Dogma is a welcome change of pace for the films usually reviewed on Divine Cinema.  Jeff, Dylan and Adam all agree that this movie was fun to watch. It is a good hearted film wrapped in a health dose of adolescent humor and Biblical mythology.  In addition, it has an amazing cast of actors; Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, the always amazing Alan Rickman (RIP), Chris Rock and Salma Hayek. Of course the real question is where does this movie stack up on the pieces of silver scale?  Listen and find out if Jeff, Dylan and Adam think murderous angels, Alanis Morissette as God and a poop demon make Dogma worth the price of eternal damnation or not.   Initial Thoughts on Dogma (01:03) Divine Cinema Review of Dogma (07:21) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (49:21) PLOT SUMMARY After being banished from heaven for thousands of years, two angles, Bartleby and Loki, are presented with an opportunity to get back into the presence of God.  However, to accomplish this goal would make God a liar and therefore destroy existence itself. So with the help of an angel named Metatron, Rufus the 13th apostle, Serendipity, Jay and Silent Bob, the last remaining relative of Jesus Christ, Bethany, sets out to a church in New Jersey to save all of reality RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of Dogma Clerks (1994 Film) Kevin Smith (Writer and Director) SMarchive #10: Kevin Protests at a Local DOGMA Screening - S.I.T (YouTube Video) There’s Something About Mary (1998 Film) Noah (2014 Film) Epic of Gilgamesh (Ancient Creation Story) The Star (2017 Film) The Star - 007 (Divine Cinema Episode) Weird Science (1985 Film) Tusk (2014 Film) Comic Book Men (AMC Series) Thor (2011 Film) Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell (Book - Amazon Affiliate Link) A Critical Analysis of God’s Not Dead – Divine Sinema – 082.5 (Irenicast episode of our review of the first God’s Not Dead film) God’s Not Dead 2 Review – Divine SINema Series – 086.5 (Irenicast episode of our review of God’s Not Dead 2) Staff Picks Bruce Almighty (2003 Film) Evan Almighty (2007 Film) Constantine (2005 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE God's Not Dead: A Light in Darkness will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

Divine Cinema

Dogma - 016

Come Sunday is a film that finally tells the story of the journey into a type of Christianity that Divine Cinema and it’s hosts abide in.  However, is it a good film? Does the filmmaking bring to life the struggle in challenging a tenant of Evangelical theology and all the loss that comes with that, or does it just make you wish hell actually exists?  Listen to find out what Jeff, Dylan and Adam think. And of course to hear where they stand on its theological merits as measured by the tried and true pieces of silver rating system.   Divine Cinema Review of Come Sunday (04:42) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (45:54) PLOT SUMMARY After a series of tragic events, Bishop Carlton Pearson begins to question his long standing belief in hell.  Eventually he expresses this doubt in the most public way a pastor could, through a sermon. The sermon has a ripple effect, not just through his congregation, but in his family and American Christianity.  The film follows Bishop Pearsons journey as he is labeled a heretic by many of his congregants, colleagues and even friends. RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of Come Sunday Heretics (This American Life podcast episode with Reverend Carlton Pearson) Carlton Pearson (American Christian Minister on whom Come Sunday is based) Oral Roberts (an American Charismatic Christian televangelist) Yvette Flunder (an American singer and senior pastor of the City of Refuge United Church of Christ in Oakland, California and Presiding Bishop of The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries) Black Pentecostal Group Denounces Carlton Pearson as a Heretic (Article) Sorry to Bother You (2018 Film) Straight Outta Compton (2015 Film) Love Wins by Rob Bell (Book - Amazon Affiliate Link) A Gift Of A Bible (Video of Penn Jillette speaking about proselytizing) Joel Osteen (an American televangelist) Staff Picks First Reformed (2018 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE Dogma will be our next film.  This movie is not available digitally.  To see it you’ll have to track down a hard copy or perhaps you can check out this link.  Enjoy :) WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

