Watch The Heretic

The Heretic is a 2018 documentary film that explores the unorthodox beliefs and practices of evangelical pastor Rob Bell. The film takes a deep dive into Bell's journey from being one of the most popular pastors in America, to becoming a controversial figure in the evangelical community due to his progressive views on Christianity. Directed by Andrew Morgan, the film examines Bell's departure from traditional Christian theology, as he begins to question the idea of hell being eternal punishment and explores the concept of universalism. The Heretic is a compelling exploration of the role of religion in modern society, showcasing the divisions that can exist within religious communities when people challenge the status quo.

The film is divided into chapters that progressively explore Bell's ideas and beliefs. The opening chapter introduces the audience to Bell's rise from being a young pastor to a prominent figure in American evangelicalism. The chapter explores Bell's founding of Mars Hill Bible Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and how he gained a loyal following for his unconventional and emotionally engaging sermons.

As the film progresses, it delves deeper into Bell's views on Christianity and how he strives to build a more compassionate, accepting version of the faith. The Heretic takes the audience on a journey through Bell's personal and professional life, exploring how his beliefs were shaped by his experiences and the people around him.

Throughout the film, Bell is joined by other spiritual figures, including Kent Dobson and Elizabeth Gilbert, who offer their unique perspectives on faith and spirituality. The Heretic explores the power of belief and how it can be used as a force for positive change.

The cinematography of the film is particularly beautiful, with stunning landscape shots of Bell's hometown and the surrounding areas. The music in the film is also incredibly well done, perfectly complementing the tone of each chapter.

The documentary also explores the backlash that Bell received from the evangelical community after the publication of his controversial book, "Love Wins." The book questioned traditional Christian teachings on the existence of hell and the concept of eternal punishment. The Heretic showcases the challenges that Bell faced, both professionally and personally, as he was accused of heresy by fellow pastors and church members.

Overall, The Heretic is a thought-provoking documentary that challenges viewers to consider the role of religion in society and how we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Christian theology, social justice, and the intersection of faith and modern-day issues.

The Heretic is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.