MOVIES: "HERE COMES THE BOOM"

“Here Comes the Boom” (not to be confused with "Here Comes Honey Boo Boo") is a very worthwhile film. It’s the definitive “teachers rock,” “save the schoolkids” film as far as I’m concerned. You can just dump the rest of the sappy ones. And they’re ALL sappy. Interestingly enough, another teacher/school film was just in theaters (“Won’t Back Down”) that beats the audience over the head with self-righteous, overbearing clichés (the trailer is just one cliché stitched to the next) about putting the kids first, we can do this if we have the will to; the Mom who’ll do anything for her child, fighting against all odds, yadda, yadda, yadda, and general underdogmania. “Here Comes the Boom” is not like that. All the right things are eventually and succinctly said (no speeches!) about what’s wrong with schools today and how to fix it, much of it boiling down to individual attitudes: that of a student, a parent, a teacher. It takes everybody. Everybody belongs. Everybody can contribute. Even Martinez (see the film).

Scott Voss (Kevin James: a big guy with Chris Farley-like physical nimbleness) is the world’s worst slacker-teacher. We find out why: the system beats the idealism out of teachers, forcing them to be automatons “moving cattle through.” But when the music teacher, Mr. Streb, (a warm and wonderful Henry Winkler) is on the verge of losing his job (and the students their orchestra), Scott instinctively finds his inner hero and takes up mixed martial arts (where even losers make a lot of money per fight) to raise funds for the school. Scott’s supplementary job is preparing immigrants for citizenship (funny, of course), and through the class he meets a fighter, Niko (Bas Rutten), who can coach him.

Scott’s love interest,  the school nurse (a feisty Salma Hayek), turns down a date with him many, many times, but she’s waiting to see if Scott has any true passion and resolve for teaching (and life) left in him.

The always-slightly-offbeat situations are just delightful. The dialogue is constant, surprising, witty, and yet somehow perfectly normal—almost like a scripted Woody Allen film. The “buttons” (the end of a  scene) end on a high and hilarious note each time. There are NO false notes in this film. This is a tight little comedy with totally at-ease dramatic moments that tie each movement of character and story together like smooth jelly-roll filling. There’s almost a feeling of the most brilliant TV about it. Like one of the very best episodes of “Seinfeld.” Originality abounds, and yet it’s also incredibly familiar and homey.

Everything about the making of “Boom” shows great TLC and a deep knowledge of the moviemaking trade. THIS is how movies are made. Can a comedy be a “perfect film”? Oh yeah. There are details and “touches” everywhere—you really need to keep alert or you’ll miss them. And you don’t want to miss them.

There are natural religious touches also: prayer before a fight, quoting the Bible about Jacob wrestling with the angel, “Holy, Holy, Holy.” Kevin James—in real life—is a practicing Catholic AND prays outside of abortion clinics! A few pro-life touches in the film: a very unexpected but immediately welcomed pregnancy of a 48-year-old woman, his brother’s big family.

The whole thing feels like it’s coming from a very good place, and the seasoned cast make acting look so easy. It’s obvious they were having a darned good time.

OTHER STUFF:

--Did you like the trailer for “Boom”? You would be correct in your affection. And there’s lots more where that came from. You did NOT see it all in the trailer.

--Who would enjoy this film? I can’t imagine anyone NOT enjoying this film. This well-lit film.

--There’s plenty of testosterone in the film, but it doesn’t feel at all like a guys-only film.

--If you’re British, however, do NOT go see this film. BRIMMING with detested American optimism.

--Totally suitable for the kids. Any age, really.

--This film does not hide. It is not snarky. It does not take shortcuts. It is not afraid to be what it is. It takes its time like the comedic masterpiece “Elf.”

--“Mr. Holland’s Opus” is one of the worst films I have EVER seen. And I can break that down for you.

--The homemade applesauce!

--Such a great trio: Scott, Mr. Streb and Niko!

--This is not a lightweight film.

--Great message about not rushing romance.

--Scott has the charmingest pick-up lines.   

                 

--GREAT end of Act 2 reversal! (In Hollywoodspeak: “the big gloom.”)

--Scott’s married brother has a bunch of kids. The family interaction is realistically chaotic, and hubby and wife trade barbs just to let off steam. You can tell they really love each other despite.

--Best use of Neil Diamond in a film since “What About Bob.”

--Can you say: NON-SLOPPY FILMMAKING?

--Finally! A Filipina-American actress!

--Kevin James was a WRITER on the film with two guys. Wow. Some superb writing.

--The Fonz is aging so gracefully. But it’s still terrifying to watch The Fonz aging so gracefully.

--A plea to Hollywood’s male actors: PLEASE dye your hair at the first sign of gray. You don’t look mature and suave, you look old and faded. Do like the female actors. You’ll look 10 years younger and I won’t feel so insecurely old myself. Thank you.

--One most unfortunate line mars the film—TOTALLY NOT IN KEEPING WITH THE REST OF THE FILM (TSK, TSK). Scott’s married brother asks Scott if he needs to be “fixed up with some honeys, because I have some money set aside that she [his wife] doesn’t know about.” Really??? Pathetic. There should be nothing “on the side” in any marriage. If there is, you’re a tool. It’s just that simple.

BLESSED FR. JAMES ALBERIONE--MEDIA APOSTLE FILM!

ANONYMOUS DONOR PLEDGES $10,000
 MATCHING GRANT

IF WE CAN RAISE $10,000 BY DECEMBER 31, 2012!

