The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography (Oprah's Book Club)

Book Description

"I have no wish to play the pontificating fool, pretending that I've suddenly come up with the answers to all life's questions. Quite that contrary, I began this book as an exploration, an exercise in self-questing. In other words, I wanted to find out, as I looked back at a long and complicated life, with many twists and turns, how well I've done at measuring up to the values I myself have set."
—Sidney Poitier

In this luminous memoir, a true American icon looks back on his celebrated life and career. His body of work is arguably the most morally significant in cinematic history, and the power and influence of that work are indicative of the character of the man behind the many storied roles. Sidney Poitier here explores these elements of character and personal values to take his own measure—as a man, as a husband and a father, and as an actor.

Poitier credits his parents and his childhood on tiny Cat Island in the Bahamas for equipping him with the unflinching sense of right and wrong and of self-worth that he has never surrendered and that have dramatically shaped his world. "In the kind of place where I grew up," recalls Poitier, "what's coming at you is the sound of the sea and the smell of the wind and momma's voice and the voice of your dad and the craziness of your brothers and sisters...and that's it." Without television, radio, and material distractions to obscure what matters most, he could enjoy the simple things, endure the long commitments, and find true meaning in his life.

Poitier was uncompromising as he pursued a personal and public life that would honor his upbringing and the invaluable legacy of his parents. Just a few years after his introduction to indoor plumbing and the automobile, Poitier broke racial barrier after racial barrier to launch a pioneering acting career. Committed to the notion that what one does for a living articulates to who one is, Poitier played only forceful and affecting characters who said something positive, useful, and lasting about the human condition.

Here is Poitier's own introspective look at what has informed his performances and his life. Poitier explores the nature of sacrifice and commitment, price and humility, rage and forgiveness, and paying the price for artistic integrity. What emerges is a picture of a man in the face of limits—his own and the world's. A triumph of the spirit, The Measure of a Man captures the essential Poitier.

Customer Reviews:

Nice man, wandering story..........2007-10-04

I had to force myself to finish this book, simply because I didn't want to waste my money by leaving it when I was tempted to. It was interesting to realize that an actor whose work I had appreciated came from such a spare beginning, but by halfway through the book, the continuous wandering asides and disclaimers of the author so overwhelmed the narrative that I could barely tolerate it. It seems to me that the story could have been told to greater effect with half the words!

****LOVED IT****.......2007-09-24

Kept me interested...I really enjoyed this book...I couldn't put the book down until I finished reading it!!!!

MEASURE OF A MAN does not measure up.......2007-09-21

Wow, a book about Sidney Poitier. An outstanding actor with a book that just does not give him true justice. The reading tends to be dry and lacks substance. His life struggles could have been the story of any man or woman, black or white. The writing and editing are weak in some sections.

You should rent or buy one of Poitier's movies instead. His movie roles show his true skills.

SPIRITUAL "Of, Relating to, Consisting of, or Affecting the Spirit" MERRIAM-WEBSTER.......2007-08-30

I've always been smitten with Poitier's voice--his diction and control on film, the flow of his words as they travel in and around ideas during interviews--so I read THE MEASURE OF A MAN with an ear for his voice. I wondered, Is it translatable to print? It is, but that means allowing Poitier's thoughts to meander until they find their point, and that his thoughts are less formulated (or formal) and more "in his own words," than they might be if they were written by a biographer. (I read just enough "You know?"s "You hear me when I tell you?"s and "You follow?"s to feel like he was talking to me, but not too many to be annoyed.) I read to imagine what it might be like to have a conversation with Poitier. The book reinforced what I already knew--I'd be as intimidated as heck--but it also gave me the courage to think I'd be able to speak my mind.

As an editor, I read Poitier's book because I wanted to know how he defines a "spiritual" autobiography. Is it a I-Was-A-Sinner-But-I-Found-Jesus-And-Now-I'm-Saved chronology? Is it about how Christianity or another faith influenced his life? Neither. Poitier examines the people, events, circumstances, beliefs, and so on, which have related to, consisted of, or affected his "spirit," and, in doing so, he writes about childhood experiences in the Bahamas, his changing perceptions of his parents, how he adapts to living in the United States, his approach to acting and filmmaking, and his attitude toward fatherhood. He also shares a debate a friend and he had about the Basic Truth of Nature, a debate worth every second of reading it takes to get to.

