Thor

Starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman            By Steve Norton

Rated PG                                                                        Rating: *** (out of 5)

The superhero genre is an interesting one.

Once written off as sheer frivolity and escapism, the superhero film has received a great deal of respect over the last 10 years or so.  Attracting A-List actors and directors—heck, even Thor has 2 Oscar winners in Hopkins and Portman—and often attempting to deal with their subject matter in a mature tone, the superhero film has become a fascinating (and safe?) place to discuss issues that matter in the larger society.  For example, while X2: X-men United wrestles with the challenges of homosexuals, The Dark Knight examines the ineffectiveness of hard-line morality.  In fact, the prevalence of the genre in the last decade has caused people to refer to this as “The Golden Age of Superhero Films’.  Yes, the quality of the films differs wildly – films like Daredevil and Ghost Rider should never even be mentioned in the same sentence as Nolan’s brilliant The Dark Knight – and they seem to be starting to wear out their welcome at the box office a little bit in recent years.  (Surely, the upcoming The Avengers in 2012 must be some sort of climax to it all.  We’ll see.)  Still, there is something about superhero films that connects with our culture today in a way that keeps getting us to shell out our money.

Which brings us to Thor.

A relatively secondary character in the Marvel universe, Thor is the Norse god of Thunder.  Living in Asgaard, a heavenly region in another realm in the universe, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is next in line for the throne as King, currently held by his father, Odin (Anthony Hopkins).  However, due to Thor’s impatience and immaturity, as well as some politically-motivated manipulation from his brother, Loki (Tom Middleton), he is deemed unworthy to become king at this time.  As a result, Thor is banished to Earth in order to ‘understand the value of life’.  Through his subsequent journey, including his new relationships with a group of human research scientists (Natalie Portman, Stellan Skarsgard and Kat Denning), Thor is challenged to rethink his place in the universe and the true meaning of honour.

Theologically speaking, it’s easy to argue for the incarnation here.  After all, the film tells the story of a god who is sent to Earth, taking the form of man, in an effort to learn what the human experience is like.  [SPOILER ALERT]  Ultimately, Thor even offers his life as a sacrifice on their behalf, eventually being resurrected by His Father! [SPOILERS OVER]  However, to be honest, the notion that interested me far more than this is the idea of the value of one’s journey.  In an odd way, Thor’s journey is a great example of our own as he becomes shaped by his experiences.  At the same time though, Thor’s journey is strangely guided through his interaction with the divine.  For instance, Thor’s human experience begins because Odin desires for him to understand the value of life and wisdom.  Further, Thor learns true humility and brokenness through suffering because of the manipulative lies of his brother, Loki.  Because of these connections with the divine, Thor’s entire self is reborn from one of self-glorification to one of love and wholeness.  How different is this from our own Christian journeys as we are shaped by our own engagement with God—and the experiences of suffering and injustice.  Nevertheless, as with Thor, the nature of our response to these moments determines much when it comes to our opportunity to grow and be reshaped into the image of God.  Our lives are in constant interaction with the Divine, whether we realize it or not.  The fact that Jesus Christ seeks to open our eyes to this truth is one of the key goals of His mission.  It is His desire for us to see the world and our lives through His eyes.  Our journey is always under His watch.  It’s the openness of our hearts that allows Him the opportunity to engage and reshape us.

Similar to this, I also found that Thor wrestled with the truth of myth.  ‘Myth’ is a tricky word to use when one talks about spiritual issues.  A lot of people get uncomfortable and instantly think of nursery rhymes or the Brothers Grimm. Although there are a great many ‘myths’ that are fictitious, the term is really referring to epic tales of man’s interactions with the Divine.  As a result, many Christians typically become anxious when ‘myth’ is applied to ideas such as Scriptural narrative or Biblical truth.  Despite the fact that it is always wise to be cautious, in this case, it is unnecessary.  For instance, in the case of Thor, this particular use of the term is really very flattering to Christian ideology. This idea is shown most effectively through the journey of Jane and her research partners.  Engrossed in the practices of the scientific method, Jane and her co-workers are suddenly thrust into a world that, really, makes no sense to them.  As scientists, their understanding of the universe is literal, quantifiable and explainable yet Thor describes himself as having “come from a place where [science and magic] are one in the same.”  Perhaps the best line to describe this struggle comes when Dr. Erik Selvig (Stellan Skarsgard) and Jane Foster (Portman) are discussing some of the places that Thor described.  Here, Selvig resists Jane’s descriptions of Asgaard and the Mjolnir, claiming to have heard all these bedtime stories growing up.  However, as they continue to experience life with Thor, they are compelled to believe in the reality of mythology that they refuse to accept.  (At one point, Selvig even discovers a book on Nordic mythology and begins to read it, looking for answers.)  How true a situation is this for those of us who cling to the authenticity of the Word of God?  On the surface, we read these wild stories of God’s interaction with man, wrestling with the questions as bedtime story vs. historical events.  Nonetheless, our experience of the Kingdom stems from our ability to accept the authenticity of these stories of myth and ‘magic’.  It is often our understanding of the Scriptures that most shapes our view of God and the genuine nature of our experience of Him in the world.  Thor as a character understood this fact… though we have a hard time accepting it in the ‘real world’.

