The contemporary state of affairs between Hollywood and the Christian church betrays a complex history that entails cooperation, appropriation, and rejection.  Speaking broadly, the church today, and for quite some time, has leaned towards the latter, taking a highly critical approach to the perceived encroaching secularism of Hollywood.  However, with the advent of cinema, nearly [...]

I wish that more Oscar-nominated films released to DVD before the program airs.  It can be difficult, and not a little expensive, to see them all in the theaters.  I am glad that Changeling released on DVD this week so that I could catch Angelina Jolie’s Oscar-nominated performance for best lead actress.  While this category [...]

Two films that deal with religion in different ways release today.  You can laugh, cry, or scream at Bill Maher’s documentary, Religulous, one of my top spiritual films of 2008. You can also catch Angelina Jolie’s Oscar-nominated performance in Changeling.  Also of note in the latter is John Malcovich’s performance as a minister, The Rev. [...]