The God in Film Podcast

Hacksaw Ridge – When is it right to compromise your principles?

This week we look at the 2016 World War II film 'Hacksaw Ridge', directed by Mel Gibson. We're joined by writer and R.S teacher Natalie Austin as we find out more about Seventh Day Adventists, different types of pacifism and the dangers of fundamentalism. Why not give us a listen?

Finding the faith in the film section begins at 8:41.

 

(Apologies for the sound quality not being up to our usual standard!)

Thor – How should Christians deal with depression?

In this episode, we'll be looking at 'Thor' the 2011 classic from the Marvel cinematic universe's first phase. Our guest this episode is marvel expert, the incredibly handsome Matt Heslop. We'll be talking about the genesis of the character, Lucifer being kicked out of heaven, a particularly convincing Arthur C Clarke quote and the nature of depression. Why not have a listen?

Finding the faith in the film section begins at 18:50

A Matter Of Life & Death – What are biblically accurate angels?

In this episode, we look at the Powell & Pressburger classic, 'A Matter of Life & Death'. We learn about Operation Ethel, the true nature of angels and a brilliant example of sacrifice. Our guest is Dr Andrew Moor, who literally wrote the book on Powell & Pressburger. Why not give it a listen?

 

Finding the faith in the film section begins at 24:32.

Training Day – The temptation of Officer Hoyt.

In this episode, we'll be diving into the cult cop classic, 'Training Day' featuring Ethan Hawke and Denzel Washington. We’ll be looking at the issues of integrity, temptation and the difference between degree and category. We dig more into the scandal that inspired the film and soaking up the nostalgia of an early noughties soundtrack. Why not have a listen?

 

Finding the Faith in the film section begins at 23:03

Jane Eyre (2011) – What’s it like being Christians with a sex drive?

Our second episode of season 2 see the return of a very special guest to discuss 2011’s ‘Jane Eyre’, Charlotte Brontë’s timeless proto-feminist classic about two people who desperately want to get off with each other. We have a frank discussion about sex, celibacy and what it means to be equally yoked. It’s worth noting that some of the topics in this episode are a bit more ‘earthy’ than many of our topics. So those of a sensitive disposition, may want to skip this one!

 

Finding the Faith in the Film section begins at 10:20.

 

Note: we recorded this several months ago, prior to Eliot Paige coming out as trans, so as a result, is referred to as 'Ellen Paige' throughout the episode, and it was too tricky to re-record. We’ve got mad love for Eliot, and we don’t want to upset anyone. Also, apologies if our sound quality isn’t as great as usual!

Da 5 Bloods – Why does society need messiah figures?

New year, new season of God in Film! Our first episode of season 2 looks at ‘Da 5 Bloods’, Spike Lee’s agit prop joint that came out on Netflix last year. Giles & Phil talk about messiah figures in mainstream films, how being a man of peace, and strong aren’t mutually exclusive and why Jesus thinks you should pay your flippin’ taxes!

We also chatted with History teacher extraordinaire, Tim Cloke of drywipehistory and MrClokeHistory (check him out on Instagram and Youtube respectively) about the role of Afro-American soldiers in the Vietnam war.

Why not give us a listen?

 

Finding the Faith in the Film section begins at 22:16.

Christmas Special - It’s a Wonderful Life – Is George Bailey an American Jonah?

Christmas special episode! For the first episode in six months Jigga & Kid Warrington (that’s Giles and Phil to their mums) dig into ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’. The 1946 Frank Capra classic stating the one and only Jimmy Stewart. We ask, what is intercessory prayer? How is George Bailey like Jonah in reverse and what is the value of a human life, so a nice light episode! Listen on Apple podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Black Lives Matter Bonus episode

In light of recent events, we want to do something, however small, to support the Black Lives Matter movement. In this episode, we switch up our format. Rather than looking at one film or one series of films, we’ll be looking at 10 films that helped us to understand the black experience and we wanted to share our platform with someone who can speak more authentically on the subject. Dr Sefaakor Ahiaku is a dentist by day, creative by night and recently has become something of a spokesperson, educating the charismatic church on some of the subtleties of 21st century racism and micro-aggressions. 

Please add your name to the petition to teach colonial history as a compulsory part of the curriculum in UK schools; https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/324092

 

Please consider donating or doing further research into the following good causes:

https://www.stephenlawrence.org.uk 

https://blacklivesmatter.com

https://www.libertyhumanrights.org.uk

https://bailproject.org

 

The Matrix – Cyberpunk messiah movie or trans allegory?

For the tenth and last regular episode in our series, Giles and Phil look at 'The Matrix' franchise! We dive deep into the philosophical questions it poses and look at the influence of eastern religions with our special guest Natalie Minaker who also points out that the alt right are silly little chaps who need a nice sit down. We look at different models of the church, the significance of the Nebuchadnezzar and what the machines really represent. 

Finding The Faith In The Film section begins at 22:40.

The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe – Why Narnia is NOT an allegory.

In this week's episode, Giles & Phil turn to C.S Lewis' magical land of Narnia, specifically, 2005's 'The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe'. We stumble on some surprising realisations such as why Aslan is NOT an allegorical figure, the proper way to treat traitors and what exactly are Jesus's favourite crisps? Oh, and we also interviewed a minotaur.

Please note: Some of the topics we touch upon may be upsetting for some people.

Finding the Faith in the Film section begins at 14:30.