Born of Hope Movie

Born of Hope is one of the better movies I've seen recently.  The style of this non-profit film made by professional actors seems to follow from the beautiful Shakespearean tradition, but without any incomprehensible language.  The story is inspired by Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, but it's about men and women, not hobbits and dwarves, and feels more like a medieval romance of Arthurian origin.   Set a generation before the events of LotR, it stands apart, and no knowledge of Tolkien's (or Jackson's) work is necessary to enjoy this tale of Arathorn, the future father of Aragorn.  Born of Hope is worth watching in HD. 

Photo Source:  Official Website.

Depending on your internet connection, you might want to download the whole film from YouTube first to avoid stutters.  As it's unrated, I should mention that some of the battles may be too intense for small children.  Unfortunately, I have to admit that the first scene is the one which seems to me to be both the scariest for children - and the cheesiest for adults - in the whole movie.  Trust me, it gets much better after that.  With enough adventure and battles and romance for everyone, it's also pro-life in the sense of depicting the essential connection between romantic love and the children which are its fruit. 

Images from Assisi

The students of St. Michael's Junior class are visiting us here in the Eternal City.  Yesterday we took the two hour train ride to Assisi.  Here are some of the things we saw.  

Santa Maria degli Angeli by the train station

The old New Gate to the old city

Blessing on the New Gate

The pink stone facade of St. Clare's Church with Christmas lights

St. Clare's pink buttresses

The valley surrounding Assisi

The castle above Assisi

St. Francis' Basilica, upper facade

The life-size creche

St. Francis' Basilica, closer view

St. Francis' Basilica, lower facade

A worthwhile pilgrimage

The dark stone and iron tomb of St. Francis of Assisi

Merry Christmas from Assisi!