OK--it's time for a www.MediaApostle.com film update!

YES, that's the amazing www.SpiritJuiceStudios.com shooting our documentary film! So you KNOW how great it's going to be. (kneeling--Danny Hidalgo, cinematographer; standing: Rob Kaczmark--director/production manager; smiling--Yours Truly, writer/producer) Photo taken in Rome on the terrace of the Society of St. Paul ("Fr. Alberione's men": priests/brothers) Generalate. (Photo by Sr. Anne Flanagan, long-suffering translator and Alberione charism consultant for the film.)

Check out some of Spirit Juice's best short films: www.BestofSpiritJuiceStudios.blogspot.com

"JAMES ALBERIONE--MEDIA APOSTLE" is a 90-minute documentary on the life, media spirituality and media apostolate of Blessed Fr. James Alberione, SSP, founder of the Pauline Family. (The Pauline Family--called to be "St. Paul living today"--is the 10 congregations founded by Fr. Alberione. www.DaughtersofStPaul.org are just one of those 10 congregations!) www.Alberione.org

"We are not called to save people who lived 200 years ago 

and had no radio, cinema or TV."

--Blessed James Alberione 1884-1971

Thanks to ALL who have already donated to the film! God bless you! Here's the latest donations update! 

(Donations can be made securely online at the website: www.MediaApostle.com ) 

PRAYERS may also be donated. :]

MATCHING GRANT! You did it!!! Thank you!!!
Needed $10,000 by December 31, 2012.
Have $10,829 as of December 22, 2012.
Any further donations will go to DVD production,
promotion & entertainment lawyer,
which were not even in the budget! God bless you!!!
Rough cut of film due: February, 2013.

 There's also a "making of" blog: www.AlberioneFilm.blogspot.com with all the latest news 

and 

a Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Father-James-Alberione-Media-Apostle-FILM/116085165142919

FUN FACT: In order to film in Rome and northern Italy, our four-member film crew piggybacked on an already-planned Pauline pilgrimage. Of course, we drove the Pauline pilgrims CRAZY because while they wanted to spend just 20 minutes at a location and move on, it took us 20 minutes just to put the cameras together and get off the bus. Needless to say there was MUCH patient waiting.... Rosella, our Italian tour guide, dubbed us: "the four horsemen of the Apocalypse."

The four horsemen of the Apocalypse
(aka Rob Kaczmark, Sr. Anne Flanagan, Sr. Helena Burns, Danny Hidalgo)

HHS MANDATE. IN 16 SECONDS.

THEOLOGY OF THE BODY & RELIGIOUS LIFE!

MOVIES: "THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER"

August 2013: I finally read the controversial book. The book is considered a kind of new "Catcher in the Rye" and is on book reading lists at many schools. This is hotly contested by parents and other and winds up on-and-off the reading lists at many schools. Here's my take on the book: Stephen Chbosky is a genius. The entire book (although you'll forget this fact) is a series of letters written to a "friend" by the lonely protagonist. Deceptively simply, the letters reveal a sweet, sensitive, innocent soul who is also blocked from much of his own inner life and feelings, prone to blackouts and fits of rage. Charlie cares deeply for others and their feelings. Most unfortunately, sex is pretty trivialized. He talks about masturbation like he's eating french fries, and his sister jokes about her abortion with him immediately afterward (Charlie accompanied her to the clinic). NEITHER MASTURBATION OR ABORTION ARE IN THE FILM AT ALL. But of course, if you see the film first, you want to read the book, right?

“Love is fair, love is beautiful. Young people are always searching for the beauty in love.” –John Paul II

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is a coming-of-age story set in the early 90’s, written and directed by Stephen Chbosky, and based on his book of the same name. The film holds together well as one might expect when it’s all coming from the same source! The first thing you might notice about the film is the music. The centrality of music will continue through the whole film, and “mix tapes” are very important to the characters.

Charlie, (Logan Lerman: a REVELATION), is a freshman in high school with no friends. He’s an aspiring writer who’s had some psychological troubles in his life, and he narrates throughout the film. He’s humble and hopeful and trying to keep his spirits up. Sam (“Harry Potter’s” Emma Watson) and her stepbrother Patrick (Ezra Miller) are seniors and self-made hipsters who adopt Charlie into their circle. Charlie’s utter innocence, sincerity and sweetness make him charming and likeable. But his flashbacks return, and although he’s falling in love with Sam, she already has a boyfriend, and along with the other usual travails of teenagehood, the center just isn’t holding for Charlie. Something is terribly wrong.

These three apt twentysomething actors look young enough that they can pass for high schoolers. And they do a splendid job with a not-your-run-of-the-mill teen film. There are few trite and hackneyed moments, and even those turn into something unexpected. But the movie is not precious and it doesn’t try too hard. It is mostly free from self-consciousness, sarcasm and wise-cracking. I would think this would be a relief for many teens in our hyper-aware post-postmodern culture. It’s OK to just live in the moment and let life unfold simply. (Charlie’s approach.)

These three friends (with a few sidekicks) are caring and kind, and life hasn’t been easy for any of them, no matter how confident and self-possessed they first appear to be. Sam has been used. A lot. Patrick is gay, and as accepting of him as almost everyone around him is, the people he most wants to accept him—do not.

Patrick is a strong, sympathetic, take-charge young gay man (the actor is gay in real life, too). Bullying gay people is taken up in the film and can be a teachable moment.

