Sams Local $24.99 03-04-2004.

The Christian faith has had a powerful impact on every sphere of art in the West. While the Church, particularly in the United States in the 20th Century, cautions against the potential dangers of film as a corrosive influence on society, films emerge which are recognized as masterpieces of Christian art. In this original new book, Peter Fraser analyzes "sacramental" films, where the narrative has been disrupted and redeemed by a divine presence, in an analogy to Christian liturgical and devotional patterns. This presence transforms the film's narrative into the most recognizable of all Christian narrative patterns: the Passion. Fraser examines the films which best portray Christ's Passion, and he provides a theoretical discussion of this unique and neglected genre of filmmaking. Chapters offer a close reading of important films with spiritual content, including On the Waterfront, Diary of a Country Priest, Hardcore, The Mission, Andrej Rublev, Black Robe, You Only Live Once, and Rome, Open City. Fraser concludes with a chapter on the development of the Biblical epic. Most reading for students and scholars interested in the confluence of popular studies and film with modern expressions of religion.

The Great Passion Play in historic Eureka Springs, Arkansas, was first performed on July 15, 1968. Since that day, over seven million visitors from all over the world have witnessed the largest outdoor drama in the United States. The play ambitiously dramatizes the last week of Jesus's life and his ascension. The staging incorporates over 200 cast members, live animals, period dress, and numerous special effects. Surrounding the Great Passion Play are the sacred projects of the Elna M. Smith Foundation, which were the vision of Gerald L. K. Smith and Elna M. Smith. These projects include the seven-story Christ of the Ozarks statue, the Sacred Arts Museum, the New Holy Land, and the Bible Museum. On average, over 100,000 people are drawn to these attractions every year.

These imaginary reenactments follow the story of the death and resurrection of Jesus from the time the chief priests plotted to kill Him to His glorious resurrection from the dead, allowing readers to re-experience the Passion--or perhaps see it fully for the first time.

The Refugee from Heaven is the greatest story ever known. Cora Evans recounts the life of Jesus Christ as an eyewitness, beginning with the first meeting between Jesus and Peter, on the shores of Mount Carmel Bay. With vivid detail and dialogue, this unique account breathes new life into well-known figures of the Gospels. Readers gain startling insights into Mary of Magdala's conversion, Herod's ferocious personality, and John the Baptist's courage. Experience the awe of the disciples in the Upper Room at the Last Supper, and stand in the holy sepulcher at the moment of the Resurrection. With a book that is sure to renew appreciation for the loving Heart of Jesus, the author has created an enduring masterpiece.