Faithspotting
Faithspotting is a podcasts dedicated to spotting and sharing issues of life, faith, and theology presented in film, television, and music, then empower listeners to use these stories as tools to strengthen and apply faith in their everyday life.
info_outline
Faithspotting "Disclaimer"
11/21/2024
Faithspotting "Disclaimer"
Faithspotting Hosts Mike Hatch and Kenny Dickson discuss and spot faith reflected in the AppleTV+ series starring Oscar winners Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline. Disclaimer is the first television series directed by four time Oscar winning director Alphonso Cuaron and is based on the psychlogical thrilling novel by Renee Knight. Faith Notes: Disclaimer depicts the impact impact of unresolved grief and anger that grows into hate, as well as the destructive power of hate fueled revenge. Disclaimer demonstrates the impact of not effectively working through grief and anger. While people process grief in different ways and pace, intervention may be necessary when one gets stuck in the mourning and grief process. In a similar way, holding on to anger is destructive and can damage one's health and relationships. For Christians, faith in the promise of new life, both now and eternally, through the resurrection assists when one is in the midst of loss and grief. Also, the destructive power of unresolved and unforgiven anger often leads to thoughts or acts of revenge which impacts not only the people directly involved, but also family, friends, and others who suffer collateral wounds. Forgiveness is commanded by Christ. Forgiveness helps protect and preserve the physicial, psychological, and spiritual health and well-being of individuals directively involved in the situation as well as others. Even when one believes they cannot forgive, God seeks to work within one to bring them to a state of forgiveness and peace. Disclaimer is rated M for mature audiece due to Language, Sexual Content and Assualt, Language, Violence, Drug Use.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/34081256
info_outline
Faithspotting "Exhibiting Forgiveness"
10/23/2024
Faithspotting "Exhibiting Forgiveness"
Mike and Kenny discuss the wonderful film and spot faith elements reflected in Titus Kaphar's feature length directorial and screenwriting debut. Included in the episode is an indepth conversation with Titus Kaphar. Based on Kaphar's life, Exhibing Forgiveness examines the need and difficulty many face in offering forgiveness. Titus Kaphar is a well known artist whose paintings and sculptures are highly sought after by private collectors and galleries. The forgiving process mirrors Kaphars understanding of art as a way to disrupt past narratives which breaks the power of past events in the present and future. Faith Issues: The true nature, difficulty, and process of offering forgiveness. When one withholds forgiveness, one allows the other to keep power over oneself. The healing that can come through replacing anger and resentfullness with forgiveness changes the narrative and arc of one's emotions, spirit, and life.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/33584802
info_outline
Faithspotting "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice"
09/25/2024
Faithspotting "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice"
Kenny and Mike discuss Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Tim Burton's sequel to his 1988 classic horror conference Beetlejuice. Michael Keaton returns as Betelgeuse, the bio-exorcist along with Winona Ryder and Catherine O'Hara who reprise their roles as Lydia and Delia Deitz. Jenna Ortega, Justin Theroux, Willem Dafoe and Monica Bellucci join the cast as Betelgeuse continues his pursuite of Lydia while avoiding his recently reconnected and now murderous ex-wife Delores (Monica Bellucci.) Kenny also shares some of his experiences at the Venice Film Festival where Beetlejuice Beetlejuice had its world premiere in late August, 2024. Faith Spotted: As persons of faith we believe in the promise of new life that is available through grace by faith. Through God's forgiveness we are not bound by the mistakes we make, have made or by our background. As Easter people we believe in restoration and that our true identity is as a beloved child of God. We should not label others or accept the labels others have toward us. The resurrection hope and promise of new life and is not limited to that which we receive in full after we die, but is available in our life and time here. Faith Spotted II: (Faith issues not mentioned in the podcast.) The Struggles of both Lydia, and Delia, as well perhaps as Betelgeuse, have by not working through past failure, pain, and loss in life. Though painful, it is in facing, and doing, the grief work and process that we are able to move beyond mourning, pain and loss, and begin the new normal life that God desires for us. As persons of faith we are called to live and be in the moments of life, whether difficult, exciting, or routine. Each day is a gift and even in the midst of pain or routine, evidence of God's presence and grace abound and offer joy. Venice Film Festival Photos:
