Popcorn Theology

Our hosts were disappointed with this movie, but you won't be with this episode. Jam and Miles dive into this messy movie to pull out the themes and redeemable moments.  This movie invites an exploration of finding one's home, seeking justice, and what makes a heart morally bright enough to choose good even when we don't want to. The god shaped hole is large in a world where one is called to be "g...

Do you really know the game that you're playing?  Moneyball asked this question of baseball and this week Eric and Miles ask the same question of you? Are you really focused on the right things in life?  What really counts? Are you willing to sacrifice your ego and face rejection in order to follow what you believe? Listen in and we may all learn what it means to win at life with eternity in mind....

Full Disclosure? Some of us think this film should be renamed "Disappointment Day", while others are more charitable. "Listen" to what we loved, hated or had mixed feelings about as James and Miles are joined by VERY special guest Dr. Paul Marchbanks, professor of literature and film at California Polytechnic State University. Check out his Youtube channel and film reviews via the links below. Dr...

Have you seen Shrek's face? Are you a believer? Shrek turned 25 this year and yet the humor - and deeper narrative threads - feel like they haven't aged a day. James looks into this swamped franchise and sees the ugly truth of fairy tales and friendship, why we should probably listen when an ass is talking, and most importantly why we shouldn't be a Farquaad. Watch the episode here . Chapters 0:24...

*Popcorn Theology Episode: "Spider-Noir – Web of Redemption"* _(Cue gritty saxophone wail and fedora-tippin' piano riff...)_ Listen up, youse mugs! James, Miles and Eric give the spiritual shakedown to this hard-boiled new Sony picture featurin' one Cagey fella. Hear us patter about dames that'll break your heart, mobsters with tommy guns, and one burned-out ex-superhero tryin' to stay outta the s...

"Rest your bones, my brave little knight." Eric is joined by George Brignoni to unpack The Green Knight. The reimagining of the Arthurian legend, serves as a haunting meditation on honor, humility, and divine mercy revealing that true greatness isn't in grand acts, but in the quiet virtues. Discover why this visually stunning masterpiece is more than just an atmospheric epic; it's a theological mi...

This week our Patreon Saints sent us back to the year 2000 to enjoy a classic comedy starry Brendan Fraser. Bedazzled is one of the many movies about the Devil that came out at the turn of the millennia. It may be a bit "one note" but it is very fun and it gave us the opportunity to dispel a few common myths about Satan. We explore the value of having a friend who listens to you (even if it's Eliz...

20 years ago we found out what kind of shoes the Devil wears, this year we will find out if the Devil can survive changes in the new media landscape. Join Rory and Miles, who have minimal fashion sense, but an impeccable sense for film and theology as they discuss The Devil Wears Prada 2. They dissect how the world of high fashion conflicts with a Christian worldview, how our antagonists seek to d...

The Revolution will be televised! Season One was called "Born Again" but definitely had labor pains; join us as we take the pulse of Season Two and discuss the highs and lows of Season Two, where it recaptures the magic of the original series and where it blindly stumbles. Mercy and Grace are prominent themes, but does the show understand these terms biblically? Miles and James deliberate; but you...

Behold! We send James and Eric out as mindful sheep among mindless wolves. You've been summoned to consider the case of what many consider a film and theology classic - is it the best depiction of the Devil ever put to film? Are the temptations in this cautionary tale worth the spot-on portrayal of how our spiritual enemies assail us, or should objections be sustained? Take a short recess with us...

Expecto patronum! This week, Marcus and David shed light on the biblical themes in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This film illuminates the risks of passing quick judgment, the value of forgiveness, and how light conquers darkness and fear. Think this movie is just mindless entertainment? Don't be Riddikulus! Unlike the Dementors, YOU are not a mindless consumer. Episodes for each Harry...

Most comedians talk about pushing boundaries and crossing lines,  @adamyenser  proves that comedy can be clever, clean, and still utterly hilarious. With 11 Emmy awards and a history working with Conan O'Brien, Ellen and The Babylon Bee, Adam shares how he navigates Hollywood's liberal landscape while staying true to his Christian roots. Ways to follow Adam: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Com...

Movies like Super Mario Galaxy are a visual feast, but beneath the colorful cosmos lie deep biblical themes about identity, family, and the stories we tell. We explore Bowser's ongoing battle with sin reveals the human condition and shows us that only Jesus can truly redeem us from our skeletal, dead-state apart from Christ. Watch the episode here . Chapters 0:31 - Welcome & Summary 1:45 - Popcorn...

