered—especially when you have the faith of a child.

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A Candle in the Window

A few months back, Michele Ashman Bell was the guest author at my book club and she talked about having one of her books made into a movie and told us how amazing it was to visit the set. Well, last night, I got to go to the premiere of A Candle in the Window! It was amazing! We loved it. My little boy was sure he wouldn't like it, but he really enjoyed it and we all talked about our favorite scenes all the way home. (It will definitely give you all the Christmas feels.) And the littlest girl seriously steals every scene she's in. She's adorable!

A Candle in the Window is on sale today and you won't want to miss kicking off your Christmas season with this story of love never ending. 

You can get yours here

Here's more about it:

"Papa, would it be okay if we put a candle in the window so Mama can find her way home?"

John's family is struggling to face Christmas without his loving wife. However, six-year-old Emily is full of faith. Even though her older sisters try to gently lower her expectations, the young girl truly believes her mother will visit on Christmas Eve. In fact, she is so certain her mother will come that she puts a candle in the window to guide her mother on her journey home. Before she passed away, their mother made sure the most cherished holiday traditions would still be there—beautiful handmade dresses, new patent-leather shoes, and a lovingly crafted doll for little Emily. But on the way to a Christmas Eve celebration, the doll is lost, and Emily is heartbroken. Emily—and her grieving sisters—need their mother more than ever. Inspired by true events, A Candle in the Window is a beautiful reminder that our loved ones never leave us and prayers really do get answered—especially when you have the faith of a child.

Out of Liberty Movie Premiere---Don't Miss This One!

Last night was the premiere of the movie, Out of Liberty. This is not a "church" film, but a raw look at what it was truly like for the LDS church leaders who were held there for 155 grueling days. 

Out of Liberty comes across as more of a "western" type film and the story is told from the perspective of the jailer, Sam Tillery, which was fascinating. Sam is not of the LDS faith and sees things very black and white regarding his prisoners being held for treason. He has a past of his own he's trying to overcome and the leader of the mob constantly taunts him about it. None of the characters were cardboard cutouts, however, from the mob leader to Joseph Smith's visitors, each one felt fleshed out, with reasons for their behavior on both sides of the issue of justice. The story will make you think about a lot of issues that are still facing our society today---how misunderstanding can lead to fear and too often fear slips into hate when you don't know what you're really hating. The performances were nuanced and provided a powerful medium to start conversations.

Though all the acting was strong, I was particularly impressed with three of the actors. Brandon Ray Olive played the role of Joseph Smith and said he felt the weight on his shoulders in portraying a man that so many people revere. His stature and demeanor is a departure from the stereotypical men usually cast as Joseph, but Brandon Ray Olive does the role justice showcasing long-suffering patience with strength and charm under the dire circumstances. Another standout was Jasen Wade, who played Sam Tillery. He has such an unassuming air about him, he was perfect for the stone-faced jailer who was concerned with nothing more than justice being done. The story of his journey is compelling and Wade's performance adds emphasis as a likable hero. Corbin Allred plays Porter Rockwell before the long hair and beard, when he was young and life hadn't weighed him down so much. Corbin played the role perfectly, with just the right amount of protectiveness and playfulness when it came to his friends in prison. As I mentioned, all of the actors were outstanding and particularly strong leading men. They seemed quite close and mentioned several times that they all left the shoot changed men---going from friends to brothers during the film, and it showed at the premiere.

If you like films that will show you a perspective you hadn't thought about regarding Liberty jail and its place in history, you won't want to miss this one when it comes to theaters near you.

Here's the trailer:

New Movie Spotlight & A $50 Giveaway!

I'm excited to tell you about a new movie coming out that looks so good! The director of Out of Liberty also directed The Saratov Approach and Freetown. This one looks just as tense and action-packed and will be released next month!

Mr. Batty answered a few questions about making the movie with a funny story at the end that you won't want to miss. Oh, and don't forget to scroll down and enter the giveaway for $50!

1. Where did the concept come from for Out of Liberty?

I love a good Western, and I've wanted to do one for a while. The events at Liberty Jail involve a triangle of conflict between the jailer, the mob and the prisoners. It seemed like an intriguing plot to explore. Amidst some of the better known occurrences were attempted jailbreaks, repeated appeals to the legal system and an impromptu court hearing. With 1830’s Missouri as a setting, it’s the perfect backdrop for a powerful western.

