shipnbottle

Carl Weyant aptly plays Longinus, a blind Roman soldier (kept in his position only because of an influential father) partly responsible for the execution-death of the Christ who struggles with overwhelming guilt and darkness attempting to snuff out his life. Coming to the end of his tortured self, he leaves Jerusalem, with his servant Albus (played by Josh Perry), in order to find peace in the land of his relatives. Along the way, he meets a Stranger (DJ Perry as Jesus) who begins to open his eyes and renew the man's purpose. We also catch glimpses into the spiritual realm with Gabriel (Shane Hagedorn) and the Devil (Taymour Ghazi) discussing the worth of humanity despite their flawed and contradictory natures. It's a well done film about the Christ done with a unique Biblical slant. Josh Perry's portrayal as Longinus' servant is a delight to watch and gives some laugh-out-loud moments.

This is the third film of "The Quest" Series ("40 Nights" and "Chasing the Stars" being the first films) put out by a studio that's punching above its weight by creating thoughtful, unique content.

I recommend The Christ Slayer. It's both interesting and well done! Perhaps it will also draw out discussions and reflections on our own life journeys.

The ASHES OF EDEN film is a gritty, streetwise film that may be a challenge for Christ-followers to watch and, alternatively, may be hard for those who are not Christ-followers (because of the Message in the mess).

However, there is redemption in the story--and there are glimmers of hope despite every effort to snuff out that hope. Be forewarned: there are instances of drug use, a violent murder, fighting, some bed scenes (that remain PG level)--but these are all present to show a real world where Christ seems the furthest and least likely to break in, and to show genuine threat to the main character.

The acting is good, and the story entertaining to watch--though, as I said above, it may be difficult for some viewers. Considering what is out there that's supposed to "entertain," ASHES OF EDEN entertains but also gives a glimpse of emptiness without Christ versus the fullness that exists in Christ. Recommended.

FORTY NIGHTS, starring DJ Perry as Jesus, directed by Jesse Low, is the first part of the Quest Trilogy of films--the next films being CHASING THE STAR and THE CHRIST-SLAYER.

In this film, we see a side to Jesus of Nazareth that perhaps we've not quite seen before on the Big Screen as He faces the wilderness alone against the Tempter. Within that interaction comes many questions and considerations about the nature of mankind, the frailty, the evil, the good--as well as the Goodness of the Lord.

The film, though on a low budget, punches above its weight telling the story in a unique, thoughtful, quality way.

I really enjoyed the film and reflected on it long after watching it.

The acting in this film is good and notable.

I highly recommend FORTY NIGHTS!