Is THE MEASURE OF A MAN going to satisfy readers interested only in Poitier's film career? No, but I urge them to read it anyway, if for no other reason than to find out how his "spirit" influenced the films he starred in.

Books.......2007-08-21

I purchased this book for my daughter and she loved it!
She is a teacher and plans to teach this story in her English class fall 2007.
A great story with a great moral.

There's No Business Like Soul Business: A Spiritual Path to Enlightened Screenwriting, Filmmaking, and the Performing Arts

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Derek is Tuning IN with Tamara
A spiritual approach to show business life
More Than Entertainment
So Inspired!
More than just a book...it's an experience

There's No Business Like Soul Business: A Spiritual Path to Enlightened Screenwriting, Filmmaking, and the Performing Arts
Derek Rydall
Manufacturer: Michael Wiese Productions
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1932907246

Book Description

Publisher Marketing: A step-by-step guide, filled with in-depth exercises and breakthrough processes, this book will equip artists and entertainment professionals with the spiritual tools and techniques to make their everyday walk in the business a more purposeful and prosperous adventure. Rydall empowers readers to achieve their dreams and create material that has a postive impact on the planet.

Customer Reviews:

Derek is Tuning IN with Tamara.......2007-05-29

Derek Rydall talks about the ideas in his book on my spiritual entertainment talk show in a way that shows he's living the message in every fiber of his being. Reading his book renews my passion and confidence for my personal dream and vision of shining as a real light. He reminds me of my divinity and power in this magical play of life. He explains "oneness" like I've never grasped it before. He reveals the most important "it's who you know" metaphysical truth in Hollywood. He reminds me of my higher purpose and now I have a much deeper meaning to my work in television, and I'm able to articulate it to others so I can touch and awaken all those who cross my path on this beautiful journey. He enables us all to be true healers through the entertainment medium as we perform the real work of remembering and awakening wholeness in every heart on the planet. -- Tamara Henry, MA, Producer/Host, IN with Tamara Henry, Santa Monica News Anchor

A spiritual approach to show business life.......2007-05-19

In his second book, Derek Rydall attempts to provide an antidote for the cynicism, greed and rampant sociopathic tendencies which plague the entertainment industry. To counter these, he exhorts people to become `enlightened entertainers', who see the entertainment industry as a force for Good and who live their lives accordingly. A tall order, perhaps, but in the book he provides all the necessary information in order to set out on this journey of the soul.
Rydall starts off with the basics: identifying what enlightened entertainment is, and why audiences need it. He also provides the basic tools needed for the journey: types of meditation and soul-searching exercises. Next up is the big picture, a look at the realities of show business and the spiritual world, and how these contrast and (possibly) interact. Changing the business is something which can only happen one person at a time, so the rest of the book is devoted to developing the character of the reader. First on the purely personal level, then specifically as an artist, and finally as an entertainment professional. The final section of the book helps the reader create a career plan.
This book is definitely very New Age in style. If you're not into spirituality, the book won't do much for you - although many of the exercises are introspective ways of getting to know yourself better, and these will be beneficial for anyone. If you are spiritually enclined, Rydall's book will undoubtedly be inspirational and provide you with great insights.

More Than Entertainment.......2007-05-14

This book is not just for screen writers who want to go beyond simple entertainment to meaningful film, but for all writers who want to make a difference. The time for enlightened entertainment is now! This book is not only a stepping stone and good resource, it's invaluable. Read, learn, and profit.

So Inspired!.......2007-05-11

Derek,
First let me complement you on your book. I really am inspired by every word. I did the visioning exercise today on the industry. I've know for some time that my purpose as an actor and writer is to wake people up to their humanity through the emotions evoked in my performances or my writing. Today I got so clearly that the essence of the industry is love and connectedness.

