Popcorn Theology

Watch the episode  here . Why is Thor crying? Jamespool recruits Jamerine to explore this fourth-wall breaking, record-shattering blockbuster film, with Gregpool along for the ride as they explore themes of what it means to matter, to be a hero, and to find redemption and meaning in a multiverse of mixed messages. Also, they geek out on cameos, Easter eggs, and a movie that celebrates three decade...

Watch the episode here . This month, we're going Back to School with our series In The Lobby. For this series, our panel of educators (Bridget, Jam, David, & James) dissects the narratives surrounding education in film. This week, we discuss the portrayal of teachers in movies/TV and Hollywood's false concepts for the role of education. The first episode of this series is available to the public;...

Watch the episode here . Thanks to our super team of Patron Saints, James and David dive into the origins of the X-Men with First Class. This film explores the bonds of biblical friendship, mirrors the building of the early church, and illustrates different responses to an opposing world. Enjoy this episode and consider joining our team so you can vote on next month's Patreon Pick. And remember… P...

Watch the episode here . You're probably thinking "Why would you review THESE movies?" Well, underneath the exaggerated reputation and some admittedly objectionable content are two films about family, legalism, judgment, underestimating love, and more. Also murders, explosions, and a tongue that surely personifies James 3:6. But James and Greg jump in the deadpool and dare explore what we can reje...

When the brink of Mutant existence is threatened by Trask's Sentinels, the X-Men come up with an elaborate plan to send Wolverine back in time to right the wrongs of the past. Join James, Miles, and Jam as they discuss the deep themes of X-Men Days of Future Past, and look forward to the coming day of Christ! James' book  Cinemagogue  has a new edition! Hear more in this episode and read more  her...

James, Miles and Jam tackle a mutant-sized episode of the comic book movies that proved the concept and paved the way for the MCU. We pop our claws and take a stab at this movie's themes, from the overarching prejudice motif to the unfolding character studies and growth of Rogue and Wolverine across the trilogy. Logan (Episode 077): https://popcorntheology.com/2017/03/05/077-logan/ James' book  Ci...

This week starts a new series of "In The Lobby". Join three dads (Eric, Miles, and Jam) as we discuss training their children to honor God with their entertainment. With kids out of school for the summer, this is the perfect series for any parent seeking to raise mindful consumers.  The first episode of this series is available to the public; the next 3 episodes will release through the month of J...

It's Demo Day!! David makes room for his new emotions (guest hosts) Nate and Charlotte as they navigate the stream of consciousness for Inside Out 2. In this episode, we discuss anxiety, peace that passes understanding, the basis of beliefs, and the "already, but not yet" life that Christians lead. And remember, you are not an ennui consumer! Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification be...

Watch the episode here . Hop on the Cat Bus and join Eric and Rory as they explore the animated classic My Neighbor Totoro. The links for the book and article that we discussed are below: Book: God of All Things by Andrew Wilson: https://zondervanacademic.com/products/god-of-all-things   Article:  https://thinkchristian.net/my-neighbor-totoro-and-becoming-like-little-children James' book Cinemagog...

Watch the episode here .  This week Miles, Jam, and our imaginary host explore IF, a movie written, produced and Directed by John Krazinski. Look past the movie into the unseen reality of deeper themes like the value of child-likeness (vs childishness) and explore the possibility of facing life's tragedies with Joy. Don't forget to subscribe and click the notification bell.  James' book Cinemagogu...

Watch the episode here . Lady and gentlemens! Start your mindful engines and go for a ride with Mad Maddy and Praetorian James as they explore an oasis of themes in the wasteland of this fast and frantic film. From imagery of the fall to exploring how God sifts souls in the desert, there's a truckload of ideas to race through. Ready! Setty! GOOOOOOOOOOO! James' book  Cinemagogue  has a new edition...

Watch this episode here . This week starts a new series of "In The Lobby: A.I. in Film". For this series, James and David are joined by two special guests, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin, to explore Artificial Intelligence, its impact on ministry and filmmaking, its portrayal in film, and the theological implications. This was such a blast, and we know you'll enjoy it!  The first episode is available...

