Movies that matter - Richard Leonard

A lively, discerning guide to what's good, beautiful, and true at the
movies

"Richard Leonard, SJ, expertly guides readers through some of the
most popular recent films and shows us how even the most unlikely movies can
encourage us to pray and draw closer to the divine . . . fascinating, lively,
and often witty."
-James Martin, SJ, author of My Life with the
Saints

This thought-provoking and inspiring work by popular film
critic and Jesuit Richard Leonard explains how movies are today's parables and
why people of faith need the skills to converse about them intelligently and
productively. In Movies That Matter, Leonard views fifty
important movies through "a lens of faith" and offers surprising insights on the
spiritual dimension of each film. From Finding Nemo to Gandhi to The Godfather,
Leonard's informed, Christian point of view guides us to a new appreciation of
both the films and our own spiritual beliefs. Leonard also lists teachable
moments found in each movie and provides questions for personal reflection or
group dialogue.

In addition, Leonard teaches today's religious educators,
parents, and film buffs how to "read" a film with the eyes of faith, and how to
meaningfully engage with others through the media of film. He offers realistic
advice on such topics as: valuing our story, sex and violence in films, ratings,
and how to be a critical consumer. This entertaining and reliable guide will
enrich your movie-watching experience.

"Movies That Matter is a
book every person in pastoral ministry will want to use as he or she seeks to be
relevant and faithful in a media world."
-Rose Pacatte, FSP, coauthor
Lights, Camera, . . . Faith!