Christ, Culture, and Cinema

This week we look at a classic comedy, Old School. It is hard not to look back with beatific glasses while struggling with where are right now. It's also hard to look forward to what is ahead when we are struggling in the present. Join us for this comedic look at life, days gone by, and the future.

How in the world did we record 200 podcasts?! And for that matter...what have learned on this journey? This week we pause from our normal movie analysis to look at some bigger questions and bigger answers from looking at movies through the lenses of faith and culture. We have enjoyed bringing you this podcast each week and we look forward to the next 200 episodes...God willing!

This week we consider a Netflix movie based on a true story that was introduced to us by Neil and Beth of Canton, North Carolina. This movie will help restore your hope in humanity and that good people really do exist - people who love their neighbors, care for their friends, and desire to help their fellow man. And when Goliath tries to stop them, David is up to the task!

Who needs "right" or "wrong" when you can be your own arbiter for your life's boundaries! This is the first movie that has launched an incredible franchise of sequels and spin-offs. The only problem, everyone is always caught up defining and re-defining their understanding of "right" and "wrong."

This week we look at a movie that had all of the ingredients: Star power, a well-suited director for the genre, and an entertaining script...and yet the movie still failed at the box office. Whey does this happen? And even more so why did you enjoy the movie when others weren't attracted to it. This week's movie checks all of these boxes! Check out The Fall Guy - it really is a good movie

This week we consider a third installment of Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler in a romantic comedy, Blended. The movie arrived on the screen in 2014 - but would Hollywood make this movie today? Male and female influences on children are essential and as this demonstrates, each are equally important in the nurture and development of a child.

Theology - Polity - Churchmanship - Personalities - Aspirations - Sin...This week we look at a powerful movie that takes a look at the fictitious conclave to elect a new pope. Sides are chosen; arguments happen; personal desires get in the way of what is right and beneficial. This movie speaks to more than the church - it speaks to any organization that has an elected structure.

This week we look at a zany comedic look at the fashion industry. Models, fashion designers, managers, and Hollywood stars all come together around an industry that has...purpose?! Each person fulfilling vocational moments - whether they realize it or not! It's not about smarts - it's about fulfillment!

This week we explore a heart-breaking, true to life movie about the wrestling family, the Von Erich . Marked by tragedy, discord, and strife, Kevin Von Erich finds a way out of the family mess to personal happiness. How often does this happen where parent's aspirations and dreams overshadow and diminish children? How unhappy can a family become in such an environment?

In this episode Jeffrey and Michael are joined by Dave Rittinger - a hockey playing pastor from New Jersey as they explore the true story, "Miracle" - the story about the 1980 USA Olympic Team that beat all odds and defeated the Soviet Union Hockey Team on their way to Olympic gold. But there is more to the story than simply hockey players - standing in the background is exceptional coaching. Coaching is critical - we even need it in life a and ministry.

A very unlikely Adam Sandler movie, The Do-Over challenges you to consider your past, the decisions you have made, and what would you do differently. What do you need to to forgive yourself for and how will you move forward? How will your life change if you find a new pathway to follow?

This week we explore a Netflix movie that has soared to number 1, The Union. Starring Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry, this over the top action comedy causes the viewer to consider the "what ifs" in life as well as the "what's next?" Looking backwards as well as looking forward can cause your emotions, and spiritual self to be thrown off center.

As we plunge into season 9 we take a look at a very well crafted by dark movie by Quinten Tarantino. He challenges us with the face of evil and those who have come to vanquish it - yet, are their methods any better (or maybe even worse) than those they have come to vanquish.?! In a word, do two wrongs really make a right!

Have you ever been excited to see a movie only to be let down? You purchased your ticket, took your seat, only to find yourself wondering "why did I get so excited about this movie?" Movies can let us down and disappoint us - the question is "Why?" Today we explore a few movies (some even made big money at the box office) that were let downs - movies we probably will never watch again. We will dig into why they disappointed us and give you some guidance as to why you too have been disappointed in a movie!

In our final winter break podcast we revisit a classic George Clooney Movie. Loosely following the Greek mythological tale "The Odyssey" we follow characters on a journey...what is your journey like?

In light of the Presidential Inauguration we thought it was fitting to revisit this true story of the now Vice President JD Vance. Everyone has a story and this one is incredibly important as we explore how one can overcome challenges and obstacles in life.

