Watching Theology http://stevebrownetc.com
Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:43:06 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.3.3 en Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,CultureTV & FilmJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comnoFilm,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,CultureFrom the creators of Watching the Directors comes a new podcast that is bound to be of interest to at least one or two people.... On those off weeks, when you really want to destroy your favorite films by talking about the theological and philosophical coFrom the creators of Watching the Directors comes a new podcast that is bound to be of interest to at least one or two people.... On those off weeks, when you really want to destroy your favorite films by talking about the theological and philosophical content, we provide you with the ultimate solution: Watching Theology. In this show, Joe and Melissa look at the theological, philosophical and thematic content of a single film, often from a director covered on Watching the Directors.Subscribe with My Yahoo!Subscribe with NewsGatorSubscribe with NetvibesSubscribe with GoogleSubscribe with PageflakesSubscribe with ODEOSubscribe with Podnova WT03.06 Breaking the Waves (1996) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/-n1LfJBQ6pU/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0306-breaking-the-waves-1996/#comments Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:33:29 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0306-breaking-the-waves-1996/ wt_f_0306_breaking.jpgGod's Silence Series: no. 4. When Bess married Jan, it united an outsider and an insider, an oilworker and a member of a strict religious community. Their marriage was a happy one: sensual, fun, passionate. All that ended when Jan returned to his oil platform and Bess was left alone. She resumed prayers to a talkative God, a being who once was her only confidant. When Bess asked God to bring Jan back home to her, she took a significant step to a time of trial and atonement, losing her dignity and experiencing the silence of God in a real and traumatic way. Breaking the Waves is Lars von Trier's controversial parable about the struggle between the sacred and profane, spiritual and physical love, and an angry and loving God. It may also be a 1970s Scottish version of Carl Dreyer's The Passion of Joan of Arc.

See Davey Morrison's excellent interview with Richard Dutcher and his review of Falling.
Need Netflix to watch Breaking the Waves or Brigham City? Click here for a free trial.

Coming soon: In Bruges (perhaps) and Richard Dutcher's Brigham City.

NOW AVAILABLE: Watching, a film book by Joe and Melissa Johnson (also available through Amazon)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0306-breaking-the-waves-1996/feed/ noGod's Silence Series: no. 4. When Bess married Jan, it united an outsider and an insider, an oilworker and a member of a strict religious community. Their marriage was a happy one: sensual, fun, passionate. All that ended when Jan returned to his oilJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comGod's Silence Series: no. 4. When Bess married Jan, it united an outsider and an insider, an oilworker and a member of a strict religious community. Their marriage was a happy one: sensual, fun, passionate. All that ended when Jan returned to his oil platform and Bess was left alone. She resumed prayers to a [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0306-breaking-the-waves-1996/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt306-06192009.mp3 WT03.05 Mean Streets (1973) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/y4zx_IBvQLY/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0305-mean-streets-1973/#comments Sat, 06 Jun 2009 16:48:24 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0305-mean-streets-1973/ wt_f_0305_mean.jpgGod's Silence Series: no. 3. [NOTE: Explicit Content] Sometimes God is silent. Sometimes he's shut out of the conversation. In Martin Scorsese's breakthrough film Mean Streets, Charlie is trying to find his own way to stay out of Hell. He is the saint of Little Italy, just not the kind of saint anyone would canonize. Although God offers him absolution, Charlie prefers real atonement. He is the savior of the dregs, but his first priority is to save himself without losing anything. Join us for this episode as WT discusses the problem with forming one's own religion.
Coming soon: Breaking the Waves, In Bruges (perhaps), and Richard Dutcher's Falling.

NOW AVAILABLE: Watching, a film book by Joe and Melissa Johnson

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0305-mean-streets-1973/feed/ noGod's Silence Series: no. 3. [NOTE: Explicit Content] Sometimes God is silent. Sometimes he's shut out of the conversation. In Martin Scorsese's breakthrough film Mean Streets, Charlie is trying to find his own way to stay out of Hell. He iJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comGod's Silence Series: no. 3. [NOTE: Explicit Content] Sometimes God is silent. Sometimes he's shut out of the conversation. In Martin Scorsese's breakthrough film Mean Streets, Charlie is trying to find his own way to stay out of Hell. He is the saint of Little Italy, just not the kind of saint anyone would [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0305-mean-streets-1973/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt305-06062009.mp3 WT03.04 Crimes and Misdemeanors (1989) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/XZFhCyfedqE/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0304-crimes-and-misdemeanors-1989/#comments Thu, 07 May 2009 07:34:52 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0304-crimes-and-misdemeanors-1989/ WT03.04 Crimes and Misdemeanors

God's Silence Series: no. 2. In part two of the "God's Silence" series, Watching Theology considers the profound link between ethics and God's existence. If God exists, He must care, and if God cares, He must punish. So if Martin Landau were to, say, kill Anjelica Huston, you might expect a lightning bolt or two, right? Not according to Woody Allen's masterpiece of tragedy, comedy, existentialism, and literary binaries. Join this episode for a look at Allen's Crimes and Misdemeanors. Also included in this show is a bonus over-simplification of the ways that Christianity has considered the presence of God (and whether it has a category for an apparently silent God).

