ST539
Johnston/Banks
ST539: THEOLOGY AND FILM. Robert K. Johnston and Robert J. Banks.
DESCRIPTION:
- This course will consider one particular aspect of a theology of
culture: theology and film. The course will (1) view and discuss selected
films; (2) provide the student critical skills helpful for film interpretation;
and (3) explore possible theological approaches to film criticism. It will also
(4) consider how both history and the novel are portrayed in film.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
- Preparation for ministry too often assumes students possess skills
in cultural analysis and interaction. This course will help students to see
western "culture" by providing a critical and theological framework for viewing
its cinema. While such cultural engagement is not sufficient for effective
ministry, it is supportive of, if not necessary for it.
COURSE FORMAT:
- Discussion and lecture. The class will meet one evening per week.
One film will be viewed prior to the class session. In class each week students
will (1) discuss the film; (2) consider a variety of aspects concerning the
nature of film; and (3) consider different approaches to film and/or
theological criticism of film. Occasional outside resource persons will be
used.
REQUIRED VIEWING AND READING:
- Around a dozen films, including participation in The City of Angels Film
Festival, October 17-20.
- The following texts:
- Boorstin, Jon. Making Movies Work. Silman-James
Press, 1995.
- May, John and Michael Bird, eds. Religion in Film. University of
Tennessee Press, 1982.
- Scott, Bernard. Hollywood Dreams and Biblical Stories. Fortress
Press, 1994.
- Selected critical essays.
ASSIGNMENTS:
- Viewing and journaling about selected films
- Attendance at four films during the film festival.
- Five to seven page paper on the student's critical approach to a theology
of film
- Eight to ten page paper on a film/films making use (1) of one of the
critical approaches to film offered in the class and (2) of one's theological
method.
PREREQUISITES:
- None.
RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
- M. Div. and M.A. Elective; meets the interdisciplinary course
requirement for the M.A.C.L. in Integrative Studies.
FINAL EXAMINATION:
- None.