At The Movies

The Birth of a Nation Runtime: 190 minutes Studio: Epoch Producing Company Country of Origin: United States Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A A silent film chronicling the Civil War and Reconstruction era, focusing on two families and the impact of the war on the South. Ratings: My Rating: 6.2/10 The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 6.9/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 72% (Critics), 63% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 6.5/10 Plot Summary: The film follows the Stoneman and Cameron families during the Civil War and Reconstruction. It portrays historical events and societal changes in the South but includes highly biased depictions of African Americans and the Ku Klux Klan, glorifying the latter. The narrative sparked outrage and protest due to its racist content. Controversies: The film is widely considered one of the most controversial in cinematic history due to its racist portrayals of African Americans, glorification of the Ku Klux Klan, and reinforcement of white supremacist ideology. It prov...

VIDEO: Steam Trek: The Moving Picture Runtime: 12 minutes  Studio: ad hoc film soc. Country of Origin: [Not specified] Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A steampunk silent-film parody of Star Trek, transforming the classic spacefaring adventure into a Victorian-era, steam-powered spectacle. Plot Summary: Steam Trek reimagines Star Trek as a silent, black-and-white steampunk adventure. Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock, Dr. McCoy, and the crew embark on a mission aboard a steam-powered “Enterprise,” navigating mechanical contraptions, boiler-powered engines, and whimsical steampunk technology. They encounter alien challenges, solve problems with Victorian ingenuity, and face humorous predicaments that mirror iconic Trek episodes—all presented with exaggerated silent-film style and title cards in place of dialogue. The complete version now available on YouTube restores the full parody, celebrating both the Star Trek universe and the charm of early cinematic storytelling. Criti...

Don Q, Son of Zorro Runtime: 102 minutes Age Rating: NR Release Date: April 1, 1925 Studio: United Artists Franchise: Zorro Franchise Position: 2nd Douglas Fairbanks returns as Don Cesar de Vega, the son of the original Zorro, blending swashbuckling action with romance and comedic elements. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Don Cesar inherits his father’s mantle as Zorro and must thwart a plot by villains attempting to exploit the people of Spanish California. The film emphasizes daring sword fights, clever disguises, and charming antics. Critics Review: Well-received for Fairbanks’ charisma, inventive stunts, and continuation of the Zorro legacy. Seen as a worthy sequel to the 1920 classic. Christian Perspective: Highlights courage, honor, and using one’s gifts for good, reflecting ethical themes consistent with Christian values. Family Friendliness: Action-packed but suitable for families; silent-era vi...

The Mark of Zorro Runtime: 91 minutes Age Rating: NR Release Date: August 15, 1920 Studio: Douglas Fairbanks Pictures Franchise: Zorro Franchise Position: 1st Silent swashbuckling classic starring Douglas Fairbanks Sr. as Don Diego Vega, a wealthy nobleman who becomes the masked hero Zorro to fight injustice and tyranny in Spanish California. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Don Diego Vega leads a double life as Zorro, protecting the oppressed peasants from corrupt officials. The film established many conventions for future Zorro adaptations, including the signature black mask, cape, and swordplay. Critics Review: Praised for its thrilling action sequences, charismatic performance by Fairbanks, and pioneering stunt work. Considered a defining silent-era adventure film. Christian Perspective: Promotes justice, courage, and protecting the vulnerable, which aligns with Christian moral values of defending th...