Of pilgrims and fire

In this illuminating guidebook, film teacher and critic Roy Anker explores some of cinema's most profound depictions of human beings searching for meaning in life. The films he delves into -- The Thin Red Line, American Beauty, Crimes and Misdemeanors, The Shawshank Redemption, Dead Man Walking, The Apostle, E.T., Magnolia, and twelve more -- are, with few exceptions, not overtly "religious" or "Christian." Yet from the world of secular Hollywood he succeeds in drawing together some of the most religiously provocative movies of our time. Providing synopses, commentary, background information, and both pre-viewing comments and post-viewing discussion questions for each film, Anker -- without being preachy or didactic -- offers movie buffs profound new insights. Watching this diverse collection anew through Anker's eyes, readers will find these films not only enjoyable but also deeply enlightening. - Publisher.