Christians in Cinema

I don’t like to make New Year’s resolutions, because invariably they have been broken by at least the first Monday following New Year’s. What can I say? I’m human!

However, this year, I think it would be a good thing for me to make some movie-watching resolutions. If you want to join me, drop your resolutions right here.

1. I will read what the critics have to say then make up my own mind about whether or not to watch a film. (i.e., people who helped publicize The Golden Compass by protesting so strongly against it could have saved their breath & effort. It wasn’t that great of a movie; it might have died a natural death)
2. I will not ask anyone else to boycott a film. I’ll assume you’re capable of making up your own mind after reading several reviews (see #1 above). A good rule of thumb I’ll follow: “When in doubt, don’t go. Wait for the DVD.”
3. I will pay to see as many independent films as possible, and thus support the independent filmmaking industry (of which we are a part).
4. When I see a really good movie, I won’t depend on the press or public relations machines to get my friends to attend, I’ll tell them until they’re tired of hearing it.
5. I will go see some movies just because they’re fun (Alvin & the Chipmunks). Sometimes I just want to laugh and enjoy the popcorn.
6. I will do my best to see independent films on opening weekend, because it’s like casting a vote for the film to stay in the theaters.
7. I will continue to educate myself on world matters by watching films that make me uncomfortable because they show a world I don’t want to see, but that exists beyond the borders of my own country (Beyond the Gates, in my opinion one of the best movies to come out on DVD this year).
8. I will keep my mind open about films I don’t necessarily like. After all, ‘Each to his own,’ said the old lady as she kissed the cow. (Night at the Museum still raises debates!)