Tim Curry Dead at 80

Tim Curry, the unforgettable star of The Rocky Horror Picture Show and so many other indelible roles, has died at 80. He passed away peacefully at his home in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, on August 25, 2026. His longtime manager and friend Marcia Hurwitz confirmed the news. A major stroke in 2012 had left him using a wheelchair, yet he continued working, writing his 2025 memoir Vagabond, and making select public appearances, including a Rocky Horror 50th-anniversary reunion.

He leaves no immediate family survivors. He never married and guarded his private life closely. What he shared publicly was a life of restless creativity, mischief, and a distinctive voice that could charm, terrify, or make you laugh in the same breath.

 A Life Shaped by Movement and Performance

Timothy James Curry was born on April 19, 1946, in Grappenhall, Cheshire, England, to James Curry, a Methodist chaplain in the Royal Navy, and Patricia (Maura “Pat”) Curry, a school secretary. The family moved frequently with his father’s postings. After James Curry suffered a stroke and died in 1958 when Tim was 12, the family settled and Tim won a scholarship to Kingswood School in Bath. There he sang as a boy soprano and discovered acting. He later earned a combined BA in English and Drama from the University of Birmingham in 1968.

His first professional job was in the original London production of Hair in 1968. He bluffed his way in by claiming he already had an Equity card; the producers were so impressed they sponsored him. That production introduced him to Richard O’Brien, who later invited him to audition for a new show at the Royal Court’s Theatre Upstairs. Curry originated Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in 1973. The role followed him to Los Angeles, Broadway, and the 1975 film The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which became a midnight-movie phenomenon.

 Famous Portrayals That Defined a Generation

Curry’s gift was for larger-than-life characters delivered with precision and wit. Frank-N-Furter remains his signature: the “sweet transvestite from Transsexual Transylvania,” equal parts seductive, monstrous, and theatrical. He brought the same electricity to Pennywise the Dancing Clown in the 1990 IT miniseries, Wadsworth the butler in Clue (1985), Cardinal Richelieu in The Three Musketeers (1993), and Long John Silver in Muppet Treasure Island (1996).

He was a prolific voice actor—Nigel Thornberry in The Wild Thornberrys, Hexxus in FernGully, and many others—and a three-time Tony nominee for stage work that included Amadeus, The Pirates of Penzance, and Spamalot. He also released albums and, late in life, his memoir. Even after the stroke limited his mobility, he returned as the Criminologist in the 2016 Rocky Horror television remake.

 Religious Beliefs

Curry grew up in a Methodist household. His father was a naval chaplain, and young Tim sang in church choirs. He later said he was “not particularly God-fearing” but respected faith and absorbed Methodist values of living simply. He described himself as a cheerful agnostic and did not believe in heaven or hell, though he remained curious about what might come after death. He kept his inner life private and never made religion a public part of his identity.

 A Prayer and a Farewell

May the God of all comfort grant rest to Tim Curry’s spirit and peace to those who loved him and were changed by his work. May whatever mystery awaits him be kind. We give thanks for the laughter, the chills, the songs, and the fearless performances he left behind.

He will be deeply missed. The Time Warp will never be quite the same. Rest in peace, Tim.

St. John Henry Newman: A Doctor of the Church for the Modern Age

St. John Henry Newman: A Doctor of the Church for the Modern Age

On July 31, 2025, Pope Leo XIV announced that St. John Henry Newman would be declared the 38th Doctor of the Church, a prestigious title reserved for saints whose theological, spiritual, and intellectual contributions have profoundly shaped the Catholic faith. This historic decision underscores Newman’s enduring legacy as a thinker, apologist, educator, and convert whose writings continue to resonate in a world grappling with questions of faith, reason, and truth. This blog post explores Newman’s life, his famous quotes, his journey from Protestantism to Catholicism, and the reasons behind his elevation to Doctor of the Church.