NOW AVAILABLE: Watching, a film book by Joe and Melissa Johnson

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0304-crimes-and-misdemeanors-1989/feed/ no God's Silence Series: no. 2. In part two of the "God's Silence" series, Watching Theology considers the profound link between ethics and God's existence. If God exists, He must care, and if God cares, He must punish. So if MartinJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com God's Silence Series: no. 2. In part two of the "God's Silence" series, Watching Theology considers the profound link between ethics and God's existence. If God exists, He must care, and if God cares, He must punish. So if Martin Landau were to, say, kill Anjelica Huston, you might expect a lightning bolt or two, [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0304-crimes-and-misdemeanors-1989/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt304-05082009.mp3 WT03.03 Winter Light (1962) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/bpb71LW3Cak/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0303-winter-light-1962/#comments Sun, 19 Apr 2009 06:09:32 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0303-winter-light-1962/ WT03.03 Winter Light (1962)God's Silence Series: no. 1. Ingmar Bergman's films have become synonymous with existential terror. In 1962's Winter Light, Bergman explores what could be a typical Sunday for a struggling pastor, except that this pastor may not believe in God. Winter Light is the first episode in a 5 part series on religious doubt, specifically on how "God's Silence" is explored in movies.
(Note: this episode references Arthur Gibson's book Silence of God.) Future episodes in this series: Mean Streets, Crimes and Misdemeanors, In Bruges, and Richard Dutcher's Falling. [#3.03]

NOW AVAILABLE: Watching, a film book by Joe and Melissa Johnson

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0303-winter-light-1962/feed/ noGod's Silence Series: no. 1. Ingmar Bergman's films have become synonymous with existential terror. In 1962's Winter Light, Bergman explores what could be a typical Sunday for a struggling pastor, except that this pastor may not believe in Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comGod's Silence Series: no. 1. Ingmar Bergman's films have become synonymous with existential terror. In 1962's Winter Light, Bergman explores what could be a typical Sunday for a struggling pastor, except that this pastor may not believe in God. Winter Light is the first episode in a 5 part series on religious doubt, specifically on [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0303-winter-light-1962/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt303-04202009.mp3 WT03.02 Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/C0dp7Rfu3Z8/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0302-creature-from-the-black-lagoon-1954/#comments Sat, 21 Mar 2009 17:02:03 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0302-creature-from-the-black-lagoon-1954/ WT0302 CreatureIt's a tale as old as time. On this episode, WT turns it's careful gaze to the waters of the Amazon, watching Jack Arnold's Universal Monster classic Creature from the Black Lagoon. In those dark waters, we find an evolutionary story of Beauty and the Beast and a few bizarre love triangles. As an added bonus, that beastly Joe is joined by a beauty for a brief interview on gender, King Kong, and age appropriate viewing.[#3.02]

NOW AVAILABLE: Watching, a film book by Joe and Melissa Johnson

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0302-creature-from-the-black-lagoon-1954/feed/ noIt's a tale as old as time. On this episode, WT turns it's careful gaze to the waters of the Amazon, watching Jack Arnold's Universal Monster classic Creature from the Black Lagoon. In those dark waters, we find an evolutionary story of BeaJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comIt's a tale as old as time. On this episode, WT turns it's careful gaze to the waters of the Amazon, watching Jack Arnold's Universal Monster classic Creature from the Black Lagoon. In those dark waters, we find an evolutionary story of Beauty and the Beast and a few bizarre love triangles. As an added [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0302-creature-from-the-black-lagoon-1954/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/WT302-0212009.mp3 WT03.01 Choke (2008) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/1eesqA731ds/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0301-choke-2008/#comments Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:30:36 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0301-choke-2008/ WT03.01 Choke (2008)In this first episode of season 3, Joe spends a few minutes with Clark Gregg's Choke. This latest adaptation of a Chuck Palahniuk novel is far removed from the David Fincher Fight Club adaptation, but a few threads connect them. Of course there is a fascination with vulgarity and the visceral. There is the strange blend of romanticism, religion and repulsion. But Choke also offers a few comments on the messiah complex of a young man who needs to kill his mother to save his life. All this, and more, waits for the eager and forgiving listener. [#3.01]

NOW AVAILABLE: Watching, a film book by Joe and Melissa Johnson

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0301-choke-2008/feed/ noIn this first episode of season 3, Joe spends a few minutes with Clark Gregg's Choke. This latest adaptation of a Chuck Palahniuk novel is far removed from the David Fincher Fight Club adaptation, but a few threads connect them. Of course there is a Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comIn this first episode of season 3, Joe spends a few minutes with Clark Gregg's Choke. This latest adaptation of a Chuck Palahniuk novel is far removed from the David Fincher Fight Club adaptation, but a few threads connect them. Of course there is a fascination with vulgarity and the visceral. There is the strange [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0301-choke-2008/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt301-02202009.mp3 Watching Reading - Reading Watching http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/3NZSF0JHbQo/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/watching-reading-reading-watching/#comments Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:28:22 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/watching-reading-reading-watching/ An Anthology of Film WritingNot that you don't have something better to do with your money - like giving to Key Life. But for those listeners who can't get enough movie stuff, the fine folks at Watching Theology offer a collection of film readings. Watching is a mixed collection of articles, papers, reviews and other ramblings from the various projects of Joe and Melissa Johnson (Film-Philes, Watching the Directors, Watching Journal, Watching Theology). We can't promise that you will like the book, find any insights, or even get your money's worth. We can only hope that it will one day be a collector's item.