This film seems to be about finding, creating and maintaining true friendship and true love. In that order. And what is even more vital and primary is to get a grasp on one’s own life and personhood. Self-realization doesn’t just meld into becoming a perfect pair with someone. There is also a necessitude to live one’s own integration in “original solitude.” And then join that solitude with other solitudes. Sex is not the be-all and end-all of “Wallflower," even though we are made to know that teens are having sex. (Of course, the case can be made--in a Theology of the Body way--that sex SHOULD be the be-all and end-all of everything.)  Compared to most teen films, “Wallflower” is not oversexualized, even at moments when it feels like it’s going to be. The one oversexualization (which is pretty over the top) is the characters’ obsession with the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” which they take turns acting in: half naked with lascivious dances and songs. And major half-naked crossdressing.

It becomes clear that as these blossoming young people--who are so earnest about doing right by each other in so many other ways--haven’t a clue about the body and sex, no matter how “experienced” they are or aren’t. As in real life, today’s fragmentation/separation of the person from the body/sex is so profound that the conclusion seems to be: sex is a big problem. Soooo: sex is just something you need to do, get over, get out of the way, get up front and then push it to the back and keep it simmering there in order to get on with the truly personal, the things in a relationship that really matter.

While seeming to value the body/sex to an extreme, today’s culture actually trivializes it to an extreme. And this is a logical way to deal with something so powerful, so un-ignorable, un-dismissible, and yet so mysterious and elusive; something that one has not been taught, informed, or catechized about at all or hardly at all. In the end, the richness of sex is denied and left unexplored because it is tied to what is perceived as outdated mores and moralities (self-mastery, commitment, fidelity, fecundity). And yet, what Satan tries to dress up as your whiskered, hopelessly-out-of-date Aunt Mabel is really where the unending joy, the ecstasy, the adventure, the full dimensions, the depth, the intimacy, the rock-solid security and the INFINITY actually are. I just heard Greg Willits (“The Catholics Next Door”) at a Respect Life Conference say: “If you treat God’s gifts right, they keep on giving.” But our world is not to blame for its ignorance. Those who know Theology of the Body are to blame for not sharing (fast enough) the only (devastatingly beautiful) answer/vision that our world can grasp today. Shame on us! Young people desperately need Theology of the Body and are up for the challenge. Young people DESERVE the very best, and Theology of the Body is the very best.

Chbosky was very taken with "Catcher in the Rye," and I think wanted to do an update. I think he's kinda successful. I just keep returning to the point in this movie that sex is treated a little differently than in most teen films. In most teen films, it's pretty much the ultimate, but a naughty, dirty ultimate. Not so much in "Wallflower," which is digging so deep that it comes to the conclusion: "We are INFINITE!" Jesus might say: "You are not far from the Kingdom of God." Don't young people need to hear this? As Papa B16 sez: "We are not some random mistake of evolution." I would rather say: "We have the CAPACITY for the Infinite." And yeah, that's God. And God is Eucharist. For us. For now.

"Come together in common, one and all without exception in charity, in one faith and in one Jesus Christ, who is of the race of David according to the flesh, the son of man, and the Son of God, so that with undivided mind you may obey the bishop and the priests, and break one Bread which is THE MEDICINE OF IMMORTALITY AND THE ANTIDOTE AGAINST DEATH, ENABLING US TO LIVE FOREVER IN JESUS CHRIST."   --St. Ignatius of Antioch 110 A.D.

Charlie comes from a functional, supportive, normal Catholic family. There are Catholic-friendly touches in the film. (Chbosky grew up Catholic in Pittsburgh.)

If for no other reason, this film should be watched to see how our young people are hurting. Young people carry heavy burdens at young ages. That’s not reserved just for adults.

OTHER STUFF:

--In this film, nothing bad comes of drug use, but sex abuse is a different story….

--Sometimes Sam and Patrick are unoriginally precocious.

--The teens in my theater seemed to love this film.

--This film is not afraid of vulnerability and human fragility. AND human simplicity. It’s OK to be unsophisticated!!!!!!!!

--“Wallflower” is about belonging. Really belonging because you are known.

--Finally. “Wallflower” made me non-abhor 80’s music for the first time in my life. AND it made me SIT IN THE THEATER TILL AFTER THE CREDITS. I haven’t done that for a long, long, long, long time. I’m usually like a bat out of hell at “THE END.” I just sat there. And that’s a good thing.

--“Wallflower” is a small, oddly feel-good film.

--In religion, we lose kids as teens because of THE BODY (see the scene that goes from Holy Communion to drugs). When they’re little we totally involved the body: Montessori and running around and popsicle sticks and glitter. And then we stop.

--“Wallflower” will remind you of “Catcher in the Rye,” “Flowers for Algernon,” and “Ordinary People”!

--“Why do nice people choose the wrong people to date?” “We accept the love we think we deserve.”

--“Write about us.”

--“I don’t want to be someone’s crush.  I want people to like the real me.”

--“We are NOT sad stories. We are INFINITE!”

--I hope this film will give quiet strength, quiet hope and quiet courage to the young people that see it.

--“Wallflower” bears out what one diocesan young adult ministry coordinator told me: “Young people have been told they are special since they were born. They have been told they’re loved, but love has proven to be very cheap. Young people today want to be known and they want meaning.” And, I might add, a recent study of Millennials found that wanting “a challenge” was high on their list of priorities.

--After seeing this film, I highly recommend reading about filmmakers and actors in www.imdb.com. Very enlightening.