 Biography of St. John Henry Newman

John Henry Newman was born on February 21, 1801, in London, England, the eldest of six children in a family of French Huguenot (Protestant) descent on his mother’s side and an English banker father. Raised in an Evangelical Anglican household, Newman’s early life was marked by a deep commitment to faith and intellectual rigor. At the age of 15, in 1816, he experienced what he later described as his “first conversion,” a profound spiritual awakening influenced by Anglican minister Walter Mayers. This encounter instilled in him a sense of a “definite creed” and a lifelong dedication to seeking truth.[](https://www.wordonfire.org/articles/a-new-doctor-of-the-church-st-john-henry-newman/)[](https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2025/08/02/meeting-doctor-newman/)

Newman’s academic brilliance led him to Trinity College, Oxford, where he enrolled at 16. Despite an initial academic setback, he excelled, becoming a fellow of Oriel College in 1822 and later vicar of St. Mary the Virgin, the university church, in 1828. During this time, he emerged as a leading figure in the Oxford Movement (1833–1845), a group of Anglican scholars and clergy, including John Keble and Edward Pusey, who sought to restore the Church of England’s Catholic roots by emphasizing apostolic succession, liturgical beauty, and the authority of the early Church Fathers. The movement aimed to position Anglicanism as a via media (middle way) between Protestantism and Roman Catholicism.[](https://www.wordonfire.org/articles/a-new-doctor-of-the-church-st-john-henry-newman/)[](https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/john-henry-newman-first-tried-to-disprove-catholicism-now-hes-being-named-a-doctor-of-the-church)[](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-Henry-Newman)

Newman’s intellectual journey, however, led him to question the theological foundations of Anglicanism. His intensive study of the Church Fathers and the history of Christian doctrine revealed to him that the Catholic Church, not Anglicanism, was the true continuation of the apostolic faith. This realization culminated in his 1845 masterpiece, An Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, which argued that doctrine evolves organically, guided by the Holy Spirit, while remaining faithful to its origins. This work was pivotal in his decision to convert to Catholicism in October 1845, a move that shocked English society and cost him his Oxford fellowship, friends, and family ties.[](https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/john-henry-newman-first-tried-to-disprove-catholicism-now-hes-being-named-a-doctor-of-the-church)[](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-Henry-Newman)

Received into the Catholic Church by Blessed Dominic Barberi at Littlemore, Newman was ordained a Catholic priest in 1847. He founded the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in England, establishing communities in Birmingham and London, and served as rector of the Catholic University of Ireland (now University College Dublin) from 1854 to 1858. In 1879, Pope Leo XIII named him a cardinal, a recognition of his contributions despite initial suspicions from some Catholics who viewed him as a liberal due to his Anglican background. Newman died on August 11, 1890, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, leaving behind a vast body of work, including 40 books and over 20,000 letters. He was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010 and canonized by Pope Francis in 2019.[](https://aleteia.org/2025/07/31/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-doctor-of-the-church/)[](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/265685/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-declared-38th-doctor-of-the-church)[](https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2025/07/31/newman-named-doctor-church-251224/)

 Famous Quotes of St. John Henry Newman

Newman’s writings are renowned for their eloquence and depth, offering insights into faith, reason, conscience, and the human condition. Here are some of his most famous quotes, which continue to inspire Catholics and non-Catholics alike:

1. “To be deep in history is to cease to be a Protestant.”  

   This iconic statement from An Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine encapsulates Newman’s belief that a thorough study of Christian history leads inevitably to the Catholic Church, which he saw as the true heir to the apostolic tradition. It reflects his intellectual journey and has become a touchstone for Catholic apologists.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Henry_Newman)[](https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/st-john-henry-newman-deep-in-history)

2. “Heart speaks to heart.” (Cor ad cor loquitur)  

   Chosen as his cardinal’s motto, this phrase, inspired by St. Francis de Sales, emphasizes Newman’s view that faith is a deeply personal encounter with God, a dialogue between hearts. Pope Francis highlighted this in his encyclical Dilexit Nos, noting that Newman’s encounter with Christ was rooted in prayer and the Eucharist.[](https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-07/st-john-henry-newman-set-to-become-newest-doctor-of-the-church.html)[](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/265685/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-declared-38th-doctor-of-the-church)

3. “Ten thousand difficulties do not make one doubt.”  