Note: This book is available only through lulu, a self-publishing site, and requires manufacturing before shipping. In most cases, the book should arrive within two weeks of ordering. Because of this process, the individual cost is a bit higher than we would prefer ($22.72 + shipping). However, an electronic version is available for $5.00.

Enjoy. The Management.

Follow this link to order or preview the book.

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/watching-reading-reading-watching/feed/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/watching-reading-reading-watching/ WT02.10 A Watching Christmas http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/WcVZA-RcKKE/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0210-a-watching-christmas/#comments Wed, 24 Dec 2008 04:44:23 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0210-a-watching-christmas/ WT02.10 A Watching Christmas[NOTE: Explicit Content] If all you want for Christmas is Muppets and Miley Cyrus, avoid this show. But, if you don't mind a little sex, violence, and f-words in your eggnog, we have the gift that keeps giving. On this special (and rare) edition of Watching Theology, we turn our attention toward the Christmas movie. Listen and receive the gift of audio as we count down our Top 5 "Other" Christmas movies of the last 25 (or so) years. Not only will you be treated to our wisdom, but we promise a Santa-free half-hour.
[#2.10]

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0210-a-watching-christmas/feed/ no[NOTE: Explicit Content] If all you want for Christmas is Muppets and Miley Cyrus, avoid this show. But, if you don't mind a little sex, violence, and f-words in your eggnog, we have the gift that keeps giving. On this special (and rare) edition of WJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com[NOTE: Explicit Content] If all you want for Christmas is Muppets and Miley Cyrus, avoid this show. But, if you don't mind a little sex, violence, and f-words in your eggnog, we have the gift that keeps giving. On this special (and rare) edition of Watching Theology, we turn our attention toward the Christmas movie. [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0210-a-watching-christmas/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt210-02232008.mp3 WT02.09 Star Trek - The Motion Picture (1979) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/ErmOvmMbKxg/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0209-star-trek-the-motion-picture-1979/#comments Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:26:55 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0209-star-trek-the-motion-picture-1979/ Star Trek - The Motion PictureGod, evolution, the rise of a living machine, theology, humanism and a Vulcan named Spock. It's all in Robert Wise's adaptation of Star Trek mythology. On this episode, Joe does a solo take on what might be the real meaning of the players and ideas behind the first feature of television's most celebrated crew.
(Note: the sound quality is a little shakier than usual. We blame the Klingons.)
[#02.09]
Next WT edition: Aug 1 - Rear Window (1954)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0209-star-trek-the-motion-picture-1979/feed/ noGod, evolution, the rise of a living machine, theology, humanism and a Vulcan named Spock. It's all in Robert Wise's adaptation of Star Trek mythology. On this episode, Joe does a solo take on what might be the real meaning of the players and idJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comGod, evolution, the rise of a living machine, theology, humanism and a Vulcan named Spock. It's all in Robert Wise's adaptation of Star Trek mythology. On this episode, Joe does a solo take on what might be the real meaning of the players and ideas behind the first feature of television's most celebrated crew. (Note: the [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0209-star-trek-the-motion-picture-1979/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wts209-07182008.mp3 WT02.08 Lars and the Real Girl (2007) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/wG71Jiu2gYc/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0208-lars-and-the-real-girl-2007/#comments Fri, 11 Jul 2008 07:56:31 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0208-lars-and-the-real-girl-2007/ Lars and the Real GirlNothing says caring like a close community of Christian believers, compassionate co-workers and a life-like "love doll." Lars and the Real Girl is the story of a lonely man who becomes so gripped by the contrary forces of fear and love that he suffers from the delusion of believing that an internet-ordered mannequin is a girl friend. And in this insanity, he finds that there is no shortage of love – real love – in his life.
On this episode we spend some time with Lars, his family, his co-workers and his church to talk about the need to love and the cost of it all. Is fear a protector or destroyer of the human heart? Is love safe?
Next WT edition: July 18 - Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0208-lars-and-the-real-girl-2007/feed/ noNothing says caring like a close community of Christian believers, compassionate co-workers and a life-like "love doll." Lars and the Real Girl is the story of a lonely man who becomes so gripped by the contrary forces of fear and love that he sJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comNothing says caring like a close community of Christian believers, compassionate co-workers and a life-like "love doll." Lars and the Real Girl is the story of a lonely man who becomes so gripped by the contrary forces of fear and love that he suffers from the delusion of believing that an internet-ordered mannequin is a [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0208-lars-and-the-real-girl-2007/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wts208-07122008.mp3 WT Update http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/cGvdMAumLOU/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt-update/#comments Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:25:23 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt-update/ Yes, the podcast still exists. And it will return soon.

Here's the quick rundown on some adjusted program dates (and listen to the audio for a preview of some other upcoming shows):

