Lord, Forgive Us Our Cinema

Okay, here's the thing. Hahahahahaha. No but seriously. This movie is so bonkers. Gripping paranoia, brain-melting special effects, and whatever that giant hat was that Kurt Russell wore. Everything about this movie just rocks to high heaven. But honestly, we're here to ask the questions that no other podcast is BRAVE enough to ask. Like, why isn't Keith David more appreciated? What happened to Wilford Brimley's mustache? Is "the thing" just a metaphor for the Pentecost? And how does this story relate to church history?Tune in for all this and much, much more. Thanks for listening.Follow our Insta! 

We hope you're wearing pink today (it's Wednesday).Another film from the millennial hall of fame. When we say that this movie was inescapable when it came out in 2004, we literally mean INESCAPABLE. There are lines that I didn't even know were from this movie until a couple of years ago. That's timelessness, wow. Let's explore what it is about high school cliques, fitting in, and white girls from the nation of Africa that's so darn compelling. And the typical LFOC whimsy you've come to love, like, "Was the gymnasium scene too youth group-ish?" Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

It's wild to think that one of the most impactful movies to come out of the early 2000's was a movie about the crucifixion of Jesus directed by one of Hollywood's most controversial stars. Yet, here we are. There's a lot to unpack in a movie like this, and as you'll soon hear, everyone had their "where were you when Passion came out" kind of moment. Some boycotted it altogether. Others sat through multiple viewings. So let's talk Passion! Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Who knew that, a few short months after the release of the 2024 film Conclave that there would be a real life conclave in Rome after the death of Pope Francis? Crazy right?But you know what's crazier still? That they made a political thriller about a church staff meeting and somehow it's really, really good. Seriously. Join the gang as we discuss Conclave, with jaw-dropping questions like: why do cardinals smoke so much? Why is Stanley Tucci so good? What if Santa Claus was elected as the new pope? Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Gossip, dating, and judgmental bible studies...boy, wasn't high school awesome?Actually no, it was not. But this movie is quite good, we'd say. In one of the earliest previews of the undeniable charm and spunk of Miss Emma Stone, we have a film that explores the most universal experiences of a modern teenager: shame, social status, and the everlasting question of who's dating who. So join us (minus our weakest link IMO) as we explore Easy A and ask hard hitting questions, like: was there a Christ figure in this movie? Is Olive a good Christian first name? Is Stanley Tucci a future candidate for sainthood? Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

For our first episode of Black History Month, we’d like to put a little extra shine on a spectacular film from 2024, RaMell Ross’ Nickel Boys. Following the perspective (quite literally) of two young black teenagers in a 1960’s reformatory school, this movie forces the audience to walk in their shoes as they navigate injustice and prejudice. It’s honestly…kind of a brutal movie, and so our episode isn’t as lighthearted as you may be used to. But we hope that we can shed some Gospel hope on a movie that, while bleak, has a lot of light to reflect. Thanks for listening! Follow our Insta! 

2025 was, like many years before it, 365 days long. And in that 365 days, there were lots of movies released. Lots of them. And we didn't watch all of them. But we did watch some. And NOW we're gonna talk about which ones are our favorite. Buckle up CinemaFans, because we've got a bonus episode! Enjoy! Follow our Insta! 

Grab your tissues, movie fans. This week's episode brings us back to 1999. Before director Brad Bird brought us The Incredibles, he was pensively sitting in his animated director's chair at the set of this masterpiece, The Iron Giant. This discussion was honestly a cake walk.  "Who's the Christ figure in a movie like this?" Gee, I wonder!But honestly, this was a really fun discussion and we think you'll enjoy it. Thanks for being here pals. Follow our Insta! 

Could we really call ourselves a faith-based movie podcast if we never talked about God's Not Dead? Well I'll be honest, we really tried. God's Not Dead exists in two worlds. In one, it's a household name that's synonymous with clean, thought-provoking, Christian entertainment. In the other, it's a subject of harsh criticism accusing it of being hamfisted and condescending in its preachy tone. And honestly, both are surprisingly accurate. So let's crack this oyster open and see what it's all about. Thank you for listening with us, and we hope you enjoy!Happy new year! Follow our Insta! 

