The Curates Egg

Films as a Bridge to Spirituality

In last months Messenger there was an interesting article by Nick Pollard (from Damaris) on the supernatural. In it he referred to several films including The Matrix, Lord of the Rings and the work of M Night Shyamalan. He used them to contrast different popular views of evil and stated that films (along with other popular culture) "can open an interest in spiritual things". I would certainly agree with this, although probably with the proviso that that this interest is often already there, and that perhaps more accurately films can be used as a starting point for discussing or exploring spirituality.

In the Matrix for example the hero (Neo) discovers that what we perceive as the "real world" is in fact a computer generated virtual reality. The truth is shown him by the character Morpheus who says: "You've felt your entire life, that there's something wrong with the world. You don't know what it is, but it's there, like a splinter in your mind, driving you mad.". The film therefore can open up discussions about our perceptions of truth and reality, about whether there is a spiritual truth which represents a greater reality, and the choices we make between the two.

The Matrix is also great entertainment, but if it's not your cup of tea then this is a good time to revisit the best Christmas movie ever made – It's a Wonderful Life. Though the hero (Jimmy Stewart) confesses to God, in his darkest hour, that he is "not a praying man," and though the film doesn't come very close to the real meaning of Christmas, George's actions do in their own way reflect the Christmas story: He empties himself out of love, becoming poor for the sake of his people, the citizens of Bedford Falls. It can therefore open up discussions on sacrifice and the difference one person's life can make (not to mention the popular religious confusion about human beings becoming angels when they die!)

In our politically correct world, where religion is the only remaining conversation taboo the remerging popularity of film, makes it an ideal bridge between spirituality and popular culture. Not as platform for imposing our own ideas but as a means of generating genuine dialogue and enabling joint exploration of spiritual values.  

Current Releases

I tried to go and see a Korean film at the Watershed this month while Diane and the girls took in more populist fare. Unfortunately I couldn't get a ticket, so I will have to pass on their views on the films they saw!

First they went to see 'Bride and Prejudice' and had a good time. They said it was very funny but opinions differed on the signing and dancing. Worth seeing I should think if you enjoyed 'Bend it like Beckham' and would like a gentle introduction to the world of Bollywood. (3/5)

Next they saw ' Finding Neverland' which they found enchanting. Of course this could just have been because it had Johnny Depp in it but they assured me that it is a wonderful story, containing comedy and tragedy, and told with great elegance. Sounds good to me (4/5?)   

Web Resources

Both 'The Matrix' and 'It's a Wonderful Life' appear in The Arts & Faith list of the 'Top100 Spiritually Significant Films'.* It's a fascinating and usefull list for anyone interested in films and faith, although of course my own 100 would be slightly different (what! no Ben Hur?). Check it the full list on the Arts and Faith web site and let me know what you think.

Tim

* The Matrix dropped out of the top 100 (167) on the 2005 list