Lars and the Real Girl (July 11), Star Trek: The Motion Picture (July 18), Rear Window (Aug 1)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt-update/feed/ noYes, the podcast still exists. And it will return soon. Here's the quick rundown on some adjusted program dates (and listen to the audio for a preview of some other upcoming shows): Lars and the Real Girl (July 11), Star Trek: The Motion Picture (JulJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comYes, the podcast still exists. And it will return soon. Here's the quick rundown on some adjusted program dates (and listen to the audio for a preview of some other upcoming shows): Lars and the Real Girl (July 11), Star Trek: The Motion Picture (July 18), Rear Window (Aug 1) Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt-update/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wtse1-070308.mp3 WT02.07 Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/Xg_MCJSTaZw/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0207-raiders-of-the-lost-ark-1981/#comments Fri, 23 May 2008 17:13:35 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0207-raiders-of-the-lost-ark-1981/ WT02.07 Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)With the long awaited fourth movie in the Indiana Jones series hitting theaters, it seemed to be a good time to revisit our childhood and our collective social consciousness with an adventure. On this episode we go back to the beginning with Harrison Ford, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg to a surprising little homage film called Raiders of the Lost Ark. As we follow Dr. Jones, we are confronted by the nature of God - or what God might do if let out of a box - and the battle of good versus evil in an attempt to stop world domination. Can Indiana save the girl? Will the Nazis capture the ark and control the world?
Watching The Directors next edition: June 3 - The Archers: Powell & Pressburger.
Next WT edition: June 13 - Lars and the Real Girl (2007)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0207-raiders-of-the-lost-ark-1981/feed/ noWith the long awaited fourth movie in the Indiana Jones series hitting theaters, it seemed to be a good time to revisit our childhood and our collective social consciousness with an adventure. On this episode we go back to the beginning with Harrison FordJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comWith the long awaited fourth movie in the Indiana Jones series hitting theaters, it seemed to be a good time to revisit our childhood and our collective social consciousness with an adventure. On this episode we go back to the beginning with Harrison Ford, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg to a surprising little homage film [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0207-raiders-of-the-lost-ark-1981/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt207-0523208.mp3 WT02.06 Citizen Kane (1941) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/hJIjRXp7n7o/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0206-citizen-kane-1941/#comments Thu, 15 May 2008 18:06:33 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0206-citizen-kane-1941/ WT02.06 Citizen Kane (1941)Considered by numerous critics and film organizations to be the greatest film ever made, Citizen Kane is large in legend even without our brief examination of the movie. But even Orson Welles – as Charles Foster Kane and director – is not beyond our arrogant ramblings about life and meaning. On this episode, we look at the masterwork and talk about innocence, childhood, nostalgia and giving. We also spend some time talking about technique and whether Citizen Kane may have more in common with Nabokov's Lolita than Capra's It's a Wonderful Life.
(Note: "We" is used liberally here since only Joe is on this episode due to Melissa's workload on other projects. So if you don't listen, it won't hurt our/my feelings.)
Watching The Directors next edition: June 3 - The Archers: Powell & Pressburger.
Next WT edition: May 27 - Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0206-citizen-kane-1941/feed/ noConsidered by numerous critics and film organizations to be the greatest film ever made, Citizen Kane is large in legend even without our brief examination of the movie. But even Orson Welles – as Charles Foster Kane and director – is not beyond our arrogJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comConsidered by numerous critics and film organizations to be the greatest film ever made, Citizen Kane is large in legend even without our brief examination of the movie. But even Orson Welles – as Charles Foster Kane and director – is not beyond our arrogant ramblings about life and meaning. On this episode, we look [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0206-citizen-kane-1941/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt206-05132008.mp3 WT02.05: A Scanner Darkly (2006) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/LlOyadqERu8/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0205-a-scanner-darkly-2006/#comments Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:11:55 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0205-a-scanner-darkly-2006/ A Scanner Darkly[NOTE: Explicit Content] Whether or not there's a huge government/corporate conspiracy to take over every liberty – to enslave and control us – there's always time to think about reality. Fortunately, in Philip K. Dick's and Richard Linklater's vision of the near future, we're provided with ample examples of how one might go about losing his or her identity. And though drugs are a huge part of that, they're not the whole story. On this episode, we look through the lens of the scanner, trying to find clues on how to distinguish between illusion and reality – between Bob, Fred and Bruce.
Watching The Directors next edition: May 13 - Steven Soderbergh
Next WT edition: May 13 - Citizen Kane (1941)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0205-a-scanner-darkly-2006/feed/ no[NOTE: Explicit Content] Whether or not there's a huge government/corporate conspiracy to take over every liberty – to enslave and control us – there's always time to think about reality. Fortunately, in Philip K. Dick's and Richard LinklatJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com[NOTE: Explicit Content] Whether or not there's a huge government/corporate conspiracy to take over every liberty – to enslave and control us – there's always time to think about reality. Fortunately, in Philip K. Dick's and Richard Linklater's vision of the near future, we're provided with ample examples of how one might go about losing [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0205-a-scanner-darkly-2006/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt205-04292008.mp3 WT02.04 The Wicker Man (1973) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/mSfkyWqbBfA/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0204-the-wicker-man-1973/#comments Tue, 15 Apr 2008 05:10:00 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0204-the-wicker-man-1973/ The Wicker Man (1973)Somewhere on an island outside Scotland, Christopher Lee has built the perfect neo-Pagan civilization. There you will find fertility rites, folk music and a frolicking Britt Ekland (and her body double). You will also witness a clash of civilizations that hasn't been seen since St. Patrick brought Christianity to the heathens in Ireland. On this episode, we'll explore Summerisle and its devotion to the old gods and how that may affect the life of a Christian police officer investigating the disappearance of a young girl.
Watching The Directors next edition: April 22 - Woody Allen (1966-85)
Next WT edition: April 29 - A Scanner Darkly)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0204-the-wicker-man-1973/feed/ noSomewhere on an island outside Scotland, Christopher Lee has built the perfect neo-Pagan civilization. There you will find fertility rites, folk music and a frolicking Britt Ekland (and her body double). You will also witness a clash of civilizations thatJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comSomewhere on an island outside Scotland, Christopher Lee has built the perfect neo-Pagan civilization. There you will find fertility rites, folk music and a frolicking Britt Ekland (and her body double). You will also witness a clash of civilizations that hasn't been seen since St. Patrick brought Christianity to the heathens in Ireland. On this [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt0204-the-wicker-man-1973/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt204-04152008.mp3 Casino Royale (2006) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/75bYSlG1wmg/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/casino-royale-2006/#comments Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:49:56 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/casino-royale-2006/ [NOTE: Explicit Content] It may never have occurred to you before, but James Bond is a troubled old man. Being a glossy hit man may have some drawbacks, such as the inability to keep a conscience and a slightly troubled Freudian nightmare of a view on women. We put Casino Royale and Daniel Craig's Bond on the couch for thirty good minutes of free psychotherapy and ask whether the need for "realism" is killing comic book heroes.