2. What were some high points during the creative process?

Working in independent film is extremely difficult. It requires a lot of talented, passionate creative individuals to make things come together. Stephen Dethloff brought in the first several drafts of the script, and it was a high point to see that there was a cinematic story in Liberty Jail. Then, to be able to cast Jasen Wade, Brandon Ray Olive and Corbin Allred (who came back to acting after a 5 year hiatus just for this role) was a dream come true. Another high point was getting to see the set of the jail. We built 2 different sets, to cover interiors and exteriors. To step onto each set after they were completely prepped for filming made everything feel real.

3. What was your favorite scene on set?

The entire shoot was extremely cold, and the pressure to get everything just right probably impeded me from being able to feel like I had a favorite scene during the shoot. But now that the film is done, I can look back at some of the scenes and more accurately choose favorites. There’s a lot of recorded stories about the friendship between Joseph (Brandon Ray Olive) and Porter (Corbin Allred.) The scenes in which we tried to portray that friendship have become some of my favorites. Also, the jailer, Samuel Tillery (Jasen Wade) has a classic western stand-off with one of the characters. I’ve loved that scene from the moment it was in the script, through the final edit.

4. Any learning moments you want to share?

Any film presents opportunities for learning moments. Whether in the research phase, fundraising phase, production, post, or distribution, I’m always learning more and more about the process. One lesson that relates specifically to OUT OF LIBERTY was learning to respect the humanness of whom the story is about. Often I read historical accounts, but fail to recognize that they are written about real people, who deal with the same human hopes, dreams, faith and fears that I go through. So I learned to not only show their actions, but to help the audience understand the human emotion that was driving their actions. So in a moment of weakness, when Sydney Rigdon (Brock Roberts) doesn’t live up to my expectations, appreciating his humanness helps me to be more understanding of his actions.

5. What is the inspiration behind the story?

OUT OF LIBERTY is based on the true events that happened at Liberty Jail in 1839. Mob rule and public opinion collided with religious liberties and expressions of faith. It lead to a conflict that escalated beyond what either side wanted. Today, with ever-present social media and opinionated commentators stirring up reactions and attacks toward any differing belief, the similarities felt very relevant. Fortunately, we see in both cases, that principled individuals, dedicated to the good of society, can make a difference.

6. What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers?
Stop aspiring, start doing. We need great storytellers!

7. If you had to summarize the film in one line what would it be?

OUT OF LIBERTY is a western drama about a jailer caught between his civic job to keep Missouri’s most wanted men held for trial, and his personal duty to protect them from those who want them dead.

8. What do you hope people take away from this film?

When audiences go to the theater to see OUT OF LIBERTY, I hope they come away thinking “Wow, that was an awesome film! Let’s see it again.” It’s really a cool story, and to see it in theaters brings it to life in a way that no other format can.

9. What most surprised you in the making of this film?

One of the surprises along they way was how dedicated and committed the cast and crew were to telling this story. One example of this is with the character of Caleb Baldwin played by Adam Johnson. I’ve been friends with Adam Johnson for years, and have loved watching him in everything from CHARLY to The Outpost on The CW. He was gracious enough to come do this movie as a favor for me. I anticipated he would show up, deliver a good performance, keep the set fun, and be on to the next project. But Adam surprised me. He brought a performance that gave a level of humanity and depth that turned Caleb Baldwin into a real person for me. It was humbling, inspiring, and it has stuck with me. Every actor gave their all, and it shows on screen. It was really quite a nice surprise to have that caliber of talent on this film.

10. What scene was the most difficult to film?

Each scene had its own set of challenges, but for this project I’d have to say the first day of shooting was the hardest. The film is dedicated to my mother-in-law, who unexpectedly passed away only two days before filming began. With this personal tragedy very much on my mind, it was difficult to try to focus on the film. I was grateful to be surrounded by a supportive cast and crew, and a wonderful family. One message of the film deals with enduring extremely difficult circumstances, so that inspired me throughout the shoot.

One fun story - I was holding auditions, and was surprised when Jasen Wade showed up to audition. We had never worked together, and it was an honor to have him audition. He read for a role and did a great job. But I felt I should ask him to read the part of the jailer, Samuel Tillery. He looked a little disheartened, but agreed to read for the part. He was perfect for it! About a week later, we offered him the part and he graciously accepted. I asked him to make some time for a call so that we could discuss his approach to the character. As we discussed the character, he paused for a minute, then said “Wait a minute… I’m just playing the jailer, right?” He was shocked to find out that the jailer was the protagonist of the film. He was expecting it to be just a small supporting role.

