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come alivea magazine for young christian kiwis |february - march 2016 | issue nine

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EDITOR GRETA YEOMAN

DEPUTY EDITORSNICOLA FROUD EVONNE KEY

THE ALIVE TEAMMATT JOILS / CHRIS SPARK / HELEN-ANN HARTLEY / GRACE BUCKNELL / ADELLE KEMP

SUB-EDTIORSEVONNE KEY (GRAMMAR)GRETA YEOMAN (DESIGN & LAYOUT)

SOCIAL MEDIA/WEBSITEPAUL MCDONALD

enquiresCOMEALIVEMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COMWWW.ALIVENZ.WORDPRESS.COM

ALL THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS MAGAZINE BELONG TO THE INDIVIDUAL WRITERS AND ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF COME ALIVE AS A WHOLE. PHOTOS FROM UNSPLASH.COM UNLESS STATED. FESTIVAL ONE PHOTOS BY ADELLE KEMP.

Well a belated Happy New Year. February already?! I turn 20 this issue.How does this happen? Well I’m happy to say that I had a lovely couple of weeks off over Christmas/New Year’s, which I spent catching up with family and friends in Cbristchurch.As I write, I’m just days away from starting a new film, work is keeping me busy and I’ve got a lot in planning for this year.Our biggest plan, however, is that the Come Alive team have decided to cut the magazine back to releasing every three months. Seasonally, if you like to think about it that way. Quarterly, being a more technical term. Due to the seasons, we’ll be producing April/May as usual, but will make the switch when June kicks in. This means you’ll get all the good stuff specifically to the season your in - such as winter in June/July/August, spring in Sept/Oct/Nov, all our summer and Christmas goodness in Dec/Jan/Feb and the beauty of autumn for March/April/May. We would love to know your thoughts on the changes. Until April... Greta x

editor’s note:

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INSIDE

Live & Loudpg 24

Adelle’s Review:Festival One

pg 14

Grace’s Review: Festival One

pg 12

Opinion: Enough of the Either/Ors

pg 5

Local Legends: Wilderness Love

pg 6

Feature: Faith & Filmingpg 8

Opinion: Lent pg 4

Christian Group Directorypg 18

MOVING CITIES? FIRST YEAR STUDYING? CHECK OUT OUR DIRECTORY OF CHRISTIAN GROUPS ACROSS THE COUNTRY ON PAGE 18.

Late 80’s Mercedespg 16

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‘Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return, turn away from sin and believe the good news of the Gospel.’

These are words from the service held in many Christian churches at the start of the season of Lent. It is traditional to receive a sign of the cross on the forehead made in ash by burning crosses from the previous Palm Sunday: an out-ward visible sign of our weakness within. So what is Lent, and why is it important? The word Lent comes from an old English word meaning ‘Length-en’, which makes sense in the northern hemisphere where the days are gaining more daylight in the period before Easter. Lent marks the period of 40 days which lead to Easter, days which ask us to remember Jesus’ time in the wilderness in prayer and fast-ing before he started his ministry. It also recalls the time (in years rather than days) that the Israelites spent in exile.

to place my life in God’s hands and to experience the adventure of the Gospel. Ash Wednesday presents us with the invitation to journey once

more with Jesus in the wilderness. But this is not a journey that goes on and on without end, it is a journey in the shadow of the cross towards the light of the resurrec-tion. And at its end, we are in place where we can look forward in that resurrection light, surely knowing that next year we will be here again, but somehow differ-ent – different in age, different in the experience of the weeks and months of our lives, and different because we have lived in the light of Jesus who is always transform-ing our lives even when we do not know it or cannot even see it.

In the southern hemisphere of New Zealand, Ash Wednesday confronts us in a different way; we are heading slowly out of sum-mer towards autumn. As a teen-

ager, I remember feeling pretty safe in the world: I was secure at home, had good friends, a sense that world peace was achievable, and life was good. For sure, I also experienced a heady mix of anxiety, self-doubt and peer pressure. But I do recall one Ash Wednes-day, receiving the sign of the cross marked in ash on my forehead and being stunned into silence by the words quoted above. It was but a momentary silence, perhaps no more than a breath, but I remember it because it put me firmly in my place. I came from dust, and one day, dust would be all that was left of me, but in that unknown space in-between I had an opportunity

“I came from dust, and one day, dust would be all that was left of me, but in that unknown space in-between I had an opportunity to place my

life in God’s hands and to experience the adventure of the Gospel.”

helen-ann hartley is the Bishop of Waikato, anglican diocese of waikato and taranaki.

by helen-ann hartley

opinion: the history behind lent

opinion

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opinion: Enough of the Either/Ors

I really don’t like false dichot-omies. I mean the kind of thing where something gets turned into an either/or when it doesn’t need to be. Like when you are getting ice-cream from the dairy – it doesn’t have to be either cookies and cream or the great kiwi clas-sic hokey-pokey. You can have both.When it comes to Christianity, it seems to me that people create false dichotomies all the time. For sure, there are some either/ors in Christianity – for instance, there comes a point for all of us where we either say yes to Jesus as our Lord or we don’t.But in many many, many other areas you simply don’t have to choose – yet we seem to speak and act as if we did. For instance, a couple of years ago I was at an event for young adults in Christchurch which helped us think through some of the big issues of the Christian life. (Ac-tually, I was involved in planning it, so I probably need to take some of the responsibility for the false dichotomy that I am about to

from which you had to choose. As if they couldn’t work together. That’s a false dichotomy. The fact is, all three elements are present and important in the New Testa-ment’s picture of Jesus and his death. So we missed the chance to see the rich kaleidoscope of meaning in Jesus and his death, and instead got caught up playing one off against the other.Why do we create false dichoto-

mies so often when we don’t need to? I am guessing it’s because our thinking is too small – we forget we are dealing with a very big God, we reduce him down to human levels – forgetting to listen to what he has told us about himself and allow him to expand our horizons.So enough with the false dichoto-mies. Let’s have our minds open to see that with God, so often, we can have more than one flavour at once.

describe.) This particular event was focused on the atonement – the work of Jesus, especially in his death, to bring us to God. It was kind of answering the question ‘what does the death of Jesus do?’A number of different options were presented, including the three that have been the most prominent throughout the history of the church: penal substitu-

tionary atonement, victory, and example. Penal substitutionary atonement points to the idea of Jesus dying in our place to pay a debt for our sins so we can be forgiven and yet God can remain just (eg Romans 3:25-26). Vic-tory is the idea that in his death (and resurrection) Jesus defeated the powers of evil (eg Colossians 2:15). Example is the idea that in his death Jesus set us – well, an example! (eg 1 Peter 2:21).All of that is well and good. but here’s the problem. At the end of the night the different elements of the atonement were basically presented as a series of options

“with God we can, so often, have more than one flavour at once.”