Thank you!
INSPIRED in 2007,
Traci Dority

More than just a book...it's an experience.......2007-05-11

Firstly, well done! Well done, congratulations and two thumbs up for writing There's No Business Like Soul Business. Not only was it an inspiring read for the spiritual warrior but a brilliant example of someone wanting to help other artists and pass on oh-so-valuable insights about not only life but the wonderful world of entertainment. Reading each chapter I could hear the lessons of Deepak Chopra shining through, as I have read many of his books, and then to apply them to entertainment breaking down the myths that people can get caught up in, and allow a new road to be paved for the "enlightened entertainer" who can then make the conscious decision to shift his/her attitude and focus on your inner being as the tool for transcedence is...well, awe-inspiring.

A must read for anyone wishing to follow their dreams in the wonderful world of entertainment!

Marshall Dunn (Sydney, Australia)

The Warrior Within : The Philosophies of Bruce Lee

Average customer rating:

RARE INSIGHT INTO ONE OF THIS GENERATIONS GREATEST ARTISTS!
Inproved my way of thinking.
I gave it 3 stars because it's Bruce Lee
Dr.Phil ain't got nothing on Bruce Lee
Timeless

The Warrior Within : The Philosophies of Bruce Lee
John R. Little
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0809231948

Book Description

During his lifetime, legendary martial artist Bruce Lee formulated a complex personal philosophy--a synthesis of Eastern and Western ideals--that extolled the virtues of knowledge and total mastery of one's self. However, most of his philosophical writings could be found only within the personal library of the Bruce Lee estate--until now. The Warrior Within is the most comprehensive volume of these teachings, meant to help you apply Lee's philosophies to your own life. This unique guide reveals such life-affirming secrets as:

Seeing the totality of life and putting things into perspective
Understanding the concept of Yin and Yang
Defeating adversity by adapting to circumstances
Tapping into inner spiritual forces to help shape the future

With a foreword by Linda Lee Cadwell and photographs and other memorabilia from Bruce Lee's short but celebrated life, The Warrior Within is an engrossing and easy-to-understand guide to the little-explored world of Bruce Lee. John Little has been identified as "one of the foremost authorities on Bruce Lee in the world" by Black Belt magazine. He edited a three-volume series for the Bruce Lee estate and has written articles for several publications, including Men's Fitness, Official Karate, and Inside Kung Fu.

Customer Reviews:

RARE INSIGHT INTO ONE OF THIS GENERATIONS GREATEST ARTISTS!.......2007-03-16

One of the best books I have ever read. Buy it, read it & understand. But thats up to you. Walk on......

Inproved my way of thinking........2007-02-16

This is a must own. I have never read anything on Bruce Lee but this book has changed my thinking. It describes his life and what he has learned from Gung fu. His signposts are most important part of this book. In the words of the master himself "Be like water my friend".

I gave it 3 stars because it's Bruce Lee.......2005-11-05

This book as far as it being a good read is kind of boring. Aside from the boredom it gives you a lesson in comparative studies the west sucks and the east has the natural flow of things. However, having said that don't think that this book do not have any revelance. According to John Little, Bruce Lee's whole philosophy revolves around martial arts and that is the basis for all of his metaphors. I do not have a problem with that as I took karate as a child for a whole day! Anyway, Bruce said all knowledge is self knowledge. WOW! I have never thought of it like that before but I suppose he is right. Such things like that make the book worth the read. Is it a self help book per se no, but it can help you become someone spiritual especially for those who are into martial arts or like me just like to read and develop metaphors.

Warning: If you are a devout christian then you may be offended that Bruce did not believe in GOD.
At the end of the day:
After reading the book a spark went off in my brain.
"I am the greatest teacher and I am also the greatest student so, therefore I will not fail in any obstacles". Hey that is what works for me. You must find what works for you.

I reccommend the book simply because Bruce encourages anyone to follow their own way.

Dr.Phil ain't got nothing on Bruce Lee.......2004-01-26

Bruce Lee was always some one that I always Looked up to. He truly had a strong Vibe about Himself&the way he worded things&Put things into Perspective is still very Uplifiting to Me.He was a Very Intelligent Man&a strong Philosopher. this Book truly is Great for self-Esteem&Finding Inner Peace. a Must read.