Watch the episode here . How do we finish off comedy month? With MORE CHEESE! Pour a cup of tea and join Kat and James as they put on some trousers, shave, and blast off with these beloved stop-motion characters from across the pond. Three short films provide easy themes to tinker with like imagination, contentment, friendship and intercession. All this and a nice slice of Wensleydale! James' book...

Watch the episode on Youtube here . "Since I've become a Popcorn Theologian I've noticed things I've never noticed before: Christ figures in The Matrix, Fools in Cocaine Bear, stoplights." Join Eric and Miles as they break down how comedy points to the Christian worldview and how God is not only the greatest story teller, but also the greatest comedian. James' book  Cinemagogue  has a new edition!...

Watch the episode on Youtube here . What kind of stunt are we trying to pull with this episode? Do any meaningful themes really tumble out of this hilarious comedy action movie? Does David hate Ryan Gosling? Will James drop  theological parallels? Is it even our real hosts, or stunt hosts using deepfake technology? You'll have to see for yourself as we discuss stunt teams, the church, sexy bacon a...

Watch the episode here . James, Maddy and Rory reunite for this epic podcast crawl and become Popcorn Theology's only hope for finishing the Cornetto Trilogy! Can they make it from theme to theme and receive/reject/redeem before the episode comes to a tragic end? You'll have to see for yourself. Let's Boo-Boo! James' book  Cinemagogue  has a new edition! Hear more in this episode and read more  he...

Watch the announcement on Youtube here . The times they are a-changin' at Popcorn Theology. While we will continue releasing our flagship weekly episodes, we are also thrilled to introduce a brand NEW series! "In The Lobby" features 15-20 minute weekly episodes that explore themes extending beyond a particular film. These episodes will also feature special guests and include live Q&A.  We have als...

The first episode of our brand new series "In The Lobby" is available now on Youtube . David and James had a fascinating discussion with author and financial expert David Bahnsen about work, life, and purpose in film. This discussion will be released in weekly episodes over the month of May, and is exclusive to our "Premium Seating" Patron Saints. But this first episode is a free sample; we hope y...

Watch the episode here . This episode will shake you out of your fugue state! Hopefully Kat won't choke on the themes as she joins James and David for a look at the sophomore year of this acclaimed show. James dares to say something negative about this season, David and Kat examine the escalation and ripples of temptation and sin, and the crew discuss a pride so great it can't accept charity. What...

Watch the episode here . Are you guilty of worldview murder? Is your mindless consumption predetermined? The Pop-Theo-Cogs have seen a different path to take, one that points you to the "Capital P" Precog and film as an opportunity to glorify Him. So strap in and view this Sci-fi classic with new eyes as we cover Minority Report. James' book  Cinemagogue  has a new edition! Hear more in this episo...

Watch the episode here . It's a battle royale as our hosts - like Godzilla versus Kong - wrestle over the quality of this latest monsterverse installment! But James, Eric, and guest host "James the Younger" all surface some curious observations about the film's Moses motif, the sovereignty of God(zilla) and a curious parallel with Revelation chapter 20. Want some kaiju-sized conversation? We gotch...

Watch episode here . Miles and James take the call and cruise through the frozen landscape of New York looking for what haunts this latest Ghostbusters installment! From rarely discussed biblical ideas of where evil spirits come from to the film's shockingly trad view of parenting and relationships, there's plenty of things to discuss. Just remember: don't cross the themes! It would be bad.  James...

Watch the episode here . Knock knock, Neo. The Matrix released 25 years ago this Easter. Join us as we revisit our 200th episode on this iconic sci-fi film, which we recorded for the film's 20th anniversary. In this episode James, Richard, and David as we revisit this modern classic as well as the highlights for the first 200 episodes. We discuss how Neo illustrates both the convert and the savior...

How are Christians to live in a world where humans can be genetically engineered and discrimination is down to a science? Using the world of Gattaca, the hosts discuss the ethical use of genetic engineering, how the gospel frees you to live in God's favor, and why a Christian worldview is necessary to holdback the excesses of man's tampering with nature. So put your fate in the hands of your trust...

Watch video podcast here . We're back to the world of Blade Runner with possibly the best sequel ever made. Miles and James give top scores for this movie's entertainment value and theological depth. Blade Runner 2049 shows how different people react in the face of miracles. If the original blade runner made us ask what it means to be alive, then this movie will make us all ask what it means to lo...