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From Bultmann to Burton, Demythologizing the Big Fish: The Contribution of Modern Christian Theologians to the Theology-Film Conversation

Deacy, Christopher (2007) From Bultmann to Burton, Demythologizing the Big Fish: The Contribution of Modern Christian Theologians to the Theology-Film Conversation. In: Johnston, Robert K., ed. Reframing Theology and Film: New Focus for an Emerging Discipline. Baker Academic, Grand Rapids, Michigan, pp. 238-258. ISBN 978-0-8010-3240-0. (KAR id:3200)

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Abstract

In this article, I examine how film enables us to (re-)examine, critique and challenge the efficacy of the work of a number of twentieth century theologians. I suggest that film is capable of facilitating quite sophisticated theological enquiry. In Christmas With the Kranks (2004), for example, I indicate that one may discern a living expression of Bonhoeffer's 'world come of age. The film does not only illustrate; it also contributes to serious theological discussion of how we might need a 'religionless Christianity' today. Similarly, Big Fish (2003), though not an explicitly theological film, can function as a corrective to Bultmann's overly zealous demythologizing. By helping us deal firsthand with life, such films critique and challenge various theological paradigms, helping scholars facilitate and fine-tune a theological conversation.

Item Type: Book section
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BR Christianity
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Arts and Humanities > School of Culture and Languages
Depositing User: Chris Deacy
Date Deposited: 13 May 2008 08:53 UTC
Last Modified: 16 Nov 2021 09:41 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/3200 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

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