FILM AND THEOLOGY - THE DARK KNIGHT

I love this idea! Mars Hill Church in Seattle, Washington has developed something called "Film and Theology." Here's the way they describe this ministry:

"Cinema is a modern day pulpit; people flock to their local multiplexes, group together, and find themselves moved by a worldview revealed in story form, allowing themselves to be emotionally led by directors and screenwriters who influence how we feel, think, and even act. Film and Theology features monthly film viewings at the MHC | Lake City Campus, followed by an expository exploration of narrative themes and spiritual parallels."

This morning during my workout i listened to James Harleman's exploration of The Dark Knight. By the way, those of you who read this blog know that "The Dark Knight" was in my top picks of best movies of the year. Harleman delivers a thought provoking exploration of the film that I found absolutely riveting.

If you're a movie freak, you can listen to Harleman's exploration HERE. Let me know what you think.

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Here's the overview provided on the Film and Theology web page.

“Why So Serious?”

"The Joker, dripping with greasy clown paint and played with a disturbing vigor by the late Heath Ledger, asks this question with dark sarcasm as he accuses an entire city of being moral hypocrites. Ledger’s performance highlights one of the best movies of 2008.

The question is, does this accuser stand correct in his assessment of humanity, or do the people scrambling to stop him in the name of justice, order, control, or power amidst the rest of the film satisfy the viewer in proving him wrong?

Maybe we’ll see why the Joker finds it all so funny…"

Listen to Harleman's exploration on line. Download it to your iPod.

Harleman draws some interesting political parallels from the film. He provides sound and incredible theological insights about certain themes and insights related to the film.

I believe these are the kinds of discussions believers need to be having on a more regular basis. What about you? What do you think of Harleman's insights? What do you think about a forum where films are viewed and then discussed from a theological or biblical point of view? Does anyone in the BHM area provide this kind of opportunity? Would you participate?

Thanks for your input.