   This quote, often cited in discussions of faith and reason, underscores Newman’s belief that intellectual challenges or uncertainties do not necessarily undermine true faith. It reflects his approach to reconciling faith with inquiry.[](https://www.wordonfire.org/articles/a-new-doctor-of-the-church-st-john-henry-newman/)

4. “To live is to change, and to be perfect is to have changed often.”  

   From An Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, this quote illustrates Newman’s understanding of doctrinal development as an organic process, akin to the growth of a living organism, guided by divine revelation.[](https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2025/07/31/newman-named-doctor-church-251224/)

5. “The best preparation for loving the world at large, and loving it duly and wisely, is to cultivate our intimate friendship and affection towards those who are immediately about us.”  

   In a sermon, Newman emphasized the importance of personal relationships as a foundation for universal Christian love, seeing friendship as a reflection of divine love.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Henry_Newman)

6. “Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom, Lead Thou me on.”  

   This line from Newman’s poem The Pillar of the Cloud (1833), written during a period of spiritual uncertainty, expresses his trust in divine guidance. It remains one of his most beloved poetic contributions.[](https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-07/st-john-henry-newman-set-to-become-newest-doctor-of-the-church.html)

These quotes highlight Newman’s ability to distill complex theological and spiritual insights into memorable, accessible phrases that continue to guide and inspire.

 Protestant Background and Conversion

Newman’s journey from Protestantism to Catholicism is one of the most significant aspects of his life, illustrating his relentless pursuit of truth. Raised in an Evangelical Anglican family, Newman was steeped in a tradition that emphasized personal prayer, Bible reading, and the doctrine of sola fide (faith alone). At 15, his first conversion under Walter Mayers’ influence deepened his commitment to a structured creed, setting the stage for his lifelong theological exploration.[](https://media.ascensionpress.com/2019/10/18/st-john-henry-newman-and-his-critique-of-modern-ideas/)

By his late 20s, Newman began to question key Protestant doctrines, particularly sola fide and sola scriptura (Scripture alone). The death of his sister in 1828 and his immersion in the Church Fathers prompted a shift toward high-church Anglicanism, culminating in his leadership of the Oxford Movement. This movement sought to revive the Church of England’s Catholic heritage, emphasizing the sacraments, apostolic succession, and the authority of tradition. Newman’s Tract 90 (1841), which argued that the Anglican Thirty-Nine Articles were compatible with Catholic teachings, sparked controversy and led to his marginalization within the Church of England.[](https://www.catholic.com/tract/st-john-newman-the-38th-doctor-of-the-church)[](https://media.ascensionpress.com/2019/10/18/st-john-henry-newman-and-his-critique-of-modern-ideas/)[](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-Henry-Newman)

As Newman delved deeper into the history of the early Church, he became convinced that the Catholic Church was the authentic continuation of the apostolic faith. His study of the Church Fathers, particularly during the writing of An Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, revealed that doctrines like the Immaculate Conception and papal authority were not innovations but organic developments of early Christian beliefs. He famously wrote, “The history of the first Councils showed him that the Via Media was an erroneous path.” This realization, coupled with his intellectual honesty, led him to resign from his Anglican positions and convert to Catholicism in 1845.[](https://www.wordonfire.org/articles/a-new-doctor-of-the-church-st-john-henry-newman/)[](https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/john-henry-newman-first-tried-to-disprove-catholicism-now-hes-being-named-a-doctor-of-the-church)

Newman’s conversion was a cultural and ecclesial earthquake in England. As a prominent Anglican theologian, his decision to “cross the Tiber” was seen as a betrayal by many Anglicans, costing him his Oxford fellowship, friendships, and family relationships, including with his sister. Yet Newman described the experience as “like coming into port after a rough sea,” reflecting the peace he found in embracing the Catholic faith. His conversion inspired a wave of others to follow, contributing to what has been called the “second and third spring” of English Catholicism.[](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/265717/scholars-praise-newest-church-doctor-s-defense-of-catholicism)[](https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2025/07/31/newman-named-doctor-church-251224/)