Thank you for helping us hit 1,000 subscribers!!! In this special episode we dive into the current state of film culture, discussing how overhyped franchises and unnecessary sequels are impacting the industry. We discuss the biggest disappointments of last year, like Gladiator 2 and Daredevil: Born Again, while highlighting positive trends such as the return of practical effects and the rise of st...

Project Hail Mary is having a great run at the box office and for good reason. Both Miles and James really enjoyed it as they explored some of its spiritual themes and jumping off points.  What begins as a story about scientific problem solving, will grip you with a message of connection, bravery, determination, and the grace behind being a reluctant missionary. Watch the episode HERE . Chapters:...

Join Marcus and David as we Slytherin to the Chamber of Secrets, navigating the serpentine twists and turns of Harry Potter's second adventure. Discover themes that echo biblical truths - putting evil to death, prejudice based on blood, and the danger of false teachers. Don't be a BAD DOBBY - accept this sock and be set free from mindless entertainment. Watch the episode here . Episodes for each H...

Dive into the charming yet morally complex world of Waking Ned Devine, where a small Irish village's lottery win sparks a humorous yet thought-provoking scheme. This episode explores the film's cultural portrayals, moral dilemmas, and theological reflections on greed, charity, and community. Join us as we unravel the deeper questions about honesty and the true meaning of justice amidst the film's...

Do you like Scary Movies? Kat and James take a "Stab" at the box office busting seventh entry in this slashing series and its surprisingly refreshing themes to explore from parenting to marriage and the REAL horror in the franchise: sexual immorality? Join us as we unmask the wholesome side of the story behind the jump-scares.  Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome and Summary 03:04 - Popcorn Ratings 06:29 -...

Eric and Maddy dive into the post-apocalyptic world of Amazon's Fallout, where morality, justice, and hope are put to the ultimate test! Join us as we explore Lucy's quest to uphold the golden rule amidst chaos, and discover how the show's characters mirror our own spiritual journeys. Okie Dokie. Watch the episode here . Chapters : 0:24 - Welcome & Summary 2:08 - Popcorn Ratings 6:36 - Theology Ra...

Pull back the invisibility cloak to reveal the deeper Christian themes of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. In this tale of alchemical transformation, Marcus and David discuss the calling to an unseen world, the power of love, and the dangerous pull of human erised (I mean Desire). Navigate the themes beneath the castle to discover that things are not always what they seem. Watch the episode...

Eric, Rory and Bridget dive into the timeless classic When Harry Met Sally exploring THE question of "Can Men and Women Just Be Friends?" Tune in for a lively discussion filled with humor, insight, and a fresh perspective on a beloved rom-com. Watch the episode here . Chapters: 0:24 - Welcome & Summary 3:38 - Popcorn Ratings 8:23 - Theology Ratings 11:04 - Subscribe, Share, Support 12:50 - Ads 14:...

Is there a difference in how the movies portray love and what God's word says love is? In this In the Lobby series, Kat, Maddy, and Bridgett explore biblical love and cinema love in the world of Romantic Comedies. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: https://linktr.ee/popcorntheology Support: https://www.patreon.com/popcorntheology Rate and review to get 2 F...

Unlock the biblical truths within Harry Potter in this spellbinding series! Discover why some Christians are wary of Hogwarts and why others see spiritual symbolism woven throughout the series. Can Christians responsibly engage with this cultural phenomenon, or is it a gateway to the occult? Join David and Marcus as we shed light on the subject—LUMOS! Watch the episode here. Episodes for each Harr...

Wake Up Dead Man is the type of movie that all but cries out to be discussed on Popcorn Theology. Its writing, directing, and even lighting all have much to reveal about faith, ministry, and the power of storytelling. On this episode Miles and James take on some of its big themes including a fascinating discussion about faith and storytelling, a pair of two dimensional pastors, as well as a moral...

You Can't Handle the Truth of This Episode! Eric and James dive into the A Few Good Men, exploring its themes of truth, justice, and military honor. Discover how this iconic film challenges viewers to think critically about authority and morality. "You want us on this podcast. You need us on this Podcast!" Watch the episode here . Chapters : 0:00 - Intro 0:24 - Welcome & Summary 2:09 - Popcorn Rat...