This week during our winter break we revisit a classic Western that addresses themes like honor, duty, and faithfulness. We hope you enjoy exploring this movie with us again.

Welcome to our Winter Break! This week we revisit a dark comedy that explores racism, cultural clashes, and the challenges that come with not understanding each other.

Every so often you come across a movie where the story line seems so thin but there are so many stars in the movie. So what do you do? You pick up your phone and start Googling what movies and streaming series they have all been in. New Year's Eve is one of those movies - so many stars but too many story lines to follow and tie together. Join as we explore how this movie could have been better and what movies next season all the star power triggered in our conversation! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

As we prepare for Christmas we take a look at one of the most iconic Christmas movies ever - It's A Wonderful Life. What happens when life doesn't follow the linear path you have set out upon? Frustrations, set backs, other people's needs; disappointments, failures, and messes to clean up. And yet, God works and wills wonderfully and blessedly to complete His plans and purposes. Join us this week and see how God may be working through your life. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

Join Michael, Jeffrey, and a special guest - Jill, as they explore a 2023 cinematic masterpiece set in Western Massachusetts at a private boarding school. The movie probes fractured lives, unlikely friendships, and the sense of hope and restoration people seek. But looming behind this movie will be the question we ask every third week of December: Is this a Christmas Movie??? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

A Christmas Carol Musical...sort of?! Join us this week as we consider a comedy meets musical meets deep questioning movie - is there such a thing as a person who is "unredeemable?" With the backdrop of Ghosts of Christmas past, present, and yet-to-come," we discover how far one is willing to go to "redeem" another. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

As we enter our annual Christmas Holiday movies, today we visit a classic - Home Alone. Everything about the movie is wrong - forgetting a child at home, the failure of the police to help, bandits that like to leave a calling card, and a young child outwitting those same bandits. And yet the movie is so right - the love of a mother, the reconciliation of a neighbor's family, and the support and assistance of a polka band leader in a mother's journey! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week we look at the true life story of the Vice President Elect JD Vance. His backstory is compelling, challenging, and difficult. A broken family, drug addicted mother, poverty, and class distinction that created obstacles along the way. Two words come to mind: Perseverance and Grit. Join us as we explore moments and events that can change a person's life forever. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

In this Coen brother movie we travel along (loosely) with Homer's Odyssey. Along the way we encounter Sirens, a Cyclops, a man who sold his soul to the devil, amongst other oddities. Set against the backdrop of 1937 Mississippi we make the journey and see reflections of our own lives - the ups and downs, twists and turns, and the unresolved moment that we may be standing in...so where are YOU on your journey? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week we visit a war movie to honor Veteran's Day. What does it mean to be a conscientious objector? What does it mean to serve in the military when you are opposed to taking a life? How can one demonstrate love for the fellow man while still fighting in a war. This movie checks all the boxes of a classic and necessary movie for all to see! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

Halloween movies are usually about ghosts and goblins, witches and warlocks. But what about a Halloween movie about people who are a little different? What about a Halloween movies that challenges us to get to know those "different" people who have a heart and care for all of those around them? Well...that's Hubie DuBois in this week's movie --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

After a brief absence due to Hurricane Helene, we return with a classic Western to challenges us to consider what is honorable and noteworthy - why are certain people deemed honorable and why do they stand out? Everyday, ordinary people can do extraordinary things that change our opinion of who they are. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

What if a romantic comedy delves headlong into racial prejudice from a variety of perspectives? What if it really mirrors our contemporary world in such a way that while you are trying to laugh you are really examining your heart and soul? This week we take on a 2023 Netflix movie that does all of that and more! Join us as we explore how off putting we can be when we are not willing to sit, listen, and learn about each other. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

Life is not a straight line. Family, friends, finances, education and the like all play a role in how you live your life. Do you justify bad choices or immoral behaviors and are you doing so due to those influences on your life? This week explore with us a movie filled with plot twists and turns as each character seeks to "justify" their behavior and choices. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week we take on a bio-pic about the life and rising stardom of Johnny Cash. He was incredibly complex man whose life was molded and shaped by experiences (mostly negative) and his ability to endure and persevere. What has impacted your life more - experience or perseverance? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week we look at a thriller meets sci-fi movie. When a young woman is forced to be a drug mule and the drugs leak into her blood stream she begins to experience exponential mental growth and capacity. her mind capacity exceeds anything the world has ever seen. What causes you to grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually? What are your limits and how much more can you be? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

