Are You Just Watching? is about critical thinking for Christians as they watch popular media such as movies and TV shows. We are more than a Christian reviews site since PluggedIn Online already does such a wonderful job. We take a critical look at philosophies and ideas behind and promoted by enter…
Eve Franklin, Tim Martin, Daniel J. Lewis
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A group of disposable delinquents band together to push back the void and save New York City.Are You Just Watching?Episode 161: Thunderbolts*Music by Son Lux.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/161Consider helping out our fellow CPC member recover from Hurricane Helene.Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Marvel's Thunderbolts* presents a captivating exploration of flawed characters who, despite their dubious pasts, unite to confront the void threatening New York City. This cinematic offering prompts a profound examination through a Christian lens, particularly regarding themes of redemption and identity. Our discussion delves into the intricate dynamics between reputation and self-perception, particularly as it pertains to the characters' struggles with their moral complexities. We will critically assess the film's portrayal of mental health, notably its candid examination of depression and the characters' journeys towards seeking support from one another. Ultimately, we offer insights on the implications of these themes for the Christian worldview, emphasizing the necessity of relying on divine strength amid our human frailties.Takeaways:The film Thunderbolts* presents a nuanced exploration of mental health and depression, highlighting the struggles of its characters in a manner that reflects the complexities of real life.The characters in Thunderbolts* serve as a microcosm for contemporary societal issues, particularly the theme of redemption and how it is often fraught with complications and moral ambiguity.Through the lens of a Christian worldview, we can discern that the film's portrayal of flawed heroes mirrors the biblical narrative of human imperfection and the need for divine grace.The movie's exploration of identity versus reputation resonates deeply, suggesting that true identity is found in Christ rather than in societal labels or past actions, and true Christians do not identify themselves by their sins but by who they are in Christ.
When Jesus becomes just another hero, do we lose the Gospel? Find out as Tim and Eve are joined by a special guest to discuss The King of Kings by Angel Studios.Are You Just Watching? Episode 160: The King of KingsMusic by Taeseong Kim.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/160Consider helping out our fellow CPC member recover from Hurricane Helene. Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.The discussion in this episode centers around the movie The King of Kings produced by Angel Studios, which aims to convey the story of Jesus to a younger audience. We explore the notion that when Jesus is portrayed merely as another hero, the essence of the Gospel may be diluted. Our conversation unfolds through various themes, including the implications of the Second Commandment regarding visual representations of Christ, the significance of storytelling and imagination in understanding faith, the archetype of Messianic heroes, and the moral that behavior has consequences. Each speaker offers their unique perspectives, reflecting on the film's artistic choices and theological undercurrents, ultimately emphasizing the need for a deeper engagement with the core message of Jesus's sacrifice and its implications for individual behavior.Takeaways:The movie The King of Kings presents Jesus not merely as a hero, but as the central figure of the gospel, emphasizing the importance of recognizing his divine nature in storytelling. A significant theme discussed is the representation of Christ, raising questions about the implications of visual depictions in media and their potential to mislead viewers about his true character. The narrative explores the consequences of behavior, illustrating how actions impact relationships and the importance of teaching children about accountability through the lens of Christian faith. Substitutionary atonement is poignantly visualized in a pivotal scene where Jesus rescues Walter, highlighting the depth of Christ's sacrifice and the personal connection it fosters with the audience. The podcast emphasizes the critical need for parents to engage children in discussions about the film's themes, particularly regarding sin and redemption, to ensure a proper understanding of the gospel message. Overall, the episode calls for a careful examination of how stories are told in faith-based media, stressing that while imagination is valuable, it must not detract from the historical truth of Jesus Christ.
A silly kids' movie with a big heart—join us as we explore how Dog Man reveals deep biblical truth about love, parenting, forgiveness, and wonder.Are You Just Watching? Episode 159: Dog ManMusic by Tom Howe. Based on the book series by Dave PilkeyFor the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/159Consider helping out our fellow CPC member recover from Hurricane Helene. Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.The primary theme of this podcast episode revolves around the exploration of profound life lessons inherent in the animated film "Dogman," which is based on the beloved children's book series by Dave Pilkey. Our discussion delves into the film's presentation of love as an actionable force, rather than a mere emotion, a sentiment articulated most poignantly by the character Little Petey. Through various interactions and plot developments, the narrative exemplifies the complexities of relationships, redemption, and the nurturing of children in a world fraught with challenges. We also reflect on the implications of these themes for both children and adults, particularly in light of contemporary societal norms regarding love and acceptance. As we analyze the film's content, we strive to underscore the significance of imparting these vital lessons to younger audiences, thus fostering a generation equipped with empathy and resilience.Takeaways: The podcast discusses the themes of love and redemption presented in the animated movie based on Dave Pilkey's book series. Listeners learn about the importance of love as an action, not merely a feeling, from the character Little Petey's interactions. The speakers reflect on how the movie addresses complex issues such as abandonment, yet does so in a manner appropriate for children. The episode emphasizes the role of parenting and the impact of nurture versus nature in shaping children's behavior and moral choices.
