James and Eric explore Ryan Coogler's "Sinners," a Southern Gothic horror set in 1932 Mississippi. They delve into themes of faith, redemption, and the power of music, while discussing the film's cultural and spiritual dynamics. Join them for a thought-provoking conversation on morality and community. Watch the episode here. Be Claus Charity is a c…

This month Eric is joined by Rich Brown, and Keith Linde as they delve into the portrayal of veterans in film, exploring what Hollywood gets right and wrong. With a focus on mental health and the transition from military to civilian life, the discussion highlights the importance of finding purpose and community. We also discuss Guidon22 and encoura…

Just like horror movies, Halloween is often a topic of fear, misinformation and ignorance for Christians and others. The Cinemaguy sets the record straight on its hodgepodge history and how we should respect various Christian responses. Watch the clip here. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: https://linktr.…

Is Netflix's K-Pop Demon Hunters EVIL? Does it teach kids to love DEMONS? Reviewers like Vlad Savchuk and others have frightened Christian parents with scathing reviews reminiscent of the 80s "satanic panic". The Cinemaguy debunks these claims and reminds us of the tools and mission God has given us to receive, reject, and redeem. Watch the episode…

Bridget, Eric, and David chat with Jannique Stewart about the impact of media on views of sexuality and morality. Jannique shares her insights on maintaining a biblical perspective in today's culture, offering a fresh take on engaging with entertainment thoughtfully. Tune in for a conversation that challenges norms and encourages deeper reflection.…

One of the more visually impressive movies ever made, Tron: Ares flips the script bringing the grid to us as programs are brought into our world. Experience this light-but-fun sequel with hosts James and Miles, and see what a computer program and two warring tech companies can teach us about false gods and mankind's existential struggle with the br…

Greetings Programs! Tron is one of the best movies to introduce someone to the concept of Popcorn theology. With clear parallels to the concepts of the image of God, the incarnation, and redemption from a malevolent false deity. This week James and Miles are joined by first time guest host Soren to create a three generational team of popcorn theolo…

In this episode Rory and Eric delve into the 1984 film 'The Natural,' exploring its themes of redemption, talent, and the intersection of sports and spirituality. They discuss the film's mythic narrative, the importance of wisdom alongside talent, and how sports serve as a metaphor for life. Chapters: 00:31 - Welcome & Summary 02:30 - Popcorn Ratin…

To honor the late Robert Redford, we pulled this classic out of the Popcorn Theology vault. Recorded in 2018, we were reviewing Marvel films leading up to Infinity War, and our Patreon supporters chose well! We hope you enjoy our conversation on what many consider to be the finest film in all of the MCU. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the noti…

A movie with multiple perspectives and a non-linear format… art reflects discussion as James hosts an episode in the same manner, with two separate guest hosts and their perspectives on this unique and refreshing horror film. From the reality of the occult to the depiction of witchcraft to how we judge others and finding humor in horror, this one g…

In this episode three women take on the demons of mindless consumption and discuss K Pop Demon Hunters. Maddy, Kat, and special guest Ginny discuss the rich themes of temptation, shame, and confession while also exploring the power of music and fangirling over Derpy Tiger. Watch the episode here. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification…

What happens when 3 autism dads discuss special needs and him? Join David, Richard, and special guest Mark De Grasse of the Dads in Autismland podcast. We discuss raising kids on the spectrum, the portal of autism in film, and how that points us to the gospel. You don't want to miss this awesome discussion! Watch the episode here. Check out Mark's …

In honor of Val Kilmer's passing and the 30th anniversary of this film, we're covering Batman Forever. This campy take on the Caped Crusader has surprising depth and adds to the grand mosaic of the Batman mythos. Revisit Batman Forever and you may find yourself growing past your trauma, rejecting revenge, and embracing the responsibility to right t…

Marvel's First Family is back and they are Fantastic! Our hosts Miles and James were not disappointed. In Fantastic Four: First Steps we see a functional family step up to protect the world. As the plot unfolds we find a sanctity of life parable, highlighting virtues of family, peacemaking and sacrifice. Watch the episode here. Chapters: 00:45 - We…

Just when you thought it was SAFE to get back in the podcast… three hosts brave the waters of this 50-year classic and see what themes attack them in this viewing, discussing the inevitability of death, sins of inaction, and how Jaws - yes Jaws - can remind us of God. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: http…

Join Eric and David as they dive into a fascinating discussion with Collin Garbarino, Arts and Culture Editor at World News. Explore the intersection of film and theology as they analyze the Christian allegories in Disney's "Frozen" and the impact of PG movies on the box office. Discover why live-action remakes often miss the mark and how nostalgia…

Up, UP and… SIDEWAYS? The PT Gang (unofficial title) of James, Miles and Jam wrestle with Superman: where the new film flies and where it falls, how it captures key character elements Snyder-bros missed, but ALSO where Snyderverse-haters are dead wrong! Find out where we thought James Gunn brought the light, or the kryptonite, to the Man of Steel. …

