This is a special time for me and the movies because I love film and am a Christian. There just aren’t many good faith-based movies made. I love this saying by C. S. Lewis, “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.”

Whatever your beliefs are, I think you will love these faith-based films. Media matters because people matter. Media shapes people…and people shape media. “All these things Jesus said to the crowds in parables (stories) indeed, he said nothing to them without a parable.” – Matthew 13:34.

Look what actress Natalie Portman (who is of Jewish faith) just said to The Hollywood Reporter, when asked why she does not put her Oscar statuette on display, she responded with a reference to the book of Genesis in the Hebrew Scriptures: “I was reading the story of Abraham to my child and talking about, like, not worshipping false idols. And (Oscar trophies) are literally gold men. This is literally worshipping gold idols – if you worship it. That’s why it’s not displayed on the wall. It’s a false idol.” Her Jewish faith is very important.

May we all be as sensitive to the idols in our hearts that draw us away from the living God of the Bible. Here are three fantastic faith-based films as we celebrate Easter. Out of 5 possible ⭐️’s:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Risen” – Great film, don’t miss it. This drama tells the story of Jesus’ death from the perspective of a Roman tribune (the fabulous Joseph Fiennes). He is tasked by Pilate with overseeing the crucifixtion of Christ and later with ensuring the body of the Christ isn’t stolen. “Risen” is much more nuanced than the lion’s share of recent faith-based dramas. It’s epic and inspirational! It’s a unique take of the greatest story ever told. Directed by Kevin Reynolds (PG-13)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Miracles from Heaven” – Great film – run don’t walk to see it. It’s a true story. I can’t recommend it enough! Anna Beam (Kylie Rogers) lives with a rare incurable disorder that leaves her unable to digest food. Despite the dire diagnosis, devoted mom Christy (wonderfully played by beautiful Jennifer Garner) relentlessly searches for a way to save her beloved daughter. Everything changes in an instant when Anna tells an amazing story of visit to Heaven after surviving a headlong tumble into a tree. Her family becomes even more baffled when the young girl begins to show signs of recovery from her fatal condition. Directed by Patricia Riggen (PG)

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The Young Messiah” – Worth recommending. Mary (Sara Lazzaro), Joseph (Vincent Walsh), and 7 year-old Jesus (Adam Greaves-Neal) embark on a journey from Egypt to Nazareth after the young boy miraculously brings someone back to life. When King Herod (Jonathan Bailey) orders the death of the child, Roman centurion Severus (Sean Bean) starts to pursue the family across the desert. As Mary and Joseph worry about his safety, Jesus’ natural curiosity allows him to understand more about the world and his remarkable power. Directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh (PG-13)

There are so many more movies I want to tell you all about. Instead of a synopsis and review, I’m just going to give it my star rating and maybe a few thoughts or words:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Hello, My Name is Doris” – This film is quirky and just plain fun!  When it’s Oscar time, look for a nomination for Sally Field – Oscar worthy performance. I loved this film and you will not be disappointed.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Eye in the Sky” – Great film, don’t miss it. Very, very thought provoking. Fabulous cast, especially the always wonderful Helen Mirren. And another great performance by the late Alan Rickman.

⭐️⭐️ “The Brothers Grimsby” – Wait for the DVD. Pretty funny but lots of gross-out humor by the star (Sacha Baron Cohen).

⭐️⭐️ “Eddie The Eagle” – Interesting true story of a real-life British ski jumper’s unlikely triumph. Wait for the DVD.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “London Has Fallen” – Worth recommending if you are a fan of action-packed movies and Gerard Butler and Aaron Eckhart.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “10 Cloverfield Lane” – Great film, don’t miss it. It’s a Hitchcockian thriller with the always good John Goodman and the talented young actress Mary Elizbeth Winstead. Also, there’s a fun twist at the end. I loved it!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Whiskey Tango Foxtrot” – Don’t miss this satirical war movie. It’s not a comedy but there are some funny moments. Starring the very talented Tina Fey. I liked seeing her in a more dramatic role.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Touched With Fire” – Worth recommending if only for Katie Holmes’ great performance as a poet with bipolar disorder. I think Holmes is an underrated actor and I loved seeing her in a strong performance.