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/33187137
info_outline
Faithspotting ClassiX: "Almost Famous"K
09/02/2024
Faithspotting ClassiX: "Almost Famous"K
Kenny and Mike talk and spot faith elements in the popular 2000 fim Almost Famous, written / directed by Cameron Crowe, and starring Kate Hudson, Billy Crudup, Patrick Fugit, Frances McDormand, Phiip Seymour Hoffman, and Anna Paquin. Crowe won an Academy Award for best screenplay. Faith Spotted: The place and function of community as a source of accountability and support to help one mature as a person as well as in faith. The importance of love that serves serves others and brings others together rather than seeking to lift up and serve oneself. The difficulty but necessary process of letting a loved one experience life, loss, and success rather than keeping strict control over the individual.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/32868082
info_outline
Faithspotting "Sing Sing"
07/18/2024
Faithspotting "Sing Sing"
Kenny and Mike review and spot faith elements presented in the powerful A24 film Sing Sing, The film is based on the true story of John Divine G Whitfield (Colman Domingo) who was falsely convicted and spent 25 years in Sing Sing prison. While there he co-founded the Rehabilitation Through Arts program where persons who are incarcerated stage theatrical programs. The episode includes interviews Mike and Kenny had with Divine G and director Greg Kwedar. Faith Elements: The transformative power of story, Redemption, Rehabiliation, Repentance and Community. Kenny and Mike and Faithspotting is hosting a free screening of the film on July 24th at &pm at the AMC Northpark Theaters. Sign up below John Divine G Whitfield Greg Kwedar
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/32196507
info_outline
Faithspotting Celebrating 100 Episodes
07/08/2024
Faithspotting Celebrating 100 Episodes
Hosts Mike and Kenny celebrate 7 seasons, 4 years and 100 episodes of talking film and spotting faith on the Faithspotting podcast. Listen as they discuss and reflect on their favorite moments, episodes, and play some of their favorite interviews. Kenny and Mike recording the Nope Episode at the Faithspotting "Studio" at Button Memorial UMC. Mike and Kenny with Director Fran Kranz and Ann Dowd from MASS Mike, Kevin Von Erich, and Kenny at The Iron Claw premiere party.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/32042137
info_outline
Faithspotting "Inside Out 2"
06/27/2024
Faithspotting "Inside Out 2"
Kenny and Mike begin the seventh season of Faithspotting by discussing and spotting faith reflected in the newest Pixar film, Inside Out 2. Considering how much Mike and Kenny enjoyed the film and thought the message of Inside Out, that all emotions have purpose and value, both entered the theater with high expectations and hopes Inside Out 2 would be a worthy sequal. Faith Spotted: The teaching in Psalm 139, and other places, that we are children of God and are wonderfully made even when considering our imperfections and brokenness. How living this teaching allows for true joy and a rich and joyfilled life. Justification by Christ through faith rather than one's deeds. While not possible, the drive to justify oneself reflects a lack of faith in God's assurance of grace and love. The place and purpose of confession and the possibility of repentance and redemption.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/31917557
info_outline
Faithspotting 2024 Oscars
03/02/2024
Faithspotting 2024 Oscars
Kenny and Mike are joined by our good friend and regular Faithspotting contributor Dr. Ryan Parker for the annual Oscars preview episode where we predict winners and share our choices for who wins the Oscars. Ryan works in public relations and marketing for independent films, and is also the Executive Director for the Misssissippi Film Society. We agreed that this was a solid year for films and nominations. We were grateful that folks had a reason to get excited again as was experienced in the "Barbenheimer" moment, we also were happy that folks are discussing cinema thoughout various genres. While we agreed on many of the awards, there were a few differences of opinions. Faith Spotted: In addition to picking and justifying winners we also discussed which films most effectively and powerfully reflected faith lived and experienced in life. Subjects included the temptation and corrosive power of evil as experienced at communal and individual levels in the past as well as seems to be recurring now before our eyes and ears. The most significant question that emerges from several of the nominated films is, reminded now of the past sins of commission and omission by society, nations, and faith traditions, how will we respond as individuals and communities of faith? Will we be taken by, or stand against, the tide that seems set to pull many away from the rightsouness God desires as presented in Scripture and the life and ministry of Jesus?