Come Sunday - 015

A Thief in the Night may not be the first rapture film, but it is certainly the blueprint for many of the ones we’ve seen since its inception.  Including, of course, Left Behind. On this week’s episode Jeff, Dylan and Adam dissect this 1972 ‘classic’. Although there are some surprising bright spots in the film making this film falls so short of being a quality film. Film making aspects aside however, the real question is how does it measure on the silver meter.  Does rapture theology hold up as a true expression of progressive theology or does it leave us all left behind to pick of the pieces of our deconstructed past?  Listen and find out. A Thief in the Night Review (03:28) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives for A Thief in the Night (30:02)   PLOT SUMMARY Despite several opportunities to accept Jesus in her heart, Patty Myers wakes to find that her husband along with millions of others have gone missing in the blink of an eye.  Patty struggles with her place in this new post rapture world. All the things she was told would happen are happening now before her eyes, however, despite not wanting to take on the mark of the beast she is still reluctant to accept Jesus as her Savior.  Will she give into this new world order or suffer the consequences of becoming a new Christian? RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of A Thief in the Night A Movie Review of If Footmen Tire You What Will Horses Do? – A Divine SINema Episode – 091 (Irenicast Episode from before Divine Cinema spun off on its own) Gangs of New York (2002 Film) Adam Driver (American Actor) Larry Norman (American musician, singer, songwriter, record label owner, and record producer.  Considered one of the pioneers of Christian rock music) Larry Norman - I Wish We'd All Been Ready - [1989] (YouTube Video) DC Talk - I Wish We'd All Been Ready (YouTube Video) 7ball Magazine (Discontinued Christian Music Magazine) John Jonethis (Lounge singer Adam talked about that did several covers of popular Christian songs) Flood - Lounge Freak; John Jonethis (YouTube Video) Godfather (1972 Film) The Dark Knight (2008 Film) The Dark Knight - Joker blows up the Hospital (YouTube Video) Childish Gambino - This Is America (Official Video) This Is America: Women's Edit by Nicole Arbour (YouTube Video) Children of Men (2006 Film) Children of the Corn (1984 film)   Staff Picks The Leftovers (HBO Television Series) Children of Men (2006 Film) The Last Man on Earth (Television Series) The Handmaid's Tale (Hulu Television Series) The Matrix (1999 Film) The Rapture (1941 Film… the first rapture film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE Come Sunday will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

A Thief in the Night - 014

In a surprising turn of events, The Case for Christ is not that bad a movie.  The story is decent, the acting is good and the cinematography is solid. They even manage to pull off a pretty accurate period piece, as the movie takes place in the early 1980s.  However, how does it do on the pieces of silver scale? Listen to find out what Jeff, Dylan and Adam have to say about the spiritual themes in this 2017 film, The Case for Christ.   Initial Thoughts on The Case for Christ (00:46) The Case for Christ Review (05:47) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (43:12) PLOT SUMMARY The Case for Christ follows journalist Lee Strobel as he puts his investigative skills to the test to determine whether Jesus as God and Messiah is real.  After a life threatening incident with their daughter, Lee’s wife (Leslie) converts to Christianity. This does not sit well with Lee so he sets out to disprove his wife’s newly found faith only to find that Jesus is in fact real. RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of The Case for Christ The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel (Book - Amazon Affiliate Link) Touched by an Angel (Television Series) Step by Step (Television Series) TGIF (An ABC Programming Block of Television Series from 1989-2000, 2003-2005, and 2018-?) Reckless Homicide? Ford's Pinto Trial by Lee Patrick Strobel (Amazon Affiliate Link) Parenthood (Television Series) The 13th (2016 Netflix Documentary) Innocence Is Irrelevant - This is the age of the plea bargain—and millions of Americans are suffering the consequences. (Article) Doubt (2008 Film) Apologetics (religious discipline of defending religious doctrines through systematic argumentation and discourse) ‘Science’ Mike Mchargue (Christian-turned atheist, turned follower of Jesus) A Conversation with Science Mike McHargue – Finding God in the Waves – 087 (Irenicast Episode) Series of Irenicast episodes on the Bible Interpreting the Bible Part 1 – Literally Literature – 063 Interpreting the Bible Part 2 – A Scribed Meaning – 064 Interpreting the Bible Part 3 – Collecting Lenses – 065 Josh McDowell (Evangelical Protestant Christian apologist and evangelist)   Staff Picks Spotlight (2015 Film) Mindhunter (Netflix Television Series) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE A Thief in the Night will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links...   Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

