This is a scene from the movie Iron Man II. The new Iron Man III received a Catholic News Service classification of A-III -- adults. (CNS Photo)

By John Mulderig
Catholic News Service 

NEW YORK (CNS) — Given that his first appearance in print dates back to 1963, the comics-based superhero of “Iron Man 3″ (Disney) may be said to be turning 50 this year. Perhaps a midlife crisis is to blame for the lack of freshness and charm that mark the latest addition to this blockbuster screen franchise — or perhaps other factors are at fault.

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By Adam and Margaret Shaw
Catholic News Service 

NEW YORK (CNS) — In the words of Catholic novelist J.R.R. Tolkien, there may be only “one ring to rule them all.” But there is certainly more than one videogame adaptation out there of director Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings” movie trilogy, based on Tolkien’s timeless fantasy books. Continue reading →

VATICAN CITY — The Nov. 21 publication of “Jesus of Nazareth: The Infancy Narratives,” which completes Pope Benedict XVI’s popular three-volume series on the life and teachings of Christ, is the latest reminder of the author’s prolific output, now amounting to more than 60 books. Continue reading →

NEW YORK — What better way to spend a few hours over the holidays than in the company, not only of Santa Claus himself, but of the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman? Continue reading →

If Aristotle’s Kid Had an iPod: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Parents by Conor Gallagher. Continue reading →

By Mark Pattison, Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON — In the wake of the Republicans’ and Democrats’ national conventions bookending the Labor Day holiday, it seemed as if each campaign asked questions that ended with the words “better off.”

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WASHINGTON (CNS) – He doesn’t exactly advertise it, but the “king of Queens” is a Catholic family man.

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In the Name of the Church: Vocation and Authorization of Lay Ecclesial Ministry, edited by William Cahoy. Liturgical Press (Collegeville, Minn., 2012). 221 pp., $19.95.

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NEW YORK — A story with a Christian message is a rare and compelling gem for Catholic viewers in today’s Hollywood culture. At the same time, a film that leads first with a positive message, and merely tacks the story on as an afterthought, is one set to leave even the most devoted Christians cold.

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NEW YORK  — The first story sounds as old as the Book of Exodus: A mother and father, fearing his annihilation by a sinister force, place their newborn son in a vessel they hope will transport him to safety. Adopted by a completely different family, he grows up to deliver many from the oppression of evildoers.

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