This month, Ryan and Laura discuss Spider-Man: No Way Home, focusing on how Spider-Man stories uniquely highlight the burden of responsibility, self-sacrifice, and recurring loss. They compare Spider-Man films, reflect on Peter Parker’s youth and immaturity, the consequences of trying to find quick fixes, and the importance of wisdom, mentorship, and not facing suffering alone. The conversation centers on resisting vengeance, choosing compassion, and laying down one’s life for others, culminating with a parallel scriptural examination of Christ’s sacrifice, and the ways we are called to respond.

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Discussed Passage

1 John 3:16-18

Mentioned in this episode:

Spider-Man (2002 film by Sam Raimi)

Spider-Man 2 (2004 film by Sam Raimi)

Spider-Man 3 (2007 film by Sam Raimi)

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014 film by Marc Webb)

The Avengers (2012 film by Joss Whedon)

Into the Spider-Verse (2018 film by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey & Rodney Rothman)

Eurovision 2026 (annual song contest)

Käärijä & Baby Lasagna (Eurovision contestants)

 Bara Bara Bastu (song by Swedish band KAJ)

Subnautica II (video game)

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

This episode, Laura and Ryan discuss the Pixar classic “Toy Story,” using the film’s premise—living toys marked as belonging to an owner—to reflect on purpose, identity, and where value is placed. They focus on Woody and Buzz’s ego-driven conflict and their growth toward humility, selflessness, and working together for their owner’s joy, noting how even villains in the broader series crave being valued and “played with.” The conversation extends to discipleship as ongoing reorientation, the importance of community and celebration in faith, and living in a way that delights God.

References

"This Music May Contain Hope" (album by Raye)

“Welcome to Wrexham” (streaming series)

Biblical reference: Micah 6:8

"Celebration of Discipline" (book by Richard Foster)

Verse Micah 6:8

This episode, Ryan and Laura mark Star Wars month by diving into Rogue One, exploring the film’s success amidst a divisive fandom, and the value the modern era of Star Wars brings to a wider and more diverse audience, make the universe feel broader and more accessible. Their conversation focuses on themes of hope and faith amid conflict, the moral complexity of rebellion, and the hard question of when to resist and which battles to fight. From a Christian perspective they discuss the film’s parallels with spiritual warfare, and explore the steps required to walk out a courageous, Spirit-led life of visible faith.

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Discussed Passage

Acts 7:51 - 8:1

Mentioned in this Episode:

Star Wars: The Clone Wars (animated TV show) Star Wars: Rebels (animated TV show) The Bear (TV show) The Pitt (TV show) Moana (film) Dune (audiobook and series) Circle Trilogy (novel series by Ted Dekker) Hero with a Thousand Faces (book by Joseph Campbell) The Grand Inquisitor (story by Fyodor Dostoevsky)

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

In this episode, hosts Laura and Ryan discuss The Devil Wears Prada, its cultural impact, cast, and impending sequel. Exploring why the film feels nuanced as both comedy and drama, they focus on Andy’s growth in confidence and competence alongside the corrupting effects of ambition, status, and external approval, noting the paradox of enjoying her transformation while grieving what she sacrifices in relationships and integrity. The conversation highlights how appearances and wealth can distort judgment, calling Christians to reject favoritism, see people as God does, and respond with mercy.

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Discussed Passage James 2: 1-13

Mentioned in this episode: Song for Walking (single by Tophouse) Epic: The Musical (concept album by Jorge Rivera-Herrans) Handel’s "Messiah" (classical music composition) Scriptnotes (screenwriting podcast by John August and Craig Mazin) Seven Deadly Sins - Vanity (Bridgetown Church sermon by Tyler Staton and Bethany Allen) To Burn in You (song by Josh White)

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

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.

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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

In this episode of 'Theology of Film,' hosts Ryan and Laura explore the 2024 film adaptation of 'Wicked,' discussing its themes of morality, societal expectations, and personal narratives. The conversation examines key characters like Elphaba and Glinda, their struggles with identity, and how their stories challenge traditional notions of good and evil. Reflecting on personal experiences and the film's adaptation process, they highlight the value of the film's relevance in contemporary culture. They also draw connections to the story of Joseph from Scripture, highlighting the importance of understanding multiple perspectives and trusting God's faithfulness in unfavorable circumstances.

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

Discussed Passage:

Genesis 39:1-23

Mentioned in this Episode:

Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West (1995 novel by Gregory Maguire)

Wicked (2003 stage musical by Stephen Schwartz)

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900 book by L. Frank Baum)

The Wizard of Oz (1939 film)

Guy Fawkes Day (holiday)

V for Vendetta (2005 film)

The Woman in Me (2023 memoir by Britney Spears)

History of the Kings of Britain (1136 fictionalized history by Geoffrey of Monmouth)

Ted Decker's Colored Trilogy (novel series)

Sensible Shoes (2013 novel by Sharon Garlough Brown)

Pantages Theater (live theater in Hollywood)

Elitch Gardens (Denver theme park)

K-Pop Demon Hunters and Engaging the Supernatural World (previous podcast episode)

"Every villain is a hero in his own mind" & "Well, I think there are no villains in this world. There are just misunderstood heroes" (quotes by Tom Hiddleston)

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