Theology of Film - Interpreting and Applying Hollywood’s Modern-Day Parables

Elf and the Embodiment of Christmas Joy

In this episode of ‘Theology of Film’, hosts Laura and Ryan delve into the Christmas classic ‘Elf’. They discuss Buddy the Elf's unwavering kindness and belief in the goodness of others, exploring how these traits can serve as a model for Christians to live joyfully and lovingly. The conversation shifts to the notable absence of explicit references to Jesus in many Christmas films, prompting a heartfelt reflection on the true meaning of Christmas. Through readings and personal anecdotes, Laura and Ryan encourage listeners to embrace joy, show unconditional love, and glorify God throughout the festive season and beyond. The episode wraps up with practical ways to live out these principles in day-to-day life.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'Elf' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
Discussed Passage:
Luke 2:8-20
Mentioned in this episode:
Lord of the Rings (film series by Peter Jackson)
Iron Man (film by Jon Favreau)
The Mandalorian (streaming series by Jon Favreau)
Rankin/Bass Christmas specials (e.g., Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer)
Zathura (film by Jon Favreau)
Saturday Night Live (sketch comedy tv series)
Through Painted Deserts (memoir by Donald Miller)
Blue Like Jazz (novel by Donald Miller)
Shoe Dog (memoir by Phil Knight)
The Princess Diarist (memoir by Carrie Fisher)
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

Wicked and the Stories We Tell Ourselves

In this episode of 'Theology of Film,' hosts Ryan and Laura explore the 2024 film adaptation of 'Wicked,' discussing its themes of morality, societal expectations, and personal narratives. The conversation examines key characters like Elphaba and Glinda, their struggles with identity, and how their stories challenge traditional notions of good and evil. Reflecting on personal experiences and the film's adaptation process, they highlight the value of the film's relevance in contemporary culture. They also draw connections to the story of Joseph from Scripture, highlighting the importance of understanding multiple perspectives and trusting God's faithfulness in unfavorable circumstances.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'Wicked' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
Discussed Passage:
Genesis 39:1-23
 
Mentioned in this Episode:
Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West (1995 novel by Gregory Maguire)
Wicked (2003 stage musical by Stephen Schwartz)
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900 book by L. Frank Baum)
The Wizard of Oz (1939 film)
Guy Fawkes Day (holiday)
V for Vendetta (2005 film)
The Woman in Me (2023 memoir by Britney Spears)
History of the Kings of Britain (1136 fictionalized history by Geoffrey of Monmouth)
Ted Decker's Colored Trilogy (novel series)
Sensible Shoes (2013 novel by Sharon Garlough Brown)
Pantages Theater (live theater in Hollywood)
Elitch Gardens (Denver theme park)
K-Pop Demon Hunters and Engaging the Supernatural World (previous podcast episode)
"Every villain is a hero in his own mind" & "Well, I think there are no villains in this world. There are just misunderstood heroes" (quotes by Tom Hiddleston)
 
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

When Harry Met Sally and Maturing Our Relational Narratives

In this episode of Theology of Film, hosts Laura and Ryan delve into the complex dynamics of friendship, love, and relationship breakdowns portrayed in the iconic romantic comedy 'When Harry Met Sally.' They discuss how the movie's portrayal of close male-female friendships and casual sexual dialogue presents challenges from a Christian worldview. Laura and Ryan also reflect on the impact of cultural narratives around relationships and the need for stories that honor platonic friendships. Through thoughtful analysis and personal insights, they encourage listeners to consider noble, pure, and commendable actions in relationships.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'When Harry Met Sally' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
 
Discussed Passage
Philippians 4:8-9
 
Mentioned in this episode:
"The Princess Bride" (film)
"Stand By Me" (film)
"A Few Good Men" (film)
“The Notebook” (film)
"Frieren - Beyond Journey's End" (anime tv series)
"The Wild Robot" (book by Peter Brown)
Pride and Prejudice (book by Jane Austen)
 
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

K-Pop Demon Hunters and the Engaging the Supernatural World

In the Season 2 premiere of 'Theology of Film,' Ryan and Laura discuss the recent animated film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters'. They explore the film's portrayal of demons and spiritual warfare, contrasting it with biblical perspectives, emphasizing the importance of grounding oneself in scripture to critically engage with supernatural topics in contemporary media. They highlight the film's cultural diversity and artistic merits while cautioning against its theological implications, aiming to equip listeners with tools for thoughtful conversation surrounding this popular film.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'KPop Demon Hunters' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
 
Discussed Passage:
Hebrews 11:1
Mentioned in this episode:
Border Patrol (tv show)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (tv show)
Supernatural (tv show)
Treasure Island (novel by Robert Louis Stevenson and film adaptations)
Treasure Island (1950)
Treasure Island (1999)
Muppet Treasure Island (1996)
Treasure Planet (2002)
Mitchells vs. The Machines (film)
Spider-Man: Into/Across the Spider-Verse (film series)
Harry Potter (book series by J.K. Rowling)
Twilight (book series by Stephenie Meyer)
BTS (K-Pop band)
All-American Rejects (band and songs)
“Gives You Hell”
“Dirty Little Secret”
Demon Hunter (band)
 
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

New Episodes in September!

