Faith in Film, Week 5

Here is a look at this week's worksheet.

Title: “The Invention of Lying” (2009)

Starring: Ricky Gervais, Jennifer Garner, Rob Lowe, and Jeffrey Tambor

Synopsis: This comedy from Ricky Gervais — creator of “The Office” — played on a unique concept. The film features a world where people are unable to tell a lie. This means no false politeness and a lot of blunt honest. Gervais uses the concept as a way to generate laughs, but also as a way to explore some of the truth about our social connections. One of the interesting studies of the film is the idea that people rarely are truthful in exchanges with one another. We couch things in polite language to avoid any uncomfortable interactions and so as not to hurt each others feelings.

Another interesting aspect of the social commentary centers on society’s ideal of a perfect mate. It’s a comment on the fact that, sometimes, people get caught up in what our culture deems successful and valuable rather than evaluating what individuals have to offer or how we match up with them. That is why an interesting love story is at the heart of this film.

Finally, the film offers an interesting take on the idea of God. Gervais is not a believer, but the ideas the film tackles are very intentional. The film offers an interesting glimpse into the way that an outsider might view God and offers plenty of food for thought regarding the nature of God.

Questions to Consider:
1. How honestly do you deal with the people in your life?



2. How do you see God?



3. What role does God play in your life?

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