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/30196913
info_outline
Faithspotting "Rustin"
02/23/2024
Faithspotting "Rustin"
Mike and Kenny discuss and spot faith reflected in the biopic about civil rights leader Bayard Rustin. Starring Best Actor nominee Colman Domingo, Rustin, directed by George C. Wolfe and co-staring Chris Rock, GlynnTurman, and fellow 2024 Academy Award acting nominees Jeffery Wright and Da 'Vine Joy Randolph, tells the story of Bayard Rustin, the organizer and driving force behind the 1963 March on Washington. The March is best known for Martin Luther King's "I Have A Dream" speech and is considered not only one of the seminal moments in the Civil Rights movement, but in modern American history. Faith Notes: The nature of servant leadership, that leaders are to serve and not be served as demonstrated by Jesus' life and ministry, and His washing the feet of the disciples. As seen in the film and lives of Bayard Rustin, MLK, and Medgar Evers, the need of and call to prophetic speech and action and the accompanying risks, suffering and sacrifice. God using those who are imperfect to accomplish God's righteousness. The temptation to allow ego and pride to damage or sabatage God's calling and mission. The seeds or racism that are blooming again and that they are incompatible with the teaching and life example of Jesus.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/30080808
info_outline
Faithspotting "Past Lives"
02/09/2024
Faithspotting "Past Lives"
Hosts Mike and Kenny review and spot faith elements reflected in the Academy Award nominated film by Celine Song. Past Lives stars Greta Lee (Nora) and Teo Yoo (Hae Sung) who were childhood friends and first loves, separated suddenly when Nora's family immigrated from South Korea to Canada. The film co-stars John Magaro (Arthur) who meets and marries Nora after she moved to New York. Nora and Hae Sung reconnect via social media after 12 years. Following another 12 year gap Hae Sung travels to New York to see Nora and meets Arthur. Faith Reflected: The importance of pursuing one's passion and perhaps one's life calling. Then the importance of accepting the life you have and are blessed with rather than sacrificing the life you should have for the life you had and or did not have. Mark 1:35-39 Paul's teaching in 1st Corinthians 13 that one puts away the things of childhood when one becomes an adult. One can easily covet the past life or the life that might have been rather than accepting and embracing the life one has been blessed with. Understanding that the persons, relationships and experience in our loved one's past life has made them the person one now loves.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/29875408
info_outline
Faithspotting "Anatomy of a Fall"
02/01/2024
Faithspotting "Anatomy of a Fall"
Kenny and Mike discuss and spot faith issues reflected in the Academy Award Best Picture nominated and Palme d' Or winning film by writer/director Justine Triet. Anatomy of a Fall is a French legal drama surrounding the suspicious death of a husband and father (Samuel Theis) and his wife and prime suspect Sandra (Sandra Huller) and the impact on their son Daniel (Milo Machado Graner.) Faith and Life Issues Spotted: What do we value in life and how does that impact one's life and the life we share with others? To what extent do we value ourselves and others by what they accomplish professionally and the notoriety or material success and stature achieved? How do we value work and accomplishments and that are less public or profitable but yet still impactful in one's life or the lives of others in one's family or community? To what is one called and equipped to do in and with their life? While some persons achieve fame and notoriety in their professions and lives, all persons have a calling and purpose, and have gifts to lead meaninful lives of impact and import for their life and the lives and of others. Proverbs 19:22-24 1 Corinthians 12 Seek first the Kingdom of God. The less one seeks to please one's ego, and the more one seeks to bring joy to and receive approval from God in making the most of the life, gifts, and calling God has offered, the less emphasis one places on pleasing and gaining respect and notice of others. In measuring success in life by living into God's calling rather than by worldly definitions of fame, one is more likely to be aware of the quiet, yet great impact one has on the lives of those in one's community or life circles. Such is part of the teachings of Jesus regarding earthly and Kingdom treasures. Matthew 6 Additional Connections and thoughts: Consider the film through the lens of the fall of Adam and Eve as described in Genesis 2, and visa versa. What was the motivation behind their actions that led to their fallsIn ? What do we do with dreams we had as children and young adults that are not fullfilled? Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 13 that there comes a time when we put away the language and perspective one has of the world as a child and takes on the language, perspective and responsibilites, and we could add dreams and pursuits.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/29751958
