This month, Ryan and Laura dive into Wake Up Dead Man - a standout entry in the Benoit Blanc/Knives Out series. They praise its fun whodunit setup while focusing on its unusually thoughtful portrayal of Christianity: Father Judd’s Christlike leadership, the community’s vulnerability to charismatic leaders like Monsignor Wicks, and how faith is broadly presented with both flaws and real value. They praise the film’s writing, performances, and visual symbolism, and conclude with reflections on personal obedience, presence with God, and deeper engagement with Jesus.

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Discussed Passage:

Acts 9:1-9

Mentioned in this episode:

Stranger Things (2016 tv series)

Ghosts (2021 tv series)

Harry Potter (film series)

Supernatural (2005 tv series)

Midnight Mass (2021 miniseries)

"Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music" (song by Larry Norman)

Hercule Poirot (central character in Agatha Christie novels)

Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017 film by Rian Johnson)

Brick (2005 film by Rian Johnson)

Philip Yancey (former author and theologian)

The Jesus Music (2021 documentary film)

This month, Laura and Ryan discuss 1993’s Cool Runnings, exploring why the film remains a beloved 90s comedy with strong pacing, good humor, and surprising emotional depth. They examine key themes from the film, including perseverance, cultural identity, resisting imitation in favor of authenticity, and the definition of success. Connecting the story to a biblical narrative, they unpack what it means to trust God with detailed guidance, stepping into an unfamiliar calling, and living attentively and obediently even when it looks foolish to others.

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Discussed Passage

Genesis 6:3-7:5

Mentioned in this episode:

• The Sandlot (1993 film)
• Miracle (2004 winter olympics film)
• Eddie the Eagle (2015 winter olympics film)
• The Lion King (1994 film)
• You've Got Mail (1998 film)
• In the Good Old Summertime (1949 film)
• The Shop Around the Corner (1940 film)
• While You Were Sleeping (1995 film by Jon Turteltaub)
• Disney's The Kid (2000 film by Jon Turteltaub)
• National Treasure Movies (film series by Jon Turteltaub
• John Candy: I Like Me (documentary by Colin Hanks)
• Stargate SG-1 (1997 tv series)
• Stargate Atlantis (2004 tv series)
• Hana Khan Carries On (novel by Uzma Jalaluddin)
• The Merry Wives of Windsor (Shakespeare)
• Richard III (Shakespeare)
• Hamlet (Shakespeare)

Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com

In this episode of ‘Theology of Film’, hosts Laura and Ryan delve into the Christmas classic ‘Elf’. They discuss Buddy the Elf's unwavering kindness and belief in the goodness of others, exploring how these traits can serve as a model for Christians to live joyfully and lovingly. The conversation shifts to the notable absence of explicit references to Jesus in many Christmas films, prompting a heartfelt reflection on the true meaning of Christmas. Through readings and personal anecdotes, Laura and Ryan encourage listeners to embrace joy, show unconditional love, and glorify God throughout the festive season and beyond. The episode wraps up with practical ways to live out these principles in day-to-day life.

Join the conversation with us by subscribing to see how films like 'Elf' can deepen your understanding of God's truth and impact your daily life.

Discussed Passage:

Luke 2:8-20

Mentioned in this episode:

• Lord of the Rings (film series by Peter Jackson)
• Iron Man (film by Jon Favreau)
• The Mandalorian (streaming series by Jon Favreau)
• Rankin/Bass Christmas specials (e.g., Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer)
• Zathura (film by Jon Favreau)
• Saturday Night Live (sketch comedy tv series)
• Through Painted Deserts (memoir by Donald Miller)
• Blue Like Jazz (novel by Donald Miller)
• Shoe Dog (memoir by Phil Knight)
• The Princess Diarist (memoir by Carrie Fisher)

Let us know your thoughts! Send questions and movie recommendations to us at: theologyoffilm@gmail.com