--Did I mention that Logan Lerman is a REVELATION? (He told his parents at two years old that he wanted to be an actor.) Like I said, go to www.imdb.com !

OUR FR. ALBERIONE FILM COMPANY!

TEENS & PARENTS GIVE ADVICE TO EACH OTHER ABOUT THEIR MEDIA USE

TEENS' ADVICE TO PARENTS:

 --Parents should get off media more when we're doing something as a family like shopping or amusement parks

--Parents should put more safety features/parental controls on computers (3)

--Turn on Google safe search (6) ("for kids AND adults")

--PLEASE don't look at porn. (4) ("and if you do, don't tell me about it")  :(

--Stop watching "Real Housewives...."

--Stop watching "Dr. Phil" and telenovelas

--Don't get addicted

--No cell phone use when you're driving

--Parents: just because you don't SEE kids doing it doesn't mean they're not

--Parents SHOULD know what their kids are doing on the internet. But don't spy  (2)

--Some friends online are better friends than people I know in real life. Even if they do not know my real name or see my picture. It might sound naive, but good people do exist online.

--Check the "history" often

--Just because they were your friends in high school doesn't mean you have to reconnect with them. they may not be wholesome for you now

--don't click on random links

--Limit media time (5) ("use a stopwatch")

--I wish my mom would spend less time on the phone because she works a lot, so when she's on the phone at home, it feels like she's not there

--Spend less time on the phone (texting, tweeting, facebook) and more time with ME!

--Invite your child to do something that doesn't involve screen time (e.g., go for a bike ride, walk, or play a family board game. pray together.) Don't spend hours on the computer because your loved ones/children only go online because they're bored or lonely. They need you to fill their hearts with your presence.

--It would be nice to watch movies together as a family so that media could be family time instead of splitting us apart. Also, it can be aggrevating when you guys (parents) watch movies and tell me to leave (because it's  inappropriate). I think we should pick movies that interest everyone in the family.

--Be careful what you share with YOUR friends about OUR lives

--I wish my Mom would turn off the Wi-Fi at 9pm so I could get my homework done because I'm addicted to Tumblr and my One Direction blog. Peace & Love.

--I wish everyone would stop technology use at 10pm

--Not everything we look at it porn. don't be so suspicious/afraid when I'm alone in my room on my laptop and such (2)

--Use your technology MORE often, get more in touch with it (4) (don't be afraid of it. learn how to use it.)

--Stop asking me questions all the time. There's this thing called Google. Just because you're old doesn't mean you can't learn things on your own.

--Don't be so clueless

--Instead of always being on the computer, do something else. like workout.

--Just give me advice, don't ORDER it

--Talk to your kids, then trust them (2)

--Spend more time with your family than watching tv or using computer (4)

--Don't use your phone/devices/computer ALL the time (7)

--I'm proud of my parents for not being on their electronics all the time.

--Sometimes turn off the computer and spend time with your kids, do family stuff (5)

--Don't let kids have computers in their rooms, particularly when they're developing, like 8-14. teach them limits and what's wrong BEFORE they have the capability of getting into it

--Please don't use the SAME sites as me: Facebook and Twitter (4)

--When parents post on their childrens' social media sites, they not only embarrass them, but also their friends

--Parents, when advising teens about media use, try to talk about positive uses for media as well as negative. Many teens do not like the idea of parents or anyone else controlling their lives.

PARENTS' ADVICE TO TEENS:

--Don't ignore life for media. enjoy real life and unplug. go outside: the graphics are great!

--Make sure parental controls on computers/devices

--Too much media time is erasing who you are

--Remember, your surfing time can be seen, too (2)

--Employers will check on what you're doing on computer (also before they hire you) (2)

--Don't post anything you wouldn't want your grandparents to see

--The choices you make will live in your heart forever, as well as the shame and regrets. People will remember you according to your choices. Be the person you want others and God to know you as.

--"I can't be with you all the time. PLEASE remember what we talked about!"  Love, Mom

--Our TV at home can get porn (satellite). I pray no one in our family will never use it.

--Use common sense

--WHENEVER you're with your family, don't prioritize your phone over us!

--Be careful not only about sharing YOUR personal info, but family members', too!

--Talk to your parents! (3) ("you can always ask me any question")

--No phones/devices at the table (4)

--Less YouTube

--Don't give out too much info and choose your online friends wisely (2)

--Pay attention to what's going on around you. Don't be rude to people around you by using your devices and ignoring what people are saying. We need human contact and verbal conversations.

--What you text never goes away and can always be forwarded forever (4)

--Don't use screens after 9pm, for example: make that family time--reading, praying, GAMES, talking to fam  (6)

--What you see on media is not necessarily reality, your worth doesn't come from societal approval but from God. Everyone is NOT doing it. Saints are different.

--Parents should disable ability to send/receive pics on kids' cell phones. Contact your cell phone carrier for how.

MOVIE REVIEW: "HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA"

I know. You’re singing “Welcome to the Hotel Transylvania” in your best Eagles’ voice. Unfortunately, the filmmakers did not riff off this 4-syllable-similarity in the movie. However, everything else about this movie is fun, fun, fun. If you’ve seen the trailer, you made a mental note to see HT, didn’t you? Well, you won’t be disappointed. A grand ghoulish and ghostly time for the whole family. (It’s not the least bit scary, only hilarious. Think TV’s “Munsters” or “Addams Family.”)

So much time, energy and creativity is poured into animated films these days that they really do outshine so many other genres, especially if they keep in mind the adults watching and address both adults and kids at the same time.

