It’s only a couple weeks until the Academy Awards. On this latest edition of Connecting Fatih, we review some of the Oscar-nominated movies and actors, and what themes are addressed in these films.
We also talk about the place of Christian films in pop culture, trends in movie making, and how to watch a movie responsibly. Film critic, theologian and author Drew Trotter returns with perspective and insight on the big screen and faith. Here’s where this conversation takes us:
Do the Oscars really carry any weight in today’s Hollywood? And – if so – in what way?
What stands out to Drew when it comes to this year’s nominees for best picture & the other headline awards?
This year, American Sniper generated huge box office numbers and strong reactions. What was behind its success? Drew speaks to the film’s portrayal of Chris Kyle as a hero who places God, family & country at the head of his priorities. It’s presented as the story of a true American. Yet, there is also a lot of darkness in the film. The impact of PTSD looms large in the tragic ending of Kyle’s life.
Drew weighs in on whether films like Sniper become hits because of director Clint Eastwood’s legendary reputation or whether there’s a genuine appetite in the American public for stories detailing heroism under fire. And, alongside that question, is there a continuing audience for positive and uplifting fare at the box office?
Another World War II themed film, The Imitation Game, is getting lots of attention. What should we know about this movie’s agenda?
There’s been discussion as to whether or not Selma accurately depicts the Rosa Parks story, but should we be expecting historical accuracy in movies based on real life events?
