After setting out a few general guidelines for discussing theological issues in manifestly secular art forms, this study examines several Woody Allen films in turn, from the earlier comedies like Bananas and Sleeper to the later, more complex works like Hannah and Her Sisters and Crimes and Misdemeanors. Throughout his career, a clear line of development can be traced in his treatment of women and romance, of life and death, and of his awareness of a moral structure in the universe. Despite Allen's profane treatment of these topics and several others, his work from year to year shows a gradual transformation in his dealing with the sacred dimensions of his characters and their world. He wrestles with his Jewish cultural and religious heritage, but he can never escape it.
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Editorial Reviews
From Library Journal
The notion of Woody Allen as a religious and moral philosopher may not strike many as an idea whose time has come. But reading this work on the religious dimension of Allen's films could change your mind. By examining in chronological order the films Allen had the most control over?those he both wrote and directed?the author has discovered several remarkably consistent religious preoccupations: If there is a God ruling the universe, why is life so unfair? Why does God allow human suffering and evil to exist? And if there is no God, what gives meaning to life and provides a moral structure for human actions? Since these questions are unanswerable, how are people to live? Attempts to deal with these moral issues in a secular world appear in all of Allen's films. Blake offers a fresh, fascinating angle on the works of a master filmmaker. Highly recommended.?Marianne Cawley, Enoch Pratt Free Lib., Baltimore
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
About the Author
Richard A. Blake, S.J. served in turn as associate and executive editor of America, a weekly journal of politics, religion, and the arts, for fourteen years. He currently teaches at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, N.Y.
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