The hosts saddle up a pale horse and head West to bring a reckoning to the classic 1993 Western: Tombstone. With guns blazing, we explore the themes woven into the story of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the showdown at the O.K. Corral. From justice and reckoning to loyalty and friendship, Tombstone offers more than just cowboy bravado. We unpack Ri…

In this Titanosaur-sized episode, David talks with paleontologist Dr. Marcus Ross about Jurassic World: Rebirth. Join us as we critique the science in this movie and rank the entire Jurassic franchise. We also discuss biblical stewardship and whether it's a sin to kill a dinosaur. It seems that this franchise, uh, finds a way. Watch the episode her…

Why do so many movies portray work in a negative light? Does the "work-life balance" exist? What does Scripture indicate about work, life, and purpose? Where do films hit and miss the mark? In this legacy episode of In The Lobby, David and Richard chat with financial expert David Bahnsen about movies, the theology of work, and his book Full-Time: W…

[Chanting] We're sift—sift—sift—sift—sifting through the narrative. Men—James—Eric—men—watching and reviewing 'em, Truth—truth—truth—truth—mindfully consumed again, There's THOUGHT-ful themes at its core! Try—try—try—try—to think of something meaningful. Oh—my—God—be—glorified in watching it. Film—film—film—film—filled with some theology, An' there…

Is the live action version of the original animated classic "fire" or is it "toothless"? James and Jam saddle up and soar through the ups and downs of the Dreamworks Dragons origin story, discussing both versions and their amazing, shared themes of the transformed life, transformed community, and freedom from the enslaving dragon. Watch the episode…

What a LOVELY DAY! Witness Eric and James as they race through the high octane popcorn fury of this film, crashing through the explosive theological parallels of this ten-year old classic whose cinematic engine is still running strong. When it comes to films worth reviewing, this one takes it to the Max. Cue the electric flame-throwing guitar… Watc…

Is this the greatest movie for preteens ever made, or is our host's mind clouded by nostalgia? Explore Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) with us and see how these seemingly silly characters connect deeply the story of Christ, His disciples, and the conflict between God's family and Satan. This movie in particular brings up concepts of maturity, b…

Your mission - should you choose to accept it - is to sharpen your mind, equip yourself and infiltrate the last two Mission Impossible Movies. We've assembled your team of seasoned agents Bridget, James, and Miles; they will present to you crucial intel in the war against our insidious enemy known as Mindless Entertainment. Watch the episode here. …

I spy with my Popcorn Theology eye… four agents banding together to pull off an IMPOSSIBLE episode! Their mission (which they chose to accept) is to look at the first SIX Mission: Impossible movies and report back on both popcorn and theology themes. It's going to take more than rubber masks, exploding gum, slow motion doves and death-defying stunt…

Grief, vengeance, justice, community, family, legacy, purpose - Season 2 of The Last of Us "runneth over" with themes. Join Jam and David as they discuss the highs and lows of this season and, of course, that ending! Watch the episode here. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: https://linktr.ee/popcorntheolog…

Eric and Miles get stranded back in the harsh movie world of 2015. Can they theologize the crap out of The Martian and make it back? Thank you to the Patron Saints for choosing this 2015 classic. Watch the episode here. Chapters: 0:44 - Welcome & Summary 04:40 - Popcorn Ratings 07:00 - Theology Ratings 08:53 - SPOILER WARNING 09:10 - Popcorn Though…

This week, a series of flashbacks flesh out what happened between "Swear to me" and "You swore."... giving Jam and David plenty to talk about. This beautiful episode raises discussion of how you cannot love someone by lying to them, and how legacy affects the life of the believer. So join us on the porch - you won't want to miss this one. Watch the…

Jam, Miles, and James team up to dive into the MCU once more - this time with the movie Thunderbolts. Join us as we explore the surprisingly deep themes of the film, ask whether Marvel has indeed gotten its magic back, and anticipate what lies ahead for the New Avengers. Watch the episode here. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification b…

This week, Jam and David explore Ellie's reckless and fearless nature and how it is contrasted with Dina. Even in an episode that's light on themes, this was a great discussion of Proverbial wisdom and how Christians are called to be fearless in the face of death. It's like the Scriptural themes are… in the air… Watch the episode here. Don't forget…

How should Christians engage with LGBT stories? To what lengths will we go to justify our actions? This week, a disappointing episode leads to great discussion of the image of God, the sexual revolution, justification of wickedness, and more. Join us to discover how much there is to receive, reject, and redeem from Episode 4, even if you found it s…

May the 4th be with you! In honor of Star Wars day, we dug into the vault and re-released our discussion with astrophysicist Dr. Jason Lisle about Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. This surprisingly fresh entry to the Star Wars universe led to some deep discussion on a range of topics: Is there ever a time when 'lying' is justified in the eyes of God? …