Watching The Directors next edition: April 1 - Mira Nair
April 22 - Woody Allen (1966-85)

Next WT edition: April 15 - The Wicker Man (1973)

Bond fan? You must join the Hollywood Saloon for their comprehensive 3-part Bond movie series. Part 1 (1962-71), Part 2 (1973-89), Part 3 (1995-2006)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/casino-royale-2006/feed/ no[NOTE: Explicit Content] It may never have occurred to you before, but James Bond is a troubled old man. Being a glossy hit man may have some drawbacks, such as the inability to keep a conscience and a slightly troubled Freudian nightmare of a view on womJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com[NOTE: Explicit Content] It may never have occurred to you before, but James Bond is a troubled old man. Being a glossy hit man may have some drawbacks, such as the inability to keep a conscience and a slightly troubled Freudian nightmare of a view on women. We put Casino Royale and Daniel Craig's Bond [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/casino-royale-2006/http://keylifemedia.com/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt203-04012008.mp3 Pinocchio (1940) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/bFME6U62FTo/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/pinocchio-1940/#comments Tue, 18 Mar 2008 16:24:43 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/pinocchio-1940/ WT02.02: Pinocchio (1940)What do the frontier revival evangelists have in common with pre-War, classic Disney animation? Perhaps a lot more than many of us may have considered. It seems that Pinocchio has more to say about good behavior and the problem of succumbing to the devil's devices - gambling, drinking, smoking, etc. - than many of today's pulpits. But there was a time when the American common religion and the ethics of kiddie culture could be summed up in one simple phrase: "Now, remember… be a good boy. And always let your conscience be your guide."

Watching The Directors next edition: April 1 - Mira Nair

Next WT edition: April 1 - Casino Royale (2006)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/pinocchio-1940/feed/ noWhat do the frontier revival evangelists have in common with pre-War, classic Disney animation? Perhaps a lot more than many of us may have considered. It seems that Pinocchio has more to say about good behavior and the problem of succumbing to the devil&Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comWhat do the frontier revival evangelists have in common with pre-War, classic Disney animation? Perhaps a lot more than many of us may have considered. It seems that Pinocchio has more to say about good behavior and the problem of succumbing to the devil's devices - gambling, drinking, smoking, etc. - than many of today's [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/pinocchio-1940/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt202-03182008.mp3 Shaun of the Dead (2004) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/IPTOAfvXHL8/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/shaun-of-the-dead-2004/#comments Tue, 04 Mar 2008 06:03:01 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2008/03/podcasts/watching-theology/shaun-of-the-dead-2004/ Shaun of the DeadYou don't see a zombie every day, but if you did, would it change your life forever? On this episode - the first of season two - we spend time with some nobody named Shaun, who is having a very bad day. It seems that everyone around the poor guy is turning into the undead, and we're supposed to laugh about it. Join us for our discussion on the nature of life and other family values.
Next edition: Pinocchio (1940)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/shaun-of-the-dead-2004/feed/ noYou don't see a zombie every day, but if you did, would it change your life forever? On this episode - the first of season two - we spend time with some nobody named Shaun, who is having a very bad day. It seems that everyone around the poor guy is tJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comYou don't see a zombie every day, but if you did, would it change your life forever? On this episode - the first of season two - we spend time with some nobody named Shaun, who is having a very bad day. It seems that everyone around the poor guy is turning into the undead, [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/shaun-of-the-dead-2004/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt201-03042008.mp3 Watching Theology: Season 2 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/YwdOAfdgUr4/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/watching-theology-season-2/#comments Sat, 02 Feb 2008 18:13:00 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2008/02/podcasts/watching-theology-season-2/ Watching Despite our attempts to keep an occasional show posted - our best laid plans to keep Watching Theology alive - we've failed miserably. Quite a few opportunities have come and gone.

So, left with the reality of seeing the show disappear altogether, we've decided to salvage it from the littered heap of podcast debris and bring it back for, what we affectionately call, "Season 2".

Beginning March 4, WT will return as a bi-weekly podcast covering the thematic, philosophical and religious components of movies. Join us as we look at zombie flicks, animated classics, war films and a bunch of other cinematic wonder.

We also would like to thank those of you who have commented on your enjoyment of the show. We appreciate your encouragement to keep it going.

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/watching-theology-season-2/feed/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/watching-theology-season-2/ Children of Men (2006) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/esUnbOQBfMw/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/children-of-men-2006/#comments Tue, 23 Oct 2007 17:45:40 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/10/podcasts/watching-theology/children-of-men-2006/ wt_childrenofmen.jpg[NOTE: Explicit Content] Since Huxley's Brave New World, novels and films have flowed with a bleak view of the not-too-distant future. Alfonso Cuaron's adaptation of P.D. James' Children of Men doesn't depart too far from this perspective. But it does offer some new thoughts to the genre. Join us as we look at what the film says about the basics of human sexuality and the idea of a world without a future.
Also, we announce, sadly, that Watching Theology is going through some changes.
Watching The Directors next edition: October 30 - James Whale
Next WT edition: tba

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/children-of-men-2006/feed/ no[NOTE: Explicit Content] Since Huxley's Brave New World, novels and films have flowed with a bleak view of the not-too-distant future. Alfonso Cuaron's adaptation of P.D. James' Children of Men doesn't depart too far from this perspectJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com[NOTE: Explicit Content] Since Huxley's Brave New World, novels and films have flowed with a bleak view of the not-too-distant future. Alfonso Cuaron's adaptation of P.D. James' Children of Men doesn't depart too far from this perspective. But it does offer some new thoughts to the genre. Join us as we look at what [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/children-of-men-2006/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt013-10232007.mp3 Forbidden Planet (1956) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/YKqM9qsEzgE/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/forbidden-planet-1956/#comments Mon, 15 Oct 2007 18:42:08 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/10/uncategorized/forbidden-planet-1956/ wt_forbiddenplanet.jpg1950's science fiction is a wonderful place for finding heavy-handed propaganda. The stories are often parables and metaphors with shiny gadgets and planet-size catastrophes. 1956's Forbidden Planet is an example of great moral lessons buried in the luster of special effects and lasers. Forbidden Planet also has the distinction of being the finest blending of Shakespeare and Freud ever put onto celluloid. So join us as we travel back fifty years and explore the secrets of the id.
Watching The Directors next edition: October 16 - Alfonso Cuarón
Next WT edition: October 23 - Alfonso Cuarón's Children of Men (2006)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/forbidden-planet-1956/feed/ no1950's science fiction is a wonderful place for finding heavy-handed propaganda. The stories are often parables and metaphors with shiny gadgets and planet-size catastrophes. 1956's Forbidden Planet is an example of great moral lessons buried inJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com1950's science fiction is a wonderful place for finding heavy-handed propaganda. The stories are often parables and metaphors with shiny gadgets and planet-size catastrophes. 1956's Forbidden Planet is an example of great moral lessons buried in the luster of special effects and lasers. Forbidden Planet also has the distinction of being the finest blending of [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/forbidden-planet-1956/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt012-10152007mp3.mp3 Barton Fink (1991) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/hiDn4yl2nh4/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/barton-fink-1991/#comments Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:20:47 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/09/podcasts/watching-theology/barton-fink-1991/ wt_barton.jpgSome films are clear - you know exactly what you're getting and exactly what you're supposed to learn. Then there's Barton Fink. In the midst of a bad case of writer's block, the Coen Brothers scripted this tale of a talented playwright with his own unusual case of writer's block. Barton leaves the promise and glory of the New York elite for the heartless, business world of Hollywood. Along the way, he checks into the Hotel Earle, meets Charlie and has probably sold his soul.
On this edition, we take a few glances at this metaphor-rich story about a man's self-delusion and the unfortunate fellow residents of, what may be, Hell.
Watching The Directors next edition: Sept 18 - John Hughes
Next WT edition: September 25 - Fred Wilcox's Forbidden Planet (1956)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/barton-fink-1991/feed/ noSome films are clear - you know exactly what you're getting and exactly what you're supposed to learn. Then there's Barton Fink. In the midst of a bad case of writer's block, the Coen Brothers scripted this tale of a talented playwrighJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comSome films are clear - you know exactly what you're getting and exactly what you're supposed to learn. Then there's Barton Fink. In the midst of a bad case of writer's block, the Coen Brothers scripted this tale of a talented playwright with his own unusual case of writer's block. Barton leaves the promise and [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/barton-fink-1991/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt011-091107.mp3 Dogma (1999) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/7Y-SmR7NXuI/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/dogma-1999/#comments Tue, 28 Aug 2007 04:16:13 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/08/podcasts/watching-theology/dogma-1999/ wt_dogma.jpg[NOTE: Explicit Content] Religious movies sure have a way of making religious people angry. Kevin Smith's 1999 film, Dogma, is no exception. Fearing death threats - from the "Thou Shall Not Kill" folks who ought to know better - Smith went as far as putting a disclaimer at the beginning of the movie to let people know he's just having some fun (the disclaimer thing didn't work for Scorsese either). In the midst of Smith's fun is a film that is a bit long on exposition, a bit indulgent in profanity and a lot smarter than given credit. Dogma may be one of the most original films of recent years, and the perspectives it offers are more than enough material for a little half-hour show.
Join us as we talk about a few of the primary players and wonder if God is really a Canadian pop star.
Watching The Directors next edition: Sept 4 - Coen Brothers
Next WT edition: September 11 - Coen Brother's Barton Fink (1991)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/dogma-1999/feed/ no[NOTE: Explicit Content] Religious movies sure have a way of making religious people angry. Kevin Smith's 1999 film, Dogma, is no exception. Fearing death threats - from the "Thou Shall Not Kill" folks who ought to know better - Smith went Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com[NOTE: Explicit Content] Religious movies sure have a way of making religious people angry. Kevin Smith's 1999 film, Dogma, is no exception. Fearing death threats - from the "Thou Shall Not Kill" folks who ought to know better - Smith went as far as putting a disclaimer at the beginning of the movie to let [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/dogma-1999/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt010-08282007.mp3 Grizzly Man (2005) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/xkYJYW-sLnI/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/grizzly-man-2005/#comments Mon, 27 Aug 2007 02:58:23 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/08/uncategorized/grizzly-man-2005/ wt_grizzly.jpgA few summers ago, while most of us were out camping or having a bar-b-q, Timothy Treadwell and his girlfriend were being killed and eaten by a starving grizzly bear in Alaska. One of our most significant working directors, Werner Herzog, picked up his video footage and compiled a documentary about the severity of nature and Treadwell's death. In this episode, we look at the tragic life of "the Grizzly Man" as interpreted and remembered by Herzog and his cynicism. Is nature neutral, sinister or - as Treadwell believed - the Disney-like world of compassion and sentiment?