All in all, Thor is a difficult film to make, especially since Marvel has taken pride in its ability to make its heroes both realistic and relatable to the general public.  Still, on the back of Branaugh’s direction and Hemsworth’s charm, I found it enjoyable.  (Not their best, to be sure but certainly not their worst by any stretch.  DarkHorizons.com argued that it was on par with The Incredible Hulk.  I would agree with that assessment.)  More importantly, however, I believe that Thor has much to talk about in the way of our own spiritual journeys and our engagement with Divine storytelling.  In a strange metaphor, I found that the experience of the Norse god parallels and intersects the Christian walk in a way that allows us the freedom to engage our own stories as well.

The King's Speech

Starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush                                                By Steve Norton

Rated PG-13                                                                                    Rating: **** (out of 5)

Available on Blu-ray and DVD           

Shakespeare in Love vs. Saving Private Ryan.  Crash vs. Brokeback Mountain.

            Without a doubt, these were viewed as some of the most controversial Oscar races in recent memory.  At least until this year, when The King’s Speech overtook The Social Network for Best Picture at the 2011 Oscars.

            It’s a shame, really.  In a lot of ways, it ties the films together in a way that they don’t deserve.  They’re both excellent films and speak to different audiences. Still, the debate was quite polarizing.  I’d even heard one friend of mine make the claim that King’s Speech was ‘one of the best films ever made’ and that Social Network was only about “selfish, arrogant, egotistical, horny college students trying to one up each other”.  (While there is a grain of truth in a literal approach like that, I still feel it largely misses the bigger picture.)  Its interesting too because, in many ways, there are stark similarities between the two films:  both revolve around the effects of technological advances, both focus on communication to a larger culture and both focus on the challenges of men who wish to prove their worth to the world.   (Although, surprisingly, Spielberg’s Oscar presentation speech did seem to make a lot of this tension dissipate by acknowledging the quality of both films.  You can hear it here.)

            That having been said, let’s talk about The King’s Speech specifically.  Taking place in 1930s England, Speech tells the story of Prince Albert (Colin Firth), the Duke of York, as he battles a terrible stutter that has plagued him since childhood.  After trying many treatments to no avail, Albert is introduced to Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), an unorthodox speech therapist from Australia.   (Spoiler Alert—although, not really when you know the title…)  As Logue’s techniques begin to yield some results, Albert suddenly ascends to the throne (taking the name King George VI) and must communicate with the nation as their leader.  Hence, he is forced to grapple with his stutter and its roots.  This is an exceptional piece about the triumph of the human spirit—which is no doubt why it was such a crowd pleaser.  Moreover, and as always, I feel that there are much deeper spiritual investigations for our purposes here.

            Although an analysis of this film could be approached from any number of angles, I have chosen to examine the fact that The King’s Speech speaks to the healing power of God-centred community.  For example, it is clear that this film seeks to suggest that strength is found by the quality of relationships that one keeps.  This is best demonstrated between the ever-deepening connection between Lionel and Albert.  Rather than use formal techniques, much of Lionel’s speech therapy relies heavily on understanding and caring for the whole self of his patient. He takes an interest in Albert’s personal life and history.  He challenges Albert to rethink his royal abilities.  He even refuses to refer to Albert as anything but ‘Bertie’ (a name which only ‘[his] family ever calls him’).  Having never really had anyone view him as an equal, this sort of interaction is initially jarring to Albert.  (In fact, when Lionel asks him “What are friends for?,” Albert can only reply he has  “…no idea.”)  However, as the relationship deepens, both men find themselves reshaped by the experience, bringing healing and wholeness into what was once the brokenness of their lives.  This sort of depiction of connection is an excellent picture of what happens when truly God-centered community is sought.  What’s more, the openness and vulnerability that God invites humanity into (both with Him and each other) becomes extremely counter-cultural when one considers that much of our current social climate is based solely on externals.  (This is also another area where King’s Speech begins to dialogue with The Social Network and the explosion of sites like Facebook or Twitter.)  Thus, as God invites humanity to participate in a community that exhibits Kingdom values of wholeness, we too are changed and may receive healing from hurts through the depth of our connections with Him and others.