Join David and Jam as they take the long path of Grief, Mercy, and Justice in Season 2, Episode 3 of the Last of Us. They plum the depths of philosophical and theological themes like: How should one handle grief? What is mercy and is it deserved? What is the basis for Justice and who determines what is and is not just? Watch the episode here. Don't…

Rory and Eric peek into the world of Sicario and see the temptation to do evil so that good may come, the lie told that men and women are interchangeable in combat roles, and how Christians are to engage in the land of wolves. Watch the episode here. Chapters: 0:30 Welcome & Summary 5:12 Popcorn Ratings 8:18 Theology Ratings 10:11 Subscribe, Share,…

Join David and Jam as they delve into Episode 2: Through the Valley. Both of the themes that they discuss are two sides of the same coin. What does Vengeance do to a man, how might it corrupt morals? What ground does anyone have to stand on when it comes to morals, do you have a foundation that would withstand? How is Forgiveness the stronger path,…

This week Eric, James and Miles reflect on episode 9 and recap the entirety of season 1 of Daredevil Born Again. They discuss high moments, disappointments, and (of course) what we can receive, reject, and redeem from this resurrected series. Join in and you will see how Fisk's efforts plunge New York into the "time of the judges" and how a Christi…

It's back! Join Jam and David for weekly minisodes on The Last of Us Season 2. This week, we dive into Episode 1: Future Days, sniping themes like regret and consequences. Help us stalk through this season... slowly. Watch the episode here. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: https://linktr.ee/popcorntheolog…

Grab your joke books and switchblades, and join David and Jam for a deep dive into The Last of Us. In this episode, we discuss the original video game as well as the HBO series, unpacking the brokenness of the world they present. The story also prompts excellent discussion on the various ways we love, the subjects of our love, and what happens when…

Much like Daredevil, Eric is back and joining James as they discuss the themes of judgmentalism, the proper understanding of grace and how the wicked try to use it, and what it means to lay down your life for another. Watch the episode here. Chapters: 0:30 - Intro 1:08 - Summary 5:49 - Popcorn Talk 13:43 - Theology Talk 38:35 - Until Next Time… Don…

In episode 7 the pace of the show picks up. Daredevil is back, and he is on the hunt for the serial killer Muse. Our Hosts James and Miles were excited to see some action and drama, but had to dig for theological talking points. Rest assured they found opportunity for mindful conversation in the areas of deception/masks and a surprisingly redeemabl…

Has it REALLY been that long? Popcorn Theology rings in a DECADE of film reviews and spiritual musings with a 10-Year Anniversary episode. Join ORIGINAL hosts Richard and David as they share the origin story of the podcast, along with myriad other hosts that have joined the team across the years and over 370 episodes. We also hear from patron saint…

You've asked for it and we delivered! David and Eric sink their teeth into the modern classic Twilight along with its banger of a soundtrack!!! Enjoy this special episode. Watch the episode here. Chapters: 0:27 -Welcome & Summary 2:21 - Popcorn Ratings 8:10 - Jeff Winger 8:34 - Until Next Time… April Fools Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the no…

Eric and James continue their week by week breakdown of Daredevil: Born Again. This week they covered Ep 5 & 6 discussing the themes of prayer, righteousness without roots, and the contrast between Daredevil and the Kingpin's similar motives and mission. Were these episodes great? No, but they provide some great discussion and thoughtful engagement…

This week Eric and Miles examine episode 4 of Daredevil Born Again. This entry was a bit slow on the action side, but was thematically interesting as each character struggles through their frustration with the broken systems in New York. Each character also highlights an aspect of forgiveness (or lack thereof) which makes for an excellent opportuni…

We're back in our weekly series covering Daredevil: Born Again. This time Miles joins Eric as we discuss the themes from episode 3. Does being a good person mean that you cannot do wrong? Is Fisk really trying to reform? Watch the episode here. Also!!! Popcorn Theology is celebrating 10 years this month!!!🥳🥳 We'd love to hear from you: Send us your…

After an 8 year long hiatus Daredevil has returned to the MCU!! And WOW it starts off with a bang! Join Eric and James as they tackle the themes in the inaugural episodes of Daredevil: Born Again. The hosts are cautiously optimistic because they were "raised to believe in grace… that thoughtful engagement can redeem a show. But we also were raised …

Can we be men (or women) without fear? David, Richard and James explore the third season of the horned hero and it's themes of Faith vs Doubt, the importance of objective moral standards, and the idea of evil as a means toward good (both from God's plan, or from human decisions) — there's a lot to chew on! Watch the episode here. Don't forget to SU…

Are we only one bad day away from being Frank Castle? James, David and Richard talk about DD's sophomore season and the differences in vigilante philosophy between Daredevil and his frenemy, The Punisher. Watch the episode here. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: https://linktr.ee/popcorntheology Support: h…

Are you the Samaritan, the priest or the Levite? None of the above? Join David and Richard as they discuss the the devil of Hell's Kitchen and themes of reading ourselves into Scripture, coming face to face with our true identity apart from Christ, and more. Watch the episode here. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow &…