Movies that Matter: Reading Film through the Lens of Faith
$14.95 • Pb • 172 pgs
978-0-8294-2201-6

 

At face value, The Godfather is a movie about corruption, greed, and violence. Where can we find God in that? Everywhere, contends film critic Richard Leonard, SJ, whose book, Movies That Matter: Reading Film through the Lens of Faith digs into contemporary films to help religious educators, parents, and anyone who loves movies meet God in the cinema.

In this spirited, provocative, and thoroughly readable guide, Fr. Leonard reveals that God is present in the movies, if only we view them through the “lens of faith”—an informed Christian point of view. Movies That Matter is a tool for viewing films through that lens of faith: for seeing deeper, for enriching the movie-going experience—and, ultimately, for living better as Christians.

In a series of short commentaries and reflections, Fr. Leonard delves into 50 contemporary films, highlighting why they matter and drawing out their lessons, symbolism, and themes. Each of Leonard’s reflections opens with basic information about the film (its actors, director, rating, length, and date) and two or three “teachable moments”—concepts like “conversion,” “hospitality,” and “the meaning of suffering.” Following the essay are two to three questions for further reflection or group dialogue. By presenting films with clear religious messages (such as The Passion of the Christ) as well as those that have subtler Christian themes (such as Dead Poets Society and Chocolat), Fr. Leonard shows that a movie doesn’t have to be overtly religious to provide opportunities for learning about the Christian faith.

Excellent Resource for:

• Adult Faith Formation Discussions
• Small Group Sharing
• Family Discussion Starters
• Individuals seeking deeper understand of
  faith messages in movies