            In addition, this theme of healing also reinforces the value of time, especially through the character of Lionel.  One of the key elements of Logue’s speech therapy is the understanding that this process would be long and the journey to healing arduous.  In his first meeting with Albert, Lionel makes it clear that they are going to meet every day.  In doing so, Lionel demonstrates his commitment to Albert’s well-being.  Further, as Lionel begins to pour himself into Albert, the two men begin a journey towards a new wholeness.  Here, the reality of true Kingdom ministry is made clear.  Although there are stories of men and women who immediately throw down that metaphorical (or literal) pack of cigarettes or whiskey bottle upon their first encounter with Christ, there are far more that demonstrate lives of ongoing challenge.  In other words, despite the fact that Christ brings about new life in a person, one’s spiritual journey is long and difficult and requires ongoing support in order for genuine life change to take effect.  As such, investment of time in someone’s life proves itself to be an invaluable practice and that level of commitment creates trust and a sense of safety in the other. These conditions provide the Spirit of God with a fertile soil within which genuine life change can take place.  (The old adage that ‘people aren’t projects’ is absolutely true.  I’ve seen it too many times to count in my years of youth ministry.)  In King’s Speech, Lionel exemplifies this truth and, as a result, Albert begins to experience new life on the other side of his affliction.  In the same way, investing time spiritually in another allows God space to move and, consequently, reaps rewards that may be difficult to see otherwise.

            All things considered, there is much to sink one’s theological teeth into when considering The King’s Speech.  Regardless of controversy—and whatever side of the argument one may fall—it is definitely a film of quality and depth.  Its discussion of wholeness and healing is an effective example of Kingdom values, creating a message that is badly needed in today’s society of ‘safe relationships’.

            But, seriously, The Social Network should have won.  ;)

Possible Divine or Dreadful Moments in Summer 2011

I don't care what the calendar says.  My summer starts the first weekend in May.

It's that weekend that the cineplex starts to make sense again.  January is a dreadful month--probably the worst of the year--for new releases... but no one notices because the Oscar films of December are usually still carrying over.  February usually is adequate but March and April are filled with posers--films that promise much and offer little.

But May?  Things start to happen again.

Now, I realize that 'promise much, offer little' can apply immensely more through the summer blockbuster season.  And, really, a lot of the summer films feel like they've had their plot written on the back of a cocktail napkin.  (Come on, Hollywood.  Just because it's hot out, it doesn't mean we get dumber...)

Nevertheless, things feel bigger this time of year, in a good way.  And people flock to the box office whether its good or not.  (In fact, really this is the time of year that studios hope to make back their losses on smaller films the rest of the year.)  

So, with all of this in mind, I thought it might be interesting to drop five films that are on my radar over the summer season (which, incidentally, generally extends from the 1st weekend of May to the 2nd weekend in August).  Obviously, I'm looking for different criteria than how much it will make and I offer no guarantees on content, rating or even whether these will be good.  Still, as I sort through the summer schedule, there are a few titles that stand out as having interesting theological discussion within them.  (There are others but I thought I'd stick with a short list.)

If we're all going to the theatre anyways, we should be sure to engage what God has for us during these experiences.

So, anyways, on with the list (in order of release):

Thor

Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman

May 6th, 2011

Hmmmmm... the story of a god who is sent by his father to live amongst the human race as one of them while serving as their protector against the dark forces of evil?  

Without knowing whether or not this film will even be entertaining, it certainly screams of the Incarnation from the very premise.  The superhero movie is a unique genre and has become a staple of the summer film season.  The quality ranges from the embarassingly awful (Daredevil; Ghost Rider) to the superb (The Dark Knight; X2: X-men United) and as a result, it's easy to tire of them.  (In fact, with no less than FOUR comic titles this summer--X-Men: First Class; Green Lantern; Captain America: The First Avenger in addition to this one--we're certainly saturated with them as moviegoers.)  Nevertheless, when done well, the superhero film genre has become more than just a popcorn flick and can be a powerful place to grapple with larger spiritual issues of faith, responsibility and self-sacrifice.  This could be an interesting look at incarnational living from a spiritual perspective.  

Although you've probably seen it--the promotional campaign has been far from subtle--the trailer is here.

Everything Must Go

Will Ferrell

May 6th, 2011

Ferrell is an interesting actor.  

Although he's known for his brash, loud humour, he has been known to switch gears to the drama.  Films like Stranger than Fiction and the little known Winter Passing show that he can effectively dial it down to portray the everyman.  Everything Must Go looks like it might have some interesting discussions as to what makes up humanity when everything is stripped away.  I'm not expecting an Oscar nomination by any stretch but I am curious as to what this particular dramatic turn by Ferrell has to offer in terms of discussion.

