Faith in Film, Participant Suggestions

Hopefully everyone has gotten past the first Monday without class. It was a little rough for me as I almost instinctively hopped in the car and drove to church. But as we enjoy a little break before the next cycle, I thought I would take some time and look at a few participant suggestions over the coming weeks that were provided on the surveys.

This first response will be carried over two days — today and tomorrow — as I take on the suggestion of comparing and contrasting C.S. Lewis' "Chronicles of Narnia" series with J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" series.

For those not familiar with the works, both Tolkein and Lewis are well-respected Christian authors. And the larger Christian community traditionally claims both the world of "Narnia" and "Lord of the Rings" as fiction that supports our faith. Both series have also been transformed into epic film series in recent years.

Without question, both series incorporate ideas of faith and elements of the faith of their authors. Both series also create unique magical worlds that transport readers and audiences someplace else. The question is, in what ways do these works attempt to speak to viewers and to spread the Gospel. While I think both offer good family entertainment and a chance to glean some messages, there is an extent to which I think the Christian community goes overboard in ascribing religious significance to the stories. In this first part, I'll tackle "Lord of the Rings." Tomorrow, I'll tackle "The Chronicles of Narnia."

The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy — released from 2001-2003 — was an incredible cinematic achievement. Co-writer and director Peter Jackson did something incredible in terms of bringing the books to life. The films are a testament to his artistic vision, and they retain much of the power of the storytelling in the print version. Of course, some of the story had to be cut down to make it fit in a film version, but much of it is retained.

I think the films are a great story and there is a lot to glean from it. A lot of the message pertains to finding purpose and living that purpose. If you think of the journey of all of those in the fellowship, that theme follows all their adventures. There is also a strong through line of dealing with temptation. The ring represents temptation and you can see how it's pull affects Frodo, his companions, and those that chase him.

This is a particularly strong message when you consider those who stand in his way. For instance the Nazgul, who were once kings but became consumed with the power and prestige that serve as an allure with the ring. It blackened their hearts as they gave into that temptation and it led to their destruction. That is also clearly evident with Gollum, who was a normal being that was completely ruined and consumed with his desire to possess the ring. If you think of the ring as a representation of sin, that makes those examples even more powerful.

One of the central themes is how Frodo responds to the perilous journey. At one point early in the first film he tells Gandolf he wishes the ring had never come to him. Gandalf responds that all do who live to see such times of trial and temptation. There is a sense that his words carry some of the resonate power of Paul, who constantly exhorted Christians to persevere through the tough times.

These are all great life lessons and Biblical principles that come through strongly in the books and the films. For that alone they provide a great testimonial to Christians and non-Christians alike. But I think Christians go too far in ascribing a Christ-figure in the story, especially since that often is said to be Gandalf.

Gandalf is a great confidant and advisor. And it is true that in the film he dies and comes back again. But if you really look at his character, I am not sure it conveys the same resonant power as Jesus Christ. And I think we go too far in making him a Christ figure. Some of the elements of his story may fit, but it would be hard to label him a savior or to say he fills that role in any kind of way that serves as a fitting allusion to Christ.

I do think the films and books adequately present the idea of the evil one. The all seeing eye, the temptations, the legion of demon-like creatures all do a good job of filling out that side. But I think it is a mistake to go so far as to say the "Lord of the Rings" series fills the other half of that argument with a Christ-like figure.

I think the best, most accurate description of the power of the narrative is that it illustrates the temptation we all face from the evil one and the fact that we have to persevere in the face of that temptation to live our the purpose in our lives.