The Case for Christ - 013

On International Podcast Day 2018 Jeff, Dylan and Adam return to catch everyone up on where the heck they’ve been.  Also, in what may very well be an International Podcast Day bonus episode tradition, they break format to share what they are watching and listening to.  They talk movie, tv, and of course podcasts. There are enough recommendations in this episode to tide you over until next year’s edition of A Few of Our Favorite Things. ANNOUNCEMENTS Divine Cinema will return to our regular episode posating schedule on the first Thursday of October.  October 11, 2018. MORE ON INTERNATIONAL PODCAST DAY 2018 International Podcast Day™ is September 30th and is an international celebration of the power of podcasts!  The celebration is a great opportunity to connect with fellow podcasters, podcast listeners, podcast enthusiasts, and leaders in the podcasting industry.  Help spread the word by telling your friends, sharing the celebration on your podcasts and social media feeds, and using #InternationalPodcastDay. There are several ways to get involved and plenty to benefit from by taking part in International Podcast Day 2018. RELEVANT LINKS Irenicast - A Progressive Christian Podcast (This is the podcast Divine Cinema spun off from) An Evangelical Summit On Trump & Thinking Through Cult Culture – 117 (Irenicast episode exploring the themes of the docuseries Wild, Wild Country) Wild Wild Country - SNL (Saturday Night Life Sketch) Portlandia (IFC Television Series) The Path (Hulu Television Series) Minotaur (Mythical Creature) Centaur (Mythical Creature) ‘Rick And Morty’ Gets Massive 70-Episode Renewal By Adult Swim; Creators Dan Harmon & Justin Roiland Ink New Deal (Article) Mental Health and the Church – Guest Host Dylan Van Lant – 019 (Irenicast episode where Dylan shares his struggles with mental illness) Big Mouth (Netflix Animated Television Show) A Few of Dylan’s Favorite Things… Wild, Wild Country (Netflix Docuseries) Explained (Netflix Docuseries) American Vandal (Netflix Mockumentary Series) BoJack Horseman (Netflix Animated Series) GLOW (Netflix Television Series) Legion (FX Television Series) Maniac (Netflix Television Series) Hannah Gadsby: Nanette (Netflix Comedy Special) John Mulaney: Kid Gorgeous at Radio City (Netflix Comedy Special) Bo Burnham: Make Happy (Netflix Comedy Special) Put Your Hands Together (Podcast) Hello from the Magic Tavern (Podcast) Three Swings (Podcast) BlacKkKlansman (2018 Film) American Animals (2018 Film) I, Tonya (2017) Dave Made a Maze (2017) A Few of Adam’s Favorite Things… Everything is Alive (Podcast) Mr Robot (USA Television Series) Westworld (HBO Television Series) Altered Carbon (Netflix Television Series) Where Should We Begin (Podcast… Adam referred to it as Where Do We Begin in the episode) Jack Ryan (Amazon Television Show) Patriot (Amazon Television Show) Insecure (HBO Television Show) Colossal (2016) A Few of Jeff’s Favorite Things… /Film Daily Podcast Atlanta (FX Television Series) Rick & Marty (Cartoon Network Animated Series) Sorry to Bother You (2018 Film) Blade Runner 2049 (2017 Film) You Are Not So Smart (Podcast) Eighth Grade (Film) Better Call Saul (AMC Television Show) Good Eats Reloaded (Cooking Channel Series) SHAZAM! - Official Teaser Trailer [HD] (YouTube Video) Her with Amena Brown (Podcast) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The Case for Christ will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

International Podcast Day 2018 Bonus Episode - More of Our Favorite Things - 012.5