 Why St. John Henry Newman Is Being Declared a Doctor of the Church

The title of Doctor of the Church is bestowed on saints whose writings and teachings have made an outstanding contribution to Catholic doctrine, theology, or spirituality. Newman’s elevation to this rank, announced by Pope Leo XIV, reflects his profound impact on the Church, particularly in the areas of doctrinal development, conscience, faith and reason, and education. Here are the key reasons for his declaration as the 38th Doctor of the Church:

1. Development of Christian Doctrine  

   Newman’s An Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine is considered his magnum opus, providing a theological framework for understanding how doctrine evolves over time without contradicting its origins. He argued that doctrine grows organically, like a seed into a tree, guided by the Holy Spirit. This concept, formalized at Vatican II, helps explain doctrines like the Immaculate Conception and papal infallibility, which Newman showed were present in rudimentary form in early Christianity. His work countered Protestant objections to Catholic teachings as “innovations” and provided a robust defense of the Church’s continuity.[](https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/john-henry-newman-doctor-of-the-church)[](https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/st-john-henry-newman-deep-in-history)[](https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/john-henry-newman-first-tried-to-disprove-catholicism-now-hes-being-named-a-doctor-of-the-church)

2. Theology of Conscience  

   Newman’s writings on conscience, particularly in A Grammar of Assent (1870), emphasize it as the “voice of God” speaking to the human heart. He argued that conscience can lead to belief in God’s existence and guide moral decisions, offering a counterpoint to secular rationalism. His nuanced view of conscience as both personal and informed by divine authority has influenced Catholic moral theology and apologetics.[](https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/john-henry-newman-doctor-of-the-church)[](https://firstthings.com/st-john-henry-newman-doctor-for-the-modern-world/)

3. Faith and Reason  

   Newman’s approach to harmonizing faith and reason was groundbreaking, especially in an age marked by Enlightenment skepticism and rationalism. In The Idea of a University (1852), he advocated for a liberal arts education that integrates faith and intellectual inquiry, emphasizing the formation of the whole person. His defense of a Catholic university free from ecclesiastical censorship while respectful of Church teachings remains relevant in debates over Catholic education.[](https://aleteia.org/2025/07/31/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-doctor-of-the-church/)[](https://firstthings.com/st-john-henry-newman-doctor-for-the-modern-world/)

4. Ecclesiology and Ecumenism  

   Newman’s writings on the Church, including his emphasis on the role of the laity and the organic unity of the Church, anticipated the teachings of Vatican II. His ecumenical spirit, rooted in his Anglican background, made him a bridge between Protestantism and Catholicism, inspiring dialogue and conversions. His work on the Church Fathers also resonated with Orthodox theologians, broadening his ecumenical impact.[](https://catholicstarherald.org/making-st-john-henry-newman-church-doctor-is-a-huge-encouragement-to-british-catholics/)

5. Apologetics and Evangelization  

   As a controversialist and apologist, Newman defended Catholicism against anti-Catholic prejudice in England, notably through his Apologia Pro Vita Sua (1864), a spiritual autobiography that rehabilitated his reputation after attacks on his integrity. His intellectual rigor and personal witness continue to guide Catholic apologists in engaging a secular world.[](https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/john-henry-newman-doctor-of-the-church)[](https://aleteia.org/2025/07/31/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-doctor-of-the-church/)

6. Holiness and Witness  

   Newman’s life of heroic virtue, marked by courage, humility, and fidelity to truth despite personal cost, complements his intellectual contributions. His conversion, undertaken at great sacrifice, serves as a model for seekers of truth. His devotion to prayer, the Eucharist, and friendship as a foretaste of divine love further underscores his sanctity.[](https://www.ncregister.com/commentaries/newman-is-the-doctor-of-the-church-we-need-now)[](https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-07/st-john-henry-newman-set-to-become-newest-doctor-of-the-church.html)