In this episode we look at a true story set in Texas during the 1950's - the back drop is country club, a Mexican community, and the prejudice that exists on both sides of the country club fence. Does playing by the other culture's rules get you to where you want to be? How do we address cultural differences and inherent ideologies and prejudices? How can we be better? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

In this episode we explore an excellent movie of historical consequence - when Pope Benedict XXXIII "retired" as Pope and Jorge Bongoglio was elevated to the Papacy assuming the name Pope Francis. These very different people learned so much from each other while, at the same time, while learning a great deal about themselves. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

As summer vacation comes to a close, we visit a movie about people who randomly meet on vacation and become "friends." What is a real friend? When you consider the tapestry of your life, who will be there for you no matter what? This very funny movie helps us explore what and who are really important. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

We kick off season 8 by checking out a new Netflix release that adds to the 1984 classic Beverly Hills Cop. The movie follows a similar recipe of the previous two movies and Michael and I found ourselves smiling, laughing, and reminiscing. There is power in nostalgia and looking back and this movie takes us back to a very happy time. What movies do that for you? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This concludes our summer break series and what better movie than The Irishman?! This epic crime movie takes us on a journey and into the dark corners of the world. What is evil? What moves a person to such violence? How can one be so unhealthfully detached? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week's summer break is a double feature! One of my favorite movies (I consider it one movie in two parts) is an homage to the old kung fu movies of the 70's. Stunningly acted, beautifully directed, and yet...violent! Where does vengeance leave you in the end? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week's summer break special is a "dark" comedy that Michael introduced to me this past season. Themes of love, failure, repentance and forgiveness all come rushing to the fore. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This summer break re-visits a blockbuster from the past - a Steven Spielberg masterpiece. Explore with Michael and me the themes of what happens when you mess with the created order.. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week's summer break movie is Pastor's Kid - a boutique type film where Michael and I had a chance to visit with the director and the star of the movie! Join us to learn about the creative process and an excellent real-to-life film --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

Join us for our first summer break movie - this movie explores great themes of life, death, grief, and overcoming life's obstacles! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

In today's episode we visit a classic comedy that gained popularity on cable and streaming services. But beyond the "over the top" laughs there is a deeper question of personal value and WHO values you. Join us as we close out season 7! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week we look at a classic Pixar-Disney Movie. Monsters in the closet; children screaming; and those screams being harnessed as energy for Monstropolis. So...what do you know and what do you really not know becomes the question. In this fun adventure children's laughs are more powerful than their screams, and monsters aren't so scary after all! So what do you really know and how can you grow to learn more? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week we look at a "What If" movie - what if the world never had the gift of the Beatles and their music...BUT...was shared by someone who knows all about the Beatles but takes credit for it himself. Why is it important to share what you know? Why tell the truth even if it means you loose personal gain? And...ultimately, what is most important?! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

This week we look at a comedic view of what really defines a family - is it flesh and blood or "water and the spirit?" When a group of misfits get pulled together how do they transcend their differences and become what a family is supposed to be? Do you have people in your life that you consider family but are not flesh and blood related? Why do you consider them family? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

Maybe one of the most over the top, crazy comedies ever made, Step Brothers somehow teaches us something about overcoming relationships we did not choose and finding friendship and success int he midst of it. Join us as we explore a family that comes together and somehow improves each of their lives through the new relationships they discover. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

in this episode we look at a action/Romantic Comedy that challenges us to think about life decisions, sacrifice, and what is most important. Join us on this ride as we make our way through explosions, laughter, and sacrifices... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

What if the "hero" faced moral and ethical decisions that adversely impacted the life of another? What if he was not so heroic and his decisions led to the death of another? And what if that person found it in her heart to reconcile and make the awful situation work? That is what we will explore this week in this Sci-Fi survival meets love story --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

A summer blockbuster movie...a prehistoric shark...and a complicated hero with a past. This week we look at a summer action/adventure movie that presents a character with depth and flaws. Those around him assume much but seemingly know little. What do you know about other people? Are you quick to rush to judgment? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support

Another Road House?! How do you remake a classic without upsetting loyal fans of the late Patrick Swayze? By keeping key elements, repeating memorable lines, but making a very different movie. Jake Gyllenhaal takes the lead role of Dalton in a very different direction. Questions arise about his background, self-control, and boundaries he tries to establish for his life. What happens when those boundaries are tested and he crosses the line? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jeffrey-skopak/support