Movie Synopsis

Winter 1839. LIBERTY, MISSOURI. Local jailer, Samuel Tillery (Jasen Wade) is tasked with watching Missouri's most wanted men as they await their upcoming hearing. Caught between the local Missourians' increased drive to remove the prisoners, and the prisoners' desperate efforts to survive, Tillery is pushed beyond what any lawman can endure. Based on actual recorded accounts, Out of Liberty is an intense, evocative western, with an outcome you have to see to believe.

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We Went to Toy Story 4, But I Was A Little Nervous To Go!

We took the kids to see Toy Story 4. I admit, I was a little nervous because it's the fourth in the series (what more could they do with the toys after the last one?) and I had heard that movie-goers would need tissues. (I have a hard time with sad movies!) But my kids really wanted to go so we took them.

After all my worrying, I was pleasantly surprised! They brought back all the beloved characters, even Don Rickles who played Mr. Potato Head, but had passed away. (They used archived footage and it was seamless.) The storyline was original and fun with so many laugh out loud moments with Woody and the new toy Forky. (I will never look at trash the same again!) Forky had all the best quotes of the movie, too. We also saw some great growth in Bo Peep as a strong woman which totally caught me by surprise, but I loved it!

Of course I also loved the addition of Keanu Reeves who played Duke Caboom, Canada's Greatest Stuntman. I'm glad they had a Canadian actor to play such a fun Canadian character. His backstory was sad, but his growth "arc" was sweet. And the posing! LOL

There were some wonderful themes of sacrifice and love, helping others, finding your true purpose and sometimes saying goodbye, but for me, there weren't any sad parts that would make me cry. It ended beautifully and I'm so glad I went.

Have you seen it? What did you think?

The World Premiere of The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith

On the red carpet with Chris Gorham, Russell Dixon and Ben Baker

I was SO THRILLED to be part of the world premiere for the new movie, The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith. I loved the first Other Side of Heaven and couldn't wait to see more of Jean and John Groberg's story. (You will love it. Go see it!)

When we arrived, we were treated to a wonderful buffet while being entertained by the OneVoice Children's Choir. I was seated next to Melisa Osmond, Derek, the president of the Utah Film Commission, and two investors of the film. We got to chat with Scot and Maurine Proctor, the owners of Meridian Magazine, and we saw Senator Orrin Hatch there as well. (I took a secret picture.)

Here is us with the Proctors.

Here is my secret picture of Senator Hatch.

Here are the Grobergs with the Proctors 

When we got into the theater, we were treated to another performance by the OneVoice choir and some amazing dancers. John Groberg spoke, as well as the director Mitch Davis, and then it was time for the show!

Elder Groberg speaking to the audience before the screening. What an amazing life he's led!

The dancing was so beautiful.

I have to admit, I wasn't sure what to expect with this movie. When the scene opens we see the juxtaposition of Tonga and Idaho Falls, where John and Jean now live with their four daughters. There were some fun, comedic elements seeing John and Jean as parents while John serves as the bishop of his ward. Chris Gorham fits the role of John Groberg so well, and it is his ease and believability that truly make this film. He is called to be the mission president over his former mission, and he takes his small family back to the islands. Of course, in the first film, he only has to worry about himself in learning a new culture and way of life. Now he has a wife and children to help navigate the waters. (Literally!)

I enjoyed how the director really explored ideals that seem to have taken a backseat in some aspects of our society today---inclusivity, community, and love for people who don't believe what you do or look like you do. There were poignant and moving moments (I did get weepy during one part) balanced with a story that will make you think about it long after you've left the theater. I definitely will be first in line to buy this one when it comes out.

Movie Review: The Trial of Porter Rockwell (and a Giveaway!)

I have long been fascinated with the life of Porter Rockwell. There was a restaurant nearby my house that was dedicated to Porter's legacy that I loved to frequent and soak up the ambiance and, of course, I 'd heard all the stories of this enigmatic man. He led such an interesting life! So when I saw that The Trial of Porter Rockwell was coming out, I was excited to see it.

We are introduced to Porter as he is being taken to jail after being caught and charged with the attempted murder of Lilburn Boggs, former governor of Missouri. What follows is Porter's trial and the witnesses who came forward to claim that they knew Porter did it. What the viewer sees, however, is an innocent man fighting for his life and the underlying possibilities of what really happened that night. The movie held just the right amount of tension to keep me glued to the screen and I appreciated the way a court case in the 1800s was portrayed. The actor playing Alexander Doniphan was particularly talented. I do wish the movie would have been longer, but it will definitely whet your appetite to know more about this man and his extraordinary life.

