Watch Cinematic Scriptures: Discussions About Film From The Catholic Perspective

Cinematic Scriptures: Discussions About Film From The Catholic Perspective is a thought-provoking documentary made for audiences who are passionate about both their faith and the art of filmmaking. The film is a collection of interviews with Catholic scholars, film critics, and filmmakers who discuss how films reflect on and affect our beliefs.

The documentary begins with a brief history of the Catholic Church's relationship with the cinema. The first films that were made were often seen as a corrupting influence on society, leading the Catholic Church to create their own image of cinema in the form of 'morality plays'. However, the role of the Church eventually changed dramatically, and now there is a growing trend of Catholics in the movie industry.

Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers ask thought-provoking questions such as: How can films influence our beliefs? Can we learn from movies? And can a film have a true Catholic theme if it's not explicitly religious?

To answer these questions, the film includes interviews with several experts from the Catholic media community. These experts include filmmakers like James Martin, Jesuit, and Philip Martin, who have directed films on social issues such as immigration and faith; writer and film critic Steven D. Greydanus of National Catholic Register and Decent Films Guide, and Sister Rose Pacatte, a film critic and author on media literacy and faith.

The discussions center on how a broad range of topics, including the depiction of good and evil, the role of mercy, and the intersection between faith and culture in modern society. In-depth analyses of several films are also discussed, with a spotlight on how directors can use cinematography, music and other elements to craft a religious theme.

One section explores the impact of Martin Scorsese's Silence, which depicts Jesuit missionaries in Japan in the 17th century. The discussions focus on the theme of martyrdom and how it intersects with the practice of the faith. The debates center on the differences between living life in accordance with Christian charity, versus a willingness to die rather than deny the faith.

Another episode addresses Martin Scorsese's The Last Temptation of Christ, which caused controversy for its unorthodox portrayal of Jesus' private life. Speakers discuss whether it portrayed Jesus more realistically - as someone who was vulnerable to temptation and who had to struggle with his own humanity. They note how the film forced viewers to consider whether Jesus' temptations and struggles might be similar to their own.

Throughout the film, the speakers provide nuanced analysis of how films can be viewed through a religious lens. They also showcase several examples of how movies can be used to stimulate conversation about important religious issues. For example, the discussions include how The Revenant depicts the role of spirituality in personal and social recovery, and how Disney's Oscar-winning film Coco delves into the Mexican tradition of the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) to explore themes of family and the afterlife.

The insights of scholars and filmmakers are blended with a narrative that explains how movies function as communal events, and how they can shape our worldview. Among other important themes, they touch on the idea that movies can help shape conversations between different cultures and faith traditions.

Overall, Cinematic Scriptures: Discussions About Film From The Catholic Perspective is a fascinating and insightful documentary that explores the ways in which films and Catholicism intersect. Whether you are a committed Catholic or simply interested in the intersection of faith and art, this film will stimulate compelling discussions about how cinema affects society and our beliefs about God.

Cinematic Scriptures: Discussions About Film From The Catholic Perspective is a 2003 faith & spirituality movie with a runtime of 45 minutes.