If you liked “Despicable Me,” you’ll love HT. It features a strong non-buffoon/non-wimp-father-figure (Dracula) and his teenage vampire daughter, Mavis. Dracula has built the “Hotel Transylvania” as a “refuge” and “sanctuary” for all his fellow monsters (EVERY single kind of monster is included in the film). What are they escaping from? Torch-bearing, garlic-wearing, wooden-stake-wielding HUMANS! But a happy-go-lucky backpacking teenage human, Jonathan (Mavis’ age, of course), finds his way into the castle-hotel. Dracula wants to kick him out, but sees that Mavis is a bit sweet on him. Rather than ruin her 118^th (sic) birthday party, he disguises Jonathan as a party-planning teen Frankenstein, and plans to expel him after the party. Things go awry and Daddy Drac has to confront his control-freak ways, fears, and reconsider what is truly best for Mavis.

HT carefully avoids too many monster puns, while milking the tropes for all they’re worth. Lots of truly guffaw-worthy stuff and plenty of icky gross-out humor for the kids.

What’s different/good about this story? Dad really loves his daughter and wants to protect her. (Mom is deceased.) Jonathan also really loves Mavis and wants to do what’s good for her also. However, both Dad and Jonathan choose the road of deception as the way to go. But Mavis is not stupid, and can’t be cooped up forever. I love that Mavis is not a brat, but she pushes back. I love that Mavis is 18 (not 14 or 15) and really is ready to take responsibility for her life. Too many films, animated and otherwise, routinely make kids, pre-teens and young teens wise beyond their years, omniscient snarksters that have to endure their bumbling, often morally deficient, immature, and apologetic parents. Drac eventually apologizes (as parents should when they’re in the wrong), but not for his conscientious care and protection of Mavis.

I love that there’s a sense that young love can become true love (for both Drac and his deceased wife, as well as for Mavis and Jonathan), and that the goal of true love is to commit to each other, wed, build young lives together, help each other grow, etc., rather than “have fun” for twenty years and first think of settling down when you’re forty. There is a slight overtone of “the one” (there’s only ONE person out there just for you—which I strongly disagree with), but I think the point is that when you feel a “zing” for someone (and they feel it for you)—NOT to be confused with normal but random, non-personal, sexual attraction—you should pay attention to that. As one of my favorite, “model,” happily-married, “still having fun,” older-couple-friends say: “There’s GOT to be chemistry.”

This is Dracula’s story, and it’s beautiful to see the lengths to which he will go for his daughter’s happiness (without her even knowing). He bolsters himself saying simply: “I’ve GOT to do this.”

OTHER STUFF:

--THEOLOGY OF THE BODY? Uh-huh.

--I didn’t want to tell you right away—in case you didn’t know—that ADAM SANDLER does the voice of Drac. I didn’t know till after seeing the movie, and I’m so glad because I really, really, really can’t tolerate Sandler, but he is FANTASTIC as Drac. Must go back to his opera-singer-with-cape-singing-the-news-on-SNL-days.

--LOVE the future-son-in-law, future-father-in-law conversations and bonding sessions….

--Dracula has very good reasons for distrusting humans.

--“I come to drink your blood! Bleh, bleh bleh!”

--“Holy rabies!”

--“I speak frozen.”

--“Why is he picking his nose?”

--The sarcastic shrunken head!

--Drac’s rap song at the end….

--Jonathan captures well his generation’s wonder, positivity, “it’s all good,” “roll with it,” adventuresome, joie de vivre, thumbs-up spirit.

--HT was directed by a guy named Tartakovsky. Ha ha ha. Bleh, bleh, bleh.

2017 UPDATE:

"Hotel Transylvania 2" is also quite good. 

YEAH, OUR CATHOLIC YOUTH ARE SO DISENGAGED....

BEST THEOLOGY OF THE BODY RESOURCES!

SERIOUS ABOUT A COURSE OF STUDIES?
--Theology of the Body Institute (founded by Christopher West) in Pennsylvania: www.tobinstitute.org (week-long seminars with Christopher West and various instructors, with the possibility of certification when 8 courses completed).
--John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and the Family, Washington, DC. (The first JP2 Institute was founded by JP2 himself, in Rome.) www.johnpaulii.edu
--I am presently based in the Archdiocese of Toronto, Ontario, CANADA, and offer TOB talks, as well as short and long "TOB Training" courses, as well as an online Certificate course through www.sacredheartcollege.ca. For more information: srhelenaburns@gmail.com
--If you're interested in my 40-hour audio course (not for credit, self-conducted), please email me: srhelenaburns@gmail.com
--DIY online study: Fr. Sprott has done his own critique of TOB. This course is good for TOB skeptics, those with a little background in theology, for seminarians/priests/deacons, etc.:

Discount CODE: ThanksJP2 will get you 30% off.