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Here's the back copy:

It was a rainy May evening in 1842 when the quiet of the Boggs family home was shattered by gunfire. Though gravely wounded, Governor Lilburn Boggs—best known for his extermination order against members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—survived the attempt on his life. What followed was a crime investigation that had at its center echoes of the bitter history between the Latter-day Saints and the ruthless politician. The inquest was concentrated on two of the very men in the crosshairs of Boggs’s own deadly objective: Joseph Smith and his loyal friend Porter Rockwell.In The Trial of Porter Rockwell, readers will experience the dramatic hunt for Governor Boggs’s assailant and the uncertain justice faced by the legendary man whose very life depended on proving his innocence.

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Movie Trailer:

Getting Ready for Avengers Endgame

I just bought my tickets so I can go see Avengers Endgame. I am so excited! In order to prepare, I went to see Captain Marvel (I was literally the only person in the theater until the previews when around six or seven others came in. It was weird to be in a nearly empty theater!)

Captain Marvel was the only one I hadn't seen, so I didn't want to see Endgame before I saw that one, in case I needed to know details from that one. I enjoyed it. It was just a slow, feel-good sort of origin story for Nick Fury, really. Carol Danvers was fine as a character, but nothing really jumped out at me, you know? It was just a nice way to pass an afternoon.

I got home and after dinner, my family sat down and we watched Infinity War again. Just remembering exactly what happened and where we left off will be really important before Endgame tomorrow, I think. And with all the spoilers floating around out there now, I'm really glad I'm going to see it sooner, rather than later. I don't want to be spoiled!

I am so excited, I can't handle it. I have so many expectations for the movie, I hope the writers can do it justice. The early reviews I've seen of it have sounded good, so I'm ready for our heroes to get a win here!

Are you planning on seeing Endgame? Are you spoiler-free?

The Fighting Preacher Spotlight and $50 Giveaway!

There's a new film coming out called, The Fighting Preacher, that looks really good! It's based on the real-life story of Willard and Rebecca Bean. In 1905, Willard became the world middleweight boxing champion, but when Joseph F. Smith asked him to step away from the limelight and serve a 5-year mission to upstate New York, the Beans immediately packed their bags and traveled to the east coast. Once there, they find the hatred that existed 90 years prior is still alive and very present.

Utah’s own award-winning producer/director, and master story-teller, T.C. Christensen, once again weaves a tale of action, romance, comedy, and drama in this heartwarming story of a couple that overcomes all odds. It is truly a David versus Goliath story, as two people take on an entire town filled with hatred. After 24 years in the community, they eventually become loved and respected by one and all.

In the tradition of Christensen and Remember Films, who brought you 17 Miracles, Ephraim’s Rescue, Love Kennedy, and Cokeville Miracle; this new film brings elements that make the audience laugh, cry, and most importantly, cheer the underdog. It is scheduled for a theatrical release in mid-spring, 2019.

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Here's the movie trailer

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Movie Review of Jane and Emma With a $50 Giveaway!

I was excited to see this movie since it has received so many great reviews. Jane and Emma is based on the relationship between Sister Jane Manning, one of the first black Mormons, and Emma Smith, wife to the prophet Joseph. It's a fictionalized depiction of the night after Joseph Smith is murdered and Jane and Emma are watching over the body, sharing their grief. The actress who plays Jane, Danielle Deadwyler, gives a powerful and believable performance as Jane. I could feel her emotions as she faced so much trial and hardship in her search for truth and peace. I wanted to know more about her life and wished the film had delved deeper into the events that shaped her incredible faith. The music of the film was also extremely well-done. I thought the film provided a lot of opportunity for discussions on social issues that we still face today and has an inspiring message. Definitely a film for every library.

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You can get your copy here

Here's the movie synopsis:

JANE & EMMA is based on the life of Sister Jane Manning, one of the first black Mormons. She returns to Nauvoo to find that Joseph Smith, her prophet and friend, has been assassinated. Jane spends a ceaseless night with his widow, Emma Smith, sitting watch over the body of the prophet as a whirlwind of loss and confusion leaves them wondering how either one of them will be able to move forward. Through the long night, Jane wonders if the prophet’s promise to extend the blessings of eternity to her has died along with him. The film explores the possible events of that night, including Jane’s endeavor to remain amongst the Mormon people and Emma’s struggle to cope with her heartbreaking loss. Poignant issues of racism and polygamy threaten to break their bond of friendship. In the end, will Jane and Emma have the courage to follow the path each believes they must take?

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