The 1994 classic science fiction movie Stargate gives insights into academic failings, false prophets, and bad planning.Are You Just Watching? Episode 158: StargateMusic by David Arnold.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/158Consider helping out our fellow CPC member recover from Hurricane Helene. Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.This podcast episode delves into the multifaceted themes presented in the 1994 science fiction classic "Stargate," highlighting its incisive commentary on academic failures, the perils of misplaced faith in leaders, and the implications of poor planning. We explore how the film's narrative resonates with contemporary issues, particularly the dangers of following charismatic figures who may not embody the truth. Through an analysis of the characters, notably Colonel O'Neill and Dr. Daniel Jackson, we examine the contrasting responses to trauma and the impact of personal loss. Our discussion further scrutinizes the film's portrayal of academia, where unorthodox ideas are often met with derision, mirroring real-world dynamics in the scientific community. Ultimately, we reflect on the enduring relevance of "Stargate," emphasizing its blend of adventure with profound philosophical inquiries that invite critical thought from audiences.Takeaways: The 1994 film 'Stargate' serves as a profound reflection on the academic failings and societal misconceptions surrounding authority and knowledge. The music composition by David Arnold, especially the main theme, establishes an emotional anchor that enhances the film's narrative depth and viewer engagement. Character development is central in 'Stargate', particularly the contrasting journeys of Colonel O'Neill and Daniel, who both grapple with personal loss and redemption. 'Stargate' introduces themes of false prophets and the dangers of blind faith, paralleling real-world issues in contemporary religious discourse. 'Stargate' showcases the limitations of early CGI technology and practical effects, which, despite their flaws, contribute to the film's nostalgic charm and historical significance.
The DC movie Blue Beetle demonstrates that becoming a superhero is not about having power but how you use the power you are given. Are You Just Watching? Episode 157: Blue BeetleMusic by Bobby Krlic .For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/157Consider helping out our fellow CPC member recover from Hurricane Helene. Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons!
He knows if you've been naughty, he knows if you've been nice. But according to Red One, Santa doesn't punish you. Are You Just Watching? Episode 156: Red OneMusic by Henry Jackman.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/156Consider helping out our fellow CPC member recover from Hurricane Helene. Tim and Eve engage in a thoughtful discussion about the moral implications of the movie Red One, emphasizing the contrasting themes of belief and skepticism through the lens of a modern Christmas story. They dissect how the characters embody various aspects of morality, particularly focusing on the figure of Santa as a benevolent force and Krampus as a representation of judgment and punishment. Tim points out the film's heavy reliance on adult humor and language, which may detract from its appeal to younger audiences, while Eve underscores the emotional depth found in the character of Jack, illustrating his struggle with fatherhood and personal redemption. The hosts reference scripture, including Romans 2:1-11, to frame their conversation about the consequences of sin and the importance of true repentance. Ultimately, the episode serves as a critique of the film while also prompting listeners to consider the broader themes of faith, morality, and the true meaning of Christmas, encouraging them to reflect on their own beliefs in the context of a world filled with skepticism.Takeaways: The film Red One explores themes of redemption and the consequences of our actions, particularly through the relationship between Jack and his son Dylan. Throughout the discussion, it was emphasized that true redemption requires acknowledging one's mistakes and seeking to improve, as seen in Jack's character arc. The portrayal of Santa Claus in modern culture often detaches from his original Christian roots, leading to a misunderstanding of the holiday's true meaning. In the podcast, the speakers expressed how the naughty and nice list concept is a simplified view of morality that doesn't reflect biblical teachings on sin. The discussion highlighted how skepticism can cloud one's understanding of truth, much like Jack's initial disbelief in Santa and its implications. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder to focus on the true meaning of Christmas, which is about Christ's birth and salvation. Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our
The movie Here demonstrates how time and culture change priorities and family ties, but a godly perspective never changes.Are You Just Watching? Episode 155: HereMusic by Alan Silvestri.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/155Consider helping out our fellow CPC member recover from Hurricane Helene. Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons!
The Wild Robot provides valuable insights on parenting, hospitality, and the transformative power of adversity. Are You Just Watching? Episode 154: The Wild RobotMusic by Chris Bowers.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/154Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons!
Exploring a cult from the inside isn't always pretty, but it can be quite hilarious! Am I Racist? exposes the DEI movement through masterful satire. Are You Just Watching? Episode 153: Am I Racist?Andrew Rappaport joins Eve to discuss the Daily Wire feature documentary: Am I Racist?For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/153Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons!
Where do you want to spend eternity? Is the choice yours to make? Amazon's Upload markets it like eternity is a cellphone plan. Just hope that you can afford the unlimited plan.Are You Just Watching? Episode 152: Upload, Season 2Music by Joseph Stephens.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/152Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons!
What if you could buy your way into a digital eternity with all the amenities of a swanky resort, and your living loved ones are just a phone call away? Are You Just Watching? Episode 151: Upload, Season 1Music by Joseph Stephens.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/151Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons!
Friends fill the fissures in your foundations, even IF they are “imaginary.”Are You Just Watching? Episode 150: IF (Imaginary Friends)Music by Michael Giacchino.For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/150Share your feedback!We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Comment on the show notesCall (513) 818-2959 to leave a voicemailEmail feedback@AreYouJustWatching.com (audio files welcome)Join our Facebook discussion group.Join our Discord server.Please support the podcast!Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons!
Are You Just Watching? Episode 149: Ghostbusters: Frozen EmpireIn Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, a non-traditional family struggles with their roles and responsibilities with the fate of the world on the balance.For complete shownotes, visit areyoujustwatching.com/149
Dune, Part 2, the much-anticipated sequel to Dune, shows the power of religion to control people and gives the unborn a voice.
An anachronistic, “first century” comedic drama, tells the story of an atheist who comes to a true knowledge of God through a series of unfortunate events. The post The Book of Clarence – AYJW147 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
In Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie, a solo mission gone wrong teaches a young pup the value of teamwork. The post PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie – AYJW146 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
The Creator demonstrates the role of propaganda in the dehumanization of enemies while losing its messaging to blatant agenda. The post The Creator – AYJW145 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
Based on a true story, the seeming fairy tale Gran Turismo proves that in the real world, chasing your dreams takes hard work and commitment. The post Gran Turismo – AYJW144 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
In Devotion, two pilots develop a friendship that stands the test of adversity. The post Devotion – AYJW143 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
In Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, a retiring Indiana Jones is pulled back into one last adventure by his god-daughter, but will her debt and love of money lead him to ruin or to redemption? The post Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny – AYJW142 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
What does parenting, keeping the canon, being a villain, and spiders have in common? Spider-man: Across the Spider-verse! The post Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse–AYJW141 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
A psychotic atheist with a god-complex strives to replace a fallen universe by perfecting creation through guided evolution. The post Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3 – AYJW140 first appeared on Are You Just Watching?.
Battling an evil that steals souls for eternity is a job for . . . thieves . . . or at least it is in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.
Jesus Revolution presents a message of peace, love, and a spiritual awakening that will save the world. But is it drugs or Jesus?
We've grouped the Super Bowl ads under random award categories and we'll hash out the winners for your listening pleasure.. Welcome to episode 137, the second (not annual) Are You Just Watching? Commercial Awards.
A legendary, but lonely, hero learns to value love and friendship more than his life.
There's no honor among thieves, unless you are providing . . . Leverage. In the case of the Jackal Job, a crooked judge is taking advantage of an elderly woman with Alzheimer's.
Justice, vengeance, and the desperate need for freedom from oppression come head to head when an ancient champion returns to a world still subjugated by evil.
The charming and entertaining murder mystery/comedy, See How They Run, shows how fiction can distort and harm reality.
A true-life story of daring and sacrifice demonstrates how compassion for strangers can bring the world together.
Small town prejudice puts a traumatized and reclusive woman on trial for murder.
The entire pantheon of pagan gods prove they are false in Thor: Love and Thunder.
A high energy action film pits identity against vocation, grudges against forgiveness, and personal advancement against team building.
Justifying evil actions in the pursuit of good intentions, a respected Marvel hero crosses the line.
What have you been watching so far this year? A general topic, I know, but hey, even Tim and I have an off month occasionally.
A suffering veteran finds new meaning and purpose after traveling with a dog damaged by the same combat that ruined his military career.
Redeeming Love, a historical romance inspired by the book of Hosea, ignites controversy in Christian circles.
Seeking to correct a selfish mistake, a moralistic hero brings redemption rather than justice to the villains displaced by his actions.
Science takes on the supernatural in this nostalgic sequel to the 1984 classic, Ghostbusters.
Dune, Part 1, begins the journey of a man-made messiah toward a “holy” upheaval that will reform a corrupt and stagnated society.
The final Daniel Craig James Bond movie, No Time to Die, builds legacies on top of legends.
Eastern philosophy clashes with Western culture in Marvel's Shang-Chi, a movie that pits good against evil in a classic Asian hero story.
In Amazon Prime's The Tomorrow War, conscripted soldiers and scientific researchers try to prevent a future alien threat from destroying humanity, excluding the only secure hope of a true future through faith in God.
The Black Widow finds family and forgiveness when her past blasts her out of her self-imposed exile.
An economically depressed community rallies its hope and faith around a racehorse.
Stowaway addresses the age-old philosophical question of whose life has more value when someone must die so that others may live.
It’s not all chaos and grief . . . there’s a moral to the story of WandaVision.
The true heir to Avengers: Endgame, WandaVision dives into the consequences and the politics of a world fractured by the Blip.
February was a dry month for movies, so once again we’re giving you a glimpse into what we've been watching for our own enjoyment.
The Pixar movie Soul uses a godless philosophy to chase the spark of living from before birth through death and onto the path to the Great Beyond.
Loyal, brave, true, devotion to family . . . and gender roles, deceit, and the energy of life in Disney's live-action Mulan!