info_outline
Faithspotting "The Holdovers"
01/12/2024
Faithspotting "The Holdovers"
Hosts Kenny and Mike discuss and spot faith reflected in Alxander Payne's and Paul Giamatti's latest collaboration (Sideways). Set in a northeastern boarding school in 1970, the film portrays a dishovled and grumpy classics teacher Paul Hunham (Giamatti) at Barton Academny who is assigned the unpopular duty of supervising the boys who are heldover the Christmas break at the school. Da Vine Joy Randolph (Mary Lamb) and Dominic Sessa (Angus Tully) join Giamatti in delivering strong, memorable performances worthy Academy Award and Oscar consideration. Faith Spotted: As there was no rooms for Joseph and Mary in Bethlehem, for Paul and Angus, there is no room for them in the lives of family nor friends. Paul is a Christ Figure in his sacrificial act for Angus. The need to address and work through pain, loss and anger through grief, and the consequenses of letting those feelings linger, grow, and shape an individual. The nature of grace that community of broken persons can restore hope and wholeness through their care and love for one another.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/29467263
info_outline
Faithspotting "MAESTRO"
12/30/2023
Faithspotting "MAESTRO"
Mike and Kenny discuss MAESTRO and faith reflected in the Bradley Cooper directed film about the life and career of composer / conductor Leonard Bernstein and his marriage to Felicia Montealegre. Cooper also co-wrote the screenplay and co-stars with Carey Mulligan in the film now streaming on Netflix. The film also stars Maya Hawke, Sarah Silverman, and Matt Bomer. Bradley Cooper, Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg and Todd Philips. Faith Spotted: Various types of love, Eros, Philia, Agape, and Philautia. While eros /passionate, philia / deep friendship, agape / selfless, are love strengthens and binds persons together. Philautia / love of self is important and ordained by Jesus in His great commandment, Matthew 22, Mark 12, Luke 10. Love and care for one's self is necessary for a person to offer the other types of love, but when it grows too strong and the drive for attention, praise and love from others becomes greater than the love one has for others (narcissism) it negatively impacts relationships and the lives of others.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/29280098
info_outline
Faithspotting "The Iron Claw"
12/25/2023
Faithspotting "The Iron Claw"
Kenny and Mike interview director Sean Durkin and review his latest film The Iron Claw. The film chronicles lives, careers and tragedies of professional wrestling's Von Erich family. The film stars Zac Efron as Kevin Von Eric, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, and Stanley Simons as brothers Kerry, David and Mike Von Erich. Holt McCallany also stars as patriarch Fritz Von Erich. Faith Elements Reflected: The power of the resurrection as the utlimate victory against death and loss by providing new life. Power of resurrection faith as the source of healing and resiliency in the midst of trauma and loss. The purpose of the grief process in healing and the negative impact of avoiding grief by denying the process through hyperfocus on other things, getting stuck within, or moving too quickly. Notes from interview with Sean Durkin: The pacing of the story as a tool for viewer engagement. The place of fear in driving Sean's storytelling and filmmaking. The place and impact of generational trauma and breaking the trauma cycles within families. The importance of details in telling the stories and establishing connections with the audience. Sean's shares the films that made him. The hope and vision of peace in a life of trauma. Mike, Kevin Von Erich, Kenny at The Iron Claw world premiere afterparty.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/29224918
info_outline
Faithspotting "The Mission"
12/08/2023
Faithspotting "The Mission"
Hosts Kenny and Mike interview Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss, the Emmy Award winning directors of the documentary film The Mission, which explores the life of the 26 year old American missionary John Allen Chau who attempted to contact and evangelize indiginous people on the isolated North Sentinel Island. The filmmakers also directed the 2020 documentary film Boys State, also featured on Faithspotting. The Mission is available on Disney+ and fubuTV. Faith Issues Spotted: Amanda and Jesse discuss what attracted their attention and desire to document John's story, the call, nature and impact of evangelism to indiginous societies. Colonial evangelism and the Biblical call to evangelize and the agency of the recipients. The difference of ministry to vs. ministry with persons. Daniel Everett former Missionary Amanda McBaine, Jesse Moss Directors
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/28992208
info_outline
Faithspotting "Medicine Man: The Stan Brock Story
11/02/2023
Faithspotting "Medicine Man: The Stan Brock Story