While all are hosts are in agreement that Silence is a well made film, this episode highlights once again some difference of opinion in terms of its faith aspects.  One host thinks it's too problematic, another thinks it’s too ambiguous and the other thinks it’s just right. Listen to find out who’s porridge bowl of cinematic faith goodness hits the spot. Review of Silence (02:58) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (53:40) PLOT SUMMARY After hearing that their mentor, Father Ferreira, had possibly denied his faith after being tortured in Japan, Father Rodrigues and Garupe convince their superior to let them go and find out what really happened.  Their faith is soon tested as they experience the violent realities of the Japanese persecution of Christians. RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of Silence Andrew Garfield (Actor) Adam Driver (Actor) Martin Scorsese (Director) Silence by Shusaku Endo (Book the film is based on - Amazon Affiliate Link) Ciarán Hinds (Actor) Kung Pow: Enter the Fist (2002 Film) Martin Scorsese - The Art of Silence (YouTube Video from Every Frame a Painting) Michael W. Smith - This Is Your Time (YouTube Video) Staff Picks Romero (1989 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The Case for Christ will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

Silence - 012

This review of Don Verdean marks the first intentional comedy reviewed on Divine Cinema.  Jeff, Adam and Dylan lament the potential of this movie to be a classic. Sadly, the cast is wasted on a lackluster script that leaves a lot to be desired.  Listen to the episode to find out if there were any redeeming qualities of this film and how many pieces of silver Don Verdean earns.   Initial Thoughts (01:00) Review of Don Verdean (4:16) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (47:21) PLOT SUMMARY Don Verdean (played by Sam Rockwell) is a biblical archeologists who believes his work is important to bringing people to the Christian faith.  To fulfill his calling he partners with a local church and they begin funding his expeditions. Don’s first expedition for the church is to find the skull of Goliath.  After days without success, Don fakes the discovery by robbing the grave of a beloved Israeli wrestler with gigantism. Don is successful in convincing everyone that his find is legitimate.  However, it does come at a price. To keep up his new found reputation and avoid being exposed by his partner Boaz (played by Jemaine Clement), Don fakes more discoveries.  It all comes to a head when he attempts to manufacture the discovery of the Holy Grail. RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of Don Verdean Jarod & Jerusha Hess (Writers/Directors) Gentlemen Broncos (2009 Film) Jeff mentions hearing a speaker at one of his churches declare they found the blood of Jesus.  Here is a video of that speaker’s source… Jesus's Blood was found and the DNA Test Part 1 OF 2 (YouTube Video) MONSTER Energy drinks are the work of SATAN!!! (YouTube Video) Episode 38: On Self Abuse (The Way I Heard It Podcast by Mike Rowe) Native Americans and Jews: The Lost Tribes Episode (Article)   Staff Picks National Treasure (2004 Film) Leap of Faith (1992 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The 2016 film Silence will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

Don Verdean - 011

How does The Sunset Limited hold up as a play turned film?  Find out how Jeff, Dylan and Adam think this movie does in using the medium of film to enhance (or take away from) the limited settings and characters.  In terms of faith, will this movie be another God’s Not Dead or will it provide the nuance necessary to earn a small stack of silver? Review of The Sunset Limited (3:32) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives for The Sunset Limited (53:22)   PLOT SUMMARY The Sunset Limited is a 2011 HBO film based on the 2006 play of the same name.  A subway worker, played by Samuel L. Jackson prevents a professor, played by Tommy Lee Jones, from killing himself by means of the Sunset Limited.  After taking the professor to his apartment the subway worker and professor engage in an intense conversation about life, death, faith, and God. RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of The Sunset Limited The Silence of the Lambs - Who Wins the Scene? (YouTube Video) Dueling Magical Negros (Key and Peele Sketch) Richard Rohr (Franciscan Friar and Author) Staff Picks The Big Kahuna (2000 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE Don Verdean will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

