Religion and Film: The Basics is an accessible and engaging introduction to the history, diverse approaches, and ideas associated within the study of religion and film. Referencing films from around the world from the early 20th century to the present day, this unique introduction includes the following topics: the history and dynamics of religion and film various methods to approach religion and film the evolution of religion and film scholarship film genre and theory world religions and film unique themes—from race and gender roles to karma and redemption A fascinating range of films are discussed, from early silent films such as Hypocrites to recent releases such as Minari. Five genres are explored, including horror in The Wicker Man (UK) and Let the Right One In (Sweden), and world religions are analyzed in films such as OMG, The Big Lebowski, and Malcolm X. Tropes examined include gender in Water, karma in It’s a Wonderful Life, death in Biutiful, redemption in Magnolia, and evil in Get Out. With helpful features including recommendations for further study and key films to view, this book is an ideal starting point for students approaching religion and film for the first time as well as those interested in learning more about the field while broadening their methods, knowledge of film, and their film canon.

Bible and Film: The Basics is a concise, accessible, and illuminating introduction to the study of Bible and Film. The book introduces non-specialists to the essential content in Bible and Film, and to some of the most common and important methods Bible and Film scholars use. Questions asked throughout the book include: How do films (re)interpret and illuminate biblical texts? How do films appropriate, reconfigure, and transform biblical texts? How does a film's treatment of a biblical text(s) help interpret and illuminate the film? This book examines various types of interplay between film and the Bible. The theme of 'Bible on film' is explored through Hebrew Bible epics including The Prince of Egypt and Noah, and Jesus films such as The Last Temptation of Christ and Son of Man. The theme 'Bible in film' is analyzed through films including Mary Magdalene, Magnolia, and Pulp Fiction. Films that 'Reimagine the Bible' include Ex Machina, mother! and The Tree of Life, and unusual Jesus figures in Pan's Labyrinth, Dogville, and Donnie Darko are explored. 'Film as Bible' considers films such as To The Wonder, Silence, and Parasite. A conclusion explores television shows such as Dekalog and The Handmaid's Tale. With a glossary of key terms and suggestions for further reading throughout, this book is an ideal starting point for anyone seeking a full introduction to religion and film, bible and film, bible and popular culture, and theology and film.

Bible and Film: The Basics is a concise, accessible, and illuminating introduction to the study of Bible and Film. The book introduces non-specialists to the essential content in Bible and Film, and to some of the most common and important methods Bible and Film scholars use. Questions asked throughout the book include: How do films (re)interpret and illuminate biblical texts? How do films appropriate, reconfigure, and transform biblical texts? How does a film's treatment of biblical texts help interpret and illuminate the film? This book examines various types of interplay between film and the Bible. The theme of ‘Bible on film’ is explored through Hebrew Bible epics including The Prince of Egypt and Noah, and Jesus films such as The Last Temptation of Christ and Son of Man. The theme ‘Bible in film’ is analyzed through films including Mary Magdalene, Magnolia, Pulp Fiction, and The Book of Eli. Films that ‘reimagine the Bible’ include Ex Machina, mother!, and The Tree of Life; unusual Jesus figures in Pan’s Labyrinth, Dogville, and Donnie Darko are also explored. ‘Film as Bible’ considers films such as To the Wonder, Silence, and Parasite. A conclusion examines television shows such as Dekalog, The West Wing, The Handmaid’s Tale, and God on Trial. With a glossary of key terms and suggestions for further reading throughout, this book is an ideal starting point for anyone seeking a full introduction to religion and film, bible and film, bible and popular culture, and theology and film.

Religion in America: The Basics is a concise introduction to the historical development of religions in the United States. It is an invitation to explore the complex tapestry of religious beliefs and practices that shaped life in North America from the colonial encounters of the fifteenth century to the culture wars of the twenty-first century. Far from a people unified around a common understanding of Christianity, Religion in America: The Basics tracks the steady diversification of the American religious landscape and the many religious conflicts that changed American society. At the same time, it explores how Americans from a variety of religious backgrounds worked together to face the challenges of racism, poverty, war, and other social concerns. Because no single survey can ever satisfy the need to know more and think differently, Religion in America prepares readers to continue studying American religions with their own questions and perspectives in mind.

The Basics of World Religion is uniquely designed to introduce students to fundamental concepts in world religion.

The new edition has been fully revised and updated, and includes new discussions of: the study of religion and culture in the 21st century texts, films and rituals cognitive approaches to religion globalisation and multiculturalism spirituality in the West popular religion.

"Explores how Christians can connect with culture using movies and biblical accounts, helping Christians learn to apply their faith to the world around them"--