Merry Christmas, movie fans! Or should we say, merikurisamusau.This week we’re talking about Satoshi Kon’s Tokyo Godfathers, a film that finds grace, hope, and redemption in some of the most unexpected corners of life. We discuss the movie’s compassionate portrayal of homelessness, its surprising spiritual themes, and the beauty of chosen family. While coming from unlikely places, this movie tells a beautiful story with a rich message. We hope that this episode convinces you to give it a try if you haven't already!Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Everyone remembers their first time creating a Facebook account. But do you remember your first time watching David Fincher's The Social Network in 2010??Join us as we unpack the deeper themes of identity, loneliness, power, and community that pulse underneath this powerhouse a film. What does this movie say about human desire and imitation? Is Facebook the new mark of the beast? Is Justin Timberlake a good actor? (this one was controversial) Is Mark Zuckerberg beyond the saving grace of our Lord? (of course not tbh) Join the gang as we wax eloquent on everyone's favorite film about the gradual destruction of human connection.Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

At first glance, Babette’s Feast, the 1987 Danish cinematic masterpiece, might seem like a simple story. You might even find yourself thinking, “It’s just a movie about people sharing a meal.”But we’re going on record to say that Babette’s Feast is one of the most awe-inspiring portraits of the Kingdom of God ever captured on film. It’s a rich tale of unrequited love, the pursuit of passion, quiet sacrifice, and, of course, the sacred act of breaking bread together amongst friends.Today, we explore this deeply spiritual and quietly stunning film, and we’re so glad to have you join us at the table.Thanks for listening!Follow our Insta! 

Oh friends. It's been a long time. Two weeks ago, we suffered a painful loss. Episode 16, Rob Reiner's Misery, was lost to the dark and merciless void. We needed to take some time grieve. But alas, today we have returned. With the finest role of Bo Burnham's career, as he plays "Me" in Me and Earl and the Dying Girl. In all seriousness though. This movies really feels like it captures a special festival-esque charm that was unique to its era. It's a real joy to watch, and just as joyful to talk about. So who is the Christ figure in this movie? Could it have improved with the addition of, say, Saint Augustine? Tune in and find out!Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Three young people head into a frightening circumstance, that will surely test their trust and resolve? Wait, you mean this isn't the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego?That's right, this is the 1999 phenomenon known as The Blair Witch Project, one of the most groundbreaking found-footage films ever made. Join the gang as we explore the second film of our Spook-tober series! And ask some of the hard questions that this movie left us with, like: was the Blair Witch really just in need of prayer? Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Happy Spook-tober, friends!We're kicking off the month of October with a delightful little morsel that will surely leave you wanting more, 2022's The Menu. Easing into a month of thrills and scares, The Menu is a horror-ish black comedy that explores the world of high-end culinary culture, and stars Ralph Fiennes and Anya Taylor-Joy. Join the gang as we ask the hard-hitting questions that this film left us with: How good did that burger look? Was Nicholas Hoult's character redeemable, or was he destined to be the worst? What would John the Baptist do if he was invited to the dinner? Thanks for listening! And remember to stay spooky this month. Follow our Insta! 

If you're a millennial, this might just be the most unavoidable movie of all time. Teachers used to play it during free days. Kids would put it on for birthday parties. So does it hold up to its claim to be timeless, family-friendly cinema?Yeah, pretty much. Join the gang as we explore potentially the most quotable film of the 80's, by absolute icon director Rob Reiner. We also ask some age old questions, like: Was Ratatouille inspired by the big rat creature in this movie?Is Ben Savage really sick?What is Dinner with Andre really about?Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Shoutout to librarians, everywhere. The Mummy (from 1999, of course) may be one of the purest action-adventure films that Hollywood every spawned. Brendan Fraser is at his absolute best, Rachel Weisz is at her absolute charming-est, and Beni is at his absolute worst. Action, romance, history, curses, everything you could desire in a summer blockbuster!Tune in as the gang explores (among other things) what the true message of this film was. Does it reflect the Good News of Jesus in some meaningful way? Or is it just a bunch of flim flam? How many bugs could John successfully punch before they ate him alive?Also, have you ever seen The Whale? If not, you might wanna skip the first five minutes or so. Blame John, it was his fault. Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

This one is for the Bergman lovers. <3"Winter Light," a Swedish tragedy from the 1960's, is not your typical popcorn fare. There's no crazy car chases or explosions or end-credit scenes with Spider-Man. But man oh man, is it a phenomenal film. Viewers follow the life of a depressed, increasingly disenchanted Lutheran pastor as he grieves the loss of his wife and wrestles with doubt as he is faced with the angst and disbelief of his equally jaded congregation. Join the gang as we discuss what it looks like when faith is beaten down by all the suffering that the world has to offer. And the real question that everyone is thinking...what would Joel Osteen say about this movie?Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