Chris Spark is an assistant Minister in Christchurch and helps lead the cpit christian group.

by chris spark

opinion

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There’s something vibrant and unique about ‘Wilderness Love’.I got to sit down with them at Fes-tival One to hear about what’s on their heart and get an insight into their family. Together for almost four years, it’s not surprising that the “rock and soul” band consider themselves family. The brotherly dynamics are definitely evident, with Aaron Clarke commenting on Aaron Boyens’ appearance after they played.“It must have been the sweat of your spirit and of your body be-cause no one can sweat that much just from their body”. Just to add to the confusion of the two Aaron’s, Aaron Boyens and Aaron Clarke, they actually have three Aaron’s in the band. Vocalist Denee Brons explained that they decided to call all the Aaron’s by their last names.“You’d say Aaron and have three faces turn… they all go by their last names because we can’t have one superior Aaron.” 2016 was their second year at the Festival, and their shared joy of playing live music definitely showed on stage. Fans can look forward to more

“Cool things were happening mu-sically but relationally they were falling apart.” Boyens commented on the importance of openness and unity and backing each other. “You can’t have unity when you’re trying to back yourself.” Ever since that breakthrough they have played better than ever, and at Festival One they performed a new song called ‘Lead’.“[It was almost like a] prophetic

parallel story to the recent season of unity and realisation.”To call Wilderness Love local leg-ends would be an understatement. They are a group of passionate (and talented!) musicians who want to see a lot of change and implement it through their music. They focus on supporting each other and supporting Aaron Boy-ens’ heart to see unity between Maori and Pakeha. Watch this space because the Wilderness Love family are going places and doing big things!

live gigs in 2016, Aaron Boyens explained.“We don’t want disconnect be-tween people and us, we want more community outside of the band.’’If anyone knows about feeling disconnected, its Wilderness Love, he said.“This last season has been one of distance.”With a group of eight members,

there’s a lot of inward feelings going on and, understandably, that can cause a bit of tension. It seemed as though the small things they were holding against each other began to grow and turned into what the band described as “hidden resentment’’, which Boy-ens said had a “massive effect’’ on the music. Thankfully, they had a break-through at one of their practices. “Basically, we all just had a mas-sive cry”, he said.They sat around and apologised for whatever individual things they had going on that were af-fecting the family that is Wilder-ness Love.

wilderness love

“It must have been the sweat of your spirit and of your body.”

grace bucknell is a student from waipukarAU.

by grace bucknell

local legend

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The blue light of a Mac gently illuminates the desk it sits on. In this dark, red room generations of film makers have sat, project-ing their projects on the wall for peers to see. I am absorbed in a world of screens. A world of clips and bites, clicking and dragging, undoing. I am rearranging time in digital form. How did I get here? What am I doing? Shouldn’t I be doing something more useful? These questions run through many art students’ minds with startling frequency. I talked to two people with a bit more

experience in the world of film and broadcast media to get some perspective. What do you do? Emma WangI am a freelance photographer and videographer, mainly focusing on weddings, and also do graphic design and video work for Cor-nerstone Church. [Before that] I worked at the local TV station, where I was a Presentation direc-tor, meaning that I was in charge of the play-out of the station. Jasmine ButcherI work as a Directors Assistant

(D.A.) for the Christchurch production company Whitebait Media. I am part of a fantastic team who creates and produces afternoon television for the young people of New Zealand. What makes what you do worthwhile? Emma Getting to give people an end product, that I have done entirely by myself is pretty satisfying! It’s hard to find a job that has a lot of satisfaction, so I’m glad I finally get to have that! Working for a TV station used to seem like the craziest, most ex-

fa i th +f i lming

FOCUS FEATURE

a q&a by matt joils

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citing thing in the world, so it is pretty cool to be able to actually use my degree, and make those 4 years of study pay off!

Jasmine Same as below. What do you love about your job? Emma Getting to be my own boss! Getting to learn skills in so many areas, from marketing through to photo shoots and weddings. And I love meeting so many people, and sharing one of their most exciting days with them. [In television]I loved being in a position where I could take charge of such a big thing. I real-ly loved working in a small team, and having a role that was so important to keep the station run-ning. There are so many different characters working in television, but for some reason everyone seems to accept people, no matter how crazy they are! So it really helped me to discover who I am, and what I believe, and with the bonus of freedom from others to do so. Jasmine I love the team of creative, driven, and inspiring people who I get to work with. I love being involved in a creative process as it evolves; from the initial brain-storm of some wild idea, through the scripting phase, to rehearsals, and then to see the final product, perfected, and aired on television for people to enjoy; it’s a real thrill. I also love the impact that

today’s media has on its audience. This, however, is also what fright-ens me most about the media. What do you find challenging about what you do? Just gener-ally, but also specifically be-cause of your faith. EmmaIn the film industry, success seems to be reached by being different. By having unique ideas, and a unique style so that you stand out. I think that’s why it is surprisingly easy to be a Christian in the film industry. In day to day life, people almost work too hard

etc. Jasmine The nature of the industry I work in attracts very passionate and driven people, whose first pri-ority is usually their career. As much as I love my job, and the broadcasting industry as a whole, part of my personal Christian faith means that I strive to have balanced priorities in my life. God comes first, followed by my family, relationships, church life and work, which all need to be held in a healthy balance. When the rest of my team stay late at work, because it’s their highest priority, I personally find it diffi-cult to have the courage to get up and leave so that I can spend time with my husband, or help lead at the church youth group, even if my work for the day is done. I struggle with feeling like I’ve let the team down, or that I’m showing a less impressive work ethic[...] Ultimately I need to re-mind myself not to let my pride at work stop me from using my time wisely and selflessly in all areas of my life. How does your faith affect how you go about your job? For example, will you be attracted to a certain type of story, or say no to some things? Emma Even with the few chances to share my love of God to others, I can still try my best to express God through my attitude and character. Being a Christian in the film industry doesn’t mean that I am passing bibles around on set (there is definitely no time for that!). It is about me working with love and respect for others, and doing what I believe I am called to do. I definitely find that I am attracted to stories that are real, and show people’s true selves. I know that

“Being a Christian in the film industry doesn’t mean that I am passing bibles around

on set (there is definitely no time for that!). It is about me working with love and respect for others, and doing what I believe I am

called to do.”

trying to fit in, and trying to do exactly as is expected of them, so in the film industry doing the unexpected, and having my own beliefs and attitude is okay. In fact, it is more than okay, it is almost a requirement if you want to succeed. [These days] It can be challeng-ing to be working on my own. So faith wise it is a little difficult to not have people around all the time! It is a little difficult to find opportunities to share my faith

“Getting to give people an end product, that I have done entirely by myself is pretty satisfying! It’s hard to find a job that has a lot of satisfaction, so I’m glad I finally get to

have that!”

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in the film industry there is a lot of editing done to change a story from something real, to something that is exciting and interesting for the viewer. So I don’t want to do that. So I love finding stories that show people as they really are. I don’t like to Photoshop what are supposedly ‘flaws’ from portraits etc. Jasmine Because of the powerful influence that media has, I feel like part of my role as a Christian in the work place is to inject light, love and life into the content that is be-ing received by the youth of this nation. Ultimately I hope that any small decisions I may contribute to (as I am not actually respon-sible for content) can be leading the content in a direction that is healthy, encouraging and positive. So much of what we see in our media is negative, over sexualised, and unrealistic. My hope is that the light and hope of the reality of life that I know can be injected into the content we produce. One thing that I am thankful for, in my specific job in the television industry, is that I work making children’s programmes. By very nature children’s television is held up to many rules and guidelines about what it can show its audi-ence. This relieves me of practi-cally any difficulty I might face with any story, or content, being against what I believe to be fair or appropriate. I think as Christians in media this would be a common struggle that is faced, however I am grateful that I do not personally have to deal with this issue. What do you think about ‘Chris-tian’ film and/ or TV? Emma To be honest from what I have ex-perienced, Christian TV can come across a little dry… Although

when it is done well, it can be pretty great! [It is] refreshing to not have lots of sex scenes, or bad language etc. Even for non Christians I’m sure this would be a positive! There is the odd Christian mov-ie that makes me cringe, but on the flip side there are definitely ‘non Christian’ films that make me cringe. I think using film to express beliefs is a great idea, and it is one form of media that most people can really understand. We are in a digital age, where the film industry just keeps on grow-ing, so it is pretty exciting to see where it takes us! Jasmine Although I very rarely engage with it, I think that when it is done well Christian film and tel-evision can be great. However, I do think that often Christian film and television has a reputation for being cheesy, American, white middle class and over-spiritual-ised. This definitely does not

represent Christian media as a whole, but unfortunately it may have become a common stereo type which deters some people from experiencing it. I hope that Christians in the broadcasting industry continue to produce content that is godly, humble and scriptural. The power of media is truly substantial, and so to be producing godly content, that is broadcast, is such a fantas-tic privilege. Out of all the many roles that make up the creation of a film or a show, why are you drawn to what you do? Emma Well I get to work in all areas from beginning to end, so I love that! I love being able to meet couples, and get to know them really well before and during their wedding. Jasmine As a DA, the role I do is very structured, detail oriented and

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“People often laughed when I said I was studying Fine Arts, because they think it doesn’t lead to a proper career - but God is a

creator, so there is nothing wrong with creativity!”

matt joils is a christchurch-based film student, writer and tea fan.

communication focused. This way of working and thinking comes rather naturally to me, and is what I enjoy doing, so it seemed logical to work in such a role as a DA. I realised very quickly in my studies (The New Zealand Broad-casting School) that the majority of people drawn to this industry have more creative and artistic minds. I, on the other hand, felt I had the ability to support those people by handling the logistics of their grand ideas. I love working through and solving the complica-tions and logistics of a production to allow a creative dream to be fulfilled. I hear periodically that we need more Christians in media. Why did you decide to go into this career/vocation? What unique opportunities does it offer for serving God? Emma I love the media industry! I love being creative, and having the freedom to share and express my-self through my work. I think it is pretty important to not lose your-self through a job just because it is boring, or not exactly what you love. People often laughed when I said I was studying Fine Arts, because they think it doesn’t lead to a proper career - but God is a creator, so there is nothing wrong with creativity! Since the film industry is filled with so many strong minded and open people, it can be fun to show my beliefs through my work, in ways as small as staying hap-py (and not swearing away!) in stressful situations. (Television can get pretty stressful with all the time-frames!) Jasmine I believe that some Christians are called to secular work environ-ments, in order to shine the light

I hope and pray that I am living a life which is perceived as different from those around me, and that by being gentle, compassionate, hon-est and close with my colleagues I can use those relationships to then confidently introduce Jesus to them. This of course can be done in any work environment, not only media, however I have cho-sen to work as a DA as I feel that it uses and grows the gifts and abilities God has blessed me with, while having the opportunity to be a witness to those who do not yet know his love.

of Jesus to those people around them. For all Christians to hide in church or ministry work would be depriving the world from the opportunity to hear the good news that we carry. Working with non-Christians provides me with countless individuals who I can love and encourage and show by my life and words that I carry the hope of Jesus. If I’m being honest with you all, I am far from a natural evangelist and have missed countless oppor-tunities to share the Gospel within my workplace. I know that this is something I need to work on, but while I do so, I am continuing working and living my life in the hope that my actions may speak louder than my words ever could.

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festival one

photos: Supplied

Picture a place where you can walk freely, knowing no harm will come.A place where you can have a conversation about God and not be anxious about who could be listening. Picture a place where people are found to be immersed in love, for their King, with arms raised and eyes closed, at any time of the day, in any setting. Festival One was no ordinary festival; branding it a “Christian festival” does not do it justice; Festival One was heaven on earth. Admittedly, it was a bit of a shock being ready for a weekend of jam-packed music and pushing past people in Mystery Creek, like what Parachute had been, only to arrive to people strolling about with only two acts at most, on at one time. There was no rush to get any-where, with free time during lunch and dinner for everyone to eat together.

featured a photography and short-film competition, artist workshops, acoustic performances done on the back of a Ute driving around the campsite, a cardboard cathedral where your artwork could be featured, fun photo booths and stalls selling merchan-dise for good causes. It was amazing how many prod-ucts and brands are out there

which support and advocate those who are living in tough condi-tions.‘The Loyal Workshop’ sold beau-tiful leather products, made by Kolkata woman who were in sex trafficking but had gained a better life through employment with the company and ‘A Girl Called Hope’ sold jewellery, clothing and other accessories, providing funds to get behind young NZ women who have or are going through life-controlling issues.True North Clothing also fea-

The sense of community was a central feature of the festival. Two giant marquees ran down both sides of the market, provid-ing a perfect spot for down time.The festival put on a massive free BBQ on Saturday night, and the weekend gave plenty of chanc-es to meet new people, who, in a matter of days, went from strangers to family.

By night you were transported to the campfire, where four guitars, a make-shift drum kit and the angelic voices of many filled the air till three in the morning, right through the whole weekend. If you had gone the weekend without being inspired to become a musician or further your crea-tive skills, it would definitely be a question as to whether you had fully experienced the culture of the festival. Arguably the most creative festival out there, Festival One

“heaven on earth” at festival oneby ADELLE KEMP

“Festival One was no ordinary festival; branding it a ‘Christian

festival’ does not do it justice; Festival One was heaven on earth.”

festival one

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ADELLE KEMP IS A WELLINGTON- BASED STUDENT AND WRITER FOR COME ALIVE.

tured at the festival, with their five panel caps selling out in the first two days; sweet gear for the boarding fanatics - which there were plenty of. For the skater boys and girls wanting to escape the music for a couple of hours, a secret skate park had been set up in the back fields to jam in. This for the teens, coupled with a kids programme, meant there was an activity available for everyone in the family. With a festival so well-balanced, it was just the cherry on top having international su-perstar acts like Bethel Music.The American band performed on Sunday night and left me in awe of their authority and command as God’s people.When they started performing the air was thick and weighted but by the end, the room felt free and everyone was rejoicing.This was topped off by having Stephan Hart take over from Amanda Cook and Jeremy Riddle on stage and proceed to lead everyone, hands joined, in singing the national anthem. It was such a blessing to have this team ministering at Festival One and to leave us not only wanting more of their music but with a greater desire to lean into God and gain a deeper under-standing of His love. The other American dream team was All Sons and Daughters on Saturday night, which was con-sidered ‘the’ worship night. Har-monies so perfect, hearts were melted, and lives were changed. Talking with other festival-go-ers, it was clear everyone had favourites, but almost every per-

son stood by the resident worship band, who, as festival director Graham Burt said, led us humbly and gently. Every morning and Sunday night this team really carried the culture Festival One with grace. This is one hundred percent a Festival not to miss. It has left an impact on lives far greater than could have been thought or dreamed, and it is only just starting.

Maybe this next coming festival could be your chance to expe-rience love like never before or allow you to make a difference and add some of your own crea-tivity to the scene. It is such a beautiful thing, so take a chance and immerse yourself in Heaven.

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There’s something incredible about the way three days in the blistering heat with 8000 other people can be such an energizing experience. After 24 years of Parachute, Fes-tival One had some big shoes to fill. Being very similar in format, it’s obviously hard not to compare the two. Festival One was different but it did not at all disappoint, in fact I believe it went back to the core roots of Parachute, which was something really special. The con-stant hum of real conversations, worship and excitement created an inimitable vibe that the week-end was soaked in. The festival opened with the ‘One Arena’ being filled with soaring melodies and harmonies. Two single spotlights on singers in the grandstands with the word ‘Yah-weh’ projected boldly over the stage. From the very start every-one was aware that this festival was undeniably all about Jesus

life could look like if we took it out of the comfort of the festival. Worship erupted in the most unex-pected places at the most unex-pected times. After a 3am sing-a-long in the market place everyone becomes best friends and there was such a beautiful freedom of expression. It’s not a music festival without the antics that go on in the middle of the night.

When I arrived on Friday I never anticipated I’d end up learning Irish dancing at 2am with a bunch of strangers, nor did I realise watching people jump, flip and dive over wheelie bins could be so entertaining. All of this happened in the market place, which was by far my favourite place to be. The sense of community was just explosive and it was a place for everyone to belong in some way.

and the opening set the tone that carried on throughout the whole weekend. Starting the festival with wor-ship was very fitting, but Late 80s Mercedes stole the show on the first night and I couldn’t have picked a better band myself. They had grown men dancing and singing their hearts out to ‘Walking On Sunshine’ and, as

expected, the crowd had a near breakdown when Justin Bieber’s ‘Sorry’ began on the trumpets. They brought immense energy that was contagious and exactly what Festival One needed to kick off the weekend. A culture of people being open and honest was created and people shone their light in such a genuine way. I felt like it was a glimpse of what a truly God filled

festival one an “energising experience”by grace bucknell

“A culture of people being open and honest was created and people shone their light in such a genuine way. I felt like it was a glimpse of what a truly God filled life could look like if we

took it out of the comfort of the festival.”

festival one

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The market became the hub of activity attracting anyone and everyone that walked past. With the mini donut stall behind me and a stage of folk music in front of me there was re-ally nothing more that I needed.There was no shortage of musicians and a song could be heard wherever you walked. All Sons and Daugh-ters, Ike Ndolo, Strahan and Young Lyre were big favour-ites for everyone. Some-thing I loved about the artists was that not only did they bring beautiful music but they were open, inclusive and honest. Stra-han captured everyone’s hearts with his songs and pearls of wis-dom; “The only thing between us and God is this bizarre distance we create when we make it more complicated than it really is”. Sunday night was an easily the best night for me. With a line-up of Paper Cranes, Mosaic Music, Worship Central and, finally, Bethel there was no way you could leave feeling empty. Every corner of the arena was drenched in worship and Bethel created an atmosphere that allowed people to worship in their own way with no shame and nothing holding them back. What was even more amazing than their music was the way they presented them-selves with such humility. It wasn’t Bethel leading us in worship, it was Bethel and us worship-ping together. Leaving camps and festi-vals always makes me feel despondent but this festival was a little different. I still felt sad but also empowered to go back to my church and community

grace bucknell is a student from waipukarAU.

and recreate some of the atmosphere I got to

experience. If I had to sum it up in short it was a weekend of laughter, amazing conversations, minimal sleep, powerful worship and a mini thunderstorm.

I left Festival One with a very full and very happy heart.

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If you are looking for a fun time while rocking out to swing in-fused, funk covers of classic pop songs then Late 80’s Mercedes is your band. Definitely the crowd favourites, from old to young, festival-goers were breaking into dance during the renowned energetic performance, on both Friday night and Sunday after-noon. These muso’s produce nothing short of excellence; their sound is tight, they know their instruments back to front and their stage presence is an easy ten out of ten. These men are a group of close friends really just jamming together, their practicing shed being the sound check before playing in front of thousands. Having been together since 98, Late 80’s have grown from 3 members to a full-fledged 10 piece band, playing at an out-standing 17 festivals. Made of a solid line up, including vocals, guitar, bass, and drums, what makes this band so unique is the added flavour of bongo drums and four piece Brass section. There is no need to worry as this world class act sees no end yet. So long as they are still living in close proximity of each other and having fun together. Even when lead vocalist Clint Harris advised the group to find some-one else for his part because he considered himself to be getting too old, they stayed loyal and said if he went they all would too; which (thankfully), meant that Clint found security in his friends’ commitment and decided

to stay on.Late 80’s certainly have made an impact with their music over the years, performing at vari-ous events, including Vodafone NZ, TVNZ, The NZ Advertising Awards, A1 Grand Prix, V8 Su-per-cars, Flight-Centre National Ball and the World Rally Champi-onships and well as many special occasions.You would think with a level of influence so big they would be living the superstar life, but it is humbling to know each of these legends are taking care of their own families and have fairly nor-mal jobs.Jayden and his wife run their own business in illustration and photography, Donald is a wor-ship pastor finishing his masters, Brian works as an ICU nurse at

the hospital, Clint and his wife run and teach an early childhood centre, Sam and Brandon are both music teachers, Tim manages and builds for construction sites, Richard works for an environmen-tal planning company, Chris is a children’s entertainer and author, and Richard is a religious educa-tion teacher. They each also serve in their churches, mostly on the worship teams, whether it is as worship pastor, leader or just part of the team. These gentlemen are an inspira-tion, and to be as vivacious and skilled at their age is definitely the goal.

“These muso’s produce nothing short of excellence; their sound is tight, they know their instruments back to front

and their stage presence is an easy ten out of ten.”

festival one

ADELLE KEMP IS A WELLINGTON-BASED STUDENT AND WRITER FOR COME ALIVE.

LATE 80’S mERCEDES

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Auckland University of Tech-nology Christian FellowshipOverviewAUTCF: Loving God, Following Jesus, Living it out at AUT!Everyone and anyone is welcome to our meetings where we study the Bible, share our lives and engage with everything from our lectures to world events. AUT Christian Fellowship is a place where we work through questions together. You’d be most welcome to join us!MeetingsCity Campus: Tuesday 4pm and Thursday 2pm (WG, common area outside Stat-ic. Look out for the ‘table flag’ with AUT CF on it.)North Shore: Contact us for meeting timesManukau: Contact us for meeting times

Contact Andy;Email: autchristians@gmail.comPhone: 021306355Facebook: AUT Christian Fellow-ship (TSCF)

Auckland University of TechnologyAUTCF AkorangaOverviewAUTCF Akoranga meets for infor-mal Bible study weekly.Contact Leanne Gopalan;Email: leannegopalan@yahoo.co.nzPhone: 21022125700

University of AucklandAuckland University Evangelical UnionOverviewWe are a student-led club at the University of Auckland. We are from a wide range of backgrounds and committed to living out an integrated life in light of the gospel. Our main meeting every Thurs-day (5-6:30pm) is when everyone

directory of christian groupsby nicola froud gathers together for a short talk,

discussion and time to hang out together. Everyone is welcome, especially those who want to find out more about EU or what the Bible has to say. During the week, we gather in small groups to study the Bi-ble. Times for first semester are Monday (1-2pm) and Tuesday (10-11am) – everyone is wel-come. We also have regular social events like movie nights and day hikes and often join fun things other groups are doing.Contact Tim Gray;Email: auckunieu@gmail.com Phone: 0221038118Facebook: Evangelical Union, University of AucklandMeetingsBible StudiesMondays, 1pm: HSB 201-512.Tuesdays, 10am: OGGB 260-319.Bible studies run during the se-mester teaching weeks.Evening Meetings

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Thursdays weekly, 5-6:30pm, in Old Choral Hall 104-155.

University of AucklandAuckland Overseas Christian Fellowship (OCF)Overview We meet every Friday 5:30PM @ the Maclaurin Chapel, 18 Princes Street, CBD. We are Jesus Followers. We are accepting of all people, faiths and are non-denominational. We are multi-cultural, mostly loud and food-crazy.Contact Liana Teoh;Email: ocfmail@gmail.comor Brydon;Phone: 0226218671Facebook: Auckland OCF (Over-seas Christian Fellowship)MeetingsWeekly GatheringFridays 5:30pm at Maclaurin Chapel, Princes St. All welcome to stay and join us for dinner at Food Alley after the meeting.IMPACT GROUPS (Bible Stud-ies)Mondays 2-4pm, Room 206-408 (Arts 1)Wednesdays 4-6pm, Room 260-323 (OGGB)Thursdays 4-6pm, Room 260-319 (OGGB)SISTERHOODFortnightly Tuesdays 4-6pm, Room 260-307Contact Erika 0210649992

University of AucklandVeritas (Auckland Law School)OverviewVeritas is a group of law students who meet together to discuss God, the law, and other issues that affect us.A typical meeting involves a controversial issue and a bunch of law students ready to debate and discuss various viewpoints. Past topics have included evolution,

abortion, Rob Bell’s Love Wins, and whether it is even possible to be a Christian lawyer! We also do Bible study, and have the ever popular “ask a law student” panel (where younger students can get advice from older students and learn what’s in store for them). Our goal is to provide a commu-nity for people to be refreshed and also to see the law school impacted by Jesus. We want to encourage law students to live their lives both at law school and beyond in a way that honours God.Contact Tess King/Jerome de Vries;Email: veritas.uoa@gmail.comFacebook: Veritas: Christians at Law SchoolMeetingsBible Study/Chat/CoffeeWe meet each week at Ngopi (79 Anzac Ave, Auckland CBD - near Short Street) Thursday 11am-12pm. The meetings work on a mostly rotational basis, between a Bible Study, topical discussion, coffee meet, or speaker.

University of AucklandKorean Young Adults Christian FellowshipOverviewWhat and who are we:1) A student body dedicated to praise & worship!2) A student body aimed at foster-ing spiritual identity as a Chris-tian on campus!3) Outreach to fellow students on campus!KYCF is a student-driven youth missionary organisation on cam-pus established in 1994. Our main aim is to be trained as Christ’s disciples through Bible studies and fellowship so that we may be able to reach out to other students regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender or age.We believe that through such

evangelism, God’s kingdom will be extended to the ends of the earth! We have had an English service in the last Thursday of every month to encourage fel-lowship amongst students of all ethnicities!Contact Harim Kim;Email: kimharim0620@hotmail.comFacebook: KYCF (Korean Young-adult Christian Fellow-ship)Paul Seo;Email: pauls@tscf.org.nzPhone: 09 889 2724MeetingsWeekly Worship ServiceThursdays 6:30 pmUniversity of Auckland, Old Gov-ernment HouseBible Study/Discipleship TrainingFridays 6:30pmUniversity of Auckland, Old Gov-ernment Lecture TheatreMorning Prayer Meeting7am at Mclaurin ChapelMon-Fri

University of AucklandAuckland University Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF)OverviewWe are a group on the Grafton campus who meet regularly for prayer and Bible studies. If you would like to know more about us or hear about our events, please email medicalchristiangroup@gmail.com. Everyone is welcome.Contact Robyn Drake;Phone: 0220237002Email: medicalchristiangroup@gmail.comFacebook: CMF – Christian Medical Fellowship Students Auckland

University of AucklandChristian Nursing StudentsOverview‘Christian Nursing Students’ (CNS) is a growing student group

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at the University of Auckland’s Grafton medical campus. We meet regularly each week to pray together, encourage one anoth-er, discuss and learn about God, develop each other as nursing colleagues, and to equip each other for ministry in healthcare and on Grafton Campus. We are also beginning to host outreach and social events, teaching days, fundraisers, small missions, and support for other campus groups.Contact Luke Stevenson (CNS Co-ordinator);Phone: 0273265093 Email: nursingsouls@gmail.com

Massey University AlbanyMassey Christian FellowshipOverviewWho are we?We are Christians who hang out together on campus. Any one, Kiwi or international who would like to find out about Jesus is welcome to come.What do we do?We chat, pray with each other, study the Bible together, and do social things as well.Do you want to come along?Do you like doing fun stuff with other students on campus? Do you want to find out about Jesus and the Bible? Then maybe you would like to come along?MeetingsWhen and where?We meet on Wednesday starting at 12 noon in QA4. Do come along and bring a friend or two as well.Contact Blake Gardiner;Phone: 022 063 4522 Email: blakejgardiner@gmail.com

Massey University AlbanyMassey Albany International MinistryOverviewIf you are studying at Massey

Albany or UNITEC, keen to meet international students or learn more about Jesus, contact Jeff Lane.Phone: 094441689Email: jeff@tscf.org.nz

UniTecConnect: Christians at UniTecOverviewLooking for community? Got questions about faith and life? We meet every Monday lunchtime to support each other through uni and explore what it looks like to follow Jesus at uni. Most weeks we’ll dig into the Bible together, but we’ll also do fun stuff to get to know each other better and have a break from the pressure of studies. We’re keen to give other Unitec students the opportunity to find out who Jesus is, so we welcome everyone to come along with their questions and to find out more about what following Jesus is all about.Contact Robyn;Email: robynd@tscf.org.nzPhone: 0220237002Facebook: Connect: Christians at UnitecMeetingsWe meet in the chapel (building 162 at the Mt Albert campus; see the map below) between 12 and 2pm every Monday during semester time. Come whenever you’re free - the Bible study will usually go from 12:30 to 1, but some of us will be hanging out before and after that depending on when we have classes. Every-one’s welcome!

Manukau Institute of TechnologyMIT South Campus Christian FellowshipOverviewWe’re an informal friendly group of students from all the South

Campus. It’s great to get togeth-er, to be encouraged from God’s Word, and to share our student stresses and pressures, and to pray for each other and our fac-ulties. Do come along and check us out. We meet from 12-1pm on Tuesdays. Bring your lunch to eat there. Everyone welcome.Contact: Michael Drake;Phone: 021-66-9796 Email: michaeld@tscf.org.nzMeetingsSOUTH Fellowship, Prayer and Bible StudyThursdaysE1024:00 pm - 5:00 pmSOUTH in depth Bible StudyAt Michael & Priscilla’s place43 Pilkington Road, Panmure7:30 pm - 8:30 pmSOUTH on BibleMeshThis is our on-line Bible Study course. Go to BibleMesh (www.biblemesh.com), subscribe, then send us an email and we will link you up with the SOUTH Bible-Mesh Discussion Group.

University of WaikatoHamilton Christian FellowshipOverviewWe have planned a series of meet-ings to encourage us to:• grow with each other as a sup-portive community• discuss and reflect on ideas and issues from a global perspective• understand, apply and share the Bible• use our talents, time and studies in a way that honours and glori-fies God• equip and prepare us with skills and experience needed to follow Christ in the future.As students at Waikato Universi-ty, we hope we can work out how best to be salt and light together.Teachers college students:We meet to pray, chat, support

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each other and have lunch on Fridays from 12 to 2pm in the teachers college café.Wintec students:We meet to pray, chat, support each other and have lunch on Tuesdays from 12 to 2pm in the Hub.Contact Li Lian Lim;Email: lilianl@tscf.org.nz

Massey University Palmerston NorthMassey University Christian FellowshipOverviewWhat does it mean to follow Christ on campus? As an interde-nominational evangelical group, we seek to encourage each other to find out. We get together each week at 6:30pm at The Centre to fellowship together. This year we are also hosting an Easter Camp out at Foxton Beach and are even hoping to throw a ball in semester two!Also, during the week we host bi-ble studies for those who are free and want to come along.Contact Rachel Taylor;Email: pnmucf@gmail.comFacebook: MUCF – Massey Uni-versity Christian FellowshipMeetingsWeekly MeetingThursdays at 6:30pmThe Centre.(Opposite the bus stop on Colom-bo Road)

Massey University Palmerston NorthPalmerston North Overseas Christian FellowshipOverviewWho are we?We are students from Malaysia, Singapore, Africa, India, Chi-na, New Zealand, Europe and a whole lot of places in between except Antarctica. Yes, we come

from all over the world, but what is central to us all is our love for the Lord Jesus Christ.We meet at the Massey Univer-sity Chaplaincy on Colombo RD (this is the main road into the centre of the campus) across from Colombo Hall at Massey Univer-sity. We meet on Friday nights from 6pm.The night kicks off with a fantas-tic meal at 6pm. The more struc-tured part of the evening starts at 7pm with some games and singing. We usually have a Bible study led by student leaders. We break up into small groups who meet in various rooms in the Chaplaincy building. We’ll come back together for a brief talk and dessert. Contact Nereeta Bhall;Phone: 02102837224 Email: pn_ocf@yahoo.co.nzMeetingsWeekly MeetingFridays, 6pmMassey University Chaplaincy,Colombo RD

UCOL Palmerston NorthUCOL Christian FellowshipOverviewUCF started in 2005 after many years without a group on campus. Interestingly enough we are the only club at UCOL! We meet as a group on Friday, have leaders meeting on Tuesday evenings, and prayer on Thurs-day mornings. We seek to see the gospel at the heart of UCOL through forming relationships, hearing God’s word, various outreaches and service activities. Every four weeks or so, (just so we don’t get too comfortable!) we do something either out in the wider UCOL community with our non-christian friends, or with the Student Association. This is to show the gospel is not something

we want to keep for ourselves, but something everyone should know! It’s good news!Contact Ian Reid;Mobile: 0211806135Email: ianr@tscf.org.nz

Victoria University Christian FellowshipOverviewVUCF is the Victoria University of Wellington Christian Fellow-ship. Our vision for the group is to be a community of students being shaped by God’s Word, and passionately sharing the truth, love and hope of Jesus Christ on campus. We are always learning and constantly being challenged as to what it means to be a stu-dent and have faith in God. We meet together once a week on Thursdays as well as hold occa-sional events at other times. All are welcome!Please do contact us with any Qs.Contact Shani Meyer;Phone: 022 059 4612Email: tscf.wellington@gmail.comFacebook: Christian Fellowship at VictoriaMeetingsThursday MeetingThursday nights, from 6pm.2 Kelburn Parade, just next to VUW’s Kelburn Campus!

University of OtagoOverseas Christian FellowshipOverviewYour home away from home. Looking for a place to explore Christianity in an open, friendly atmosphere with other interna-tional students?We’re an interdenominational group of folks seeking to build relationships and grow in fol-lowing Jesus in order to show his love to others. The bible… Fellowship… Food… Friends…

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What don’t we have here at OCF? Well, for starters, YOU! The Overseas Christian Fellowship, your home away from home. If you’re keen on deepening your bible knowledge and forging some wonderful friendships throughout your stay in universi-ty, contact us.Email: dunedinocf@gmail.comTim;Phone: 027 4666081MeetingsEvery Thursday from 6pm Evison Lounge, Clubs and Societies Building, Albany St.

University of OtagoVarsity Christian Fellowship (VCF)OverviewVCF is part of the TSCF nation-al student movement committed to students reaching students for Christ. True Witness, Undivid-ed life, Deep thought and Global Reach. Contact Hamish; Phone: 027 914 6915 Email: otagovcxf@gmail.comFacebook: Dunedin Varsity Chris-tian Fellowship.

University of OtagoDunedin Overseas Christian FellowshipOverviewDunedin Overseas Christian Fellowship (OCF) is a group of international students at Otago Uni with two aims:1) We want to provide a “home away from home” for other inter-national students who are looking for a place to make friends and belong during their studies in New Zealand.2) To provide a place for students, whether Kiwi or international, to find out about Jesus for the first

time or be encouraged in their growth as a Christian.We also hold regular cultural events, outings, fundraisers and international dinners several times a year.Please come along – everyone is welcome!Contact Abigail Paul;Email: dunedinocf@gmail.comMeetingsRegular MeetingThursday, 7pmEvison LoungeClubs & Societies Building.

University of OtagoMedical Christian FellowshipContact Clemency Johnstone;Email: medcf@hotmail.comMeetingsWeekly MeetingWhen: 1 to 2pm on ThursdaysWhere: room 119 The Hunter Centre.

University of Otago Dentist’s GroupContact Miryam;Email: miryamhenry@rocket-mail.comMeetings1pm to 1:45pm on FridaysWhere: Room 121, The Hunter Centre.Please email us to get confirma-tion of meeting venue as some-times we have to change rooms, sorry!

University of OtagoPhysiotherapist’s Christian FellowshipContact Caleb Hickling;Email: simons@tscf.org.nzMeetingsWeekly Meetings,12pm to 1pm, Room 118 in the Hunter Centre .