7. Influence on the Modern Church  

   Newman’s ideas have shaped modern Catholic thought, particularly through Vatican II, where he is often called the “hidden father.” His emphasis on the development of doctrine, the role of the laity, and the integration of faith and reason continues to address contemporary challenges, such as secularism and relativism. Scholars like Cardinal Vincent Nichols and Msgr. Roderick Strange have noted that Newman’s teachings remain “burning issues” for the Church today.[](https://catholicstarherald.org/making-st-john-henry-newman-church-doctor-is-a-huge-encouragement-to-british-catholics/)[](https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/what-makes-john-henry-newman-a-doctor-of-the-church/)

 Newman’s Legacy and Relevance Today

Newman’s declaration as a Doctor of the Church comes at a time when England is experiencing signs of a Catholic revival, and his voice is seen as vital for addressing modern challenges. His emphasis on conscience counters moral relativism, his educational philosophy challenges reductive secular curricula, and his apologetics provide tools for evangelizing in a skeptical world. As Msgr. Andrew Wadsworth noted, Newman “thought himself into the Catholic Church through the reading of the Fathers,” making him a guide for those seeking truth.[](https://www.ncregister.com/news/pentin-newman-doctor-providential)

His canonization in 2019 and his elevation to Doctor of the Church in 2025 reflect the Church’s recognition of his timeless contributions. Newman Centers at universities worldwide, named in his honor, continue to foster Catholic intellectual and spiritual life among students. His life and writings inspire not only Catholics but also Protestants and Orthodox Christians, as well as secular thinkers who admire his commitment to truth and reason.[](https://aleteia.org/2025/07/31/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-doctor-of-the-church/)[](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-Henry-Newman)

 Conclusion

St. John Henry Newman’s journey from an Evangelical Anglican to a Catholic cardinal and now a Doctor of the Church is a testament to his relentless pursuit of truth, his profound theological insights, and his enduring sanctity. His writings on doctrinal development, conscience, faith and reason, and education offer a roadmap for navigating the complexities of faith in the modern world. As the 38th Doctor of the Church, Newman’s legacy will continue to guide and inspire generations, encouraging all to seek truth with courage and to live in a “heart-to-heart” dialogue with God.

Sources  

 Wikipedia: John Henry Newman  [](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Henry_Newman)

 Catholic Answers Magazine: John Henry Newman: Doctor of the Church!  [](https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/john-henry-newman-doctor-of-the-church)

 Word on Fire: A New Doctor of the Church: St. John Henry Newman  [](https://www.wordonfire.org/articles/a-new-doctor-of-the-church-st-john-henry-newman/)

 National Catholic Register: 8 Ways St. John Henry Newman Is the Doctor of the Church We Need Now  [](https://www.ncregister.com/commentaries/newman-is-the-doctor-of-the-church-we-need-now)

 Catholic Answers Tract: St. John Newman | The 38th Doctor of the Church Overview  [](https://www.catholic.com/tract/st-john-newman-the-38th-doctor-of-the-church)

 Aleteia: St. John Henry Newman to be Doctor of the Church  [](https://aleteia.org/2025/07/31/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-doctor-of-the-church/)

 Vatican News: St John Henry Newman set to become newest Doctor of the Church  [](https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-07/st-john-henry-newman-set-to-become-newest-doctor-of-the-church.html)

 Catholic Answers Magazine: St. John Henry Newman: Deep in History  [](https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/st-john-henry-newman-deep-in-history)

 National Catholic Register: St. John Henry Newman’s Elevation as Doctor of the Church Seen as a Gift for Our Times  [](https://www.ncregister.com/news/pentin-newman-doctor-providential)

 Ascension Press Media: St. John Henry Newman and His Critique of Modern Ideas  [](https://media.ascensionpress.com/2019/10/18/st-john-henry-newman-and-his-critique-of-modern-ideas/)

