Review: "The Bible" Mini Series on the History Channel

I know what those of you who haven't viewed "The Bible", a ten part mini series on the History Channel, must be thinking, "Oh great, another age old story about the Bible. Like that hasn't been done before".

At least, that's what I was thinking. I had seen a few trailers for "The Bible" and many of my family and friends were hyping up the show before it aired, but for some reason I was still quite resistant. My last experience with a big mainstream production around Easter was the movie "The Passion". Even though "The Passion" was a great movie, it's something that was difficult to watch, especially the long and gory scene of watching Jesus' flesh being whipped off of his back. So, maybe I was a bit scarred by "The Passion" and I wasn't really ready to give Hollywood's interpretation of the Bible another shot. But, I'm so glad I did.

This past Sunday, I happened to see that it was on while I was channel surfing. I promised myself that I would only watch the show for a few minutes and then I would move on to others things because I was "busy". But, lo and behold, from the second I tuned in I was absolutely hooked.

I would say the biggest surprise about "The Bible" is that it's a cliff hanger. It's nearly impossible that if you already know how a movie ends, that it would still be a cliff hanger. But with this mini series nothing ceases to amaze me. I've never in all my years of watching various movies and seeing eclectic interpretations of Easter plays, seen such a well developed, high budget movie executed with cutting edge special effects but at the same time preserving historical and biblical accuracy. It is at its best a story of faith while also being a strong medium for entertainment. This mini series also features a diverse cast, which is unlike the many other adaptations of its kind that I've seen. The aspect of diversity in this mini series, is enough to turn other adaptations on its head. Overall, this mini series brings the Bible to you in a way that you've never experienced it before.

Even if you don't consider yourself to be religious, you must give this mini series a chance or you are seriously missing out. According to ABC news, this series has scored blockbuster ratings, with 13 million viewers on the first night alone. If you're behind, there's plenty of time to catch up. From the mainstream point of view it's solid entertainment with themes of scandal, power, love and war. From a faith standpoint its the best way to renew your beliefs this Easter Season.

Check out the trailer below and tune in on Sunday!

Show Review: Venexiana Fall 2013

Venexiana incorporates the signature motif of rock-n-roll haute couture of the designer Kati Stern for her Fall 2013 collection. With the models channeling the elegance and vintage glamour of the 1930's incorporated with edgy and funky looks, the audiences senses were excited as models glided down the runway to the beat of rock.

Her exquisite evening wear fall gowns were the perfect antidote to the frigid temperatures in NYC on Saturday, February 9th.

The show opener wore an show stopping floor length, burgundy velvet gown with a silver embellishment strap that tied completed the look. This dress set the stage for the theme of the show.

There were a variety of evening wear dresses that featured embellished halter tops, backless pieces and diamond hooked straps. Most looks were floor-length, but there were some dresses that were playfully cut at the knee with sexy high slits in the back.

Venexiana also featured ravishing furs that ranged in color from deep purple to a mesmerizing blue green combination. There were fur jackets abounding, and even a unique fur wrap-around with diamond-studded cuffs paired with a floor-length gown.

Kati Stern didn't fail to bring edgy couture to the runway, especially with the burst of metallic gowns that was featured towards the end of the show.

Overall, the show was a smashing success that excited the senses from the tailored evening wear looks. Maybe a snazzy diamond strap that snaked around the model's neck or the long elegant trains that whizzed down the runway caught your eye, or it could have been the pinned up-do's of the '30s that captured your heart, maybe even the scintillating furs. Whatever it was, the show had many looks to satisfy your sweet spot and the show stopping gowns catapulted Kati Stern into a successful up and coming season.

See the full show here: