Can horror be beautiful? Robert Eggers seems to think so, and James and returning guest Joe Thorn sink their teeth into his latest film, a love letter to the classic century old story from silent cinema now given 21st century sound and color. A questionable sacrifice play, the myopia of science, and broad brush portraits of Christ and AntiChrist em…

In this new series, Shane Rosenthal joins David and Eric to explore The Greatest Story Ever Told. In Part 1, we discuss Shane's favorite movies and his podcast "The Humble Skeptic". You don't want to miss this fascinating discussion! Watch the episode here. The first episode of this series is available to the public; the next 4 will release every T…

All “Bad” things must come to an end. Join James, Kat, and David for the epic conclusion of the Walter White saga. As we explore the iconic series finale(s), we also dig up a barrel full of biblical themes - walking in darkness, gaining the world by losing your soul, repentance, and the nature of justice. We even draw comparisons between Ebenezer S…

Ho Ho Ho! Now we have a Youtube Channel! In this episode from 2018, Richard and David discuss this action class, debate whether or not it's a "Christmas movie", and climb the mountain of themes higher than Nakatomi Plaza. Yippee-Ki-Yay, Movie-Lovers, and Merry Christmas! Watch the episode here. For more "legacy" episodes like this one, check our ar…

In our third and final episode of our Christmas Special, Jam and David are “In The Lobby” diving into the gospel themes in your favorite Christmas Movies! From A Christmas Carol and Home Alone to the Grinch, Jingle All the Way, and Christmas Vacation - every Christmas movie has themes that point us to the Greatest Storyteller. We hope you enjoy thi…

I’m dreaming of a podcasting covering one of the all time classic Christmas films: White Christmas. Eric is joined by David and a special guest making her return to Popcorn Theology: Mandy Lee! Together Eric, David and Mandy (Dandy) discuss honoring your elders, how to use the season of Christmas for those who the World has forgotten, and why you s…

In this series of “In The Lobby”, Jam and David discuss Christmas, traditions, film, and the Gospel. In Part 2, we explore Christmas traditions and how they point us to Christ. We also discuss how Christians engage with secular traditions like Santa Claus. Watch the episode here. As our gift to you, this whole series will be available to the public…

This week our hosts Miles, James & Kat defy watching mindlessly as they cover Wicked: Part 1. This beloved musical is overflowing with fruitful topics to discuss. Many people have bemoaned the rise of the “villain as misunderstood victim” story, yet our hosts found subtlety and valuable truth throughout this film. Among these truths are the folly o…

In this series of “In The Lobby”, Jam and David discuss Christmas, traditions, film, and the Gospel. Join us for Part 1, where we address what makes a movie a CHRISTMAS movie. Watch the episode here. As our gift to you, this whole series will be available to the public. For more content like this, support us on Patreon. As a Premium Seating Patron …

The Patron Saints of Popcorn Theology made us merry this week by voting for the beloved Christmas classic, The Muppet Christmas Carol. This all too familiar tale takes on a Muppet spin, fun for both adults and kids. On this episode Maddy, Kat, and Bridgett discuss the surprisingly deep themes of intervention, repentance, and redemption in this clas…

Put on your dancing shoes and sing along with us while we explore the candy-coated underworld of Moulin Rouge, exploring the themes of freedom, truth, love, and beauty. Maddy and Bridgett discuss parallels to Biblical characters and if the four pillars of the Bohemian Revolution are sound. Is there any hope or redemption in this tragic love story? …

In this new series, we’re joined by Matt Whitman of the Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast to explore Storytelling & Scripture!! In Part 1, we discuss storytelling, “perfect” movies, and what makes a film compelling. You won’t want to miss this one! Watch the episode here. The first episode of this series is available to the public; the next 3 episodes …

Grab your umbrellas and seek shelter with us in the dark alleyways and sewers of Gotham City, exploring the darker side of human nature and a bat-free exploration of broken people. James and Kat discuss Oswald Cobb’s fascinating yet monstrous nature and the stories of his compromised family, friends and foes. Is there any hope or redemption to be f…

Watch the episode here. To kick off Musical Month, we're opening the "Popcorn Theology Vault" to re-release a legacy episode from 2018. This week, David and newly added guest host James Harleman are joined by Aaron and Patrick of the Feelin’ Film Podcast to talk about La La Land. In this surprisingly long episode, we discussed the mixed reactions t…

