Popcorn Theology is a podcast where entertainment and theology meet. We look at film and TV, both new and old from a Biblical perspective, enjoying the arts to the glory of God. Join in on the conversation!
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Watch the episode here. This week we drive into the eye of the storm to wrangle the narrative in Twisters. Our hosts discuss this surprisingly fresh movie and dive deeper to explore how it touches on foundational themes of what it means to be human and the relationship between science and religion. This episode is brought to you by Reel Leadership,…
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Watch the episode HERE. It’s high time we took a second stab at what many consider the best Wolverine film, and one of the greatest comic book movies ever made. Take a trip with Old Man Foltz and Professor Lee as they journey through themes of dehumanization, nature versus nurture, and promised lands. Sink your claws into this classic episode! For …
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Watch the episode here. Why is Thor crying? Jamespool recruits Jamerine to explore this fourth-wall breaking, record-shattering blockbuster film, with Gregpool along for the ride as they explore themes of what it means to matter, to be a hero, and to find redemption and meaning in a multiverse of mixed messages. Also, they geek out on cameos, Easte…
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In The Lobby: Back to School (Part 1: Class in Session)
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Watch the episode here. This month, we’re going Back to School with our series In The Lobby. For this series, our panel of educators (Bridget, Jam, David, & James) dissects the narratives surrounding education in film. This week, we discuss the portrayal of teachers in movies/TV and Hollywood’s false concepts for the role of education. The first ep…
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Watch the episode here. Thanks to our super team of Patron Saints, James and David dive into the origins of the X-Men with First Class. This film explores the bonds of biblical friendship, mirrors the building of the early church, and illustrates different responses to an opposing world. Enjoy this episode and consider joining our team so you can v…
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Watch the episode here. You’re probably thinking “Why would you review THESE movies?” Well, underneath the exaggerated reputation and some admittedly objectionable content are two films about family, legalism, judgment, underestimating love, and more. Also murders, explosions, and a tongue that surely personifies James 3:6. But James and Greg jump …
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Episode 349: X-Men: Days of Future Past
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When the brink of Mutant existence is threatened by Trask’s Sentinels, the X-Men come up with an elaborate plan to send Wolverine back in time to right the wrongs of the past. Join James, Miles, and Jam as they discuss the deep themes of X-Men Days of Future Past, and look forward to the coming day of Christ! James' book Cinemagogue has a new editi…
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James, Miles and Jam tackle a mutant-sized episode of the comic book movies that proved the concept and paved the way for the MCU. We pop our claws and take a stab at this movie’s themes, from the overarching prejudice motif to the unfolding character studies and growth of Rogue and Wolverine across the trilogy. Logan (Episode 077): https://popcorn…
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In The Lobby: Movies for Kids (Part 1: Teaching Virtues Through Movies)
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This week starts a new series of “In The Lobby”. Join three dads (Eric, Miles, and Jam) as we discuss training their children to honor God with their entertainment. With kids out of school for the summer, this is the perfect series for any parent seeking to raise mindful consumers. The first episode of this series is available to the public; the ne…
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It’s Demo Day!! David makes room for his new emotions (guest hosts) Nate and Charlotte as they navigate the stream of consciousness for Inside Out 2. In this episode, we discuss anxiety, peace that passes understanding, the basis of beliefs, and the “already, but not yet” life that Christians lead. And remember, you are not an ennui consumer! Don't…
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Watch the episode here. Hop on the Cat Bus and join Eric and Rory as they explore the animated classic My Neighbor Totoro. The links for the book and article that we discussed are below: Book: God of All Things by Andrew Wilson: https://zondervanacademic.com/products/god-of-all-things Article: https://thinkchristian.net/my-neighbor-totoro-and-becom…
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Watch the episode here. This week Miles, Jam, and our imaginary host explore IF, a movie written, produced and Directed by John Krazinski. Look past the movie into the unseen reality of deeper themes like the value of child-likeness (vs childishness) and explore the possibility of facing life’s tragedies with Joy. Don't forget to subscribe and clic…
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Episode 344: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