Kenny and Mike have an extended interview with Paul Michael Angell, the director of the film Medicine Man: The Stan Brock Story. The film documents the life and life mission of Stan Brock, who following a career as a television host on Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, a filmmaker, cargo pilot, director of zoos, founded a medical mission organization, Remote Area Medical (RAM) that has provided free health and dental care to over 800,000 people in the United States. In addition to Paul, Poppy Green, a member of the RAM staff, also participated in the interview and provided additional insight into Stan's amazing life and the important mission and work of RAM. Medicine Man: The Stan Brock Story will be released nationwide through Fathom Events for a one night presentation on November 14th. Purchase tickets directly through Fathom Events at link below Stan Brock Faith Spotted: Having determination and faith to follow a calling. The importance of mission. Seeing and treating all people as persons of sacred worth. Paul Michael Angell
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/28500206
info_outline
Faithspotting "Killers of the Flower Moon"
10/25/2023
Faithspotting "Killers of the Flower Moon"
Faithspotting hosts Kenny and Mike review and spot faith reflected in Martin Scorsese's latest film, "Killers of the Flower Moon." The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone, Robert De Niro, and tells the true story of the "reign of terror" inflicted upon the Osage Indian population following the discovery of oil on the land they were sent to live following their ejection from Kansas. The film chronicles the murders and suspicious deaths of many members of the Osage population that was part of a plan to steal the "headrights" due them and their decendents. Faith Themes Spotted: The power and corrupting nature of greed in th which the appetite power and wealth and wealth is limitless. Despite the Christian teaching that all persons are beloved children of God and therefore worthy of love from others, the reality of racism is that it dehumanizes and lables as "others" persons of different races, cultures and backgrounds on both the societal and individual levels. The nature of evil is that it often presents itself through the apprearance of concern and words and acts of love and community.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/28420739
info_outline
Faithspotting "Mission Impossible 7: Dead Reckoning Pt.1"
09/20/2023
Faithspotting "Mission Impossible 7: Dead Reckoning Pt.1"
Hosts Kenny and Mike discuss and spot faith reflected in the lastest Mission Impossible film, Dead Reckoning. Starring Tom Cruise and directed by Christopher McQuarrie, Ethan Hunt (Cruise) and his IMF team must track down a device that threatens political and civil stability throughout the world. Ving Rhames and Simon Pegg reprise their rolls as IMF members Luther Stickell and Benji Dunn. Henry Czerny also reprises his roll as Agent Eugene Kittridge from the original MI as well as Michelle Monaghan reprises her roll as Julia Meade. Vanessa Kirby, Esai Morales, and Hayley Atwell also co-star. Faith Issues Spotted: Forgiveness and Peace: The importance of dealing productively with pain, loss, anger and guilt, rather than ignoring or burying those feelings and experiences. As depicted in the film, Ethan's failure to process his grief, anger, and guilt surrounding losses of persons close to him earlier in his life and career have had a negative impact on him. In the course of the film he is made more vulernable through his carrying that pain and desire for revenge. Carrying and allowing anger, guilt and other emotions to build up can make one susceptible to damaging one's health, career and relationships. Christian faith, and the promise and hope of redemption and new life can assist in working through such pain, anger, and guilt. In Romans 8 Paul teaches that current suffering and trials cannot compare to the goodness of the life to come in God's Kingdom, that God works for Good in all things, and that nothing can separate one from the love of God in Christ. God's love and peace can help persons move through pain and struggle including the power to seek to offer forgiveness instead of resentment or revenge. Jesus and Paul also calls for followers to love and forgive others rather than live with anger and resentment. Matthew 5 & 22, Romans 12 Living out of Faith Rather Than Fear: Related to this is not living and acting from a place of fear, especially in the midst of changing times and circumstances beyond one's control. Acting from and through fear leads to behavior that accepts negative means to be justified by perceived "good ends." Faith in God, who is a God of love who works for our good, even in the midst of struggle, helps one live in a place of faith and peace. Temptation to Use Gifts and Power for Good: The tempation to exploit gifts and power in negative ways rather than use them for good. Technology has emense power that can be used for the benefit of an individual or society, or be exploited an used for harm. In the film a technology that could be used for great good in society is in danger of being used to cause great harm and bring power to an individual or group / nation. The pursuit of the technology becomes desperate with the nations and groups willing to do anything to secure it for their own use. This theme was also reflected in the film Oppenheimer. Technology can be used in less dramatic but still damaging ways. The internet is a tool that can be used to lear and develop or hurt other or even waste time and opportunity for personal growth and development. As persons of faith, Christ calls followers to pursue rigtheousness and the good including love for others, including one's enemies.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/28094042