The Sunset Limited - 010

The Shack is a cinematic attempt at answering the age old question of, “Where is God when bad things happen to good people?”.  Jeff, Dylan and Adam discuss how this film does in approaching such a complex issue.  Does The Shack sell out the gospel with over simplified answers to complex questions or does it provide a solid foundation of theological discovery?   Initial Thoughts (00:39) Review of The Shack (05:44) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (54:31) PLOT SUMMARY Based on the novel of the same name, The Shack follows Mack Phillips in the aftermath of his daughter's kidnapping.  His worst fears are confirmed when the police discover his daughter’s blood and discarded clothes in a shack in the middle of the woods.  Later, he receives a mysterious letter in his mailbox asking him to come to the shack once again.  The letter is signed by ‘Papa’, the name his daughter used for God.  Thinking is being lured there by his daughter’s killer he decides to go and soon realizes that it was not his daughter’s killer that brought him there, but God.  And through a few days in the Shack, talking with various forms of the Trinity, Mack finally begins to deal with his grief. RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of The Shack The Shack by William P. Young (2007 Novel - Amazon Affiliate Link) Killing Jesus (2015 TV Film) Avatar (2009 Film) Sam Worthington (Actor) The Mammy (TV/Film Trope) Magical Negro (TV/Film Trope) Magical Asian (TV/Film Trope) Mystery Men (1999 Film) The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan (1678 Novel - Amazon Affiliate Link) The Pilgrim's Regress by C.S. Lewis (1933 Novel - Amazon Affiliate Link) Staff Picks Children of Men (2006 Film) 5 Minutes of Heaven (2009 Film) The Shawshank Redemption (1994 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The Sunset Limited will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

The Shack - 009

During this review of Last Days in the Desert, Jeff, Dylan and Adam dive deep into their own Christologies as they debate this film’s intentions and portrayal of Jesus.  Specifically the humanity of Jesus.  Is this film compelling enough to be on the upper tier of Jesus films, or does it fail to reach divine status?  Find out on this episode of Divine Cinema.   Last Days in the Desert Review (00:04:56) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (01:14:33) PLOT SUMMARY Last Days in the Desert speculates on what might have happened in the final days of Jesus’ 40-day journey into the wilderness.  After days of solitude Jesus stumbles upon a family.  A father, son and mother who is deathly ill.  Jesus decides to stay with the family for a few days before returning for the start of his ministry.  It is during this time we see Jesus conflicted about his coming role as Messiah.  As Jesus finds himself in the role of peacemaker to a family with divided interests while also in a constant back and forth about the goodness of God with the devil. RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of Last Days in the Desert Interpreting the Bible Part 1 – Literally Literature – 063 (Irenicast Episode) Interpreting the Bible Part 2 – A Scribed Meaning – 064 (Irenicast Episode) Interpreting the Bible Part 3 – Collecting Lenses – 065 (Irenicast Episode) Terrence Malick (Film Director) Richard Rohr (Franciscan Friar & Author)   Staff Picks The Tree of Life (2011 Film) The Last Temptation of Christ (1988 Film) The Life of Brian (1979 Film) Jesus of Montreal (1989 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The Shack will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links...   Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

Last Days in the Desert - 008

This review of The Star marks the first time in Divine Cinema history Jeff, Dylan and Adam have recorded in the same room.  Will this movie be the next holiday classic or will it be another in a long line of horrible Christian movies that end of desecrating the art of filmmaking? Review of The Star (04:36) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (44:44) PLOT SUMMARY A small, but determined, donkey named Bo feels as though he is destined for more than just being a mill donkey.  He wants to be part of the king’s caravan.  When the opportunity finally comes for him to fulfill his dreams, he is side tracked by his affection for his new owner Mary.  Conflicted about pursuing his own dreams or protecting Mary, Bo chooses to help Mary and her soon to be born baby boy, Jesus.  In doing so Bo does fulfill his dream of accompanying a King.   RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of The Star Oprah Winfrey (Actor) Keegan-Michael Key (Actor) Tracy Morgan (Actor, Comedian) Zachary Levi (Actor) Joel Osteen (Pastor, Christian Personality) A Knight’s Tale (2001 Film) The Small One (1978 Film) Moana (2016 Film) Kubo and the Two Strings (2016 Film) Lion King (1994 Film) Staff Picks Jeff & Dylan’s Pick The Prince of Egypt (1998 Film) Adam The Fourth Wise Man (1985 TV Movie) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE Last Days in the Desert will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

