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WASHINGTON (September 28, 1999) -- A guide to more than 8,000 movies and videos edited by Henry Herx, head of the U.S. Bishops' Office for Film and Broadcasting, has been published by Our Sunday Visitor.
Our Sunday Visitor's Family Guide to Movies and Videos includes a brief review of virtually every feature length English-language movie released since 1966. In addition to a plot summary, each review includes an evaluation of the film according to moral content and use of sexuality, violence and offensive language.
Reviews also note the U.S. Catholic Conference evaluation and the Motion Picture Association of America rating.
The book also includes the Vatican Best Films list.
"This is an extraordinary reference book for families," said Bishop Robert N. Lynch, Chairman of the Bishops' Committee on Communications. "Movies abound and it's impossible for parents to look at every one before their children see them. With this book, parents need just a minute to decide whether or not a movie is suitable."
"The guide also will help people of all age decide what to rent for a night of video-viewing," Bishop Lynch added.
Woodeene Koenig-Bricker, editor of Catholic Parent magazine, had high praise for the book.
"Now moms and dads don't have to pre-screen every movie that comes into the home or turn off a video part way through because it suddenly becomes inappropriate," she said. "But even more than just keeping offensive films out of the home, this guide helps you choose movies you and your children are going to enjoy. Take it with you when you go to the video store and you'll never come home with a dud movie again."
Herx, now based in New York City, is a Chicago
native and the father of five adult children. He has been reviewing movies for over three decades. In 1989, he became director of the Bishops' Film and Broadcasting Office and has been honored for his work in religious communications. He also reviews television programs and is a frequent commentator on media trends.
Our Sunday Visitor's Guide to Movies and Videos is 912 pages long and can be purchased for $29.95. More information can be found at www.osv.com.