info_outline
Faithspotting "Oppenheimer"
08/20/2023
Faithspotting "Oppenheimer"
Mike and Kenny discuss and spot faith reflected in Chrisopher Nolan's latest film, a biography of physist and "father of the atomic bomb" J. Robert Oppenheimer. The film stars Cillian Murphy, Morton Downey Jr., Emily Blunt, Florence Pugh, Matt Damon, and Josh Hartnett, among others. In addition to their comments on the film,Kenny and Mike discuss the joy that for the first time in many years there was an event, a buzz about movies with the same day releases of Oppenheimer and Barbie, ie Barbenheimer. Cillian Murphy Universay Studios Faith Spotted: The story in Genesis of the temptation and impact of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The fear and vulnerablity that drives the tasting of that fruit then leads to knowledge and results in greater vulerability and nakedness. The place, power, and impact pride and ego play in behavior that works against the best interests of the individual or society. The naivety in thinking one can control the monster one creates, either as individuals or societies, in this story the thought that the military and government would include the scientitsts in the determination of if or when to use the weapon. For Christians, the tempation or rationalization to believe that perhaps righteous ends justify unrighteous means. Robert Downey Jr. Universal Studios
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/27798306
info_outline
Faithspotting "Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie"
07/30/2023
Faithspotting "Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie"
Mike and Kenny discuss and spot faith in the biography film "Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie." Directed by Davis Guggenheim and available for streaming on Apple tv+, "Still" presents Michael J. Fox's journey into acting, and at 29, his journey into early onset Parkinsons disease. Faith Spotted: The reality that earthly treasures, in this instance health, are vulnerable and can be lost or stolen. Matthew 6 Similarly the parable of the rich fool. Luke 12 Job Suffering for seemingly random reasons, and maintaining care and being open to God's presence and maintaining one's relationship with God. Also in lament Psalms. Theological Half Truths, as labled by Rev. Adam Hamilton, Sr, Pastor of The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection. In this circumstance, "God doesn't give us more than we can bear." Rather than passing out struggles, depending on ones strength, God supports, sustains, and loves us in the midst of our struggles that are a part of living in a broken world. God sustains directly as well as through support of others. Similar experience in questions of theodicy, the answer to questions regarding a God of love allowing bad things to occur or to occur to righteous persons. Romans 8 In all things God works for Good for those who love God.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/27606369
info_outline
Faithspotting " Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets
07/20/2023
Faithspotting " Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets
Hosts Kenny and Mike are joined by two guests for this edition of Faithspotting. Rev. Eric Folkerth and Rev. Melissa Hatch are clergy colleagues of Kenny and Melissa is Mike's marrital colleague. This is Eric's third appearance and we welcome Melissa for her first time as a guest. Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets is a four part series on Amazon Prime. While the Duggars are the hub around which the series is presented, the larger wheel focuses on the larger and, from a Christian perspective, more sinister element, the story of Bill Gothard and the Institute for Basic Life Principles, IBLP. The documentary features interviews with Jill Duggar, the oldest daughter, Jim Bob Duggar's niece, JIm Bob's closest friend from childhood, and men and women who grew up in IBLP households and were able to break away. Faith Spotted: Grace, the Nature of faith vs. seeking to control, Being created in the Image of God, Taking the Lord's name in vain Exodus 20, Let the children come to Me, Matthew 19, Mark 10, Luke 18, Do not place stumbling blocks before children and others Romans 14.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/27520248
info_outline
Faithspotting "To Kill A Mockingbird"
06/16/2023
Faithspotting "To Kill A Mockingbird"