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Watch the episode here. Lady and gentlemens! Start your mindful engines and go for a ride with Mad Maddy and Praetorian James as they explore an oasis of themes in the wasteland of this fast and frantic film. From imagery of the fall to exploring how God sifts souls in the desert, there’s a truckload of ideas to race through. Ready! Setty! GOOOOOOO…
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Watch this episode here. This week starts a new series of “In The Lobby: A.I. in Film”. For this series, James and David are joined by two special guests, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin, to explore Artificial Intelligence, its impact on ministry and filmmaking, its portrayal in film, and the theological implications. This was such a blast, and we know…
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Episode 343: Wallace & Gromit: 3 Amazing Adventures
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Watch the episode here. How do we finish off comedy month? With MORE CHEESE! Pour a cup of tea and join Kat and James as they put on some trousers, shave, and blast off with these beloved stop-motion characters from across the pond. Three short films provide easy themes to tinker with like imagination, contentment, friendship and intercession. All …
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Watch the episode on Youtube here. "Since I've become a Popcorn Theologian I've noticed things I've never noticed before: Christ figures in The Matrix, Fools in Cocaine Bear, stoplights." Join Eric and Miles as they break down how comedy points to the Christian worldview and how God is not only the greatest story teller, but also the greatest comed…
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Watch the episode on Youtube here. What kind of stunt are we trying to pull with this episode? Do any meaningful themes really tumble out of this hilarious comedy action movie? Does David hate Ryan Gosling? Will James drop theological parallels? Is it even our real hosts, or stunt hosts using deepfake technology? You’ll have to see for yourself as …
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Watch the episode here. James, Maddy and Rory reunite for this epic podcast crawl and become Popcorn Theology's only hope for finishing the Cornetto Trilogy! Can they make it from theme to theme and receive/reject/redeem before the episode comes to a tragic end? You’ll have to see for yourself. Let’s Boo-Boo! James' book Cinemagogue has a new editi…
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Watch the announcement on Youtube here. The times they are a-changin' at Popcorn Theology. While we will continue releasing our flagship weekly episodes, we are also thrilled to introduce a brand NEW series! "In The Lobby" features 15-20 minute weekly episodes that explore themes extending beyond a particular film. These episodes will also feature …
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In The Lobby: with David Bahnsen Part 1 - Work, Life, & Purpose in Film (Sample)
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The first episode of our brand new series "In The Lobby" is available now on Youtube. David and James had a fascinating discussion with author and financial expert David Bahnsen about work, life, and purpose in film. This discussion will be released in weekly episodes over the month of May, and is exclusive to our "Premium Seating" Patron Saints. B…
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Episode 339: Breaking Bad: Season 2
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Watch the episode here. This episode will shake you out of your fugue state! Hopefully Kat won’t choke on the themes as she joins James and David for a look at the sophomore year of this acclaimed show. James dares to say something negative about this season, David and Kat examine the escalation and ripples of temptation and sin, and the crew discu…
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Watch the episode here. Are you guilty of worldview murder? Is your mindless consumption predetermined? The Pop-Theo-Cogs have seen a different path to take, one that points you to the "Capital P" Precog and film as an opportunity to glorify Him. So strap in and view this Sci-fi classic with new eyes as we cover Minority Report. James' book Cinemag…
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Episode 337: Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
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Watch the episode here. It’s a battle royale as our hosts - like Godzilla versus Kong - wrestle over the quality of this latest monsterverse installment! But James, Eric, and guest host “James the Younger” all surface some curious observations about the film’s Moses motif, the sovereignty of God(zilla) and a curious parallel with Revelation chapter…
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Episode 336: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
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Watch episode here. Miles and James take the call and cruise through the frozen landscape of New York looking for what haunts this latest Ghostbusters installment! From rarely discussed biblical ideas of where evil spirits come from to the film’s shockingly trad view of parenting and relationships, there’s plenty of things to discuss. Just remember…
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Episode 200: The Matrix (Re-Release)
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Watch the episode here. Knock knock, Neo. The Matrix released 25 years ago this Easter. Join us as we revisit our 200th episode on this iconic sci-fi film, which we recorded for the film's 20th anniversary. In this episode James, Richard, and David as we revisit this modern classic as well as the highlights for the first 200 episodes. We discuss ho…
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How are Christians to live in a world where humans can be genetically engineered and discrimination is down to a science? Using the world of Gattaca, the hosts discuss the ethical use of genetic engineering, how the gospel frees you to live in God's favor, and why a Christian worldview is necessary to holdback the excesses of man's tampering with n…
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Watch video podcast here. We’re back to the world of Blade Runner with possibly the best sequel ever made. Miles and James give top scores for this movie’s entertainment value and theological depth. Blade Runner 2049 shows how different people react in the face of miracles. If the original blade runner made us ask what it means to be alive, then th…
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Watch video podcast here. Put on your stillsuits and join David, Jam, and Maddy as they hitch a ride on the cinematic epic, Dune: Part Two. Much like Part One, This long-awaited film is rich in visual spectacle, narrative complexity, and theological discussion. While Paul’s similarities to Christ seem to be on the surface, a deeper look under the s…
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For the rest of this early release, watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/GGRttrVLkso The full audio episode will release the morning of Tuesday, March 12 Much like Paul Muad'Dib, YOU get to have an "early look" at our newest episode on Dune: Part Two. Put on your stillsuits and join David, Jam, and Maddy as they hitch a ride on the cinematic epic, Du…
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Do you like our owl? Miles and James open their VK briefcases and give this milestone science fiction film the old PT test, probing with deep questions about empathy, consent, creators, prejudice, and inevitable decrepitude. Will they have enough time for James to settle – once and for all – the long running speculation about Deckard? Time… enough.…
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Join James and Kat for a special episode from stately Harlemanor as they look at the underrated and overlooked fun film that kicked off 2024! Matthew Vaughn’s bombastic, eclectic action-adventure is a romantic comedy for people who don’t like romantic comedies, and also explores foundation themes of myth, caricature vs. reality, identity, and sin. …
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CODA is a heartfelt “life transcendent” family drama-comedy with a fantastic soundtrack. Join hosts Maddy, Kat, and Eric as they tackle themes of the cost of discipline, what truly binds a family together and what it is like to live with a disability. James' book Cinemagogue is getting a new edition! Hear more in this episode and read more here. Fo…
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Were hosts Eric, James and Rory stuck in a podcasting room over Christmas and forced to spend the holidays together? Perhaps not, but forced relationships at a snowy year’s end is where this movie takes an unlikely trio, and our three hosts explore those themes of burnt out teachers, frustrated students, and world-weary mothers struggling to connec…
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Episode 328: Killers of the Flower Moon
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This week, Maddy and David investigate the Oscar-nominated film Killers of the Flower Moon. While this heavy film had a slow pace, it has plenty to say about the broken world we live in. Join Maddy and David as they investigate the themes in this movies, including foolishness (coyotes), deception (wolves), the love of money, and the perversion of j…
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Episode 327: Breaking Bad: Season 1
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This week, the boys are back in the RV, cooking up a fresh batch of glass-grade film and theology content. Join David, James, and Jam as they dissect Season 1 of the AMC original series Breaking Bad. From slinging biblical worldviews to blowing up the mindless consumption that has been spread by Tucos of the world, the guys will cover it all. How c…
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Snake Plisskin (Eric), The Brain (James), and the President (Rory) seek to escape the mindless hellscape of 1980’s New York. Join them as they rescue a proper view of “living under the sun”, masculinity, and government from the nihilism of the 80’s. James' book Cinemagogue is getting a new edition! Hear more in this episode and read more here. For …
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Episode 325: The Shawshank Redemption
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As a resolution for 2024, James repents of a glaring omission (and potential Popcorn Theologian disqualification) by finally watching this quintessential film! Richard and Miles join James to berate him… AND to discuss the important themes beyond the obvious one in the film’s title! James' book Cinemagogue is getting a new edition! Hear more in thi…
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Join Miles and Jam as they take their walk down the Green Mile and uncover the secrets of its inmates. Secrets like, who killed those little girls? Do miracles still happen? What does John Coffey have to do with Jesus? We will cover it all on Episode 324. James' book Cinemagogue is getting a new edition! Hear more in this episode and read more here…
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Watch the episode here. Oh no… they say he’s got to go! Join Popcorn Theology’s newly assembled G-Force of Godzilla experts – James, Eric and Greg – as they hunt the oversized themes in this explosive new story featuring everyone’s favorite radiation-spewing monster in a film that is undeniably fire. James' book Cinemagogue is getting a new edition…
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Episode 322: While You Were Sleeping
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This week, the Patron Saints jumped down, pulled us off the tracks, and convinced us to cover While You Were Sleeping just in time for Christmas! On this episode, Kat, Miles, and David explore how idle words and divine providence prompt Lucy to find the family she had been longing for, proving that life doesn’t always turn out the way you plan. Mak…
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Shhhhh! Listen closely, it may be hard to hear the deep ideas explored in this film nonverbally while bullets and explosions rock the screen, but they are there! Special guest John Perritt from Reformed Youth Ministries teams up with James as they target themes of vengeance, idolatry, keeping covenant, general revelation and more in this unique fil…
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Episode 320: The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes
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Listen in, trust us, and let us mentor you through the treacherous arena of The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. Based on the book of the same title, this prequel to the hit series explores many of the same ideas from the originals as it follows the ambitious rise of President Snow. In this episode, Becky, Maddy, and Miles discuss ma…
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Episode 319: Cinemagogue: Director's Cut
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Special returning host Richard Foltz interviews our special "guest" James Harleman about the new Director's Cut of James' book, Cinemagogue. Go back to the origins of Popcorn Theology and how you can do your own "home edition" and even encourage others into the how's and why's of being a mindful consumer. Read more about Cinemagogue: Director's Cut…
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Subject to the requirements of the service, Captain "Lucky" David, Lt. Eric, and Midshipman Maddy beat to quarters and set their guns against this 20 year old classic. They engage with the themes leadership, how the crew of the HMS Surprise is an analogy of the body of Christ, and explore the islands of pride and duty. Your mind is under threat of …
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We did this episode for you. For ALL of us! Travel with James, Becky and Rory through time and television as we look at Loki in terms of Norse mythology, his MCU appearances, and of course the glorious purpose of the sensational season 2 and the ending everyone is talking about. All this and some special messages from Miss Minutes! James' book Cine…
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Episode 316: Five Nights at Freddy's
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Can our hosts survive Five Nights at Freddy’s? Join James, guest host Eric and special guest Melvin Benson from Cinematic Doctrine as they enter they explore the concept of kiddie-horror, video game movies, and themes of guilt, obsession, and corruption that comes in the guise of cuteness. Check out Melvin Benson’s podcast here: Cinematic Doctrine.…
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As a challenge, our hosts sunk their teeth into Cocaine Bear - an outlandish story about an enormous bear that goes on a killing spree after consuming pounds of cocaine. On this episode, hosts David, Eric, and Miles get their paws around the narrative and demonstrate that a mindful approach to movies can bear spiritual fruit, even from a movie abou…
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Episode 314: FEAR NOT! Josh Larsen & HORRORFEST 2023
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A veritable horror extravaganza! James is joined by guest host Rory and his friend Thomas Thorogood of the stirandfry YouTube channel as they welcome Josh Larsen, author of FEAR NOT!: A Christian Appreciation of Horror Movies. This motley crew delves into the depths of horror and takes a stab at how this genre connects to our faith. Josh Larsen's f…
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James, Maddy, and Eric give Arsenic and Old Lace the Cinemagogue method. They cover murder as a "charity", the sanctifying influence of marriage, and how your earthly parentage is overcome by Christ's supernatural parentage. Join them as they host an episode that has been 2 years in the making. — We've got new merchandise! Check it out at the merch…
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Welcome, foolish mortals! Join ghost hosts David and Becky as they take you on a chilling journey through the latest Disney attraction-to-film adaptation, exploring the shadows for its themes of grief and seeing the unseen. We should warn you before you hit play on this episode, this could change the course of your entire life. — We've got new merc…
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