University of OtagoLawyer’s Christian FellowshipContact Mike Summerfield;

Email: mikes@tscf.org.nzFacebook: Law Christian Fellow-ship.

University of Otago Student LifeOverviewWe’re about giving every stu-dent at least one chance to hear a simple message about Jesus in a relevant way.MeetingsThe Local (The HUB) 71 Harrow St 7pm WednesdaysContact Jordan Grimmer; Phone: 027 492 6169 Email: otago@studentlife.co.nzFacebook: Otago Student Life.

University of OtagoStudent Christian Movement (SCM) RendevousOverviewWe are an ecumenical group, which believes that all students can deepen their faith through personal exploration and independent thought. We challenge you to think for yourself as you explore Christian-ity in an open and non-judgmen-tal environment.Contact Nic Haslam; Phone: 0273722692 Facebook: SCM RendezvousEmail: natsec@scm.org.nzWeb: www.scm.org.nzMeetingsWe have weekly discussion groups and a range of social and justice focused activities. Meets in OUSA Student Support Centre, 5 Ethel Benjamin Place.

University of OtagoOtago Campus ChristiansOverviewBible studies. Experiencing and enjoying Christ everyday. We love the Lord Jesus. Outings. We

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want others to know God and His purposes.MeetingsWe are based at 30 Grange St. Various gatherings during week including small group bible studies. Regular Wednesday meeting 6pm at 30 Grange St.Contact:Larissa 0222 376 278Karina 0222 376 762Otagocampuschristians.orgFacebook.com/Otagocampus-Christians30 Grange St, DunedinEmail Otagocc@gmail.com

Otago PolytechnicCalled to CareContact Jen Allaway;Email: jena@tscf.org.nzFacebook: Called to Care

Southern Institute of Technology - SIT FocusOverviewSIT Focus is the southern most student group in the world and one of the only student groups on SIT campus! If you are attending the Zero Fees campus and want to meet with other christian stu-dents, contact James! Contact James Allaway;Phone: 021 903 293 Email: james@tscf.org.nz

Lincoln University Christian FellowshipOverviewLUCF is a group of Lincoln students who meet regularly on campus to have fun, encourage each other in their Christian faith, and, most importantly, be a visi-ble witness together on campus.We meet on a Wednesdays at 12:30 in the YFC Building (inbetween Orchard carpark and Commerce building), to hang out

together, eat, and listen to some awesome speakers explain the Bible.Also running is fortnightly BASIC (Brothers And Sisters In Christ) training. It’s every other Monday night at 7pm, starting with dinner together than a practical skills session to encourage us as missionaries on campus. Prayer meetings are also held each Tuesday in term-time 8am-8.30am before first lectures to pray for our campus and for others around the world. YFC Building.On Wednesday nights 10.30pm - 1.30am we sell toasties to the halls students. This is an exciting way to serve the campus com-munity, by providing the students with food as they come home from the pub.LUCF is a great way to be en-couraged while you study at Lincoln, so get along and get involved.Want to know more or receive weekly emails from LUCF? For more information email us at LUSA.CF@lincolnuni.ac.nz.

Lincoln University Christian Fellowship Post-GradsOverviewWe’re a group of Lincoln post-grads meeting fortnightly to read through a Bible book together, and pray for each other and the campus. It’s been excellent to meet with other Christians, recognising that the life of a postgrad can be a lonely experience, and it’s been a huge encouragement to meet other believers and work out how the gospel applies to our research. We vary in age, research area and nationality, and would warmly welcome you. We meet all year round, fortnight-

ly Thursday lunchtimes. We’re like the United Nations, drawn from the Caribbean, Zam-bia, PNG, Germany, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Vanu-ata, and NZ. Email anik@tscf.org.nz.

University of Canterbury Christian UnionOverviewWe’re a community of people committed to living with Jesus at the centre of things. We recognise that the resurrection of Jesus from the dead was a declaration to our world – that Jesus is Lord of everything and everyone. We’ve got a long way to go in living that out – so we come together to help each other in that and to pass the word to others.Check out our website www.uccu.org.nz for some photos and details of when and where we meet.We’re a Christian Union – not (just) a Presbyterian or Angli-can Union (which doesn’t mean Presbyterians or Anglicans aren’t welcome!). Our union is a union of Christians from a huge range of denominational backgrounds. That’s a huge strength. It’s a place Christians can come together for the sake of the gospel on campus. So what unites us is the ‘gospel’ – a message of really good news about Jesus. Contact Matthew Joils.Email info@uccu.org.nz.MeetingsUC Christian Union6-9pm Every Wednesday of term time we meet together for dinner and to investigate God’s word together6pm Combined Dinner7:30-9pm Small Groups@ 2 Maidstone Rd (opposite Uni Hall)

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switchfoot’s 10th album is in the works!

“My grandma used to say that there are a few things you’re not supposed to talk about at a party: sex, politics, and religion. And yet, these topics are the ones I sing about night after night.,’ Switchfoot frontman Jon Foreman concludes.Wih the release of a new website for the American rock band comes the announce-ment of their tenth album, due out this year.The follow-up to ‘Fading West’, the 2013

album that accompa-nied the film of the same name about the band.Foreman concluded that he can “sing painfully honest songs in front of a thousand strangers easier than I can talk about these things with my closest friends. It’s odd, and I wish it weren’t true- but it is.’’He later commented “Sing about your deepest fears. Don’t pull punches. Swing as hard as you can. You’re not alone’’.

BY greta yeoman

greta yeoman is the editor of come alive and lives in

Dunedin.

IF YOU DIDN’T KNOW DAVID BOWIE HAD PASSED AWAY, I’M AFRAID HE HAS AND

YOU MUST HAVE BEEN LIVING UNDER A ROCK FOR THE LAST FEW WEEKS. ONLY A

MAN LIKE BOWIE COULD LEAVE IN SUCH STYLE, RELEASING THIS ALBUM “BLACK-

STAR” JUST TWO DAYS PRIOR TO HIS DEATH. IT’S ONLY SEVEN TRACKS BUT CONSID-ERING HE WROTE AND RECORDED THE

ENTIRE THING WHILE BATTERLING CAN-CER, IT’S QUITE IMPRESSIVE.

BlackstarDavid Bowie

the name of the album says it as it is.“casting crowns - a live worship expe-rience’’ is the most recent album from the american wor-ship band. recorded

at their home church, the album includes

songs such as “great are you lord”, “jesus,

friend of sinners” and “called me

higher”. 12 tracks of live worship.

Casting CrownsA Live Worship

Experiencejust to put something else into the mix, we have a release from

late last year, ed sheeran’s x (wembley stadium edition) which includes a number of live tracks from his 3 shows at wembley stadium in england. the sell-out shows were also turned

into a film “jumpers for goalposts” which show ed in concert

while also gearing up for the huge shows!

The World’s FavouriteWorship Songs

also just as it says it is, this album is a

compilation of some of the most-loved

modern worship songs. This includes “here i am to wor-

ship”, “in christ alone”, “oceans”, “10,000

reasons” and “lord, i lift your name on

high’’.the 52-track album even includes ho-sanna by our very

own kiwi songstress brooke fraser!