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The One I Wrote For You is a far cry from so bad it’s good.  This movie is just plain bad.  Jeff, Dylan and Adam suffer for the cause and discuss how this film completely misses the mark.  Actually, it doesn’t even know what mark it is aiming for.  Christian movie?  Hallmark movie?  After-school special?  Bad story, undeveloped characters and phoned-in performances. Review of The One I Wrote For You (03:50) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (53:00) PLOT SUMMARY Ben Cantor is a disenchanted singer/songwriter.  After choosing integrity over a lucrative record deal Ben puts his family first and relegates his music to the privacy of his home.  But when his daughter enters him into a reality show singing competition he gets a second chance to make his dreams come true.  But at what cost will this new opportunity come with? RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of The One I Wrote For You Andrew Lauer (Film Director/Producer) Christopher Lloyd (Actor) Kevin Pollak (Actor) Pixar (Animation Studio) Rocky (1976 Film) Since we mentioned Mick from Rocky here is a good clip of the man himself…  Rocky II - Mickey Church Scene (YouTube) Staff Picks Adam’s Pick That Thing You Do! (1996 Film) Dylan’s Pick The Wrestler (2008 Film) Jeff’s Pick Pitch Perfect (2012 Film) Sister Act (1992 Film)   YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The Star will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check your local listings for movie times. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

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It is safe to say that Calvary is by far Jeff, Dylan & Adam’s favorite film they’ve reviewed for the show thus far. But, of course, this show is not just about the quality of a given film, but it’s portrayal of real life faith. How does Calvary stack up? How many pieces of silver does it deserve? And who killed Father James’ dog? All these questions and much more will be discussed in this edition of Divine Cinema. Review of Calvary (03:17) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (56:01)   PLOT SUMMARY FOR CALVARY Father James, an Irish priest, life is threatened when a parishioner from his church threatens to kill him because of the sins of someone else.  Despite the threat, Father James continues in his priestly duties.  Throughout his last week we are introduced to a diverse group of wounded people, including Father James’ own daughter who has just attempted to taker her life.  Every interaction with the people in his town proves to be a mini theology course on the harshness of reality, all while wondering “who is going to be the killer?” RELEVANT LINKS  The Guard (2011 Film) War on Everyone (2016 Film) In Bruges (2008 Film) Frances McDormand (Actress) Seven Psychopaths (2007 Film) Two sons of Ireland contemplate the meaning of ‘Calvary’ (Article) Chris O’Dowd (Actor) The Silence of the Lambs - Who Wins the Scene? (YouTube Video from the Every Frame a Painting channel) Wes Anderson (Film Maker) Peter Rollins (Irish Author, Theologian and Philosopher) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The One I Wrote for You will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links... Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

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The only thing better than a bad Christian movie is a bad horror movie.  This week we combine the two with The Visitation.  After all, we are headed into Halloween.  Listen as Jeff, Dylan and Adam review this convoluted mess of a film.  From plot, pacing and phoned in performances this movie misses all the marks.  Find out if this film is so bad it’s good, or just plain bad?   Review of The Visitation (00:02:09) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (00:45:13) PLOT SUMMARY The Visitation takes place in the town of Antioch inhabited by the usual cast of small town characters including an inept police department, rebellious teenagers and of course everyone has a secret.  We open with former pastor Travis Jordan putting down his dog after losing his wife in a gruesome murder a year prior.  Soon strange miracles begin to take place in town courtesy of John Connor, sorry I mean Eddie Vedder, no, sorry again, I mean Brandon Nichols, who is claiming to be Jesus.  The town soon begins to believe Brandon’s claim while Pastor Travis and the local vet, Morgan, investigate who Brandon real is.  Is he the second coming of Christ or something else? RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of The Visitation Edward Furlong (Actor) Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991 Film) American History X (1998 Film) To End All Wars (2001 Film) Brian Godawa (Writer) Frank Peretti (Author) The Visitation by Frank Peretti (Book - Amazon Affiliate Link) Randy Travis (Actor and Musician)   Fabio Lanzoni (Model, Actor) Eddie Vedder (Musician) Three's Company (TV Show) Priscilla Barnes (Actor, played Dee Henchle in The Visitation) Leap of Faith (1992 Film) Touched by an Angel (TV Show) Noah Segan (Actor, played the vet’s son in The Visitation) Looper (2012 Film) Brick (2005 Film) The Green Mile (1999 Film)   Staff Picks Adam’s Pick, Fallen (1998 Film) Dylan’s Pick, Frailty (2001 Film) Jeff’s Pick, Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight (1995 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE Calvary will be our next film.  If you would like to watch the movie before our next episode check out JustWatch.com on where to find it. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links...   Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