Kenny and Mike discuss and spotfaith in the film and stage adaptations of Harper Lee's classic novel, To Kill A Mockingbird. The film version was released in 1962 and stars Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch and Mary Badham as Scout. The stage production, written by Aaron Sorkin starred Jeff Daniels as Atticus opened on Broadway in 2018. The 2023 touring production stars Richard Thomas with Mary Badham playing Mrs. Henry Dubose, and Melanie Moore as Scout. Faith Spotted: The film and stage production depict Atticus as a Christ Figure in his willingness and courage to do the righteous thing in representing Tom Robinson, knowing he and his family will suffer for it. The place and audacity of evil as personified by Bob Ewell who abuses his own daughter, blames Tom Robinson, taunts the Robinson family, and the Finch children. In the face of such evil, and in contrast to the example of Christ as seen in Atticus, the temptation to go along, to remain silent and fail to stand up for righteousness. The gift of grace to do what is righteous even if it is not in line with the law as depicted by Sherrif Heck Tate when he declared Bob Ewell fell on his knife during his attack on the Finch children.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/27177390
info_outline
Faithspotting "The Last of Us"
05/01/2023
Faithspotting "The Last of Us"
Kenny and Mike discuss and spot faith reflected in the popular HBO Series The Last of Us. Based on the popular Playstation Video Game, The Last of Us follows Joel and Ellie as they journey through a post-apocolyptic United States and world that is divided into zombies, persons who were infected with an aggressive mold that takes control of the hosts, and tribes or bands of scavenging, non-infected persons fighting each other for resourses and survival. Faith Notes: Love Abides. Jesus, as the incarnation came into the world to abide, to live with humanity as humanity. Love abides through good and challenging times. Not mentioned in the podcast: the compound and lives Bill and Frank make together and live in, reflect the peace and place that love provides in the midst of pain, loss, and other difficult aspects of life in a world that is broken. The nature of the Sacraments, and sacramental elements of important, everyday activities such as meals and traditions.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/26711946
info_outline
Faithspotting "Are You There God? It's Me Margaret."
04/22/2023
Faithspotting "Are You There God? It's Me Margaret."
Mike and Kenny discuss the 2023 film based on the 1970 novel by Judy Blume. Written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig and starring Rachel McAdams, Abby Ryder Fortson, Kathy Bates and Benny Safdie, Are You There God? It's Me Margaret. chronicles coming of age and awareness of maturity and faith of Margaret Simon. Faith Spotted: Faith when God seems silent. Margaret joins persons of faith throughout the ages, including the Psalmist and Jesus in asking if God is there? Psalm 22 among many. The aspect of God's time in constrast to our time which is typically based on personal fear, anxiety, and the unknown. As with coming into awareness of one's changing body, all persons must explore their faith in the midst of their life and living. While there can, or might not be guides, individuals must make their own choices. The film reflects that these are often parallel tracks of growth and discovery. Dsepite the many differences of development stages and timing, etc. all persons are wonderfully made. Psalm 139
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/26620647
info_outline
Faithspotting "Everything Everywhere, All At Once"
03/04/2023
Faithspotting "Everything Everywhere, All At Once"
Originally recorded during the initial theatrical release, Kenny and Mike discuss and spot faith elements in the multi award winning and multiple Oscar nominated film by directors Daniel Kwan and Daniel Schneinert. Faith Notes: All creation is interconnected. We have freedom to make choices and those choices impact others. In the midst of this reality, power, and privilege, God desires us to love creation and each other by acting responsibly for the wellbeing of others. Amidst the choices we make ad the resulting paths the choices put us on, we are not alone. God is with us, and where needed, offers us grace and calls us to repent. God seeks to work for good even as we face the consequences of our choices. Evelyn serves as a Christ Figure as she enters into various alternative universes, seeking to restore peace throughout the universes and relationships.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/26123766
info_outline
Faithspotting Oscar Picks and Predictions
03/04/2023
Faithspotting Oscar Picks and Predictions
Mike ard Kenny set aside spotting faith and discuss the 95th Academy Award nominations and discuss their picks and predictions for the Oscars. Films and performances featured in previous Faithspotting episodes include: All Quiet on the Western Front; The Banshees of Inisherin; Elvis, Everything Everywhere, All at Once; The Fablemans; Tar; and Triangle of Sadness. Overall we thought it was a good year and a good slate of nominees. Feel free to share your thoughts, where you agree or disagree.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/26123430
