Reframing Theology and Film: New Focus for an Emerging Discipline (Cultural Exegesis) [Paperback]

Robert K. Johnston (Editor), Robert Johnston (Series Editor), William Dyrness (Series Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1, 2007 | ISBN-10: 0801032407 | ISBN-13: 978-0801032400

The connection between theology and film is a hot topic in the academy and the church. But research and writing on methodology and hermeneutics is lacking. This comprehensive collection identifies the overlooked or undervalued areas in the current discussions of film and theology. Including contributions from the leaders in the field, Reframing Theology and Film helps deepen the conversation while bringing it to a new level of prominence. Professors and students of theology and film, libraries, pastors, and film buffs will benefit from this much-needed resource.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

The study of theology and film is fewer than three decades old. What, then, does the future hold for this evolving subject? In Reframing Theology and Film, Robert Johnston has drawn together more than a dozen scholars who regularly write and teach on the topic; their contributions explore how the discipline of theology and film can flourish and mature. The book also emphasizes the overlooked and undervalued aspects of theology and film. Contributors include:

Craig Detweiler
Barry Taylor
Gaye Williams Ortiz
Sara Anson Vaux
Gordon Lynch
Terry Lindvall
Clive Marsh
Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran
Catherine M. Barsotti
John Lyden
Mitch Avila
Christopher Deacy
Rose Pacatte, FSP
Gerard Loughlin
Robert K. Johnston

"Here is a fine collection of essays full of rich detail, engaging insights, and provocative suggestions. The impressive cast of authors points beyond many of the usual frames of study, offering original perspectives and new approaches. Without exception, the chapters make a valuable contribution to ongoing dynamic conversations. This is a 'must-read' for anyone with an interest in film and theology."
--Jolyon Mitchell, senior lecturer, Edinburgh University; author of Media Violence and Christian Ethics and coeditor of The Religion and Film Reader

"In this single volume, the field of theology and film has matured from infancy to adulthood. Robert Johnston has assembled a top-notch group of scholars to set the stage for emerging directions in the field. No future writing on the topic can ignore the categories reframed by the contributors here."
--S. Brent Plate, editor of Representing Religion in World Cinema and coeditor of The Religion and Film Reader

About the Author

Robert K. Johnston (PhD, Duke University) is professor of theology and culture at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is the coeditor of both the Engaging Culture and the Cultural Exegesis series and is the author or coauthor of several books, including Useless Beauty, Finding God in the Movies, and Reel Spirituality.

Product Details

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Baker Academic (November 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0801032407
• ISBN-13: 978-0801032400
• Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.9 x 9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #109,798 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 4 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars The Challenges of Film and studying the Theological contexts of it. October 10, 2008

By Agitatus

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

This is a thorough and engaging look at the root areas of our thinking about film that need to be re-examined. This is necessary in order to further our cultural understanding and involvement. Johnston is always clear-cut, methodical, and dead-on with his picking away at the layers of our mindset, and helping to mold that into a more flexible AND focused Christianly way of thinking.