Seven Questions

Responses to what Dr. Tucker asked . . .

1. What were the “house rules” related to viewing films or even TV in the home in which you grew up? How did those rules arise from faith and how did they affect your perspectives on film and faith?

Our house rules for TV were pretty simple when I was young. The news, football, Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, Leave it to Beaver and The Andy Griffith Show were ok. Any other programs were not acceptable, along with any shots of cheerleaders, and most beer commercials. Movies were generally G or PG, and always viewed as a family, whether in the theater or at home. These rules were based on the strictest possible interpretation of Philippians 4:8. There was a long period of time when we didn’t have a television. After it came back, and as I got older, more flexibility was allowed. PG-13 became OK at some point, and the TV list grew to include TV Land, basketball, & playoff hockey. Eventually, it grew into “How does this impact your relationship with God?” I think it was a good evolution, because it instilled in me first, that there are standards, and then when I was a bit more discerning, that the standards are increasingly complex.

2. What were the church rules (Youth Group?) or perspectives with reference to believers and film in the church, where you experienced the greatest spiritual formation?

There were no church rules for film or TV, but it was clear to me that most of the families at church watched more TV than we did, and clearly had more relaxed standards than we did.

3. What are the "church rules" or perspectives of the community of faith in which you are currently involved? Is film referenced or used in any manner in the corporate worship or other gatherings related to your church?

Although there is no reference to film in the corporate worship, there aren’t any specific reasons why. There are some families that don’t have TV, there are some that are well-versed in the language of cinema. The “tagline” of the church is In essentials: Unity - In nonessentials: Liberty - In all things: Love which makes it difficult to blast any particular standard if there is a biblical base to it.

4. What are your basic theological perspectives on faith and film, which you employ in your life and ministry?

Finally, an easy one! The intersection of faith and film is that very few people with understanding of one see the other very clearly. We must tread carefully as a result, because so many have gone before us in examining the intersection intentionally and stumbled badly. At the same time, both have so permeated our culture that there are countless places where they meet and have fresh meanings for one another. So while we grimace at both Left Behind and Sin City, we understand that meanings are made here, so here we must be ready to teach.

5. What has been you previous experience in courses specifically related to film/cinema; to theology and the arts; or to like courses?

My aforementioned course with Spatiality / Virtuality challenged a lot of my thinking, because of the discussions on metanarrative and reality, which required a lot more reflection by me than by others, because I was arguing about truths much closer to what I believed. I also took a Religion in Film class during one of my later semesters at UDM, which left me bitter on a lot of levels. Partially because no one would admit that their practice was out of line with their beliefs, and partially because I wasn’t allowed to use the Bible to criticize Catholic theology.

6. What three films have had the most significant effect on your Christian worldview?

Chariots of Fire

Henry V

The Matrix

7. What six films have you chosen to watch for this class for theological analysis?

Big Fish

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Igby Goes Down

Iron Giant

The Mission

The Truman Show