At The Movies is a fun summer series where we show movie clips from popular current films of this past year along with a message that connects the popular movies with scripture. You probably don’t usually look to movies for life lessons, but take our word for it—sit back, relax, and hear a different perspective on how popular films can point us toward the gospel.
‘Harriet’ is a 2019 biographical movie about the life of abolitionist Harriet Tubman. The movie depicts Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes, whose courage, ingenuity, and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and changed the course of history. And her story points us to the gospel in so many ways.
Frozen II, the sequel to Disney’s massive 2013 hit Frozen, sees sisters Queen Elsa and Princess Anna continue to grapple with Elsa’s growing magical powers. Set in the fictional mid-19th century Norwegian kingdom of Arendelle, the animated film solves the mystery of the source of Elsa’s powers and uncovers other family secrets as the sisters, Kristoff, his reindeer Sven, and the magic snowman Olaf venture into the enchanted forest of Northuldra deep in the north. So, what does this movie have to do with the Gospel?
Wonder Woman 1984 takes Diana Prince, also known as Wonder Woman, from World War I to 1984. In 1984, a power-obsessed con man gets his hands on a magical artifact from Ancient Rome that makes a person’s biggest wish come true. The wishes always come with a price, however. The con man’s use of this magical power threatens to destroy the world. Wonder Woman must find a way to stop him. However, she accidentally used the artifact to bring back her one true love. As a result, Wonder Woman’s super powers are getting weaker and weaker. So, Wonder Woman must choose between Steve and saving the world.
When Lloyd Vogel, an investigative journalist, receives an assignment to profile Fred Rogers (aka Mr. Rogers), Vogel is skeptical. He finds it impossible to believe anyone could have such a good nature. But Rogers’ empathy, kindness and decency, guided by his understanding of Christian faith, chips away at Vogel. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is an inspiring story of redemption, and a reminder for all of us how being a true “neighbor” can make all the difference.