Theology at the Movies:
Looking at Film Through the Lens of the Christian Worldview
#7: Science Fiction - Avatar
I. Overview of Science Fiction Genre
Quote – “ Science Fiction is the improbable made possible." Rod Serling
Quote - "Many people feel that in the contemplation of nature and in communication with other living things, they become aware of some kind of force, or something, behind this apparent mask which we see in front of us, and they call it God." Arthur Lipsett’s abstract film 21-87, a response to a comment that human’s are merely advanced machines
A. Definition of the Science Fiction Genre
“Allow realistic speculation about possible future events, based solidly on adequate knowledge of the real world, past and present, and on a thorough understanding of the nature and significance of the scientific method. It includes science-based depictions of imaginary phenomena such as extra-terrestrial lifeforms, alien worlds, and time travel, often along with technological elements such as futuristic spacecraft, robots, or other technologies. Science fiction films have often been used to provide social commentary on political or social issues, and to explore philosophical issues, such as, what makes us human.”
Examples: Matrix, Star Wars, Alien, Terminator, Back to the Future, ET
B. What elements does this film genre share with the Christian worldview?
C. Why do we like science fiction films? What does it say about us and our world?
II. Summary of Avatar
A. Facts and Stats
Creation of James Cameron, (director of Titanic).
Story was ready in 1999, but not the technology
Highest grossing film of all time in the U.S. and Canada at $2.8B
Nominated for 9 Academy Awards, winning 3 (Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, and Best Art Direction.)
B. Overview of Story/Plot
When his brother is killed in a robbery, paraplegic Marine Jake Sully decides to take his place in a mission on the distant world of Pandora. There he learns of greedy corporate figurehead Parker Selfridge's intentions of driving off the native humanoid "Na'vi" in order to mine for the precious material scattered throughout their rich woodland. In exchange for the spinal surgery that will fix his legs, Jake gathers intel for the cooperating military unit spearheaded by gung-ho Colonel Quaritch, while simultaneously attempting to infiltrate the Na'vi people with the use of an "avatar" identity. While Jake begins to bond with the native tribe and quickly falls in love with the beautiful alien Neytiri, the restless Colonel moves forward with his ruthless extermination tactics, forcing the soldier to take a stand - and fight back in an epic battle for the fate of Pandora.
III. Analysis of Avatar
A. Aesthetic Analysis: Was it a well-made Film?
Story/plot
Acting
Genre
Screenplay
Cinematography:
Sounds
Music
Special effects
B. Worldview Analysis: What is its Message?
1. Message/elements that reflect the Christian worldview
a. What are the elements of this film that reflect Christian truth?
b. How are the true parts of the film dependent on a Christian view of reality?
c. Are there images of Christ/salvation/redemption in this film?
2. Message/elements that reflect a fallen worldview
a. Key Question: How does the movie reflect moral relativism and/or secular dogmatism
b. Is the movie historically/factually accurate?
c. In what ways does the film challenge/contradict the Christian worldview?
d. In what ways is the movie inconsistent with itself and its own claims?
C. Personal Analysis: What impact has it made on me? What response should I have?
1. How do I feel after seeing this movie? What does it make me want to do?
2. In what ways is the personal impact of this film good? In what ways is it bad?