cover image Movies That Matter: Reading Film Through the Lens of Faith

Movies That Matter: Reading Film Through the Lens of Faith

Richard Leonard, , . S.J.Loyola, $14.95 (172pp) ISBN 978-0-8294-2201-6

Are movies just mind candy or can they be vehicles for theological inquiry? Jesuit film critic and writer Leonard clearly believes the latter. He examines 50 films and extracts their theological themes with a direct and engaging prose style. Some of the film selections might surprise readers—Leonard is not afraid to tackle gloomy and often graphically violent films, such as The Exorcist , Unforgiven and The Godfather . He is quick to point out that, while some movies contain lurid content, this should not detract from their critical messages about God, human nature and relationships. Leonard also includes more lighthearted fare, such as Groundhog Day and Chocolat , thus illustrating that no film genre is completely devoid of theological possibilities. The central point for readers who are followers of Jesus is found in the essay on Billy Elliot: "Christianity, rooted in the Incarnation, must be embodied." Leonard's insights about films being opportunities for theological reflection are refreshing, and his questions at the end of each essay are excellent resources for teachers, retreat directors and religious educators who desire to use film in their ministry. (Aug.)