Had to choose between Shrek 2 and Raising Helen last night. I chose Raising Helen (although I know I still *need* to see Shrek 2). I loved it (and not *just* because of Kate Hudson - although I am definitely considering becoming a Lutheran instead…it must be the clerical collar that got her). What a great story, and there are many fun parts in the film. I love the fact that Jenny thought her way of raising kids was the only way, and Helen shows that her unconventional ways of rearing her sister’s children really DO work and in fact, may work better for the children she has been entrusted with. In the end, Jenny realizes that she needs to let go of her control issues, give Helen the children and let her raise them.
I wonder how this plays out in our churches today (and maybe this was already discussed by those Emergent attendees who went to see this film during the convention week). So often denomination-heads, traditional-church types look at people who aren’t doing ministry (i.e. raising kids) the “right” way or the “proper” way, but in ways that are actually really reaching people? Will those in traditional settings and those on the “fringe” be able to embrace like Helen & Jenny at the end of this film? Or will we continually be at odds with one another…
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Only balancing comment from me would be… Helen still needed Jenny and had a lot to learn from Jenny about balance between being “cool” and doing the job of a parent. Make sense? We DO have a rich heritage that to tototally dismiss the traditionalists would be a shame, not only because it is a rich heritage, but because they’ve got some tried and true methods of raising “children.” Just a thought.
I loved the movie - and would die for Kate’s hair. My roommate and I both agreed that we’d take our very own Lutheran pastor. ;) By the way, what’s the deal with movies always portraying clergy as ready, willing and able to date/marry non-Christian girls as long as they are charismatic and attractive. Is this really true? I hope not.
i saw the movie a couple of weeks ago and loved it…especially the neighbor with the bat…
where oh where can one find an available pastor/hockey player??? hollywood is playing with me…