Timeless.......2001-07-22

I would like to thank the authors for presenting such useful information. A few things that really impacted me were: 1. Bruce Lee felt that to strike back to people who are aggressive shows weakness. 2. He really worked his stomach. I have worked out for years and once I read about his stomach work I felt the affects immediately. 3. I love his thoughts on stress managemnt. I always kind of knew when I ate junk food that it was somehow related to stress. Now that I practice stress reducing excercises, I eat less junk food and I have no desire to eat it. 4. I appreciate his philosophy on total health. Like I said, what I read has totally changed my ideas on a lot of things. Thank you for an awesome book!

Average customer rating:

A very reflective read
A Gift to Wanderers
From Elsewhere: Being E.T. in America
A life-saver for wanderers
A handbook for wanderers

From Elsewhere: Being E.T. in America
Scott Mandelker
Manufacturer: Citadel
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1559723041

Book Description

From Elsewhere takes a close look at the most radical New Age group--those who claim extraterrestrial (ET) identity. Adapted from the Ph.D. research of Scott Mandelker through 25 interviews, From Elsewhere follows the lives of 25 'Wanderers' from their unusual childhood to the rare events that lead to an extraordinary sense of self. Detailed case stories trace their growth from confusion to clarity, dealing with society, intimacy, and life-mission. Their ideas on UFOs, human history, and the fate of planet Earth make fascinating reading.

Customer Reviews:

A very reflective read.......2006-08-30

After reading From Elsewhere I have this book an excellent read!
Very reflective and I resonate with many of the stories told by the 25 people in the book. I especially love Soren's story we are both very similar.
I highly recommend this book. Each time i read it I discover something new!

A Gift to Wanderers.......2006-02-24

After my own "awakening" I went searching for others like me. I quickly found Scott Mandelker's book, "From Elsewhere." It was a relief for me to know that I was not alone. Reading the experiences in this book helped me a great deal as I have also told Scott. This book is helpful to all of the Wanderer's, Walk-ins and others that know they are "From Elsewhere." Thank you Scott for such a wonderful gift.

From Elsewhere: Being E.T. in America.......2002-03-14

Almost everyone is still asking the question: are we alone in the universe?
But almost every metaphysician knows that the answer is simply "No" From elsewhere is a book that proves that we are not alone in the universe and it gives the reader a lot of valubale information about the extra-terrestrials amoung us. I found this book to be very interesting and I am certan that you will too if you read it!

A life-saver for wanderers.......2000-07-25

Synchronicity brought "From Elsewhere" my way and I am eternally grateful. It is very difficult going through life as a lonely observer with a growing stack of unanswerable questions. This book addressed those gnawing issues for me. The answer to all of them: I am a wanderer. I agree with the Knoxville reviewer about the book probably being unpalatable to most non-wanderers/walk-ins. That is simply because few people are open-minded enough to ask the questions that Dr. Mandelker poses. These questions shake the very foundations of society's cherished beliefs about life. It is a tribute to Mandelker's courage that he dares ask them.

As a wanderer, I particularly appreciated the author's personal story in the appendix. That autobiography plus the quiz that the other reviewer mentioned, convinced me of my origins. I really wasn't surprised that I'm from Elsewhere. That was probably the most stunning discovery of all. I hope sincere, open-minded people will delve into this book. It deserves the attention of all devoted seekers of truth. Dr. Mandelker's sincerity, courage, and solid, though unconventional reasoning make this work a stand-out. Thank you, Scott.

A handbook for wanderers.......2000-04-29

I must say this book was an eye opener for me. After 50 years of life I would have thought I would know my roots and why I just don't seem to fit into this world. After reading a quiz that I found on the net that suppose to indicate if one is a wanderer, I found that I answered virtually every question yes. So I ordered this book, and boy does it ring true. It has given me a new outlook on life, and at last I know my mission. For wanderers it is a must read. For those who are not wanderers it probably is of little interest.

Book Description

Would you like to discover a new world of movies that expands your mind, warms your hearts and stirs your soul? If so, this book is sure to become a valuable resource for you. Here you will find a treasure trove of films that inspire you and celebrate every aspect of the human spirit. Spiritual Cinema asks the big questions about life and living: Who are we? Why are we here? Where are we bound? and What can we become when we live at our highest level of potential?

This book can light your path to hundreds of hours of inspiration and wisdom.

Customer Reviews:

Guide to selecting moview with a spiritual theme.......2006-07-30

This book is a good start in creating a reference for people looking for movies in the new genre of spiritual cinema, a term used by Stephen Simon, the creator of "What Dreams May Come." The movies reviewed are not "religious" movies - rather, they are those that are uplifing, inspiring, and affirming of daily life with all its complexities. The authors give detailed reviews on some of the best movies in this new genre. I was hoping the book would also include a longer list for the avid movie fan.

Excellent Guide to Movies that Inspire, Heal and Empower Your Life.......2005-11-16

If you are looking for an incredibly written guide to some of the best movies ever made that will touch your heart, and bring meaning to your life, as well as an outstanding and timeless spiritual film resource, this is the book for you.

What I love most about this book as well as Spiritual Cinema Circle is what it represents: Movies that really make a difference in our lives. Movies that bring hope where despair or desperation previously existed.

This is a great guide featuring some of the best films ever made, with genuine, heartfelt and passionate reviews about each film, and the meaning behind them. Reading this book flows much like an Oscar winning film - because it is truly written from the heart, and you feel the sincerity flow right from the pages.

I will quote from the Afterword of the book to give you a feel for what it's really all about:
"We believe passionately, as you probably do, that Spiritual Cinema can help make a better world, in which people practice the values of compassion, insight, and transcendence that are embedded in the genre. Thank you for joining us in this incredible adventure. We truly are all in this together, and we are grateful beyond words for your willingness to join us in creating the new world whose promise is at the heart of Spiritual Cinema."

This book is a beautiful resource, and one that would make an outstanding gift along with a membership to the Spiritual Cinema Circle if you are truly interested in films that will really make a difference in your life.

Barbara Rose, Ph.D. author of Stop Being the String Along: A Relationship Guide to Being THE ONE and Know Yourself
Editor, inspire! magazine

Between the Bullets: The Spiritual Cinema of John Woo

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Between the Bullets: The Spiritual Cinema of John Woo
Michael Bliss
Manufacturer: The Scarecrow Press, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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John Woo: The Films

ASIN: 081084110X

Book Description

Through an examination of representative films from the director's Hong Kong and American periods, Michael Bliss demonstrates that Woo should be regarded as a predominantly religious director, in whose films action is the vehicle by virtue of which a concern with spirituality is dramatized. Contains a chapter on Chinese opera tradition as relates to Woo's films, an exclusive interview with John Woo, and a complete filmography.

Robert Bresson: A Spiritual Style in Film

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A Good Bresson Primer but Spiritual Style?
The Definitive Brisson

Robert Bresson: A Spiritual Style in Film
Joseph Cunneen
Manufacturer: Continuum International Publishing Group
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0826416055

Book Description

Although Robert Bresson is widely regarded by movie critics and students of the cinema as one of the greatest directors of the twentieth century, his films are largely unknown and are rarely shown in the English-speaking world. Nonetheless, Susan Sontag has called Bresson "the master of the reflective mode in film."

The present book, which introduces Bresson's movies to a broader audience, assesses thirteen of his most significant films in the context of detailed plot summaries, vivid descriptions of characters and settings, and perceptive, jargon-free insights into the director's execution, intention, and technique. Among these films, made between 1943 and 1983, are Diary of a Country Priest, A Man Escaped, Pickpocket, The Trial of Joan of Arc, Au Hasard Balthasar, Mouchette, A Gentle Woman, Lancelot of the Lake, and L'Argent.

Each of these films in its own way illustrates what Joseph Cunneen calls Bresson's "spiritual style." Though not necessarily focused on the explicitly religious, they illustrate two complementary principles: on the negative side, the rejection of what the director called "photographed theater" with its artificiality and dependence on celebrity performers. On the more positive side, as Bresson himself expressed it, the conviction that, "The supernatural is only the real rendered more precise; real things seen close up." Being equally adamant about both these principles, he often had difficulty getting financial backing, and this in turn resulted in his having to abandon his long-cherished hope of making a movie on the biblical book of Genesis. Nevertheless, because of these firmly held principles, Martin Scorsese suggested that a young filmmaker should ask: "Is it as tough as Bresson?... Is [meaning] as ruthlessly pared down, as direct, as unflinching in its gaze at aspects of life I might feel more comfortable ignoring?"

Questions that every reader of this book and every viewer of Bresson's films will also ask.

Customer Reviews:

A Good Bresson Primer but Spiritual Style?.......2003-06-16

Cunneen's "Robert Bresson: A Spiritual Style in Film" is a good survey of Bresson's filmography. The subheading, however, "A Spiritual Style in Film," is a bit of an an overpromise as Cunneen does not explain what encompasses his understanding of "style" and subordinates the discussion of the truly cinematic, stylistic considerations such as cinematography, editing, lighting in favor of the more literary bases of film such as plot construction and narrative. Moreover, Cunneen borrows heavily from existing work on Bresson and actually devotes more space to summarizing Bresson's body of work rather than the actual analysis of Bresson's unique stylistic signature. A title that reads something like "Bresson: An Introduction" might have been more realistic. Paul Schrader's "A Transcendental Style in Film" offers a more insightful analysis of Bresson's style that lives up to its title. Unlike Cunneen's book, it is, primarily, about cinematic style, not just content analysis.

The Definitive Brisson.......2003-05-04

"Robert Bresson: A Spiritual Style in Film" by Joseph Cunneen is a much-needed introduction to a master film director. Cunneen, long-time movie critic for the "National Catholic Reporter," approaches Bresson's career in a way that easily explains the director's distinctive approach to cinematography.

Bresson rejects the artificiality and dependence of "photographed theater" with it's reliance of star performers and instead emphasizes an austere, elliptical approach to narrative, making a masterful use of natural sound.
Cunneen explores all 13 films of Bresson in chronological order, clarifying the development of Bresson's technique while making clear that his "spiritual style" is why Susan Sontag called him "the master of the reflective model in film."
Easily understood by the novice as well as the movie buff, this book should send readers hunting down Bresson movies in the better video stores, and begging local universities to stage retrospectives of Bresson's entire oeuvre.

Working on the Inside: The Spiritual Life Through the Eyes of Actors

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The Muti-Dimensional Spiritual Collage
nice book

Working on the Inside: The Spiritual Life Through the Eyes of Actors
Retta Blaney
Manufacturer: Sheed and Ward
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0742533190

Book Description

Working on the Inside goes backstage into the inner lives of respected actors like Liam Neeson, Vanessa Williams, Phylicia Rashad, Edward Herrmann, Kristin Chenoweth and many others to reveal the deep spirituality each one relies on in their lives and work. Visit our website for sample chapters!

Customer Reviews:

The Muti-Dimensional Spiritual Collage.......2007-05-14

Blaney's text is an important collage of the actor's spiritual awwareness of the theatre as spiritual journey.
There is a textual exploration that goes far beyond the histrionic technique and provides an ongoing and progressive investigation of the layered spiritual communication occurring from creator to performer to audience.
Dr. John V. Roche

nice book.......2007-03-18

I really don't think there is anthing like this book out there- on the spiritual lives of performers. It includes Christian, Jew and few in between. A thoughtful and fun book.

Screen Christologies: Redemption and the Medium of Film

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Screen Christologies: Redemption and the Medium of Film

Manufacturer: University of Wales Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 070831712X

Book Description

Screen Christologies takes a new and radical look at the mass media as a source of religious study. It looks at the ways in which the Christian concept of redemption has been represented in films from It's a Wonderful Life to Taxi Driver. Concentrating on film noir and the work of Martin Scorsese, the book argues that the themes of alienation and redemption through violence, destruction, and sin characteristic of the noir genre demonstrate that cinema confronts issues and themes that are distinctly religious. This is a book for scholars, students, and all those interested in film and theology and their place in the broader contexts of Christianity and contemporary culture.

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Big Picture, The: 2
J. John
Manufacturer: Authentic
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1860244416

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