X (Wembley Edition)Ed Sheeran

IN OUR EARSlive and loud

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on the big screen: the top 10 movies of 2015

Interested in writing for come ALIVE? Contact Greta at comealivemagazine@gmail.com

This is going to split into two parts, Part 1: The Top Five Movies I did see in 2015 and Part 2: The Top Five Movies of 2015 that I saw the trailers to, wanted to see, predicted were going to be good, and inevitably the world seems to think are good, but I didn’t get to see.

Part 1:

Mad Max: Fury RoadWhat can I say? I did really enjoy it. However, there weren’t a lot of movies where I liked the story this year. The cinematography was absolutely outstanding in many films, including this one. The overall plot line was relatively non-existent but I guess enjoy-ment therefore depends on what you make and watch a movie for.

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. I liked this movie. It’s not the highest rated internationally movie on this list, and I don’t care. It was funny, it was fun, it had a shooting style I really liked, and I loved the characters and the character development.

Mr. HolmesIt made me think, it was beautiful-ly shot, and beautifully poignant. And for that, it is on this list. Also Ian McKellan as an elderly Sher-lock Holmes was fantastic.

six Oscars, although we all know that doesn’t really mean anything, it has good standing amongst the films of 2015.

SpotlightThere were a lot of real life stories made into movie adaptions this past year, and Spotlight was not in the least of them. Another star studded cast and another heavy Oscar nomination, this was a movie I wanted to see purely based on the tension that the trail-er delivered.

The Revenant Another movie based on a true story, it will be interesting to see if this movie will live up to its twelve Oscar nomination and its hype. But I did, and still do really want to see Leo fighting a Grizzly in post-Civil War America…

The MartianAlthough I can’t say for sure if it is really deserving of its seven Oscar nomination, this was a movie I really wanted to see, as it looked like a fun, well-paced and exciting sci fi flick. Too bad, I can’t afford to see all the movies I want to see, before a certain date.

Star Wars: The Force AwakensThis is mostly just on this list for anticipation’s sake, and nostal-gia’s, but I did enjoy it, despite its many flaws. I even went to see it twice and it did not get any worse the second time. And I loved, wait for it… the cinematography. There were some beyond epic shots in this movie.

The Water DivinerI liked this movie because it showed Gallipoli from more than just the perspective that we usual-ly think about it. It was a tragedy, but it had hope, and that was en-couraging, especially considering the setting, and especially consid-ering some of the happenstances in this past year.

Part 2:

The Big ShortThis was something I really wanted to see mostly because of the impeccable cast line up, and what looked to be a promising script from the trailer, along with a combination of humour and seriousness to make the means for a good film.

Bridge of SpiesTom Hanks in a cold war atypi-cal spy movie, based on real life events was something I really wanted to see. Now nominated for

evonne key is ca’s deputy editor. She lives in arrowtown and is a writer, artist, scriptwriter and a huge fan of books & movies.

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This year brings us many animated mov-ies, and a lot of them about little furry crit-ters. The first of which is Zootopia, or Zoo-tropolis, depending on what country you live in, which tells the story of newly badged Bunny Cop, who tries to make a name for herself in the big, wild, world, by solving a murder with the help of an unlikely fox ally.

Zootopia - March 4

If you can get past the pretentious title and the trailer that seemed to reveal everything, then please put your hands together and get excited for the newest Batman movie. Because admit it, that’s really why you’ll be going to this. And for the Batman/Supes fight scene.

Batman vs Superman:Dawn of Justice

March 25Marvel kicks off its very busy year with the highly anticipated Deadpool movie. The advertising for this flick about the Merc with the Mouth has been off the charts, over the top, and exactly what we expect and want from the real Deadpool. Smart, sassy, sarcastic and breaking the fourth wall at every possible moment. However, do note that it is R-rated.

Deadpool - Feb 12

Our featured video just had to be this one for David Bowie’s ‘Lazarus’, the last single he released. The video is a haunting film of him singing from his hospital bed, which opens with the phrase “Look at me, I’m up in heaven’’. It had gathered more than 16 million views in its first five days. Farewell Bowie.

featured video

Imagine Dragons ‘Smoke + Mirrors’ Live film is

coming to NZ cinemas in Wednesday, March 2, for

one night only.

Event Cinemas: Chartwell, Albany,

Queensgate

Rialto Cinemas:Dunedin, Tauranga

Monterey Cinemas: Howick, Upper Hutt

Bridgeway Cinema:Northcote

Hoyts Cinemas:Sylvia Park, Riccarton,

Te Awa

live & loud

imagine dragons on the big screen

imagine dragons, “smoke + mirrors” tour will be screening at selected movie

theatres around nz on march 2.

in the meme time....

this wonderful image comes via the “Reformed memes

daily” facebook page. have you seen an image, meme

or photo suitable for this section? get in touch

with us!

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THE BRAINSTORMER:The Brainstormer holds endless combinations of writing ideas and challeng-es. This is a fun and imagi-native app beneficial for all fiction writers. Available on iOS only.

FEATURED APP

LOUD MUSIC FESTIVAL

Interested in writing for come ALIVE? Contact Greta at comealivemagazine@gmail.com

A tiny crowd and other errands on December 5 meant I only stuck around Loud festival for a few hours, but for the small time I was there it was enjoyable.The sadly scheduled combination of a talk by Professor Murray Rae and performance by Satelltie’s Bazi Baker, meant my ears drifted between the two events. Both were lovely.One youth group turned up to the Dunedin Elim Church-based event, which had undergone plenty of changes that year, changing its name from Samstock to Loud, as well as shifting location and date. I just felt disappointed it hadn’t drawn a bigger crowd, with the 15-year history of Samstock having draw some of the country’s biggest Christian musicians and thousands of people in the past. The organisers did a won-derful job and the lack of a crowd was not reflective of the work of the team, with festival director Krystle Mikaere enthusiastically talking about plans for the festival in the days before.Let’s see what next year brings, let’s hope for a return to bigger crowd numbers.

Eb & Sparrow are taking flight this March to embark on an extensive, nationwide tour.The Welling-ton-based folk band have toured with some of the best folk musicians in the country, including The Warratahs, Marlon Williams and Delaney Davidson. Catch them on the road this March, it’s a show you won’t be disappointed to spare a evening for.For more information visit www.aotnz.co.nz.

OFF ON TOUR: EB & SPARROWTour dates:Wednesday 2 March - Mussel InnFriday 4 March - AmberlySaturday 5 March - AshburtonMonday 7 March - Lincoln Tuesday 8 March - HokitikaWednesday 9 March - OkaritoThursday 10 March - CromwellFriday 11 March - GoreSaturday 12 March - InvercargillMonday 14 March - Stewart IslandWednesday 16 March - DunedinThursday 17 March - TwizelFriday 18 March - FairlieSaturday 19 March - Isaac Theatre RoyalWednesday 23 March - HamiltonThursday 24 March - Kauaeranga HallSaturday 26 March - CoromandelThursday 31 March - OnewheroFriday 1 April - OpotikiSaturday 2 April - Rangiwahia

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