INQ-177 | Religion at the Movies

Topic Description:

Religious movies give us an opportunity to examine religions from a variety of unusual perspectives. This class will explore four religious traditions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism and Christianity—as they are represented by a variety of film genres including documentary, drama, and comedy. After reading overviews of these religions, we will examine how the medium of film simplifies, distorts, but also attempts to express the essence of each faith. Questions considered include: Can film give an accurate experience of a religion? Is there a middle ground between the sentimental and satirical? Can watching a film become a religious experience?

Course Types Offered: On-Campus

Topic Approved: April 2022