List: 10 movies that feature God
Posted on March 21, 2008 at 7:08 pm
Rotten Tomatoes has a new list of movies that feature God.
Not long ago, Beliefnet had its own list of memorable portrayals of God in the movies and television. I contributed a brief commentary on one of my favorites, Howie Mandel (yes, the “Deal or No Deal” guy) in the old television show, “St. Elsewhere.”
And try out Beliefnet’s quiz about some of the more than 200 movies that feature God in the title.
Do you have a favorite portrayal of a deity on the screen?
As a Wiccan, I have always loved Hayao Miyazaki’s film “Princess Mononoke” (which is very much an adults-only story). The story of a wilderness being destroyed by industry and the spirit of Nature fighting back resonates deeply with me, especially in these times when the environment is in serious danger. Although the film is a fantasy narrative, it raises some serious issues about the merits of human expansion (or in this case, the lack thereof). That most rare thing, an animated film for adults that doesn’t rely on vulgarity to make it so, “Princess Mononoke” should be required viewing for anyone with an interest in spiritual cinema.
On the flip side, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention “Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey”. A comedy film about two slackers trying to save their girlfriends from evil robots (it makes sense when you watch it), the film does a wonderful job of spoofing traditional ideas of the afterlife without being mean-spirited (the parody of Ingmar Bergman’s “Seventh Seal” is particularly notable). It should be noted, however, that this is a sequel to “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure” and it may be best to watch the films in order (although your enjoyment will hinge on your tolerance for silliness).
Two great suggestions! I admit to liking B&T movies a lot. Thanks for posting, Vince.