Tree of Life

Brad Pitt, Sean Penn 

May 27th, 2011?

Okay, no joke.  Watch the trailer.  You see if you can tell me what this movie's about... lol

In all seriousness, the story of this film is somewhat interesting.  Directed by Terrence Malick, this film has been delayed at least a year in distribution.  Why?  Because Malick decided it wasn't good enough.  Release dates have been set and still nothing.  However, it looks like the film will FINALLY be let out to open Cannes later next month.

Not much is known about this particular film but the description online is that it is a dramatic search for the truths of life by examining the family unit and creation itself.  This comment from the official description is particularly interesting to me, "Framing this story is that of adult Jack, a lost soul in a modern world, seeking to discover amid the changing scenes of time that which does not change: the eternal scheme of which we are a part. When he sees all that has gone into our world's preparation, each thing appears a miracle precious, incomparable."  Malick's work is always interesting (the guy's only directed 5 features in 40 years and yet everyone wants to work with him) so this could be a fascinating exploration of the nature of humanity, the world and the expression of our creative God within it.

Super 8

Elle Fanning, Kyle Chandler

June 10th, 2011

I have to admit that J.J. Abrams gets a lot of geek love from me.  He's been firmly on my radar since Alias and, since that time, he has demonstrated his ability to produce, direct, and write both great action pieces and heartfelt stories.  This particular project is a really fascinating one to me.  His goal has been to create a film reminiscent of the old Amblin movies of the 80s such as E.T. and Goonies.  These films were always about more than simple sci-fi and were often associated with the term 'coming of age' film.  If the trailer is any indication, it appears that he's achieving that goal.  (I'm sure that the fact that Spielberg is producing helps as well...)  While clearly about the release of a captive alien of some type, the trailer also seems to indicate that the story will grapple with issues of family and, yes, 'coming of age'.

Make no mistake, this film has 'sleeper hit' marked all over it.  Most people I've talked to don't know about it yet--which is a little surprising given the high profile names attached--but I guess there's some logic to that.  After all, the title doesn't contain a bankable franchise or a sequel number.

Nevertheless, for some reason, I'm also confident in the quality.  Abrams' films always seem to bring depth to their subject matter that connects with issues related to the larger world and our role in it.

You can watch the trailer here.

The Debt

Helen Mirren, Sam Worthington

August 31st, 2011

This film is one of those rare occasions when I've actually seen a film before it's released.  

Interestingly, this film got it's North American premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival last year and I was fortunate enough to be in attendance to one of the screenings.  It's a fascinating, well-acted film that explores some complex issues.  For our purposes, I would suggest that some of the key issues to be examined regard the generational pain of guilt and the messiness of love.  (Yes, Eric.  That's for you.  lol)  You can see the trailer here.

Personally, the release date on this film bothers me.  This was a film that was to be released on December 31st of last year, at the height of Oscar season.  Yet, probably due to distribution/licensing issues, it's been pushed to the Labor Day weekend--historically the worst weekend of the year for box office.  Such a move is surprising to me.  It is possible that the distributer just don't have confidence in it. More likely, however, I would suggest that they're trying to score a boosted box office (ala Clooney's The American last year) by floating it as an action movie--which it isn't.  It may help the box office but never helps the film long term.  Films released at this time are quickly forgotten.  Don't forget it.  It's worth a view.

Others that may be worth noting (with links to trailers):  I Am (documentary by Tom Shadyac); Cowboys and Aliens (Daniel Craig, Harrison Ford); Friends with Benefits (Justin Timberlake, Mila Kunis); Crazy, Stupid, Love (Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling); Rise of the Planet of the Apes (James Franco)

Letter from the Editor

Phew.  It's been a while.

Admittedly, I'm not one of those people who blog every day anyways but, certainly, I've committed myself to 2-3 a month.  (Believe it or not, these posts take me quite a while to produce... which could be a good or bad thing, pending what you think of them.  lol)  At any rate, sudden health issues pretty much too over my life for the month of March and so, things like blogging kinda took a backseat.  (Although, oddly enough, it has never really left my mind--I've enjoyed this far too much.)

At any rate, I would like to once again thank everyone who has continued to offer their prayer and support.  It has meant more than you could ever know.

Things have settled down immensely now and I have caught up on most of my workload as well.  As such,  I hope to get some posts up again at my usual pace.

I'm sure that much of this didn't really need to be said.  (I'm sure that there isn't anyone out there lamenting the disappearance of this conversation.)  Still, I felt that, due to the unique relationship of blogger/recipient, I would fire off a quick post to get you up to speed.  This particular opportunity to discuss the conversation between faith and film--although relatively small--has been exciting and fun for me and I hope for you as well.

So, thanks.

Really.