 Crisis Magazine: John Henry Newman First Tried to Disprove Catholicism  [](https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/john-henry-newman-first-tried-to-disprove-catholicism-now-hes-being-named-a-doctor-of-the-church)

 Catholic News Agency: St. John Henry Newman to be declared 38th doctor of the Church  [](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/265685/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-declared-38th-doctor-of-the-church)

 Catholic World Report: Meeting Doctor Newman  [](https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2025/08/02/meeting-doctor-newman/)

 First Things: St. John Henry Newman, Doctor for the Modern World  [](https://firstthings.com/st-john-henry-newman-doctor-for-the-modern-world/)

 Britannica: St. John Henry Newman  [](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-Henry-Newman)

 Catholic Star Herald: Making St. John Henry Newman church doctor is a ‘huge encouragement’  [](https://catholicstarherald.org/making-st-john-henry-newman-church-doctor-is-a-huge-encouragement-to-british-catholics/)

 Church Life Journal: What Makes John Henry Newman a Doctor of the Church?  [](https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/what-makes-john-henry-newman-a-doctor-of-the-church/)

 Catholic News Agency: Scholars praise newest Church doctor’s defense of Catholicism  [](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/265717/scholars-praise-newest-church-doctor-s-defense-of-catholicism)

 America Magazine: St. John Henry Newman will be named doctor of the church by Pope Leo  [](https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2025/07/31/newman-named-doctor-church-251224/)

 Saint Cardinal John Henry Newman Website: St. John Henry Newman to be Declared a Doctor of the Church[](https://www.cardinaljohnhenrynewman.com/st-john-henry-newman-to-be-declared-a-doctor-of-the-church/)

Minions

I have just come out of the movie theater after watching "Minions" with my nephew. The movie is based on the lovable yellow creatures from the "Despicable Me" franchise.  "Minions" is set up to tell the origin and purpose of the Minion character.  It begins showing "Minion single cell" organism swimming in a primordial soup. They evolve looking for a "boss."

As they evolve to their current twinkie shaped yellow form, they continue to seek a leader.  First a tyrannosaurus was chosen by the Minions, then a caveman. Both leaders succumbed to the clumsiness of the Minion creatures. They then become servants of the Egyptian Pharoah, but accidently kills him and the Egyptians by dropping a pyramid on them.  The movie then fast forwards to 1968 where three of the Minions (Kevin, Bob, Stuart) settle in New York City.  While there, they encounter a secret broadcast infomercial for "Villian Con."  This is a convention specifically for villains and would be held at Orlando, Florida.  The three Minions are intrigued and make it their mission to go to Orlando.  They do this by attempting to hitchhike. While doing so, they encounter a family of robbers who drives them to the convention. Orlando is presented as swampland instead of the city it is today. The Villian convention is held underground.  At the convention, the minions try to apply to be servants for villains present but fail to impress them.  Their skills are "not evil or a talent" as one character informs one Minion.  The main event at the convention entails a presentation given by the biggest villain of them all: Scarlet Overkill who is voiced by Sandra Bullock.

Scarlet Overkill is looking for henchmen.  In order to become her henchmen, she challenges those villains participating into stealing a red ruby from her hand.  Several villains try but are beaten up by the quick and skilled Scarlet Overkill. However, one of the Minions gets caught in the scuffle and loses his teddy bear.  The ruby ends up in the Minion's mouth.  Scarlet is surprised and makes the Minions her henchmen.  She takes them to England where she has a compound.  The movie mocks British people by highlighting the stereotype of large teeth, aloof personalities and rigidity. Moreover, there is a scene where the Moon Landing is also mocked.  The minions enter what appears to be a movie studio where the Moon Landing is being filmed.  Lastly, Anglicanism is also mocked. An Anglican bishop is described as "squishy" as Scarlet squeezes his cheeks.  A scene in the movie shows the Minions busting through a stain glass window of what looks like three bishops in the "hear no evil, see no evil..." pose with the covering of eyes, ears.  However, the last bishop on the window is covering his crotch.  It seems this may have been a jab at the Anglican community of maybe even the Catholic Church in regards to the sexual abuse scandals.  It seems that the message conveyed is that the bishops do not acknowledge evil.

