​Diana’s experiences with Maxwell call to mind for her the teachings of her aunt and mentor, Antiope, who taught her that the “truth is all there is” and “no hero is born from lies”. In a moment of clarity, Diana then realises that living in reality and thereby standing firm upon what she knows to be good and right, is to experience truth. Whilst she is unable to receive every desire of her heart (like so many others), she sees the great beauty and wonders on display in our world that are far better for us to long after and enjoy, rather than the destructiveness of selfishness and greed. In a sense, the film’s worldview isn’t entirely wrong. However, it’s understanding of truth is limited. For whilst the filmmakers appear to believe that the truths of this world are the bedrock upon which someone should build their life, how can we distinguish the truth from the lies? How do we know what is absolute truth that we are able to depend upon?

God, in His word the Bible, teaches that for all the perceived truths of this life, there is but one unmistakable, pure truth that we can (in a sense) put to the test: Jesus. Whilst others are called into question or disputed, He taught that “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me|” (John 14:6, GNT). By this he meant that He is absolute truth within whom we can put our trust today and for eternity. Yes, some may not believe in Jesus and declare that He is a work of fiction. But He clearly said that if anyone comes to repentance, begins a personal friendship with Him and follows His teachings, “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32, NLT). We will be able to experience Him today! Yes, Jesus is truth personified – the One who is uniquely able to help us experience a hopeful reality with Him, both now and forever, because He sacrificed himself on the Cross in the place of humanity. He made a way to save those whose lives were tainted by sin! And although He perished physically, He did not die spiritually and neither did His truth – for He rose again 3 days later to many witnesses, having defeated, and disarmed the power of death over our lives when He took it to the grave. In doing so, Jesus proved that He is truth and continues to do that today, when He beckons us to repent and thereby leave our sin behind us and come and follow Him – to experience His dependable Holy Spirit, love, joy, hope and peace. For those who love Him, “this truth gives them confidence (like no other) that they have eternal life, which God — who does not lie — promised them before the world began.” (Titus 1:2, NLT). Therefore, we need not look to the truths of this world, but to the One who wants you to know Him personally, today.

Challenge:

Why not prayerfully invite a friend or family member who doesn’t yet know Jesus, to watch Wonder Woman 1984 for themselves? Use the film’s themes to ask them what they thought of the film, if they spotted any links to Christianity and what they might think of the Gospel’s response to this subject.

If you feel able to, ask them if they believe there is such a thing as absolute truth in today’s world – if they answer yes, how do they know that? Ask them to consider whether Jesus is could be classed as dependable truth in the everyday – regardless of their answer, ask them why they feel that way.

Take the opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel message with them, encouraging them in the knowledge that whilst there are lies in today’s world and we often find it difficult to distinguish truth from the lies, Jesus is truth that we can stand firmly upon in the everyday – in fact, He invites us to reach out to find Him and experience His saving power for ourselves today! So, why not invite them to turn from their sin, put their trust in Him and walk into dependable friendship with Him, today?

Prior to watching the film for yourself, however, take a moment to pray that God would speak to you through the show. If you feel comfortable, pray this prayer over all your future, film-watching experiences:
 
Dear Lord, as I watch this film, I ask that you would be present here with me. Highlight to me anything within it that is honourable, anything that can be used in conversation for your Kingdom purposes. Amen.
 
Wonder Woman 1984 is currently available to rent on all good streaming services.

Please note: The following text contains spoilers. Viewer discretion is also advised – Horton Hears a Who! is rated ‘U’. For more details on the film’s content from a Christian perspective, read Focus on The Family’s review from Plugged In:

https://www.pluggedin.com/movie-reviews/drseusshortonhearsawho/

I’m so glad that the story of Horton Hears a Who! exists – both in the form of literature yes, but particularly in regard to its cinematic & television adaptations. Not only is the tale wildly imaginative, but it carries messages worthy to be instilled within all of us. Without contest, however, my favourite of the book’s adaptations is 2008’s Horton Hears a Who! – it’s playfully zany, epic in scope, and thankfully retains the allegorical messages which are commonplace, in the Dr. Seuss oeuvre. Most notable is that of a message conveyed by Horton himself: "A person's a person, no matter how small”. And whilst the film’s strikingly simple messages have been interpreted by various people, in numerous ways, the fact remains that they have key links to Gospel Message which cannot be ignored…

Apparently eager to return to the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss, Jim Carrey energetically voices the eponymous, care-free pachyderm, whose misadventures lead him to experience what he describes as “an amazing cosmic convergence”: Someone from a tiny planet, situated on a speck of dust, lets out a tiny yelp. In attempting to contact its microscopic inhabitant, Horton makes the (audible) acquaintance of Mayor Ned McDodd (Steve Carell), who informs him that Horton is in fact carrying the entire city of Whoville and its inhabitants. Realising that the Whos are in grave danger, due to threat of the jungle landscape and some unsavoury characters, Horton is filled with compassion and pledges to make a home for their ‘speck’, atop Mt. Nool - the safest place in the jungle.

Whilst the story is fondly remembered for an overarching message that closely resembles the pro-life viewpoint, I’ve come to find that the relationship between Horton and Mayor Ned, functions as a worthy allegory for having faith in that which is unseen. From the very beginning, when Horton is first alerted to the idea that someone on the speck actually let out a sound, he struggles with the idea that such an anomaly could actually exist. This is fuelled by Sour Kangaroo, an uppity animal who refuses to believe that the Whos exist, because she “can’t see, hear or feel” them. But Horton reasons that there is indeed a small civilisation living upon the speck, because he says (and knows), “I heard you”. Without ever being able to see a single Who, Horton wholeheartedly believes they exist and that he has a duty of care to them and their world. Of course, our human minds would consider such behaviour as irrational, just as the fellow animals of the jungle do. But Horton knows in his heart what is true, and because he draws close to the voice, actually comes to learn of the Whos existence and the entire world inhabited upon the speck.

​And Mr. Mayor, in his desire to save the town, knew that they too were in need of a saviour. So, he continues to tell everyone of Horton’s existence, encouraging them to simply believe in and call out to him with a loud cry, so that they might be saved. And, by some miracle, they do – which enables Horton to point certain villains to tangible evidence, which proves their existence. Of course, humanity is not at all in need of trying to prove their existence to an almighty God. However, we are in equally desperate need of Him, within whom we can place our hope. Thankfully, we need not petition Him, for “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13, NLT).

Challenge:

Why not prayerfully invite a friend or family member who doesn’t yet know Jesus, to watch Horton Hears A Who! for themselves? Use the film’s themes to ask them what they thought of the film, if they spotted any links to Christianity and what they might think of the Gospel’s response to this subject.

If you feel able to, ask them what they think about the film’s understanding of faith, and the characters themselves – do they develop some semblance of faith in something or someone, throughout the course of the film? If so, what does that look like? Might they have faith in something or someone, in a similar way to these characters? Ask them how such a faith influences their life.

Take the opportunity to also discuss with them the unbelief of various characters throughout the film, such as the Kangaroo. Ask them to imagine that they were in Horton or the Mayor’s shoes - if they didn’t believe you, what would you do? Have they been in that position before? If so, what did it feel like? Or have they ever been in the position of having unbelief towards something? If you feel prompted to, ask them at this moment what it is that might hold them back from believing in Jesus and why. Take the opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel message with them, encouraging them in the knowledge that Jesus wants to be in close, tangible friendship with them today because of what Jesus has done for us, by dying on the cross and rising again three days later, which defeated the power of death and darkness. Finish by letting them know that we need only put our hope and trust in Jesus today (even if the world berates us for it), so that we can be forgiven and receive the blessed assurance of salvation, that comes from a relationship with Jesus. Why not invite them to receive Him for themselves, today?

Prior to watching the film for yourself, however, take a moment to pray that God would speak to you through the show. If you feel comfortable, pray this prayer over all of your future, film-watching experiences:
 
Dear Lord, as I watch this film, I ask that you would be present here with me. Highlight to me anything within it that is honourable, anything that can be used in conversation for your Kingdom purposes. Amen.

Horton Hears A Who! is currently available to stream on Disney+ (U.K.)
​

Following the signature introduction informing us that we are now entering an entirely different dimension to our own, the episode opens with dramatic urgency: small-time crook Rocky Valentine (Larry Blyden) is seen hastily robbing a pawnshop, and then attempting to evade capture from the police on foot, when the heist suddenly goes south. Under a hail of gunfire, Rocky dives into a nearby street, but finds himself cornered and is subsequently gunned down by the authorities (cue ‘fade to black’). Miraculously, however, he soon awakes in the same location we last saw him and in perfect condition. Except now, he finds himself in the company of Mr. Pip – a large, bearded gentleman dressed all in white. He politely introduces himself to Rocky as his “guide”, informing him that he is required to give him everything he could ever want. Naturally, Rocky is suspicious of Pip, but soon finds that the jolly fellow is in fact telling the truth, when he gifts him a beautiful apartment to call his own. Rocky still can't quite believe his luck (literally, too, when he begins winning every casino game imaginable), but eagerly requests that Pip bestow upon him money, women, fast cars and so much more – essentially, everything that his heart ever desired. And whilst Rocky soon embraces this life in the fast lane, something still doesn’t seem quite right:

Rocky: “What's going on here? Where am I?”
 
Mr. Pip: “Mr. Valentine, do you remember when we met earlier today? I told you I was in a sense, your guide and you said you needed a guide like a hole in the head.”
 
Rocky: “Yeah.”
 
Mr. Pip: “Well, as a matter of strict fact, you had a hole in the head only a short time before: a bullet hole.”
 
Rocky: “Yeah, that's right. The cops, they... Then I must... I must be dead!”
 
Mr. Pip: “Mmm-hmm.”
 
Rocky: “If I'm dead, then all of this, the joint, the clothes and the booze… I must be in heaven. Yeah! That's it! That's it! I'm in heaven, right? And you're my guardian angel, something like that?”
 
Mr. Pip: “Oh, something like that. Yes, Mr. Valentine.”
​

​Rocky is elated to learn that he ‘made the cut’ to enter Heaven, but is still a tad perplexed – how could a less than gentlemanly thief have everything he ever wanted, and make it into Heaven? Even he can’t seem to remember doing many or any good deeds at all throughout his time on earth, that could warrant such eternal bliss. In seeking reassurance from Pip that there hasn’t been some sort of mix-up with the almighty, Rocky is informed that there is a file kept on him in the Hall of Records, that would detail every action taken within his lifetime. At Rocky’s request, Pip leads him to the aforementioned hall, and then to a filing cabinet, from which he removes the file. Reading it aloud, Rocky soon realizes that his life was completely devoid of any good at all, for his file is simply a record of all that he has ever done wrong – and nothing more. Noticeably worried and confused, Rocky begins to panic. But Pip assures him that nobody could have made a mistake and that he’s exactly where he’s supposed to be. Whilst his fears initially subside, Rocky soon tires of being waited on, hand and foot, yelling: “If I gotta stay here another day, I’m gonna go nuts! I don’t belong in heaven, see? I want to go to the other place.” Pip, taken aback, flashes a wry smile, saying: “Whatever gave you the idea that you were in heaven, Mr. Valentine? This IS the other place!”. You didn’t see that coming, now did you?

At the top of this article, I mentioned that A Nice Place To Visit made the Christian in me both fearful, and simultaneously hopeful. Why might that be, you ask? Well, I was initially fearful because the episode prompted me to consider if God keeps a record of our mistakes, and in particular, my own. It’s a scary, heavy thought for anyone to consider, but consider it we must. For if God is all-knowing, then He is more than able to call to mind the wrongdoing we have committed against Him, and others. And in the Book of Revelation, that is revealed to be true, as it is written that our sins (the wrong we do in the eyes of a holy God) are recorded in a heavenly book and used to pass judgement upon us: “And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.” (Revelation 20:12, NIV). One could easily feel dejected at such news – knowing that God is completely aware of all our wrongdoing, both in the public and private sphere, but also of the sins we committed and can no longer remember. After all, nobody would like to admit their own wrongdoing and would much rather hope that their good deeds outweighed the bad. But the biblical truth remains that “everyone has sinned” against God (Romans 3:23, GNT), and in His eyes, “our righteous deeds…are nothing but filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6, NLT). But perhaps more serious is that the Bible teaches our “payment for sin is (eternal) death” (Romans 6:23, ICB), meaning that those who are sinful will be separated from such a holy God. Therefore, if we are judged by God’s complete record of our many sins (just as in the case of Rocky Valentine) then perhaps you and I are also due to receive eternal punishment?
​

​Well thankfully, there is Good News (hence my reasoning for being hopeful). Although our sins are both numerable and exceptionally evil in the eyes of a holy God, there is grace and mercy available to all. For to everyone who genuinely puts their faith, hope and trust in Jesus, the Son of God - asking Him to forgive them of their mistakes and turning away from them - will find that their ‘sinful record’ is wiped completely clean. But this was only made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was sent to earth to die for us on the cross, taking the penalty that we deserved for our many sins we had committed against God, so that we might be set free from death itself: “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NLT). Thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus, “if we confess our sins” to Him, “He is faithful and just and will forgive us (of) our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NIV).

Unlike the concept of God in this episode of The Twilight Zone, God in His great love for humanity chooses not to keep an uncleanable, glaring record of our sin, but has made a way for it to be wiped completely clean for those who seek His forgiveness: “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool” (Isaiah 1:18, NLT). Whilst yes, God has a clear knowledge of the sins we have committed against Him, He does not seek for us to be eternally condemned by the record of them. For “If you (God) kept a record of our sins, who could escape being condemned?” (Psalm 130:3, GNT), the Psalmist writes. Instead, God “forgives us…so that we should stand in awe of” Him (Psalm 130:4, GNT), turning from our wicked ways which only bring death, to then draw upon His love, forgiveness and mercy, which bring life everlasting. Heaven then becomes a destination that isn’t simply A Nice Place To Visit (something the Rocky Valentine character would very much like to do) or a place to dream of visiting, but it becomes a wonderful place that you and I can call home, with certainty, today.

Challenge:
 
Why not prayerfully invite a friend or family member who doesn’t yet know Jesus, to watch this episode of The Twilight Zone for themselves? Use the TV show’s themes to ask them what they thought of the episode, if they spotted any links to Christianity and what they might think of the Gospel’s response to this subject.

If you feel able to, ask them what they think about the episode’s understanding of what it means ‘make the cut’ and be accepted into Heaven. Do they think that God keeps a record of their mistakes on file somewhere? If so, how does that make them feel – anxious or afraid, perhaps? Do they feel that God might also keep a record of their good deeds too? If so, do they think that such good deeds might balance out the negative aspects of their lives, thereby providing them with access to Heaven? Be honest, if you can, in asking them if they think they’ve been ‘good enough’ to be accepted into Heaven. Regardless of their answer, be sure to then explain that nobody (humanly speaking) has ever been good enough to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven, as our sins prevent us from getting there. But take the opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel message with them, by encouraging them in the knowledge that we can enter into Heaven because of what Jesus has done for us, by dying on the cross and rising again three days later, which defeated the power of death and darkness. Finish by letting them know that God has made a way for our ‘record’ to be wiped clean through the cleansing power of Jesus, and invite them to receive Him for themselves, today.

Prior to watching the episode for yourself, however, take a moment to pray that God would speak to you through the show. If you feel comfortable, pray this prayer over all of your future, film & TV-watching experiences:
 
Dear Lord, as I watch this TV show, I ask that you would be present here with me. Highlight to me anything within it that is honourable, anything that can be used in conversation for your Kingdom purposes. Amen.

The Twilight Zone – Season One, including the episode “A Nice Place To Visit”, is currently available to purchase through Amazon Prime Video, AppleTV and Google Play.
​

Please note: The following text contains spoilers. Viewer discretion is also advised – News of The World is rated ‘12’. For more details on the film’s content from a Christian perspective, read Focus on The Family’s review from Plugged In:

https://www.pluggedin.com/movie-reviews/news-of-the-world-2020/

Captain Kidd (Tom Hanks): “Good evening. My name is Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, and it is an honour to be back in the bustling city of Dallas. A busy town, and y’all are busy folk, so let’s get right to it. Now, when I got in yesterday, I collected the latest newspapers, looking for suitable readings, something to take us away from our troubles…”

In a recent interview for the Directors Guild of America, directors Paul Greengrass (the Bourne series) and John Madden spent time discussing Paul’s latest film, News of The World – a distinctly classical Western in the John Ford style, but also one of genuine, contemporary resonance for today’s world. In essence, however, this is a relatively simple tale in which a lonely orator named Captain Kidd (Tom Hanks), travels from town to town reading the news of current affairs in 1870’s Texas, in the aftermath of the American Civil War.

In the aforementioned podcast, Paul explains that Hanks’ character journeys across a harsh, “broken landscape”, marred by the effects of “bitterness and division”, “violence and anger”, but comes to find that his “stories connect people” – even in the face of cholera outbreaks, or the threat of violence erupting between former confederates and unionists. In escaping trouble on more than one occasion, it almost seems as if Kidd was specially appointed and granted protection for this difficult, largely unrewarding task – but one which frequently brings “good news to the poor” and a sense of “liberty” to “those who are oppressed” (Luke 4:18, NLT), within the towns that he visits. Perhaps the film should be retitled then, as: “Vital News for The People of The World” …?

News of The World opens quietly and without self-important fanfare, as Hanks’ Captain Kidd (a former member of the Confederate Army) dresses and prepares himself for the evening’s news recital. People are seen gathering in a dimly lit barn, throwing ten cents into a small pot (the price of admission), and taking a seat on the pre-arranged chairs. Soon enough, Kidd steps out from a makeshift dressing room to greet his audience and moves towards a stage from which he will read the news. Following a brief word of welcome to his patrons, he introduces his performance thusly:

“Now, I know how life is in these parts, working a trade sunup to sundown. No time for reading newspapers. Am I correct? Let me do that work for you. And maybe, just for tonight, we can escape our troubles, and hear of the great changes that are happening out there.”

Whilst watching this opening scene, it became apparent to me that Kidd’s traveling newscast somewhat resembled a church service – in terms of space and general focus. It featured a stage (an altar, if you will), seating, a pot for the ‘offering’ and the delivery of a message which Kidd believes will bring hope to the weary souls of a small town who feel cut off from the rest of the world – a service not delivered solely for profit then, but because he wants to help them escape their present troubles. And such a comparison is not ill-founded, as Kidd later delivers the news inside of an actual church, from behind the pulpit itself. In that instance, certain items of news bring grumbling from amongst the confederate patrons, who then seek to blame such bad news upon the unionist soldiers from within their region. Later, news of a railroad brings much rejoicing. But when Kidd speaks on the subject of federal news, tensions quickly flare and threaten to erupt into violence. Seeing an opportunity to prevent potential bloodshed, Kidd steps in to offer words of comfort, peace and empathy, that encourage unity and a turning away from unbridled anger. Their anger subsides, the patrons see the error of their ways, and peace is restored. Even in times of great difficulty, Kidd shares good news that encourages, challenges and subsequently changes people’s lives.  

Some years before him, however, a Galilean travelled from region-to-region sharing arguably more encouraging and challenging Good News than even the great Captain Kidd ever could. Of course, His name was Jesus, and He was sharing news of eternal life that could be found in God alone – a message of greater importance than any local news, of course. But the comparison between both Kidd and Jesus stands – here are two individuals whose desire is to share news they know will bring respite to the poor and beaten down, but also restoration between people. For just as Kidd is accepting of and shows love for all people throughout the film, so too is Jesus. Jesus and the message He shared was and is for all people – no matter who they are, what they’ve done, or where they come from. Throughout the Gospel accounts, we constantly see this in Jesus’ behaviour towards others when He brought full healing to lepers (Mark 1:40-45), the blind (Matthew 20:29-34), the foreigner (Mark 7:24-30), and those who were possessed (Mark 5:1-20) – all of whom were treated as outcasts by society but found themselves consistently loved and welcomed in by Him. Through Jesus’ actions, people saw and learnt that there are to be no divisions amongst humanity, because we are all able to be united as one, in Christ – teachings which the early Church continued to honour, in St. Paul’s teaching from the Book of Galatians: “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28, NIV).

Whilst we see that Kidd’s intention is to encourage restoration and reconciliation between people, the Good News which Jesus carried with Him from town-to-town, was intended to bring about the even greater, more important hope of restoration between God and man. For just as there is a distinct separation between people in News of The World, as a result of civil war, humanity is separated from God because we have fought directly against Him. Each and every one of us, the Bible teaches, have done wrong in the eyes of God and have thereby ‘sinned’ against Him, which separates us from relationship with God now and in eternity, for there is a price we must pay for our mistakes. (Romans 3:23 & 6:23). As a result of humanity’s own selfish pursuits, rejection of God and so much more, “no one is (able to be called) righteous — not even one” (Romans 3:10, NLT). Humanity cannot therefore be in friendship with the living God on earth now, or in Heaven – for He is pure, and we are impure. Even in our attempts to appease God by showing him our “righteous deeds”, He considers them to be nothing more than filthy rags before Him (Isaiah 64:6, NLT).

There is, however, Good News in Christ Jesus. How do we know this? Well, the Good News that Jesus carried with Him, delivering it so frequently and urgently, was simple, direct and vital: “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!” (Mark 1:15, NLT). Jesus maintained all throughout His ministry that humanity was in need of reconciliation with God, because our relationship with Him was broken apart by our sin. In our sinful state, we were “His enemies” (Romans 5:10, NLT), but God made a way for perfect reconciliation to be achieved. The Bible tells us when Jesus went to death on the Roman cross and rose again three days later, He paid the price for humanity’s sin – past, present and future – but also defeated the power that death has over humanity. Now, because of Jesus, “if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness” (1 John 1:9, NLT), which results in the amazing gift of salvation - eternal life with God.

Whilst Kidd’s news and encouragements are positive, often bringing about a sense of peace and joy (a way to “escape our troubles” he maintains), those feelings are momentary – frontier life still remains difficult for the characters of that film, and we still endure hardships even when we experience those feelings in our present reality. But the Good News of love, joy, hope, peace and reconciliation with God for all, found in Jesus, is in fact permanent. He brings all of that and more, for all of eternity, because of His great, powerful love for us. We might receive bad news in our day-to-day, but we can put our hope and trust in the One who is greater, because He offers us permanent Good News, every day.  

Please note: The following text contains spoilers. Viewer discretion is also advised – The Emperor's New Groove is rated ‘U’. For more details on the film’s content from a Christian perspective, read Focus on The Family’s review from Plugged In:

https://www.pluggedin.com/movie-reviews/emperorsnewgroove/

Pacha: Someday, you're gonna wind up all alone, and you'll have no one to blame but yourself.
 
Kuzko: Thanks for that. I'll log that away…

Bursting onto the screen with a breathless, Looney Tunes-inspired mania, Disney’s The Emperor’s New Groove was a significant, but welcome departure from the trappings of more standard, traditional fare from the Mouse House. Despite being originally devised as a musical, this breezy, 78-minute film trades toe-tapping hits for refreshing acerbic wit, and self-referential cheek. For once, there’s more here for the parents to enjoy and chew on, I think, than the children – but that’s certainly not a bad thing. For amidst the ridiculous antics throughout (most notably, a young emperor is turned into a llama), there remains a clear message at the film’s core – a gentle warning directed toward those who are becoming prideful or self-centred. In this way, Groove shares a similarity with the Bible’s own cautionary advice regarding the aforementioned topics. But for the latter, there is a seriousness to God’s teaching that mustn’t be ignored – for the eternal consequences of our pride and self-centredness are far more unpleasant than being turned into a llama…
 
In essence, Groove features a very simple narrative: A self-centred and arrogant young emperor named Kuzco (David Spade), who has everything he could wish for and calls himself “king of the world”, is planning on building a new waterpark on the plot of a pre-existing village, as a gift to himself. How cruel, I know. Naturally, this both upsets and angers the simple llama herder and current village resident, Pacha (John Goodman). But Kuzco has also enraged his ex-administrator, Yzma (Eartha Kitt), who’s botched assassination attempt on Kuzco’s life, turns him into a llama. With only Pacha willing to protect him from Yzma’s persistent attacks and help him regain his throne (on the condition he relocates his water park), the two unlikely friends must learn how to work together, in order to make it back to the palace in one piece…  

From the get-go, the creative team behind Groove ensure that the main theme of the film is introduced, even within the very first few frames. For example, at every given opportunity, Kuzco is overheard (via narration) reminding us that we’re watching his story, or “my story”. Even when the plot is well underway and the focus might currently be placed on a secondary character, Kuzco (in breaking the fourth wall) frequently pauses the film to even remind us, the audience, who the story’s really about – most notably when he uses a red marker to circle the position of where he is located, in a given frame. Now, this is supposed to provide us with subversive, playful laughs – and indeed it does. But it also serves to highlight Kuzco’s Achilles heel: This young, impetuous man, cannot be satisfied without knowing that everything around him is working to serve or benefit him. Even when the film has already been formulated around his story, Kuzco is hellbent on making sure that he’s always the main character. It’s just as the film’s marketing material promised - “It’s all about me”.

​Sure enough, however, the film is quick (and sensible) to remind audiences that such behaviour has small, but sometimes significant consequences that even we cannot foresee. Early on, Kuzco is seen frequently undermining and undervaluing his administrator and adviser, Yzma – the person who, if he had treated well and listened to her counsel in the first place, wouldn’t have later decided to plot to kill the emperor at all. But Kuzco is so set upon ruling his way, that he cannot help but drive almost everyone away from him. Perhaps the most concerning example of this is when Kuzco arranges to meet with Pacha, to explain that his entire village is about to be bulldozed and its inhabitants made homeless, in order to make way for ‘Kuzcotopia’ – a water park belonging solely to the emperor. Pacha is naturally rendered speechless at his lack of compassion and care for his subjects:

Pacha: “But, but, um…where will *we* live?”
 
Kuzco: “Hmm. Don't know, don't care. How's that?”

Unbeknownst to Kuzco (and audiences at that moment), his harsh treatment of Pacha would come back to haunt him when he needed a person’s help most. But as painful as that moment is to watch at the time, it serves to illustrate a very real, practical and biblical point, about the dangers of being self-centred: When we’re so wrapped up in ourselves, we don’t truly see and value others, ourselves, or God. The Apostle Paul, writing in Philippians 2:3–4 (NRSV), actually taught against such behaviour when he instructed his readers to “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others”. Instead of being self-centred, the measure by which we look after ourselves and others is to be balanced – not tipping either to one side or the other. We’re supposed to take good care of ourselves, yes, but we were never designed to just focus on ourselves. Jesus himself preached this same message, when he stated that the second most important commandment, after loving God first, is to “…love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31, NRSV).

​Again, we are clearly called to prioritise the loving of God first, and then others, above ourselves. But the Bible teaches that humanity has chosen, time and time again, to do nothing but pursue its own selfish and wrongful desires, in the hope of being fulfilled. Whatever we wanted, we set out to pursue it – no matter the cost to ourselves or to others. And as a result of humanity following those selfish desires, we choose not to honour God or our fellow man. Therefore, “everyone has sinned” and “we all fall short of God’s glorious standard” for living (Romans 3:23, NLT). And in our self-centredness, these “sinful passions” only ever bring forth “fruit for death” (Romans 7:5, CEB), meaning that our selfish pursuits ultimately do us no good, in the eternal sense. For we know that “payment for sin is (unavoidable, spiritual) death” (Romans 6:23, NLT).

Suddenly, the draw of self-centredness seems futile. Gathering objects, making money or attempting to make ourselves happy then, seems like a truly worthless pursuit in the face of eternity. And Jesus even said as much, when he criticised the idea of trying to live a wholly, self-centred life: “Whoever tries to keep (preserve, or continually improve) his life will give up true life. But whoever gives up his life will have true life” (Luke 17:33, ICB). Here, Jesus encourages us not to pursue the things of this world, but to pursue Him first, above all things – for it is then, when we are in relationship with the God of the universe, that we will have the secure gift of eternal life, following our earthly death. And once we choose to accept Him into our lives and turn away from self-centredness with His help, we will be able to love God as we should and show compassion and love to those around us. But this is only made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who was sent to earth to die for us on the cross, taking the penalty that we deserved for our self-centredness – when we sinned against God and others, without a single care - in order to set us free from death itself: “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NLT).

Whilst Kuzco inevitably changes his ways by journeying alongside and thereby coming to understand Pacha’s position, as both a humble man and a loving father, we need to ensure that we come to that same position through becoming a friend of Jesus instead - asking Him to forgive us of our self-centredness, help us change our ways and grow the trait of humility within our lives. Most positively, Kuzco’s life illuminate for us that the self-centred life – one of service to ‘things’ and our own desires – is only ever a solitary one. But life in community, with God first and then others, brings present and eternal joy. Thankfully, we don’t need to go on a lengthy journey like Kuzco to find a ‘new groove’ – we need only come to Jesus today and watch Him transform our lives forever.

Challenge:
 
Why not prayerfully invite a friend or family member who doesn’t yet know Jesus, to watch The Emperor's New Groove? Use the film’s themes to ask them what they thought of the film, if they spotted any links to Christianity and what they might think of the Gospel’s response to this subject.
 
If you feel able to, ask them what they think about the film’s view of self-centredness and just pursuing one’s own desires, over another’s. How did they feel watching Kuzco act in such a way, at the beginning of the film? Might he have been entitled to, simply because he was the emperor? Or, should have he attempted to be more compassionate towards his subjects? Ask them what they thought of Kuzco’s treatment of Pacha, and the issue of building his water park on their land – was he aware of the gravity of the situation? If so, how? Do they think that Kuzco could have found a better way to communicate with the people around him? If so, how?
 
Later prompt them to consider their own lives and ask whether they’ve ever been self-centred. Do they believe that it was misguided? Did it have a negative impact upon their life? Why? Go on to share that we are not created to live lives of self-dedication, because we will lose sight of god and of our fellow man. Ultimately, a lifestyle such as this will lead us to live in isolation from others and also from God – presently, and eternally: “Whoever tries to keep (preserve, or continually improve) his life will give up true life. But whoever gives up his life will have true life” (Luke 17:33, ICB).

Take the opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel message with them – noting that God is the only One we should be centred upon. For when we love God with all our hearts, we can then be better prepared to love and serve others from a place of compassion and care, which will draw us away from ourselves, and into community with God and those around us – not towards a spiritual dead end, when we reach the end of our lives. Then, invite them (if you feel prompted to by God) to consider accepting Jesus into their life today.
 
Prior to watching the film for yourself, however, take a moment to pray that God would speak to you through the film. If you feel comfortable, pray this prayer over all of your future, film-watching experiences:
 
Dear Lord, as I watch this film, I ask that you would be present here with me. Highlight to me anything within it that is honourable, anything that can be used in conversation for your Kingdom purposes. Amen.
 
The Emperor's New Groove is currently available to stream on Disney+.
​

Shocking, I know, but consider for a moment the manner in which Godzilla is revealed during this film to have been deified throughout ancient history - as the one who is even said to be able bring an “…essential balance to our world”, and particularly to its environment which we, as humans, have caused significant harm. But such idolatrous reverence for the beast even continues on in the present, throughout this crazed Hollywood spectacle, to the point in which characters put their faith and trust in Godzilla to save them. In acknowledging Godzilla as the alpha (or “King”) of an “ancient and forgotten superspecies”, the humans choose to side with him by joining the fight against a couple of terrifying foes including King Ghidorah and Rodan . I wonder then, what would they make of God if he stood before them instead of Godzilla?

With the plot largely based around scientists who work for the mysterious (and sometimes shady) scientific organisation Monarch, King of The Monsters often plays heavily into the studying of titans like Godzilla. Various characters are often seen tracking and monitoring the titans’ behaviour, health and movements, with a view to control them, but other scientists do so out of sheer reverence and awe. One such character, Dr. Ishiro Serizawa (Ken Watanabe), believes Godzilla (or “Gojira”) to be a potentially dangerous force beyond our comprehension – one who cannot be corralled or manipulated into doing the bidding of humanity. Instead, Serizawa proposes that humanity should abandon its hubristic leanings, and take on a posture of reverence and fear towards this beast and others, partly because in the presence of such god-like beings, their human power and reach is miniscule. But mainly, Serizawa understands that Godzilla isn’t a mindless killing machine – rather, he’s something more entirely.  

​In the film’s final act, Serizawa tells his team that humanity’s survival can only be secured, if they treat Godzilla with reverence and place their faith in him, instead of simply fearing him: “He fought for us. Died for us. He’s not only proof that coexistence is possible. He is…the key to it.” It’s one of the film’s more touching moments, not least because these are Serizawa’s parting words, spoken before he sacrifices himself to save humanity. But they ring true, because this reveals a certain Christological subtext which links nicely into the subject of reverence and fear. For when the humans decide to humbly join with Godzilla in his fight against a three-headed monster (one who brings to mind images from The Book of Revelation, especially when the creature stands threateningly before a cross of Christ), the two species are revealed to then be able to live and work in peace with one another.
 
And the same can be argued for humanity’s relationship with God. When we come to recognise all that God, in His boundless power, could do to humanity in punishing us for the wrong we have committed against Him (just as the humans did to Godzilla), we should honestly count ourselves unworthy to know or even consider drawing close to Him. Especially since “everyone has sinned” (Romans 3:23, NLT) and “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23, ESV), by God’s holy standards. But humanity can choose to rejoice in the knowledge that God has chosen to not only let us live but receive access to His mercy and forgiveness. Why? Because He loves us, and this “is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us” (1 John 3:16, NIV) on the Cross, and rose to life three days later, having defeated the barrier of sin, death and darkness which prevented us from drawing close to God and lead only to eternal death. Not only can we live in relationship with Him today, but we can draw close and live alongside Him as close friends. And the film does a very good job of depicting such a relationship: In Serizawa’s final moments, he stands before a resting Godzilla who awakens as the man places the palm of his hand, upon his snout. It’s a terrifying moment, but one which encapsulates beautifully, how we fear God for His awesome power, but can love and draw close to Him because with that same power, He also cares for us and promises to do so for all those who accept Him into their life. Long live the One, true King.

Challenge:
 
Why not prayerfully invite a friend or family member who doesn’t yet know Jesus, to watch Godzilla: King of the Monsters? Use the film’s themes to ask them what they thought of the film, if they spotted any links to Christianity and what they might think of the Gospel’s response to this subject.

If you feel able to, ask them what they think about the film’s view of reverence and fear for Godzilla. What does it mean to have reverence for something? Did they feel that there was a clear distinction made in the film, between fearing something and having a deep reverence for it? Did they fear Godzilla more than feel for him? If God became real for them in an awesome way, would they fear Him, or be in awe of Him, or both? Would they consider even drawing close to Him? Do they think they would even be worthy enough to come close to Him?
 
Later, prompt them to consider their own views of a relationship between God and humanity. Take the opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel message with them – noting that God, because of the sacrifice of His one and only Son, Jesus, we can draw close to Him even though we deserve to be apart, because of our many sins. And be sure to clarify that whilst the film’s characters live in an unhealthy fear of these god-like creatures, we can abandon that fear and embrace the love of God that He wants to share abundantly with them today. Then, invite them (if you feel prompted to by God) to consider accepting Jesus into their life today.

Prior to watching the film for yourself, however, take a moment to pray that God would speak to you through the film. If you feel comfortable, pray this prayer over all of your future, film-watching experiences:
 
Dear Lord, as I watch this film, I ask that you would be present here with me. Highlight to me anything within it that is honourable, anything that can be used in conversation for your Kingdom purposes. Amen.
 
Godzilla: King of the Monsters is currently available to purchase online in the U.K. through Amazon Prime Video, AppleTV, Sky Store and YouTube.
​

Please note: The following text contains spoilers. Viewer discretion is also advised – Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World is rated ‘12’. For more details on the film’s content from a Christian perspective, read Focus on The Family’s review from Plugged In:

https://www.pluggedin.com/movie-reviews/masterandcommanderthefarsideoftheworld/

Twitter is… an interesting place to say the least. It’s a world-renowned platform known for hosting spirited online discourse, the occasional “Why would you say something so controversial yet so brave?” comments, and its own fair share of throwdowns between celebrities and their peers, or sometimes with the general public too. Most recently, Russel Crowe - Maximus Decimus Meridius himself – responded to a member of the public who claimed that Crowe’s sea naval epic, Master and Commander, was rather sleep-inducing. Naturally, he wasn’t having any of it:

​“That’s the problem with kids these days. No focus. Peter Weir’s film is brilliant. An exacting, detail oriented, epic tale of fidelity to Empire & service, regardless of the cost. Incredible cinematography by Russell Boyd & a majestic soundtrack. Definitely an adult’s movie.”

Now, one might understandably find fault with Crowe’s response which leads with a cheeky jibe. But nevertheless, his re-appraisal is, in my mind, spot-on. Weir’s film is a completely immersive experience which welcomes you into the crew of the Royal Navy’s HMS Surprise, captained by Jack Aubrey (Crowe), and never once docks for port. It is also, as Crowe indicated, a “tale of fidelity to (the) Empire & service, regardless of the cost” – a constantly fascinating motif, which prompted me to dwell upon what it means to pledge true fealty to someone or something, and at what cost. Before long though, such ruminations and promptings from the Lord led me to see comparisons with biblical teaching and reflect upon the question of who I show complete fealty to in my life, and why.

​In His word, the Bible, God desires that those who seek to be in relationship with Him should express loyalty as noted in the words of Jesus, commonly known as ‘The Great Commandment’: “…love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:29-31, NRSV). However, such loyalty is to be expressed from a place love. For God, in His relationship with those who love Him, has shown steadfast loyalty which will always come from a place of love:“…neither death, nor life…nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39, NRSV). God, in His great love and mercy, promises His loyalty and commitment to all who dedicate themselves to Him, but also offer their hope and trust too. But throughout our lives, who might we have pledged our loyalty to, or where might it currently be misplaced?

The Bible teaches that humanity, by and large, has pledged its loyalty to selfish, sinful pursuits which are ultimately, in the grand scheme of life, just as unimportant, harmful and foolish as Captain Aubrey’s pursuit of the Acheron. Why? In having chosen to direct our devotion towards the world and away from God, we become distracted and unaware of the relationship God wishes to have with us, His creation. In Him, we find a “…fortress where I will not be shaken” (Psalm 62:8, NLT), “peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1, NIV) and so much more. However, leading a life of sin – committing wrongful doings in the eyes of God – leaves us devoid of such blessings. And nobody is innocent, for the Bible tells us that “everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard” (Romans 3:23, NLT). Instead of pursuing a life of devoted relationship to the Lord, humanity chooses devotion to the devil, who keeps enslaved all who do wrong in the eyes of God: “Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin.” (John 8:34, NLT).  
As a result of living such a lifestyle, we invite darkness into our lives (which hurts ourselves/others) and rebel against God – for which the consequences are eternal. If we don’t seek forgiveness for our mistakes, and choose to no longer dedicate our lives to sin, we will spend eternity suffering the consequences for it: “And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.” (Matthew 25:46, NLT).

In a sense, we are all like Captain Aubrey. For our complete devotion to the things of this world has only distracted us from that which is most important – a relationship with God, yes, but also the people in our lives, and the goodness which abounds within it. In one fairly distressing moment, Jack condemns a man to death who was flung overboard, in order to potentially save the ship, but primarily continue to chase the Acheron. Later, he also neglects his best friend’s interests in world-changing, illuminating scientific pursuits, to chase something which might just claim their lives. And in that way, we have all chased our own version of the Acheron – the unwavering devoting of our lives to that which brings only momentary triumphs, but also present and eternal consequences. For Jesus himself said, “…what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” (Mark 8:36, NLT).
​

Thankfully, however, there is Good News for all in Christ Jesus. Though we have turned our backs on God and chosen to pledge our allegiance to our own selfish desires and those of the enemy’s, God is loving and merciful to those who want to change – He’s eager to forgive us all of our sins! For whilst Romans 6:23 (KJV) states "…the wages of sin is (eternal) death”, God became a human being in the person of Jesus Christ to die for us on the cross, taking the penalty that we deserved in order to set us free from death itself: “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NLT). But Jesus rose from the dead proclaiming victory over sin and death, which means that today, we can be relinquished from worthless devotion and service to this world, which only distracts us from God and leads to eternal death. We no longer need chase anything or anyone, but only enter into life-giving friendship with the God of the universe, who longs to give us infinitely more than we could ever have hoped for: eternal life with Him in Heaven (John 3:16-17).

Challenge:
 
Why not prayerfully invite a friend or family member who doesn’t yet know Jesus, to watch Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World? Use the film’s themes to ask them what they thought of the film, if they spotted any links to Christianity and what they might think of the Gospel’s response to this subject.
 
If you feel able to, ask them what they think about the film’s view of obsession, pledging your allegiance to something/someone, and pursuing something no matter the cost – does the film support Captain Aubrey’s exploits, or align itself more with his crewmates? Ask them what they thought of Jack’s key decisions made throughout the course of the film – was he right to prioritise the ‘mission’ over anything else? Should he have perhaps struck a greater balance between caring for his crew and chasing the Acheron?
 
Later prompt them to consider their own lives and ask whether they’ve devoted themselves to or pledged their allegiance to anything before. Do they believe that it was time well spent, or time wasted – why? Go on to share that there is a present and eternal danger to devoting ourselves solely to anyone/anything but Christ – for such a lifestyle will regularly disappoint us and those we care about in the present but hurt ourselves eternally. Devotion to the world and our own selfish pursuits leads only to separation from God: “…what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” (Mark 8:36, NLT). Take the opportunity to share the hope of the Gospel message with them – noting that God is the only One we need to and should ever consider devoting our lives to serving. For in Him we can find everything our souls long for but have never been able to find, and also the promise of eternity spent in relationship with Him in Heaven. Then, invite them (if you feel prompted to by God) to consider accepting Jesus into their life today.
 
Prior to watching the film for yourself, however, take a moment to pray that God would speak to you through the film. If you feel comfortable, pray this prayer over all of your future, film-watching experiences:
 
Dear Lord, as I watch this film, I ask that you would be present here with me. Highlight to me anything within it that is honourable, anything that can be used in conversation for your Kingdom purposes. Amen.
 
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World is currently available to rent on a variety of platforms, including Amazon Video, YouTube and AppleTV.
​