Best Adult Movie That Really is Family-Friendly:  “Finding Neverland.”  The story of J.M. Barrie, creator of “Peter Pan,” shows us one man’s story and reminds us about the incredible power of imagination.  Great acting by Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet, and a worthy contender for multiple Oscar categories.

Best Christian in a Movie that Isn’t: “Saved!”  It’s an ugly thing to watch a gal who became rich and wealthy by billing herself as a Christian turn the big guns on Christian schools, youth groups, worship, prayer and everything that might inspire a teen to be faithful while upholding a gay agenda.  Oh, Mandy.  The root of bitterness will defile many.

Best Christian in a Movie that Is:   “Paper Clips.”  In a tiny town located in the rural South, where diversity isn’t even an option, a group of Christians study the Holocaust and learn what happens when hate goes unchecked – and what it means to forgive and be forgiven.

Best Non-Christian in a Movie that Is: “The Incredibles.”  Life and marriage aren’t always easy, but we can and will overcome – even without superhero powers.  Pixar triumphs again with another witty, animated, moral story for kids and adults.  A welcome rarity.

Best Distortion of a Christian Holiday: “Polar Express.” Santa Claus, savior of mankind, worthy of all worship and praise.  Forget about the poor, self-sacrifice and doing unto others.  All you need to do is believe and your problems will be solved.  And, oh yes, it doesn’t matter what train you’re on, just as long as you get aboard. 

Best Portrayal of a Christ Figure: “Man on Fire.”  In the midst of a shockingly violent, evil world, a broken but determined savior makes the ultimate sacrifice.  Not for the faint of heart, but it drives home the point.  Denzel, once again at his best, with a Best Actor-contender performance.

Best Foreign Film:  “The Chorus.”  Even if you hate subtitles, this one is worth the effort.  A lovely story about the power of music to conquer even the most difficult of circumstances, in the tradition of “Mr. Holland’s Opus” and “Dead Poet’s Society.”

Best Documentary:  “Farenhype 911: Unraveling the Truth About ‘Farenheit 911’ and Michael Moore.”  The definitive rebuttal – complete with all those who were in it (even Democrats), telling us how fictitious Moore’s film truly is.  Includes frank discussion about Moore stealing footage, taking statements out of context and making up the 38 major lies (he even faked newspaper articles) that form the film’s foundation.  Try watching both films, back to back, as an education in how easily truth can be distorted and swallowed by the masses.  If your child’s school shows Moore’s film (as many are doing), insist they show this as a rejoinder.  Runner-Up: “America’s Heart & Soul.”  Beautiful scenery and portrayals of people all across America, doing what they love while showing us who we are.