Moreover, Scarlet orders the minions to steal Queen Elizabeth II's state crown.  The Minions attempt to do so but fail at first.  The Minion Bob does capture Queen Elizabeth's buggy, but she refuses to hand over the state crown.  They struggle at the Sword in the Stone location where the Excalibur Sword is impaled. The Minion Bob pulls out Excalibur using robotic arms and the cops who came to rescue Queen Elizabeth begin to bow before him.  Queen Elizabeth then hands Bob the state crowd with a frustrated reaction.  She abdicates the throne and Bob becomes King Bob.  Meanwhile, Scarlet views the coronation and becomes upset believing the Minions betrayed her.  She wanted the crown for herself and wanted to be crowned as Queen.  This is when she goes after the Minions.  They willingly give her the crown, but she imprisons them in a dungeon instead.  The Minions escape and try to apologize to Scarlet during her coronation but accidently drop a huge chandelier from the cathedral on her.  She interprets this as an attempt to kill her and orders other villains gathered at the coronation to go after her.

The Minions make an escape  and run into Queen Elizabeth in a pub drinking with men.  Two of them are captured while Kevin is left to rescue them.  Meanwhile, other Minions are traveling to England to meet their three brothers there.  Kevin attempts to rescue Stuart and Bob but is outnumbered by the villains Scarlet sent after him. He ends up in her compound and enters a machine that makes him grow into a giant.  As a giant, he rescues Bob and Stuart who are tied up in a pile of TNT.  Scarlet finds out and goes after him with her robotic dress.  She fires rockets at him but is unable to defeat him.  She then tries to fly off with her husband, but Kevin holds onto her.  Her rocket lifts him up into the sky where the stress of Kevin's weight as a giant causes the dress to explode. The Minions all gather and watch.  They believe Keven is dead, but he appears parachuting down with his overalls.

Queen Elizabeth II is restored as the monarch and celebrates the three Minions who rescued England from Scarlet.  She hands them gifts and gives Bob's teddy bear a crown.  However, Scarlet and her husband appear and take the state crown.  They try to make a run for it but are then frozen by a young fat boy who turns out to be young Gru from Despicable Me.  The minions are in awe of this kid as he gets away in a ship and go after him seeking him to be their boss.  Bob in the meantime returns to Scarlet and gives her the crown Elizabeth gave to his teddy bear.  So the ending shows how the Minions and Gru came to be acquainted.

The movie starts out slow but then the story begins to build up.  It is full of funny moments, especially the typical silly clumsy comedy that children love. There is some nudity in the form of a sumo wrestler with his butt-cheeks showing and later on, Bob is seen in a thong walking showing his butt cheeks as he walked into a pool.  No foul language is used in the movie, but some innuendos are made that only adults will notice.  Overall, the movie was fun. I was surprised to see many adults and even teen boys present at the movies today along with children of all ages.  The movie deals with the themes of greed, loyalty, belonging, and heroism.  The Minions is a movie for people of all ages and can be used to teach children about morals.   Photos posted here were taken by me using my phone.  

Gun Control

In light of the recent school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut; law officials are now pushing for more "gun control."  They hope to scale back the ability of people to purchase large guns.

The issue is a bit tricky.  I can see the rationale in both sides.

For guns

• The Constitution states we have the right to bear arms.  It does not specify the size.  
• We have the right to bear arms because of our history as Americans.  Colonists needed arms to defend themselves against the tyranny of the British armies during the revolution.
• It is not fair for the government and law officials to have guns and the people remain unarmed.   
• Hunting is a sport and guns are needed.

Against Guns

• Far too many people have died from guns.
• The USA has the highest gun deaths of any nation.
• Why do the people need guns if we have police and armies?
• Guns in the hands of the wrong people can be extremely dangerous..

What do you think?