As the inspirational Bethany Hamilton biopic, Soul Surfer, arrives in theaters nationwide, read what mainstream critics have to say about the movie.

“Soul Surfer” “contains enough platitudes to stock a Hallmark shop.”

The Washington Post

http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/movies/soul-surfer,1177152/critic-review.html?hpid=z11

“Soul Surfer” “makes very few waves.”

USA Today

http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/reviews/2011-04-08-soulsurfer08_ST_N.htm

From the production values to the “savvy delivery of its Christian message, 'Soul Surfer' (is) a champ.”

The Oklahoman

http://newsok.com/soul-surfer-rides-wave-of-religious-true-story/article/3556286

“Soul Surfer” “manages to avoid the preachiness found in many Christian films.”

The Gazette

http://www.gazette.com/entertainment/faithful-115876-surfer-film.html

An inspiring true-life story “gets a less-than-inspired film dramatization.”

The Hollywood Reporter

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/soul-surfer-film-review-171674

 While “formulaic in design, 'Soul Surfer' is an authentic and heartfelt movie.”

Entertainment Weekly

http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20479680,00.html

“Soul Surfer” is “the best faith-based film ever made... uplifting, entertaining and wonderfully-acted.”

The Orlando Sentinel

http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_movies_blog/2011/04/movie-review-soul-surfer.html

“'Soul Surfer' can't help patting itself on the back at key moments, undermining its own impact. “

The Huffington Post

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/marshall-fine/huffpost-review-isoul-sur_b_846521.html

“Soul Surfer” is a kind-hearted coming-of-age drama with killer waves. “

Variety

http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117944896?refcatid=31

GRAMMY nominee and American Idol finalist Mandisa sees her third album’s release April 5, while celebrating—publicly—her personal success of shedding 100 pounds.

First single, “Stronger,” from What If We Were Real (Sparrow Records/EMI CMG Distribution) was inspired by the belief that surviving hardship makes a person more resilient—something Mandisa knows about from her struggle with weight loss.

"I can't think of a better time to have finally lost 100 pounds," Mandisa said. "How appropriate that on the day my single 'Stronger' is released, proclaiming that God is able to take us through the difficult times and bring us out stronger, He gives me a physical manifestation of that truth."

The extraordinary musicians of The Annie Moses Band visited the offices of Christian Retailing this month, performing four songs with their unique blend of fiddle, jazz and classical influences along with folk-inspired vocals.

Their theme song, 1988's "Make His Praise Glorious," first recorded by Sandi Patty, launched the songwriting career of Bill Wolaver (composer/arranger/pianist) and his wife, Robin (vocalist/lyricist/composer/ speaker). Their children joined them in what became a family band: Annie (lead vocals, violin), Alex (lead vocals, viola), Benjamin (cello), Camille (harp, keyboard, vocals), Gretchen (violin, mandolin, guitar, vocals) and Jeremiah (guitar). The older siblings trained at the Juilliard School, and all have studied with renowned instructors.