The next Movies for Lent episode has arrived!

Jason and Adam, pastors and movie-lovers, are hosting Movies for Lent: Conversations at the Intersection of Faith & Film.

You can participate in the live watch experience and discussion on Wednesdays over zoom (join the Movies for Lent facebook group for more info), or participate on your own by using these podcast episodes as a jumping-off point for reflection or discussion in your own communities.

This week’s selection is A Hero (2021).

Theme: Temptation
Lectionary Scripture: Luke 4:1-13, Hebrews 2:14-15
Discussion Questions:

1. After viewing ‘A Hero’ what thoughts and impressions lingered as the credits rolled and beyond? Why?

2. From a cinematic perspective, what did you enjoy about the film? What worked for you? What didn’t?

3. How does the theme of temptation permeate the film? How does director Farhadi disorient us the viewer by blowing up our presuppositions about who are the heroes and villains in the film?

4. How do both the temptations of Jesus in the wilderness and the characters in the film both underscore the subtle ways in which our cultural hero systems (under the influence of the principalities and powers) can hold power over us and challenge our fidelity and faithfulness to Jesus?

Resources mentioned in the episode:

• Richard Beck - The Slavery of Death (book) www.amazon.ca/Slavery-Death-Richard-Beck/dp/1620327775

• Ernest Becker - The Denial of Death (book) www.amazon.ca/Denial-Death-Ernest-Becker/dp/0684832402

• Rene Girard - The Scapegoat: Complete 5-part CBC "Ideas" series with David Cayley (2001) https://youtu.be/wTdvSnj5LBk

• There is No Evil (movie) - https://youtu.be/piflulDSWD4

• Asghar Farhadi - 2017 Oscar Acceptance Speech - https://youtu.be/MdZo54vJLus

• The Simpsons "Don't Do What Donny Don't Does" - https://youtu.be/NRvaR4fqrYY

• The Last Temptation of Christ (movie) https://youtu.be/qJKxg4p-Alk