Religion and Film: The Basics

Religion and Film: The Basics is an accessible and engaging introduction to the history, diverse approaches, and ideas associated within the study of religion and film. Referencing films from around the world from the early 20th century to the present day, this unique introduction includes the following topics:

• the history and dynamics of religion and film
• various methods to approach religion and film
• the evolution of religion and film scholarship
• film genre and theory
• world religions and film
• unique themes―from race and gender roles to karma and redemption

A fascinating range of films are discussed, from early silent films such as Hypocrites to recent releases such as Minari. Five genres are explored, including horror in The Wicker Man (UK) and Let the Right One In (Sweden), and world religions are analyzed in films such as OMG, The Big Lebowski, and Malcolm X. Tropes examined include gender in Water, karma in It’s a Wonderful Life, death in Biutiful, redemption in Magnolia, and evil in Get Out.

With helpful features including recommendations for further study and key films to view, this book is an ideal starting point for students approaching religion and film for the first time as well as those interested in learning more about the field while broadening their methods, knowledge of film, and their film canon.

Jeanette Reedy Solano is Associate Professor at California State University, Fullerton, USA. She is Co-chair of the Religion, Film, and Visual Culture Unit in the American Academy of Religion and serves on the Editorial Board for The Journal of Religion and Film for which she has served as a film critic for Sundance and other film festivals.