Join James, Kat, and David in their underground lab as we cook up a top-notch discussion on Breaking Bad Season 4. We explore Walt’s continual metamorphosis into Heisenberg, the importance of catechizing our families, how we can bring about our own destruction, and the role of sympathy and loyalty in entertainment. As we Face Off with these themes.…

"It shows you things... horrible things.” Our Patron Saint supporters sent us a distress signal and we sent two Popcorn Theologians to check if there’s any life left in this film, reappearing from its cinematic origins in 1997. What they find has scared lapsed churchgoers back to their faith, and surprised many sci-fi fans with an unexpected journe…

Join Jam and Miles as they discuss the deep facets of The Wild Robot. This movie explores the programming of a godly parent and themes of preparing children for the world. If you have ever wondered what godly parenting looks like, or how children’s movies will get back to the basics, this is the episode for you. Watch the video episode here. ---- D…

For only our second documentary ever, Miles and James dive into “Am I Racist?” and discuss how documentaries (and mockumentaries) tell a story. As Matt becomes a DEI/antiracist expert, we highlight the underlying worldview and how it mimics the Biblical doctrines of creation, fall, and, religious penance. Join us and “do the work” of Popcorn Theolo…

Do you like scary movies? This week, our “In The Lobby” materializes from the mist with “Christians on Horror”. Novelist Mike Duran emerges from his coffin as the hairy, howling Pastor Joe Thorn claws his way into the conversation, moderated by our host and horror expert James Harleman. Over the coming weeks we’ll delve into the controversy surroun…

Eric and Maddy cover one of the more controversy inducing shows in recent memory. Does this show have anything compelling to say? Is it good? Is it bad? or does it commit the worst story telling sin: being boring? Wherever you land on these questions there are still many themes to receive and redeem and a good reminder that there is a wind that wil…

Come away with us for a secluded podcast? What could possibly go wrong? James and Jonathan refuse to hold their tongues and get into the deeper themes of this tense thriller, from family dynamics to people pleasing and how we deal with strangers. Watch the episode here. — Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: …

Don’t say the name of this episode out loud! Kat and James get their goth on and tackle these two Tim Burton comedies separated by 36 years yet so eerily similar. Like the ghost, this episode has the most as they discuss the cultural impact of Lydia Deetz and goth subculture, the movie’s skewed view of the afterlife, and the extremes of non-belief …

In space, no one can hear you scream, but everyone can hear and see this episode covering all things Xenomorph! James and Rory are joined by Thomas Thorogood as they rank and discuss the entire franchise and then zero in on its latest entry, discussing biblical views of AI and how the film’s characters yearn for a better world. Watch the episode he…

David and James continue to cook, passing the midpoint of our exploration of this award-winning series; there will be no half measures! This time they are joined by Kat to discuss hot takes on Skyler‘s three word bomb drop, the series most divisive episode, and the worship of Mammon. Season 2: https://youtu.be/ciyqeggk5m8 Season 1: https://youtu.be…

This week kicks off our new series "In The Lobby: Popcorn Politics", where we discuss the intersection of entertainment, theology, and politics. In this series, we interview NYT best-selling author and Daily Wire culture reporter, Megan Basham. This week, we discuss her new book (Shepherds for Sale: How Evangelical Leaders Traded Truth for a Leftis…

The final episode of In The Lobby: Back to School is here! Join our panel of educators (Bridget, Jam, & David) as we ask James Harleman common questions about Film & Theology. Share this with your friends so they can learn more about mindful engagement of film. Watch the episode here. To hear more of our "Back to School" series, watch Part 1 (https…

Eric and Maddy go on a epic adventure to battle the forces of Sauron that have corrupted their beloved franchise. Will our two diehard Lord of the Rings fans overcome their prejudice and find themes to Reject, Receive, and Redeem? Watch the episode here. Here was our coverage of Season 1: Episodes 1-2: https://youtu.be/CQIxq_KmpGk Full Season: http…

Watch the episode here. The Patron Saints of Popcorn Theology hit a home run this week by voting for the beloved summer classic, The Sandlot. This often silly coming-of-age tale may surprise you with its existential and theological depth. On this episode Eric and Miles discuss the blessedness of friendship, the Christ figure at the center of the mo…

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,…

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 …

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…

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…

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…

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 …

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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 …

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…

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 …

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…

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 …

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…

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…

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…