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Jeff, Dylan, and Adam take a nostalgic look at the 1998 film, Simon Birch on this episode. Hear our take on the small hero, Jim Carrey’s cameo, and the faith portrayed in the Rockwellian setting. Aside from getting a little obsessed over Oliver Platt and his performance, there dissension among the hosts as to the overall quality of this film and its portrayal of faith.   Review of Simon Birch (00:03:46) Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives (01:05:34) Staff Pic (01:14:57)   PLOT SUMMARY Simon Birch and his best friend Joe Wenteworth live in a small New Hampshire town during the 1960’s.  Simon and Joe are both outcasts in their town.  Simon, because he is a little person, and Joe because he is the “town bastard.”  Simon believes that his small stature is the means in which God will use him for a heroic purpose.  Joe, after losing his mother, and with the help of Simon is determined to find out who is Father is and is less accepting of his place in life.   RELEVANT LINKS From Our Review of Simon Birch Steven Johnson (Writer and Director for Simon Birch) Grumpy Old Men (1993 Film) Grumpier Old Men (1993 Film) Daredevil (2003 Film) Elektra (2005 Film) A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving (Book - Amazon Affiliate Link) 13 Facts About A Prayer for Owen Meany (Mental Floss Article… Face #13 pertains to the author’s feelings about Simon Birch) Jurassic Park (1993 Film) The Cure (1995 Film) Joseph Mazzello (Actor, Joe in Simon Birch) Jim Carrey (Actor, Comedian) Ashley Judd (Actor) Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes) Tommy Boy (1995 Film) From Our Ratings and Redeemed Perspectives Segment Carl Rogers (American Psychologist) Humanistic Psychology Les Misérables (1998 Film) Staff Picks Stand by Me (1986 Film) YOUR SUPPORT Thank you for listening to Divine Cinema.  If you appreciate the show please consider sharing your appreciation by rating, reviewing and/or subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher or on whatever platform you’re listening. You can also help support the show financially by going to DivineCinema.net/Amazon to do your Amazon shopping. This will cost you nothing, but Amazon will give a portion of the proceeds to the show. OUR NEXT MOVIE The Visitation will be our next film.  This movie is tough to find, but it is an adaptation of a novel of the same name by Frank Peretti. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? Let us know what you think about the show and/or suggest a movie you’d like us to review in the future. Any and all feedback is welcome. Contact us through the following links...   Email Us at feedback@divinecinema.net Follow Us on Twitter Like Us on Facebook Listen & Subscribe to Us on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Android, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker and SoundCloud Speak to Us on our Feedback Page See Us on Instagram Support Us on Amazon Love Us?   This post may contain affiliate links.  Divine Cinema is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com

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On the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month Divine Cinema looks at films with central themes of faith from a Progressive Christian perspective. The Divine Cinema team will put the good, the bad and the ugly films about faith through the eye of a needle and scrutinize its themes, messages, cinematography and overall portrayal faith on the silver screen. As self-proclaimed experts of fine (and divine) cinema and former Evangelicals, hosts Jeff, Adam and Dylan have a lot to say about movies, their distorted views of Christianity, and the messages of the pop culture we consume. So if you are looking for podcast that appreciates the art of film and how it can beautifully (or horribly) reflect the nuanced ways in which people express their faith, this is the podcast for you.

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Divine Cinema

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