"Discover Theology of the Body"

10-hour video lecture series with Fr. Robert Sprott, OFM, PhD.  

pauline.org/DiscoverTOB

Download the free study guide (with discussion questions and more): pauline.org/TOBguide

THE BASICS
--www.pauline.org  actual Theology of the Body text: “Male & Female He Created Them--a Theology of the Body,”Christopher West did an easy-to-understand paraphrase/commentary called "Theology of the Body Explained," also available from www.pauline.org)  “TOB Made Simple," "Love and Responsibility" and much more!
--www.christopherwest.com  books, free downloads, DVDs, CDs (also, search for Christopher West and Jason Evert YouTubes) Also, Christopher's www.CorProject.com
--www.theologyofthebody.net  all kinds of TOB resources / speakers / Fr. Loya DVDs / Spanish TOB
--www.ascensionpress.com  line of TOB books, CDs, DVDs
--“Biology of the Theology of the Body,” Vicki Thorn, RN (the science to back up TOB)—she also founded “Project Rachel” for post-abortion healing—Her DVDs/CDs: www.theologyofthebody.net
--www.taborlife.org  Fr. Thomas Loya—premiere TOB speaker, available also for retreats, men’s porn recovery, etc. His study group: www.ustream.com/channel/theology-of-the-body Past classes are archived.
--Pope Benedict’s intro to TOB: “On the Collaboration of Men and Women in the Church and in the World” www.vatican.va 


BEST THEOLOGY OF THE BODY INTRODUCTIONS
--Christopher West DVDs (various study series w workbooks) www.ascensionpress.com
--"Love and Responsibility" by Karol Wojtyla (John Paul II) www.pauline.org / Want easy version? "Men, Women and the Mystery of Love" by Edward Sri
--The actual text: "Male and Female He Created Them--A Theology of the Body" John Paul II www.pauline.org (Christopher West did an awesome paraphrase/commentary called "Theology of the Body Explained," also available from www.pauline.org)
--In the actual Theology of the Body text is a long introduction by Dr. Michael Waldstein--excellent (frames TOB in Church history and philosophy)
--"Men and Women Are From Eden" by Dr. Mary Healy (the only TOB Sparknotes--a very short, complete overview with Scripture quotes & study questions)
--"On the Collaboration of Men and Women in the Church and in the World" by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict).  www.vatican.va
--"Theology of the Body Made Simple" by Anthony Percy (covers Genesis), very small book
--"Theology of the Body for Beginners" by Christopher West, medium-sized book
--"Theology of His/Her Body" (2 books in one) by Jason Evert (great for teens, mostly relational stuff)
--"Theology of the Body On Screen: Images of the Body in Art & Media" by Sr. Helena Burns www.tinyurl.com/TOBonScreen
--"What Does It Mean To Be Human? Life's Questions, Theology of the Body's Answers" --An easy-read, conversational 22-chapter intro to TOB with review & reflection questions) by Sr. Helena Burns, fsp (for teens, young adults, adults): www.tinyurl.com/TOBtraining The Table of Contents is all the topics listed here in order: www.tinyurl.com/TOBtrainingHF

SPANISH: --www.TheologyOftheBody.net--Spanish DVDs: 
--Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage in Spanish DVDs: http://ascensionpress.com/products?utf8=%E2%9C%93&keywords=God%27s+Plan+for+a+Joy-Filled+Marriage-Spanish+Edition+DVD+%286-Part+Study%29
--"Good News About Sex & Marriage" by Christopher West  in Spanish from www.ascensionpress.com
--The Theology of the Body text is available in Spanish from Pauline Books & Media, Miami: (305) 559-6715
--(from Mexico): www.SexoSeguro.org Twitter: @sexoseguro
--NYC! @corazonpuroNYC
--Pro-life "180 Movie" in Spanish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=248QUOMeUw0
--www.TheologyofTheBody.net has many Spanish resources

TOB MARRIAGE PREP COURSE: www.TransformedInLove.com (print)
www.CatholicMarriagePrep.com (online)


GORGEOUS "HUMANUM" VIDEOS!
www.tinyurl.com/HUMANUMvideos

HUMANUM TRAILER:

FOR TEENS: 
--Your pre-teens/teens don't read? Have 'em watch: "The Pure Life" DVDs by Jason and Crystalina Evert. Lame cover art on the DVD, but FANTASTIC 20 min sessions with a teen panel on all kinds of issues: dating, porn, sexuality, etc.!
--“God’s Plan for Your Life—Theology of  the Body for Teens”  (textbook) www.pauline.org
--“YOU! Life, Love & TOB” (DVDs, workbks, parents & leader’s guide) www.ascensionpress.com
--“Theology of His/Her Body” by Jason Evert (2 books in one, great intro to TOB, very easy read!) www.ascensionpress.com
--“The Thrill of the Chaste”  by Dawn Eden (NYC rock journalist living “Sex and the City” lifestyle, Catholic convert)
--“Wait for Me” by Rebecca St. James (practical ideas)
--www.TOBET.org—teens evangelizing teens with TOB (peer ministry) Monica Ashour’s group out of Texas, can be replicated
--www.RuahWoods.com  (Cincinnati, OH) TOB training seminars, camps (also for adults) 
--www.TheologyOfTheBody.net's collection of talks by Fr. Thomas Loya, Vicki Thorn, etc., available at www.catholicast.com