Thank you so much for an amazing first season! We're taking a short break in August. Be sure to keep an eye out for the first episode of season 2, "KPop Demon Hunters" in September!

The Sandlot and the Summertime Church

In this episode of Theology of Film, hosts Laura and Ryan delve into the classic movie 'The Sandlot,' exploring its themes of friendship and community. They discuss how the movie portrays the importance of inclusion and mentorship, drawing parallels between the character Benny and the need for compassionate leadership in the Church. The conversation also touches on the personal challenges of asking for help and the universal longing for connection, ultimately linking these ideas to biblical notions of communal support and shared responsibility.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'The Sandlot' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
Discussed Passage:
Acts 4:32-35
 
Mentioned in this episode:
Eurovision (annual international competition) 
Riverdance (Irish dance show)
The Princess Bride (film)
Andor: Season 2 (Star Wars television series)
 
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

The Princess Bride and the Power of Love

In this episode of 'Theology of Film,' hosts Ryan and Laura explore 'The Princess Bride,' focusing on its timeless appeal and the powerful themes of love and redemption. They discuss the movie's resonance with audiences, diving into the classic meta-narrative structure that underpins the film. By drawing parallels to biblical concepts of love, they reflect on how the film embodies Christian values of patience and endurance, encouraging listeners and themselves to embody these principles in daily life.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'The Princess Bride' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
 
Discussed Passage
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
 
Mentioned in this episode:
Christianity Today Podcasts 
"The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill"
"The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea"
Apple TV's "Schmigadoon!"
Bob Anderson (fencing trainer and fight choreographer)
William Goldman (Screenwriter)
"Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid"
"All the President's Men"
"Marathon Man"
Rob Reiner (Director)
"Stand By Me"
"When Harry Met Sally"
"A Few Good Men"
"Misery"
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

Encanto and the Strength of Many Parts

In this episode of Theology of Film, hosts Laura and Ryan delve into the Disney animation film 'Encanto,' exploring its themes of personhood, community, and the danger of valuing performance over intrinsic worth. Discussing how their Christian worldview intersects with the narrative, they highlight parallels between the movie’s message and the biblical perspective on spiritual gifts and unity in the body of Christ. Through personal reflections and practical applications, they emphasize the importance of recognizing and honoring each person's inherent worth and the specific glory they bring to a community.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'Inside Out' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
 
Discussed Passage:
1 Corinthians 12:12-26
 
Mentioned in this episode:
Ted Lasso (TV Show)
Red Rising Series (Book Series)
Moana (Film)
Hamilton (Musical)
Coco (Film)
Brooklyn Nine-Nine (TV Show)
Bolt (Film)
Tangled (Film)
Zootopia (Film)
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

Hunt for the Wilderpeople and Finding Community in the Wild

In this episode of Theology of Film, Ryan and Laura explore Taika Waititi's 'Hunt for the Wilderpeople,' focusing on its profound themes of isolation, belonging, and personal growth. They discuss the necessity of human connection, drawing parallels to a Biblical story of healing and restoration. Alongside personal anecdotes, they emphasize the film's message of finding a true home and the courage to live out one's faith boldly.
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'Hunt for the Wilderpeople' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
 
Discussed Passage
Luke 8:26-39
 
Mentioned in this Episode
“Ours” by Phillip B. Williams (novel)
The Golden Girls (TV show)
Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (TV show)
Full House (TV show)
Relient K (band)
Jojo Rabbit (film by Taika Waititi)
 
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

The Shawshank Redemption and Deliverance unto Hope

In this episode of 'Theology of Film,' Laura and Ryan analyze the iconic film 'The Shawshank Redemption,’ focusing on themes of hope, suffering, and resilience. They discuss how the movie expresses the Christian struggle with accusation against true identity, as well as the significance of hope in overcoming life’s darkest moments. The conversation touches on how suffering can lead to personal growth and unearths insights on the importance of servant leadership, drawing parallels with Christian teachings and the encouragements toward Kingdom living found in Scripture. 
 
Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'The Shawshank Redemption' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.
 
Discussed Passage
Romans 5:1-11
 
Mentioned in this episode
"Ours" by Phillip B. Williams (novel)
“The Tain” translation by Ciaran Carson (book)
"Perry Mason" (novel series by Erle Stanley Gardner and 1957 television series)
"Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption" (novella by Stephen King)
"The Green Mile" (film by Frank Darabont and novel by Stephen King)
"The Mist" (film by Frank Darabont and novella by Stephen King)
“The Majestic” (film by Frank Darabont)
Louie Lamour (author)
"Richard III" by William Shakespeare (play)
“Breakfast” by Newsboys (song)
Stanford Prison Experiment (1971 psychological experiment)
 
Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com