What does a multiverse movie starring Michelle Yeoh, hot dog fingers, and googly eyes have to teach us about generational sin, shame culture, love, and… church history? In this chaotic and colorful episode, the gang takes a deep dive into Everything Everywhere All at Once, the Oscar-sweeping A24 film that made us laugh, cry, and rethink our family trauma. Join us as we discuss why Waymond might be the most Christlike tax-loving husband in cinema, whether this film is really a story about depression and nihilism, and how the gospel speaks to our longing for meaning—even across the multiverse. Plus: – Our multiverse sequel pitches – Which Bible characters belong in this movie – Who we're praying for (and who probably needs to be crucified on the left and right of Jesus)And yes, we ask the hard questions—like, why isn't Paul Dano appreciated more? And why don't more people talk about The Fabelmans??Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Christmas in July? Never heard of it. We're thinking Dia de los Muertos. En...Julio. Join the gang as we discuss everyone's favorite musical about a family that hates music, Coco. We discuss the pressing questions about this film, such as: What are the best mustaches in movie history? Is this a good afterlife, or is it kind of terrible? And, how does the Catholic Church feel about this movie? Also Jarrad finally learns about the American Southwest's favorite urban legend, La Llorona, and the trauma it left with John and Annie. Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Bienvenido al programa! Here's a pregunta for you, dear listener: What do you get when you combine a legend in the world of Mexican cinema, a delightfully charming little girl, and 122 minutes of slapstick gags and poorly-made wigs?You get this movie. And you know what? It made $100 million, so clearly something clicked in this film. Join the gang for a deep exploration of a film that, well, doesn't require nearly that much exploration. But it's a fun film, and an even more fun episode!Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

Has there EVER been a better animated film than The Lion King?Maybe. Probably. I guess the Prince of Egypt still exists. But still, this movie kicks all kinds of hyena tail. It's awesome. We're psyched to talk about it. Join the gang as we discuss the boyish appeal of Jonathan Taylor Thomas and how much this film really is a Disney-fied version of Hamlet. We also discuss our favorite topics, like which of these cute animals we'd preach the Gospel to and why Scar is such a tragic figure (who also probably still got what he deserved). Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

One man. One mission. Chris Pratt. Versus Osama Bin Laden. The battle to end all battles. That's...not really what this movie is about. There's a lot more waterboarding. And a lot more of Jessica Chastain being empowered and independent. But it's a really good watch. And this episode is a really good listen. Join your favorite four-piece (after the Gospels, of course) for our most patriotic, star spangled episode ever!Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

We must, we must, we must talk about this movie. Wow. Not a lot of stories capture so well the weight of a religious existential crisis AND the crushing desire to make googly eyes at a teenage boy named Moose. It's like this movie was made for us. Join the gang as we (okay, really just Danielle and Annie) explore the familiar woes of growing up as an awkward tween girl, and how good Kathy Bates is at everything she does. We also introduce our favorite running bit of all time, "what's the sequel?" where Danielle just laughs for ten minutes straight. Thanks for being here! Follow our Insta! 

If it takes a village to raise a child, it also takes a village to abuse one. And, ya know, it takes a village to...make a podcast? I don't know. I'm sorry. This isn't a very laugh-y movie. Join the gang as we dive into the 2015 investigative drama Spotlight, which chronicles a team of Boston journalists as they uncover the rampant abuse cover-ups happening in the Catholic Church. Did the MCU dull the shine of all the stars in this film? Does Rachel McAdams have more acting chops than Amy Adams? Does John think that the Catholic Church is a victim of an unfair witch hunt? (He doesn't). We'll answer these and many more.Read the Spotlight article:  https://www.bostonglobe.com/news/special-reports/2002/01/06/church-allowed-abuse-priest-for-years/cSHfGkTIrAT25qKGvBuDNM/story.htmlThanks for being here!Follow our Insta! 

Well I'll be a sonofagun. Join the gang as we travel back to 1930's Mississippi for the Coen Brothers' most bona fide film in their catalogue, O Brother Where Art Thou?Does the music in this movie stand the test of time? Was there any redemption for Baby Face George Nelson? Did Tommy Johnson ever get his soul back? We'll answer these questions and many more. Thanks for being here!Follow our Insta! 

Grab your flamethrowers, space cadets. Join the team (with special guest, our producer Ray!) as we discuss Quentin Tarantino's love letter to the golden age of cinema, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Is this Tarantino's best work? Does Rick Dalton deserve a friend as good as Cliff?  Are there enough feet???We'll answer these questions and more. Thanks for listening pals. Follow our Insta! 

Dismantling the patriarchy has never been so…pastel!The world was a simpler place when we were all sitting around, wondering what to wear to our Barbenheimer themed parties. Come take a trip with the John, Jarrad, Danielle, and Annie back to 2023, to the cultural explosion of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie and listen along as we explore the facets of this film's view of the meaning of life.   And hey, this is our first episode! Isn’t that crazy?! Thank you for listening! Tell all your friends and some of your enemies. Follow our Insta!