Category Archives: Popular Culture, Movies, TV

That Darn Toy (and Her Movie) Has Got Me Thinking

Posted on August 31, 2023 by smaxreisert

God created humanity in God’s own image,        in the divine image God created them,            male and female God created them. Genesis 1:27 (Common English Bible) I wasn’t planning to see the Barbie movie. I’ve never in my life been a fan of … Continue reading →

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What’s So Funny?

Posted on May 8, 2023 by smaxreisert

I’m not sure where the practice began, but at the church where I grew up in suburban Boston in the 1970s, it was a common practice for the pastor to begin his weekly sermon with a joke. Perhaps it was … Continue reading →

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Sorry, Viola Davis, But You Are Wrong

Posted on March 4, 2017 by smaxreisert

During last Sunday’s Academy Awards presentation, Viola Davis won an Oscar for her role in Fences. During her emotional acceptance speech, Ms. Davis declared how glad she is to be an artist because it’s “the only profession that celebrates what … Continue reading →

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Is the Church Ready for a Comeback?

Posted on February 7, 2017 by smaxreisert

Over the years, I have been known, on occasion, to use the New England Patriots to illustrate important church lessons. Almost every time, I’ve ended up regretting it. While I’m a long-time fan of the Pats, I also recognize that … Continue reading →

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For Prince

Posted on April 22, 2016 by smaxreisert

There are certain artist/celebrity deaths that make certain people feel especially sad—not to mention mortal. This can be particularly acute when the celebrity is one’s age, or thereabouts, and/or when the work of the celebrity is associated with special memories. … Continue reading →

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The Light of Spotlight

Posted on February 6, 2016 by smaxreisert

I recently went with a friend to see Spotlight, the film that focuses on the Boston Globe’s uncovering of clergy abuse of children. I wanted to see the film for several reasons—to see how the story would be portrayed on … Continue reading →

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Letting Go of the Olive in Us

Posted on November 22, 2014 by smaxreisert

I reluctantly watched the HBO miniseries, Olive Kitteridge. The book on which the series is based is one of my favorite books. I have such a distinct image of Olive in my head, I didn’t know if I could deal … Continue reading →

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Time Gone?

Posted on September 11, 2014 by smaxreisert

Spoiler Alert! If you haven’t seen the film Calvary, and you are planning to, be aware of spoilers ahead. In the opening scene in the film Calvary, the main character, a good priest played by Brendan Gleeson, is told while … Continue reading →

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Frozen and Freedom

Posted on July 4, 2014 by smaxreisert

I may be the last American to watch Frozen, but I am certainly aware of the frenzy over the animated film and its main song, “Let It Go,” belted out rock anthem-style by Idina Menzel. I’ve now heard the song … Continue reading →

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I Don’t Feel That Funny

Posted on May 22, 2014 by smaxreisert

One of my favorite television shows is, or was, Modern Family. It makes me laugh, and that’s especially important on Wednesday evenings when I return home after a church meeting. Last night, though, I may have come to the end … Continue reading →

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