Watching The Directors next edition: Sept 4 - Coen Brothers
Next WT edition: August 28 - Kevin Smith's Dogma (1999)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/grizzly-man-2005/feed/ noA few summers ago, while most of us were out camping or having a bar-b-q, Timothy Treadwell and his girlfriend were being killed and eaten by a starving grizzly bear in Alaska. One of our most significant working directors, Werner Herzog, picked up his viJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comA few summers ago, while most of us were out camping or having a bar-b-q, Timothy Treadwell and his girlfriend were being killed and eaten by a starving grizzly bear in Alaska. One of our most significant working directors, Werner Herzog, picked up his video footage and compiled a documentary about the severity of nature [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/grizzly-man-2005/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt009-08262007.mp3 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/-9fmHqNN0tQ/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/2001-a-space-odyssey-1968/#comments Tue, 31 Jul 2007 05:03:30 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/07/podcasts/2001-a-space-odyssey-1968/ wt_2001.jpgSomehow, Stanley Kubrick managed to entrance two generations of movie-goers with his adaptation of an Arthur C. Clarke short story. From the famous defensive appeals of a computer named HAL to the birth of some cosmic star child, 2001: A Space Odyssey created more interpretations and questions than any kind of special answers. Still, there's nothing wrong with looking at the structure of the movie, the notes of Clarke and our own best guesses. On this episode, we follow the mysterious monolith, the human race and the lost evolutionary links that were all defeated by the ascent of humanity.
Watching The Directors next edition: August 7 - Barbara Kopple and Michael Moore
Next WT edition: August 14 - Werner Herzog's Grizzly Man (2005)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/2001-a-space-odyssey-1968/feed/ noSomehow, Stanley Kubrick managed to entrance two generations of movie-goers with his adaptation of an Arthur C. Clarke short story. From the famous defensive appeals of a computer named HAL to the birth of some cosmic star child, 2001: A Space Odyssey creJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comSomehow, Stanley Kubrick managed to entrance two generations of movie-goers with his adaptation of an Arthur C. Clarke short story. From the famous defensive appeals of a computer named HAL to the birth of some cosmic star child, 2001: A Space Odyssey created more interpretations and questions than any kind of special answers. Still, there's [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/2001-a-space-odyssey-1968/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt008-07312007.mp3 Constantine (2005) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/vZ1lKhHTPBs/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/constantine-2005/#comments Sun, 15 Jul 2007 21:17:57 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/07/uncategorized/constantine-2005/ wt__const_web.jpgKeanu Reeves is no stranger to roles with significant theological and philosophical impact: Neo, Buddha, Ted "Theo-dore" Logan. In this edition, we look at him as he fights the forces of good and evil, once again coming face-to-face (remember The Devil's Advocate?) with Satan. On this episode, we follow Reeves as the incarnation of the Hellblazer comics anti-hero in Francis Lawrence's Constantine. Join us as we explore the power of quasi-Catholic dogma, the fight for redemption and the attempt to gain God's favor. Along the way, we'll encounter the angel Gabriel and ask whether God really does have a plan.
Watching The Directors next edition: July 24 - Stanley Kubrick
Next WT edition: July 31 - Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/constantine-2005/feed/ noKeanu Reeves is no stranger to roles with significant theological and philosophical impact: Neo, Buddha, Ted "Theo-dore" Logan. In this edition, we look at him as he fights the forces of good and evil, once again coming face-to-face (remember ThJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comKeanu Reeves is no stranger to roles with significant theological and philosophical impact: Neo, Buddha, Ted "Theo-dore" Logan. In this edition, we look at him as he fights the forces of good and evil, once again coming face-to-face (remember The Devil's Advocate?) with Satan. On this episode, we follow Reeves as the incarnation of the [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/constantine-2005/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt007-07172007.mp3 Die Hard (1988) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/QDnlWY4B3tE/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/die-hard-1988/#comments Wed, 04 Jul 2007 02:47:06 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/07/podcasts/watching-theology/die-hard-1988/ diehard_web.jpg[NOTE: Explicit Content] With the release of Die Hard 4, theologians all over the world are asking, "What is it about John McClane that causes bad things to happen?" In this edition, we focus on the film that started it all, with John McTiernan's new-classic action film, Die Hard. Along the way we ask questions about fate and the reluctant hero. Is McClane a savior of biblical proportions - or at least biblical tradition? How does that overweight, twinkie-eating cop fit into the divine plan? Plus, we listen to our favorite sound bites and attempt to talk philosophy without destroying a perfectly good movie.
Watching The Directors next edition: July 24 - Stanley Kubrick
Next WT edition: July 17 - Francis Lawrence's Constantine (2005)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/die-hard-1988/feed/ no[NOTE: Explicit Content] With the release of Die Hard 4, theologians all over the world are asking, "What is it about John McClane that causes bad things to happen?" In this edition, we focus on the film that started it all, with John McTiernan&Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com[NOTE: Explicit Content] With the release of Die Hard 4, theologians all over the world are asking, "What is it about John McClane that causes bad things to happen?" In this edition, we focus on the film that started it all, with John McTiernan's new-classic action film, Die Hard. Along the way we ask questions [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/die-hard-1988/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt006-07032007.mp3 The Virgin Spring (1960) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/5KjOImtdokw/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/the-virgin-spring-1960/#comments Tue, 19 Jun 2007 14:30:06 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/06/podcasts/watching-theology/the-virgin-spring-1960/ virginspring_web.jpgIngmar Bergman had a number of questions about God, life, justice and loss. In this episode, we look at one of the least subtle examples of Bergman's explorations of these themes and ideas. The Virgin Spring won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, but now seems largely forgotten. But we spend a little time with a remarkable story of colliding religious world views. Yes, it's in Swedish (though we use clips from the dubbed English version). Yes, it's in black-and-white and a bit depressing, but there's something profound and refreshing about this great, little film. We do our best to bring some of that out.

Watching The Directors next edition: June 26 - Anniversary Special Edition
Next WT edition: July 3 - John McTiernan's Die Hard (1988)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/the-virgin-spring-1960/feed/ noIngmar Bergman had a number of questions about God, life, justice and loss. In this episode, we look at one of the least subtle examples of Bergman's explorations of these themes and ideas. The Virgin Spring won an Academy Award for Best Foreign LangJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comIngmar Bergman had a number of questions about God, life, justice and loss. In this episode, we look at one of the least subtle examples of Bergman's explorations of these themes and ideas. The Virgin Spring won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, but now seems largely forgotten. But we spend a little [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/the-virgin-spring-1960/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt005-06192007.mp3 The Princess Bride (1987) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/gspxp2A5-2o/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/the-princess-bride-1987/#comments Mon, 04 Jun 2007 16:08:53 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/06/podcasts/watching-theology/the-princess-bride-1987/ The Princess Bride (1987)Maybe it's not exactly theology, but does a nice fairy tale like The Princess Bride have something to say? Is it possible that Westley, Humperdink and Miracle Max are all players in some universe of moral clarity, destiny and providence? On this episode, we turn our focus to William Goldman's and Rob Reiner's consent to traditional virtues disguised as a romantic comedy. On the way we wonder what role a little suburban Fred Savage plays and whether Buttercup is being punished for a lack of belief.

Watching The Directors next edition: June 12 - Ingmar Bergman
Next WT edition: June 19 - Ingmar Bergman's The Virgin Spring (1960)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/the-princess-bride-1987/feed/ noMaybe it's not exactly theology, but does a nice fairy tale like The Princess Bride have something to say? Is it possible that Westley, Humperdink and Miracle Max are all players in some universe of moral clarity, destiny and providence? On this episJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comMaybe it's not exactly theology, but does a nice fairy tale like The Princess Bride have something to say? Is it possible that Westley, Humperdink and Miracle Max are all players in some universe of moral clarity, destiny and providence? On this episode, we turn our focus to William Goldman's and Rob Reiner's consent to [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/the-princess-bride-1987/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt004-06042007.mp3 The Fountain (2006) http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/watching-theology/~3/6ECfzJEWXjY/ http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt03-the-fountain-2006/#comments Tue, 22 May 2007 16:02:52 +0000 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.com http://stevebrownetc.com/2007/05/uncategorized/wt03-the-fountain-2006/ The Fountain (2006)It's easy to talk about the meaning of life - we can test those philosophies here and now. But what about the meaning of death? How do we face death and dying, especially in the face of losing those we most care about? Darren Aronofsky's The Fountain is a movie/poem/existential mini-epic that wants to ask these questions. On this episode, we'll look closer at his questions and answers. Did the Mayans know something we don't and is there peace to be found in accepting our end?
See the Hollywood Jesus article.

Watching The Directors next edition: May 29 - Rob Reiner
Next WT edition: June 5 - Rob Reiner's The Princess Bride (1987)

]]> http://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt03-the-fountain-2006/feed/ noIt's easy to talk about the meaning of life - we can test those philosophies here and now. But what about the meaning of death? How do we face death and dying, especially in the face of losing those we most care about? Darren Aronofsky's The FouJoe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comIt's easy to talk about the meaning of life - we can test those philosophies here and now. But what about the meaning of death? How do we face death and dying, especially in the face of losing those we most care about? Darren Aronofsky's The Fountain is a movie/poem/existential mini-epic that wants to ask [...]Film,Theology,Christianity,Movies,Arts,Philosophy,Religion,Pop,Culturehttp://stevebrownetc.com/podcasts/watching-theology/wt03-the-fountain-2006/http://media.gospelcom.net/kln/sbetc/watching-theology-podcast/wt003-05222007.mp3 Joe and Melissa Johnson - http://www.watchingtheology.comnonadult