info_outline
Faithspotting "Triangle of Sadness"
02/25/2023
Faithspotting "Triangle of Sadness"
Co-hosts Kenny and Mike discuss and spot faith issues reflected in the Best Film Oscar nominee Triangle of Sadness directed by Ruben Ostlund. The film stars Charlbi Dean, Harris Dickinson, Dolly De Leon,Zlatko Buric, Vicki Berlin, and Woody Harrelson Faith Issues Spotted: Identity of all persons as children of God and should be treated with dignity and respect regardless of social status, wealth, and perceived utility. For those with power, privilege, and voice, seeing these as blessings and how to use them righteously and be "influencers" for societal good. A reminder of the corrosive nature of power, whether passed down generationally, slowly achieved over time, or suddenly gained. Avoid the temptation to reverse abuse of power if given the opportunity. Zlatko Buric Neon Films
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/26045577
info_outline
Faithspotting "She Says"
02/12/2023
Faithspotting "She Says"
Kenny and Mike discuss and spot faith elementes reflected in the Maria Schrader film "She Said." Carey Mulligan (Megan Twohey) and Zoe Kazan (Jodi Kantor) star as New York TImes investigative reporters who broke the story of Mira Max producer Harvey Weinstein's decades long history of sexual abuse of actresses and Mira Max employees. Their expose started the #Metoo movement. Faith Issues Spotted The perils and place of pride and ego that leads to a sense of entitlement to actions and treatment of others that is incompatible with Scripture and faithful teaching. Such entitilement and behavior does not recognize the dignity of others as being children of God. Failure to see success and cooresponding influence as gifts and blessings of God and using them to abuse or take advantage of others. Such behavior contradicts the call to love and care for others/neighbors. Such teaching to love calls for other leaders and institution to protect and stand against those who do harm to others.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/25900983
info_outline
Faithspotting "Tar"
02/01/2023
Faithspotting "Tar"
Kenny and Mike discuss the and spot faith reflected in the Todd Field film Tar starring Best Actress nominee Cate Blanchett. Tar received an five Oscar Nominations for Best Picture, Actress, Director, Original Screenplay, Cinematography, and Editing. Lydia Tar is the first Music Director of the Berlin Philharmonic and a force in the Classical music universe whose ego and appetite for power and control over others threatens to unravel all she has worked to acheive. Faith Spotted: Pride is antithetical to Christian teaching that as all people are children of God, one's life and the lives of others belong to God and therefore worthy of love, care, and respect. Matthew 22:34-37, Mark 12:28-34, Leviticus 19:9-18 As talent is a gift from God, it should be used to God's glory rather than to glorify and elevate oneself. All the work and training that develop talent are a part of one's responsibility to use the gift to the fullest potential. Power is the oxygen that feeds the flame of pride to destructive beliefs and practices. Scripture referencing pride: Proverbs 8:13, 16:18, Romans 12:16, ! Corinthians 13:4, Galatians 6:3, James 4:6-7. In contrast, the Fruits of the Spirit reflect and and draw one closer to God and deepen one's faith. Galatians 5:22-23
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/25793664
info_outline
Faithspotting "The Whale"
01/14/2023
Faithspotting "The Whale"
Mike and Kenny discuss and spot faith reflected in the latest Darren Arononfsky film, The Whale, starring Brendan Frazier. The film tells the story of Charlie, a 600 lb man who teaches virtul writing classes. Struggling with the health challenges caused by his weight, Charlie decides to attempt to reconnect with his High School aged daughter, (Sadie Sink) eight years after leaving her and his wife for another relationship. Tirgger warning: The film may be difficult for those struggling with eating disorders. Faith Spotted: The film depicts a full picture of humanity, that persons have both good instincts and desires as well as selfish and negative motivation and behavior. The consequences of people's actions have on others, especially with regards to breaking relationships, and the detrimental impact of punitive focused faith communities pronouncing judgement of others. The focus of maintaining relationships in the midst of the failures of loved ones as demonstrated by God to Adam and Eve and the Forgiving father's to his prodigal son. The finel ine of supporting and enabling persons with their struggles, and the motivations of ones actions on another. Charlie as a Christ figure in taking on himself the anger of others. The importance of seeking honesty in relationships and community.
/episode/index/show/faithspotting/id/25605870