Heretics & Popes - A Movie Show with McKay Coppins
Dec 28, 2024
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Join McKay Coppins, a New York Times bestselling author and Atlantic staff writer, alongside Bill Turnbull, a Faith Matters co-founder, as they explore two intriguing films: 'Heretic' and 'Conclave.' They dive into how 'Heretic' satirizes new atheism, revealing the complexities of faith and control. In contrast, 'Conclave' brings to life the political drama of electing a new pope, highlighting church dynamics and the tensions between belief and skepticism. Their discussion unveils the evolving portrayal of faith in modern cinema, inviting deeper reflection on spiritual truths.
The podcast explores the dark themes in the film 'Heretic', focusing on the erosion of faith amidst modern skepticism and violent challenges.
'Conclave' delves into the complexities of papal elections, illustrating the interplay between politics and spirituality within the Catholic Church.
Both films demonstrate a cultural shift in Hollywood towards a more profound exploration of faith, encouraging reflection on belief and divine influence.
Deep dives
Support and Community Engagement
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Exploration of Contemporary Films
The podcast discusses two recent Hollywood films, 'Heretic' and 'Conclave,' which provide a nuanced examination of faith and spirituality. 'Heretic' centers on two sister missionaries who encounter a sinister antagonist questioning their beliefs, embodying the growing critique of organized religion. 'Conclave' takes viewers inside the Vatican during a papal election, showcasing political maneuvering and diverse factions among cardinals. Both films engage with deep questions about belief, choice, and the significance of spirituality in a skeptical age.
Critical Analysis of 'Heretic'
In 'Heretic,' the protagonist sisters confront a formidable atheist adversary who challenges their faith via dramatic and violent encounters. This character embodies a mixture of charismatic charm and sinister intentions, creating a complex portrayal of modern atheism. A notable aspect is the depiction of the sisters' experiences paralleling real-life scenarios, illustrating that even amidst threats to faith, the essence of belief remains robust. The film provides a dark, satirical commentary on new atheism while provoking reflection on the nature of conviction.
Thematic Depth in 'Conclave'
The film 'Conclave' portrays the multifaceted dynamics of a papal election, highlighting inter-cardinal tensions and challenges that reflect broader religious themes. The unexpected rise of a previously unknown archbishop symbolizes the potential for divine intervention amidst human politics. The narrative juxtaposes political strategy against the call for spiritual guidance, emphasizing a collective search for faith amid uncertainty. This theme underlines the church's continuous evolution despite human frailty and errant desires for power.
Reflections on Religion in Cinema
Through discussing both films, the podcast acknowledges a shift in how religion is portrayed in Hollywood, moving away from dismissive narratives towards a more thoughtful exploration of faith. The characters' struggles illustrate the intersection of divine influence and human imperfection, reflecting a broader societal curiosity about spirituality. The ongoing dialogue about the role of faith suggests a nuanced understanding of how it can coexist with modern skepticism. Ultimately, these films aspire to reaffirm the relevance of spiritual narratives, prompting discussions about the essence of belief in contemporary culture.
As we wrap up the year, we’ve got something a little different in store for you today. We’ve invited Zach Davis, Bill Turnbull, and McKay Coppins on for a conversation about two Hollywood Films that are making waves.
Zach is the executive director of Faith Matters, Bill is one of the founders, and you may remember Mckay from his previous episodes. He’s a New York Times bestselling author and staff writer at the Atlantic.
They’re joining us today for a deep dive into two films-- Heretic, the dark thriller about two sister missionaries lured into a man’s home by his feigned interest in their faith and become trapped in his sinister and malevolent plot -- and Conclave, which takes us into the heart of the Vatican during the election of a new pope. It’s a gripping drama filled with politics, power, and ultimately, divine mystery.
Both films explore profound questions about belief, choice, and the human longing for transcendence. In an era often skeptical of organized religion, these movies take faith seriously and, in their own ways, seem to reaffirm the relevance—and beauty—of spiritual truth.
This was a rich and thought-provoking conversation, so whether you’ve seen these movies or not, the questions explored in this episode and the insights are going to spark deep, and valuable reflection.
With that, let’s jump into the discussion!
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