RESOURCES BY / FOR WOMEN:  
--www.WomenMadeNew.com Healing for Women (www.DemandYourDignity.com)
--“Women, Sex and the Church—a Case for Church Teaching” (compilation of women scholars) www.pauline.org
--“Woman, God’s Masterpiece,” must-hear 2-CD set by Christopher West
--“On the Dignity and Vocation of Woman,” “Letter to Women,” “Women—Teachers of Peace,” all by Pope John Paul II
--Sr. Prudence Allen, RSM: "The Concept of Woman" (she's big into the complementarity of the sexes)
--Janet Smith: "Why Humanae Vitae Was Right--A Reader," "Humanae Vitae: A Generation Later," "Life Issues, Medical Choices," "The Right To Privacy"
--Kimberly Hahn: "Life-Giving Love--Embracing God's Beautiful Design for Marriage"
--Alice von Hildebrand: "The Privilege of Being a Woman"
--Sr. M. Timothy Prokes, FSE: "Towards a Theology of the Body and Mutuality: The Human Image of Trinitarian Love"
           http://www.christendom.edu/grad/acad/grad%20prof%20pages/prokes.shtml
--Sr. Therese Auer, OP (Nashville Dominicans) has written something on TOB for use in schools (her specialty is
          philosophy) stauer@op-tn.org 615-256-5486
--Sr. Sara Butler: "The Catholic Priesthood and Women" (world-class theologian, Sister was a proponent of women's
          ordination for many years, until coming into contact with John Paul II and Theology of the Body)
--Katrina Zeno: “Discovering the Feminine Genius” (formerly "Every Woman's Journey") www.pauline.org and "The Body Reveals God—an Introduction to the Theology of the Body"
--Mary Healy: "Men and Women are from Eden"—great little intro and study guide
--Mary Shivanandan: "Crossing the Threshold of Love"
--Patty Schneier: CDs from http://www.onemoresoul.com/ (talks to parents, teens, and a powerful personal testimony)
--Steve Harvey: “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man” (with reservations! Harvey is OK with sex before marriage and all kinds of "baby Daddy" arrangements, but he clues women into how men think/act)
--John & Stasi Eldredge: “Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman’s Soul”
--“My Peace I Give You: Healing for Sexual Wounds with the Help of the Saints” by Dawn Eden 

RESOURCES FOR MEN: --Books by John Eldredge (e.g.,“Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man’s Soul,” “Fathered by God—Learning What Your Dad Could Never Teach You”),
--anything by Dr. Phil Mango: www.theologyofthebody.net
--excellent new documentary (Netflix & Google Play): "The Mask You Live In"--how ideas today about what it means to "be a man" are false and harming boys/men
--"The Red Pill": a radical feminist changes her mind
--"No Men Beyond This Point" -- hilarious mockumentary
--www.TheFatherEffect.com -- how fathers are desperately needed and the effects their presence/absence has on children

--“Fireproof,” “Courageous,” "War Room"—what does it mean to be a man (and a husband and a father)?
--Fr. Thomas Loya's e-book: "Priesthood, Manhood & Theology of the Body" (a must-read for EVERYONE) www.tinyurl.com/FatherLoyaPriesthoodBook (If we don't understand the priesthood, we don't understand Jesus Christ or Christianity)

MASCULINITY & FEMININITY:

--talk by Dr. Peter Rudegeair  http://couragerc.org/wp-content/uploads/2007_Courage_Order.pdf

EVOLUTION DVDS: 
--Creation or Evolution? DVD from VISION VIDEO
--Theology of Body & Evolution-Dr.Sternberg DVD www.theologyofthebody.net
--Ben Stein's "Expelled" documentary is also good (on Netflix, etc.)

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING: 
--“Humanae Vitae”  www.vatican.va
--Janet Smith: "Why Humanae Vitae Was Right--A Reader”
--Kimberly Hahn: "Life-Giving Love--Embracing God's Beautiful Design for Marriage"
--Patty Schneier: CDs from http://www.onemoresoul.com/ (talks to: parents on TOB for teens, teens, & a powerful personal testimony)
--Billings Method of Ovulation: www.boma-usa.org, 
--“Couple to Couple League”
--Important article on the latest NFP science: www.tinyurl.com/LatestNFP
--Some of the dangers of artificial contraception: http://bodyecology.com/articles/dangers_birth_control_pill.php
www.harmfromhormones.co.uk 
--Effects of abortion on women's health (including link to breast cancer): http://hushfilm.com/
--"Humanae Vitae Day": 6 talks explaining Humanae Vitae, and Natural Planning vs. Contraception. Sr. Helena explains the Theology of the Body perspective on HV / a nurse and NFP instructor explains the Billings Ovulation Method / two NFP couples give testimonies on their experience. (All 6 talks: www.tinyurl.com/TOBsoundcloud)


INFERTILITY (and other issues of women and men's sexual/reproductive health):
--www.NaProtechnology.com natural, moral, safe, effective medical treatments based on lastest science. 
--Nat’l Center for Women’s Health: www.popepaulvi.com
--book: "Facing Infertility" www.pauline.org

HOMOSEXUALITY / SAME-SEX ATTRACTION / "GAY MARRIAGE":
--www.CourageRC.net  (also Spanish) Courage International is the largest Catholic spiritual support group for same-sex attracted Catholics, founded in NYC in 1980. It now has chapters all over the world. Twitter: @RCCourage and @TruthandLoveRC
--Are you a young adult Catholic experiencing SSA? Where can you hang out online with other faithful SSA Catholics? www.edeninvitation.com
--Books: “Homosexuality and the Catholic Church” by Fr. John Harvey
--“The Heart of Female Same-Sex Attraction” by Janelle Hallman www.ivpress.com
--film: www.EverlastingHills.org (watch online)
--film: The Third Way: http://hellburns.blogspot.ca/2014/04/same-sex-attracted-catholics-tell-their.html#.VBUd4vldWjk (watch online)
--"Loving My LGBT Neighbor--Being Friends in Grace and Truth" by Glenn Stanton
--"Living the Truth in Love--Pastoral Approaches to Same-Sex Attraction" by Dr. Janet E. Smith & Fr. Paul Check
--"Why I Don't Call Myself Gay--How I Reclaimed My Sexual Reality and Found Peace" by Dan Mattson
--"The Truth About Homosexuality" by Fr. John Harvey
--"Yes to You" -- "Fr. Pontifex" (spoken word YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXq4izbFgAM
--"What Is Marriage?" by Robert P. George & others
--"One Man, One Woman," "The Gender Agenda," both by Dale O'Leary
--"I Just Came for the Ashes" by Robin Beck (hear her testimony here: www.tinyurl.com/TOBpodcast )
--www.WhyGenderMatters.com Dr. Leonard Sax

TRANSGENDER:
--Go to www.CourageRC.net website and search for "transgender"--great articles from John Hopkins University, American Pediatrics Ass'n, etc.
--"Understanding Gender Dysphoria--Navigating Transgender Issues in a Changing Culture" by Mark A. Yarhouse
--What the Catholic Church teaches about transgender; http://www.ccbi-utoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Bioethics-Matters_MMcQueen_CatholicTeaching_Transgender_March2016_Vol141_FINAL.pdf

GENDER IDEOLOGY:
--Videos available from a 2017 Conference at St. John Vianney Seminary in Denver (scroll down): https://www.regonline.com/GenderIdeologyConfVideos2017
--"Gender Reality" abstract by Sr. Prudence Allen, RSM. This paper seeks to answer to following questions from a Philosophical Methodology: What is the conflict between Gender Reality and Gender Ideology? How did Sex and Gender Ideologies Begin? What are the Characteristics of Sex and Gender Ideologies? How did Gender Ideology ‘Go Viral?’ Who Mapped the Virus of Gender Ideology? How can Gender Reality be Ransomed? https://philarchive.org/archive/ALLGR
--The Canadian Bishops just dropped a lit Theology of the Body document: http://www.cccb.ca/site/images/stories/pdf/discovering_unity_of_life_and_love_cccb_2017.pdf … Short, sweet, easy read! #TOBtalk @CCCB_CECC

--"Gender & LGBTQ" talks by Sr. Helena:

FREE PODCASTS:
www.tinyurl.com/TOBpodcast (Sr. Helena & others)
www.tinyurl.com/TOBandWOMENpodcasts 1-5 (need to go in order)
www.tinyurl.com/TOBsoundcloud Sr. Helena's talks

PORNOGRAPHY: 
 www.tinyurl.com/PornPreventionResources (comprehensive collection of porn prevention and recovery resources!)
www.ReclaimSexualHealth.com (confidential online help for all kinds of sexual addictions)   
www.PornKillsLove.com       www.ThePornEffect.com         www.PornHarms.com
The BEST book on porn ever (includes copious studies):

PORN PREVENTION FOR KIDS:
www.ProtectYoungMinds.org  (includes book "Good Pictures, Bad Pictures")

PRO-LIFE: 
--www.The40Film.com (the lastest on abortion, lots of testimonies from women, answers every argument for abortion, great for teens!) Study guide available
--www.humanlife.org free chastity, relationships, pro-life resources    
--www.rockforlife.org – info, T-shirts, etc.
--“180 Movie” YouTube (pro-abort teens change minds on spot) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7y2KsU_dhwI
"180 Movie" in SPANISH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=248QUOMeUw0
--“Unplanned” DVD & book by Abby Johnson, former director of one of the largest Planned Parenthoods in America
--www.OneMoreSoul.com
--How the Pill Harms Health, Relationships, Men and the Environment: http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/the-science-of-attraction-how-the-pill-is-changing-who-women-want-79290/
--Effects of abortion on women's health (including link to breast cancer): http://hushfilm.com/

CURRICULUM FOR KIDS & "SEX ED": 
--www.RuahWoods.com has a K-12 curriculum! www.ruahwoodspress.com
--www.TeenStar.org  
Dr. Hanna Klaus, MD teaches abstinence AND sex ed with great results.
Sexual Teaching in the context of Adult Responsibility
--www.familyhonor.org  Sex Ed taught in the family
--Must-read book about the origins of the sex ed industry and their true agendas! "You're Teaching My Child WHAT? A Physician Exposes the Lies of Sex Education and How They Harm Your Child" by Dr. Miriam Grossman, MD
--For ages 4-7: "God Has a Plan for Boys and Girls," "Everybody Has Something To Give," "Everybody Has Something To Say" www.pauline.org
--Other resources: http://hellburns.blogspot.com/2012/05/theology-of-body-sex-ed.html#.UYifk6Jwr0c

RANDOM: YouTubes of me presenting TOB to 8th graders and their parents: www.YouTube.com/helraphaelfsp

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY ON HUMAN SEXUALITY IN THE WORLD--FROM A SOLID CATHOLIC PERSPECTIVE (25 pages):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/3mpo1tviubwaxnk/2017Sexuality-BibliographyBURNS.pdf?dl=0
(prepared with notes by Fr. Kevin Belgrave, St. Augustine's Seminary, Archdiocese of Toronto)

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY ON HUMAN SEXUALITY IN THE WORLD--FROM A SOLID CATHOLIC PERSPECTIVE--ABRIDGED (10 pages):
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4yx4kw9exidql21/2016SeminarBelgraveHandoutcopy.pdf?dl=0

MORNING PEOPLE NEED NOT APPLY

WOMEN SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

Do All Women Think Free Birth Control Is a Good Thing?
Does Sandra Fluke Speak for All Women?

TWO DVDS RELEASING SEPTEMBER 11!

    Search this blog for my review of each. (Both are must-see!)