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The Power of Relationships

TABLE OF CONTENTS Click on the study title you’d like to see:

Leader’s Guide: HOW TO START A CHURCH FILM FESTIVAL

Study 1: DEAD POETS SOCIETY

Study 2: FINDING NEVERLAND

Study 3: ABOUT A BOY g Study 4: CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN

Study 5: RADIO Study 6: Les Misérables MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE How to Start a Film Festival in Your Church Page 1

How to Start a Film Festival in Your Church Movies can be a fun and effective way to initiate spiritual discussions. By JoHannah Reardon I was a child of the ’60s. Although I wasn’t raised in the church, I had friends who had to sneak out of the house to watch The Sound of Music in the theater. When I was 16, the prohibition of sex, language, and violence in Hollywood was lifted. I remember how I sat in shock watching The Graduate, crumbling my G-rated world forever.

Times have changed. It has taken an entire generation of Christians to accept and even embrace the modern film industry. Most of us have realized that for better or worse, the film industry is here to stay. Out of this attitude, a new idea is emerging: Instead of spending all our time railing against something we cannot change, why don’t we use film to communicate the truth of God’s Word to a hurting world? A great way to do this is to hold a film festival at your church. To make this kind of festival a success, we consulted with Bryan Zug of Harambee Church in South Seattle, Washington, and David Taylor of Hope Chapel in Austin, Texas, who have successfully hosted film festivals at their churches. They offer the following insights on how churches can use film wisely and effectively.

Talk to Your Church Leadership Although Christians today are generally far more receptive to movies than they were 50 years ago, questions remain about the validity of film in the church, and rightly so. Individuals view the matter quite differently, from those who watch only G-rated films to those who watch almost anything. The last thing you want to do is create a battle over this in your church. The place to start is with your church leadership. If you are considering having a film festival in your church, you will want to make sure it fits in with the culture and goals of your congregation. If you are an inner-city church full of 20-somethings, you will probably have an easier time promoting this idea than if you are a rural church full of mostly retired people. Carefully think through why a film festival would be a good idea and back it up with Scripture. The church leadership will need to see that you want to use film to engage the church in a spiritual discussion and not just as a gimmick to be edgy and contemporary. If your church leadership is not behind the idea of a film festival, consider having a private party in your home instead, where you invite a few friends and neighbors.

Decide on a Name and Your Goals Come up with both a name and goals for your festival. Brainstorm names that would attract people to your event. Depending on your target audience, “Faith and Film Weekend” or “Movies and Theology Night” may work well. Also, think through clear-cut goals for the event. Do you want to challenge a person’s view of movies or just provide entertainment? Do you want it to be family friendly or an adult discussion only? Do you want to provide a gathering point for church members or use it as an outreach? Are you 1 going to show the entire film or just clips of the film to discuss?

© 2008 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE How to Start a Film Festival in Your Church Page 2

Find Your Stance on Ratings Establish some ground rules about how to deal with movie ratings. At Taylor’s church, they have no age limits on who can attend. Instead, they let parents determine what they think is best for their children to watch. Also, when he is showing a movie clip in a talk or discussion, he always makes sure it is a PG-rated clip no matter what the rating of the movie. Zug’s church, on the other hand, relies heavily on the movie’s rating. For example, if a film is R-rated, they discourage those under 17 from attending by making it clear who the movie is for.

Prepare the Discussion Leaders It’s vital to have good discussion leaders. Those guiding the conversation need to know how to keep it going rather than killing it. Any good discussion is dependent upon the questions; however, you can destroy a great question by providing an answer before people have had a chance to talk. If a leader pushes his or her ideas without allowing others to express their points of view, the leader will not win them to his or her side but will simply discourage them from speaking what they think. In fact, encourage leaders to avoid giving their opinion until the end of the discussion. The leader should be willing to let God’s Word and Spirit be the ultimate teacher. Leaders should refrain from giving pat, simplistic answers but instead encourage people to further study God’s Word for the truth. God is full of mystery, and we should not be too anxious to make everything fit into our theological paradigm. As leaders, we need to allow God’s Word to challenge our presuppositions too. Make sure to keep the discussion on track. Allow discussion while making sure it stays on the subject. If it wanders, gently bring it back. Finally, communicate love, not judgment. Group members will not want to answer questions honestly if they are ridiculed or shot down for their answers. In fact, they may not even come back. Look for ways to show you care about the person and not just a right answer.

Work Out the Details Do you want to show the movie in the sanctuary or in the educational wing? Do you want everyone sitting at tables or theater style? Will you provide refreshments? How will you publicize the event? Are you going to provide childcare? If you are going to use it as an outreach, do you want to provide follow-up? How much time will you allow for the discussion? Will it be a one-night event, an entire weekend, or a regular occurrence? You need permission to show movies, even short clips, in your church. The licensing system works a lot like the CCLI (Christian Copyright Licensing International) license many churches purchase to print or project song lyrics. CCLI has partnered with Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (MPLC) to offer a service especially for churches. Church Video Licensing International (CVLI) offers an “umbrella license” for an annual fee. You can show authorized titles from MPLC’s long list of big studios (including Sony, Warner Brothers, and Disney) and from a growing list of Christian movie producers. This license covers film showing as long as no admission fee is charged and the title is not advertised to the general public. See below for contact information.

1 Finally, you will need to choose which movies to show. CHRISTIANBIBLESTUDIES.COM offers discussion guides on many popular movies and connects those movies to biblical

© 2008 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE How to Start a Film Festival in Your Church Page 3

issues like relationships, families, redemption, and overcoming difficulties. The purpose of these guides is to help people “think Christianly” about what they see in the movies, the most powerful media of our time. By hosting a film festival and guiding meaningful discussions about the spiritual themes portrayed in movies, your church can broaden understanding and faith while combating the cultural messages that contradict Scripture.

JoHannah Reardon is an associate editor for CHRISTIANBIBLESTUDIES.COM.

Movie licensing information. Licensing fees are based on church size and can be granted over the phone. CVLI (Church Video Licensing International) Phone: 1.888.771.2854 Web site: http://www.cvli.org MPLC (Motion Picture Licensing Corporation) 5455 Centinela Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90066-6970. Phone: 310.822.8855 or 1.800.462.8855 Web site: http://www.mplc.com E-mail: [email protected]

Movie Discussion Guides: http://www.christianitytoday.com/biblestudies/movies/

© 2008 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Dead Poets Society A timeless drama about golden and missed opportunities, the dangers of conformity, and the power of influence.

Dead Poets Society tells the story of John Keating, an English teacher who returns to his preparatory alma mater to inspire his students with refrains of carpe diem (seize the day). Keating’s unorthodox teaching methods challenge the students to make their lives extraordinary, to “swim against the stream,” and to dare to become freethinkers amidst parental and educational constraints.

This study will help you discuss the deeper themes of the movie. To what extent should a person adhere to a carpe diem mentality? What are the advantages and disadvantages of conformity and its opposite, individuality? How does the movie portray parental influence? What is the purpose of education?

Based on: Dead Poets Society (Touchstone Pictures, 1989), directed by Peter Weir, screenplay by Tom Schulman, rated PG for mild language, intense thematic material, and teen drug and alcohol use. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Dead Poets Society Page 2

Movie Summary

Professor John Keating (Robin Williams) joins the faculty of Welton Academy as the preparatory school’s new English teacher. Keating’s classes differ from those of his colleagues. Whereas the other professors are busy warning the boys not to skip homework assignments and not to question the integrity of the school, Keating leads his students out of class while whistling the 1812 Overture, encourages the boys to stand on their desks for a new perspective, and pleads with them to tear out the introduction of their poetry textbooks. Several of the students, led by Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), take Keating’s cue and reconvene the Welton chapter of the Dead Poets Society, a group dedicated to “sucking the marrow out of life” by letting poetry “drip from our tongues like honey.” For a time, the Society meets fairly innocuously, but the ideologies of the society soon compel the young men to take risks (e.g. acting against parents’ wishes) and live life to what they believe to be the fullest (e.g. writing poetry for beautiful women). As the young men cling more fully to the liberating ideas set forth by Keating, poetry, and artistic freedom, the results become increasingly dangerous—for Neil in particular. (Warning: Story spoilers below.) Neil decides to audition for a play without the consent of his father, Mr. Perry (Kurtwood Smith). When Mr. Perry, who has hijacked Neil’s future and made plans for Neil to attend Harvard and become a doctor, discovers that his son has intentionally defied him by acting in the play, Mr. Perry pledges to withdraw Neil from Welton and enroll him at Braden Military School. Neil feels it’s futile to try to explain himself to his militant father, so he decides to take his own life.

Rated PG This film includes mild language, intense thematic material, and several scenes of teen drug and alcohol use. The film also contains several scenes in which students question authority.

Discussing the Scenes

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Carpe Diem: Seize the Day 2. Conformity vs. Individuality 3. Parental Influence

1. Carpe Diem: Seize the Day (Genesis 6; Mark 5:21–34; Luke 9:24; Luke 10:38–42; John 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:58) On the first day of English class, Keating takes the students on a short field trip to the school’s main entryway, which contains pictures of past Welton students. Keating urges the boys to lean into the pictures and listen to the voices of the past, voices of students who thought they were immortal, but whose bodies are now “food for worms.” Scene to Watch: Carpe diem (Elapsed time: 00:11:16 – 00:16:38) As the boys lean into the pictures, Keating whispers, “Carpe diem…seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.”

[Q] Why does Keating encourage the boys to “make [their] lives extraordinary”? What is he hoping to accomplish with this unorthodox first day of class?

[Q] Why would Keating advise the boys to listen to the voices of the past? What purpose does that serve?

[Q] How do the students respond to Keating’s request to listen to the pictures? Are they skeptical, or are they interested? Why do they respond the way they do?

[Q] Read Genesis 6 and Mark 5:21–34. How do Noah (Genesis chapter) and the sick woman (Mark passage) seize the day? How does God respond to their willingness to take chances and to live out their respective faiths? Pitts reads “Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, / Old time is still a-flying: / And this same flower that smiles to-day / To-morrow will be dying,” which is the first stanza of “To the Virgins, To Make Much of Time,” a poem by Robert Herrick.

[Q] Why do you think Keating would ask Pitts to read that specific poem? What does the poem mean? Does the poem contain elements of carpe diem? If so, how?

[Q] What do you think of the idea of carpe diem and what it represents? Have you seen this ideology in your own life? If so, how?

[Q] In Luke 10:38–42, compare and contrast the actions of Mary and Martha. How does Mary “Gather ye rosebuds while ye may”? Why does Jesus say, “Martha, Martha… Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (vv. 41–42)? Consider the story of Joseph (Genesis 37–50). Joseph’s brothers sold him into the slave circuit of Egypt. Then, after hard work and discipline, Joseph became one of the most powerful men in Egypt.

[Q] Does Joseph’s story contain elements of carpe diem? How did Joseph seize the day amidst his trials?

Leader’s Note: Joseph seized the day in a figurative manner as he consistently chose to honor God despite his circumstances.

[Q] In what ways can Christians live a life of carpe diem? How can Christians faithfully and effectively seize the day? Leader’s Note: The answers to this question will vary depending on the respondent’s spiritual journey. If a person is interested in evangelism, he or she may feel that witnessing is the best way to seize the day. Or, if a person is concerned with spiritual disciplines such as reading the Bible and praying, he or she may choose to seize the day in that manner. At one point in the movie, Keating tells his students to “Huddle up!” as he delivers a poignant speech about the power of words and how poetry stems from the passion of the human race. Scene to Watch: What will your verse be? (Elapsed time: 00:24:26 – 00:26:46) Once the students are in the huddle, Keating says, “But poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for.”

[Q] What do you make of Keating’s discussion? Do you agree that we stay alive for artistic outlets such as poetry in order to express human passions such as romance and love?

[Q] At this point in the movie, do you trust Keating as a character? Do you believe that he means what he says? Why or why not? Keating also says, “That the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse… What will your verse be?”

[Q] Recall the boys’ reactions to Keating’s words. One student in particular, Todd (Ethan Hawke), seems to take Keating’s words to heart. And, Keating, in turn, seems to be speaking to Todd at that moment. Why?

[Q] As a Christian, do you feel an obligation to contribute a verse? What kinds of contributions do you feel you should make? What kinds of contributions do you want to make?

[Q] Consider the idea of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12). How does the idea of one Christian body with many gifted parts come into play for your contribution to a person, to society, to the world? How can you use your gift to make your contributions? Leader’s Note: Encourage your group members to consider their spiritual gifts if they have not done so up to this point. If they struggle with the term “spiritual gifts,” inquire as to their strengths, talents, hobbies and interests. Often, personal interests are predictors for a person’s spiritual gift genre.

[Q] Read Luke 9:24, John 10:10, and 1 Corinthians 15:58. Discuss how each of these passages relates to the idea of carpe diem. How is each verse different in its encouragement to seize the day and make a contribution? How are the verses similar?

2. Conformity vs. Individuality (2 Corinthians 3:17; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Matthew 6:24) In an effort to show his students the dangers of conformity, Keating takes his class outside and makes three students take a stroll by walking around the courtyard. At first, the students walk in their own stride, “their own pace.” But, soon, the students walk uniformly while their classmates look on and clap a cadence. Scene to Watch: “Take a stroll, gentlemen.” (Elapsed time: 01:03:33 – 01:05:45)

[Q] Why did the amblers begin at their own paces, but end up marching to the same time? What happened to cause the transition from individuality to conformity?

[Q] With the demonstration over, Keating looks at the students and says, “We all have a great need for acceptance.” Do you agree or disagree? Why? Have you felt the need for acceptance?

[Q] Keating also says, “But you must trust that your beliefs are unique, your own. Even though others may think them odd or unpopular.” As a Christian, do you believe that your beliefs are unique? How do your beliefs compare to other Christians’ beliefs? Can beliefs be different when it comes to Christianity?

[Q] Have you experienced hatred or conflict as a result of your unpopular beliefs and faith in Christ? If so, how did you feel at the time?

[Q] In 2 Corinthians 6:14, why does the Bible warn believers to “not be yoked together with unbelievers”? How can that verse be viewed in light of the conformity versus individuality discussion?

[Q] Read 2 Corinthians 3:17. What does it mean to have freedom in the Spirit? Do you think that Christians can be both individuals and conformists? Do we have to be both or can we be just one? Leader’s Notes: At this point, remember to mention the various facets of faith in Christ. On one hand, Christians are called to fellowship, which contains elements of conformity such as denominations, group worship, and communal prayer. On the other hand, Christians are also called to a personal relationship with Christ, which means that God’s interactions with each of his followers will be unique. At the end of the movie, Todd decides to give Keating a show of support by standing on his desk and saying, “O Captain! My Captain!”—a phrase from a Walt Whitman poem 1 introduced to the students by Keating.

[Q] Consider Todd’s character. What influence, if any, has Keating’s character had on Todd during the course of the movie?

[Q] Why does Todd stand on his desk and call to Keating? Why does Todd feel compelled to action?

[Q] If you were in Todd’s shoes, would you have done something as Keating departed, or would you have sat in your seat and followed the rules of the classroom and school? Why?

[Q] What is the significance of calling someone Captain? What does that title imply? Why would Keating asked to be called the students’ captain? Read Matthew 6:24.

[Q] The Bible says that we cannot serve two masters, or two captains, as the case may be. What does it mean to really serve someone or something? At what point do we stray from serving God in an effort to serve other people or material things?

[Q] In your own life, are there vices or masters that do not belong? How did you become attached to those masters and how can you break free? Leader’s Note: This may be a very personal question for some, so feel free to ask in a rhetorical or philosophical sense.

3. Parental Influence (Exodus 20:12; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:1-4; Hebrews 13:17) Perhaps the most emotionally difficult aspect of this movie is the relationship between Neil Perry and his father, Mr. Perry (Kurtwood Smith). Mr. Perry offers no grace where Neil is concerned; Neil must cater to Mr. Perry’s whims in order to avoid humiliation and harassment. Scene to Watch: Neil gets the acting bug (Elapsed time: 00:45:22 – 00:47:15) In this scene, Neil returns to his dorm with a flyer that advertises open auditions for parts in Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Neil is ecstatic. He says to his roommate, Todd, “Yes! Yes! I’m going to be an actor! Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to try this! For the first time in my whole life, I know what I want to do.”

[Q] Neil’s passion for acting is evident. Why does Todd respond to Neil’s idealism in such a realistic manner? What is Todd trying to do?

[Q] When Neil responds to Todd’s caution with, “I mean, I haven’t even gotten the part yet. Can’t I even enjoy the idea for a little while?” What do you think of Neil at this point in the movie? What do you think of the situation between Neil and his father?

[Q] In what way did Neil fail to practice carpe diem concerning his future dreams in light of his father’s wishes? What could he have done in response to his father’s inflexibility?

[Q] Has someone ever dashed your hopes and dreams? How did you respond? As a believer, what can we do to recover from such disappointment?

[Q] Read Ephesians 6:1–4. Does Neil uphold the children’s side of the “biblical bargain” (vv. 1–3)? Does Mr. Perry keep the parents’ end of the deal (verse 4)? As you answer these two questions, discuss specific examples from the movie. Mr. Perry wants Neil to be a doctor, but it is clear that Neil is not interested in the medical profession. At several points in the movie, Mr. Perry visits Welton to demand that Neil drop one extracurricular or another in an effort to keep Neil’s mind focused on Harvard and medical school.

[Q] As Neil’s father, Mr. Perry exercised great power over Neil. Do you feel that Mr. Perry abused his rights as a father? Why or why not?

[Q] Do you think that Mr. Perry wanted what was best for Neil? Do you think that Mr. Perry thought that he was doing what was best for Neil? If so, how?

[Q] The Bible instructs us to “Obey [our] leaders and submit to their authority” (Hebrews 13:17). As Christians, in what ways is it appropriate to question authority? Consider the implications of following leaders without regard to their credibility.

[Q] Read Proverbs 22:6. What does it mean to train a child in the way he or she should go? What way should a child go? How can parents know what is best for their children?

[Q] Technically, Neil followed the fifth commandment (Exodus 20:12) diligently. However, Neil’s heart resisted his father’s wishes to a devastating degree. Do you think that Neil kept the fifth commandment? If you were Neil’s parent, how would you feel about Neil’s seemingly lifeless obedience? After Neil commits suicide, the other members of the Dead Poets Society wake Todd to tell him what happened. In the next scene, the boys are standing outside looking over a beautiful blanket of snow. Todd says, “It was [Neil’s] father. His father killed him.”

[Q] Why does Todd blame Mr. Perry for Neil’s death?

[Q] Who is responsible for Neil’s death?

[Q] The film does not comment on Neil’s faith. However, if Neil were a Christian, might his actions have been different?

[Q] How might faith in Christ have minimized Neil’s coming-of-age struggle? Are

1 Christians better equipped to handle stress or adversity?

Leader’s Note: Suicide can be a controversial topic, especially for Christians. The responses to these questions may be quite varied, but that should not undermine the group’s chances of a meaningful discussion. In addition to the movie’s conversation fodder, consider both sides of the argument with biblical elements such as God’s infinite grace and mercy or the idea that the body is a temple and should be treated accordingly.

As the Credits Roll

[Q] Keating devotes a lot of time to the idea of developing freethinkers. Yet, many of his colleagues do not believe that 17-year-old boys are capable of such a responsibility. In your opinion, what determines a person’s intellectual maturity? Is it age, experience, or a combination of both? Why?

[Q] What is the purpose of education?

[Q] At one point, Keating says, “We must constantly look at things in a different way.” What does he mean? Do you agree or disagree?

[Q] How does the movie influence your opinion, if at all, of preparatory schools?

[Q] There are many different characters in this movie. Is there one that you can relate to more than the others? Who is it? Why do you relate to him or her?

—Study by Mary Lasse, freelance writer from the Chicagoland area

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Dead Poets Society A timeless drama about golden and missed opportunities, the dangers of conformity, and the power of influence.

Dead Poets Society tells the story of John Keating, an English teacher who returns to his preparatory alma mater to inspire his students with refrains of carpe diem (seize the day). Keating’s unorthodox teaching methods challenge the students to make their lives extraordinary, to “swim against the stream,” and to dare to become freethinkers amidst parental and educational constraints.

This study will help you discuss the deeper themes of the movie. To what extent should a person adhere to a carpe diem mentality? What are the advantages and disadvantages of conformity and its opposite, individuality? How does the movie portray parental influence? What is the purpose of education?

Based on: Dead Poets Society (Touchstone Pictures, 1989), directed by Peter Weir, screenplay by Tom Schulman, rated PG for mild language, intense thematic material, and teen drug and alcohol use. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Dead Poets Society Page 2

Movie Summary

Professor John Keating (Robin Williams) joins the faculty of Welton Academy as the preparatory school’s new English teacher. Keating’s classes differ from those of his colleagues. Whereas the other professors are busy warning the boys not to skip homework assignments and not to question the integrity of the school, Keating leads his students out of class while whistling the 1812 Overture, encourages the boys to stand on their desks for a new perspective, and pleads with them to tear out the introduction of their poetry textbooks. Several of the students, led by Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), take Keating’s cue and reconvene the Welton chapter of the Dead Poets Society, a group dedicated to “sucking the marrow out of life” by letting poetry “drip from our tongues like honey.” For a time, the Society meets fairly innocuously, but the ideologies of the society soon compel the young men to take risks (e.g. acting against parents’ wishes) and live life to what they believe to be the fullest (e.g. writing poetry for beautiful women). As the young men cling more fully to the liberating ideas set forth by Keating, poetry, and artistic freedom, the results become increasingly dangerous—for Neil in particular. (Warning: Story spoilers below.) Neil decides to audition for a play without the consent of his father, Mr. Perry (Kurtwood Smith). When Mr. Perry, who has hijacked Neil’s future and made plans for Neil to attend Harvard and become a doctor, discovers that his son has intentionally defied him by acting in the play, Mr. Perry pledges to withdraw Neil from Welton and enroll him at Braden Military School. Neil feels it’s futile to try to explain himself to his militant father, so he decides to take his own life.

Rated PG This film includes mild language, intense thematic material, and several scenes of teen drug and alcohol use. The film also contains several scenes in which students question authority.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Carpe Diem: Seize the Day 2. Conformity vs. Individuality 3. Parental Influence

—Study by Mary Lasse, movie reviewer for ChristianityTodayMovies.com

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Finding Neverland The power—and danger—of transforming one’s imagination into reality.

Finding Neverland is the story of author J. M. Barrie’s friendship with Sylvia Davies and her four sons, which inspired him to write the classic play Peter Pan.

This study will look at a few of the movie’s major themes. Should we try to be more childlike? What is the nature of truth, and should people always be fully truthful? When marriage breaks down, how should a husband and wife respond? What difference do faith and belief make in the characters’ lives?

Based on: Finding Neverland (Miramax Films, 2003), directed by Marc Forster, based on the play The Man who was Peter Pan by Alan Knee, screenplay by David Magee, rated PG MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Finding Neverland Page 2

Movie Summary

After his latest play fails, James M. Barrie (Johnny Depp) finds inspiration in his newfound friendship with Sylvia Davies (Kate Winslet) and her four sons. After the death of their father, Peter Davies (Freddie Highmore) is particularly reluctant to open his imagination, but James slowly reveals to all of them the power of imagination and belief. As James spends more and more time with Sylvia and her sons at their home and at his own cottage in the country, James’s wife Mary (Radha Mitchell) and Sylvia’s mother Emma (Julie Christie) each speak out against the improprieties of the relationship. At the same time, rumors of adultery, and even pedophilia, threaten to defame the playwright. But James is committed to Sylvia and her boys, and to his role as a father figure in their lives. Based on his adventures with the Davies brothers (pirates, cowboys and Indians) and the imagination they inspire in him, James develops the concept for his greatest and most famous play, Peter Pan. Sadly, James’s deepening relationship with the Davies family and the amount of time he devotes to them puts further stress on his already strained marriage. James must decide which relationships mean the most to him.

—For more coverage of Finding Neverland, visit http://www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/findingneverland.html

Rated PG For adult themes relating to divorce, adultery, illness, and death. Early in the film, James uses some coarse Scottish slang, but none of his words are strictly taboo in American culture.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Belief and Faith 2. Childlikeness 3. The Truth 4. Marriage and Fidelity

1. Belief and Faith (Hebrews 11:1, 6; Mark 11:22–24) Imagination and believing without seeing are central themes in Finding Neverland. The movie invokes a blend of fantasy and reality that breaks down the distinctions between what is, what one believes, and what one wishes to be.

[Q] How would you define imagination? Is it valuable for children? For adults?

Scene to Watch: James challenges Peter to believe in what he cannot see (elapsed time: 00:10:07–00:11:25) To entertain the Davies family, James puts on a show, pretending that Porthos, his Newfoundland, is a bear. When Peter claims he is just a dog, James insists that “just” is a terrible, limiting word. “It’s like saying, ‘He can’t climb that mountain, he’s just a man’; or ‘That’s not a diamond, it’s just a rock.’” When Peter defies him to turn the dog into a bear, James replies, “With those eyes, I’m afraid you’d never see it.”

[Q] What is beneficial about James’s performance? What effect does it have on the family?

[Q] Is it ever good to restrict our imagination? If so, when?

[Q] To what extent does it matter whether Porthos is actually a bear or not? Read Hebrews 11:1.

[Q] Identify anything you’re certain of, even though you could not prove it at this moment. Leader’s note: Encourage or guide the group toward some answers that are not solely religious: family love, money in the bank, etc.

[Q] Can we realistically be sure of anything we hope for? Why or why not?

[Q] Was it easier for people long ago than for people today to have faith in the unseen? Why or why not? Read Hebrews 11:6. Why is faith necessary to please God? The first time Michael tries to fly the kite in the park, he fails. James suggests that it is because no one believed he could; if they believe in Michael, James says, he will succeed.

[Q] Why do you think Michael was able to fly the kite on his second attempt?

[Q] Discuss examples of your own confidence and the support of others making a difference in your performance or ability. Is this the kind of belief James is talking about?

[Q] What is the difference between positive thinking and faith? Later, when James is talking to the theater producer, Charles Frohman (Dustin Hoffman), he affirms the power of belief, suggesting that if a person wants something long and hard enough, she or he can make it come true.

Do you agree with James? What is the power of belief? What is the limit of belief? 1 [Q]

Read Mark 11:22–24.

[Q] Would James Barrie agree with these verses? What did he have faith in? What is the difference between general belief in something and the specific belief Jesus talks about in these verses?

[Q] How is prayer different than wishful thinking? How are they alike?

[Q] Did James Barrie’s system of belief fit all the criteria in this passage?

2. Childlikeness (Matthew 18:1–4; Hebrews 5:12–6:3) In one scene, when Sylvia is trying to put the boys to bed, James comments that boys should never have to go to bed because they always wake up a day older.

[Q] Given the choice, would you stay a child forever? Why or why not?

[Q] Why do you think James would want to keep the boys from growing up?

[Q] What is wrong with children growing up too fast? What is wrong when adults try to stay children too long? Consider the opening night of Peter Pan. James reserved 25 seats, scattered throughout the house, and invited orphans to attend the performance.

[Q] How did the children change the atmosphere in the theater? What did they contribute to the performance?

[Q] Did it make a difference that the children were orphans—poor, badly dressed, uncultured, etc? How might it have been different if the theater patrons had brought their own children? Read Matthew 18:1–4.

[Q] Why does Jesus insist that his disciples must become like children?

[Q] What qualities do children have that would be good for adults to emulate? What aspects of childhood are not appropriate for adults? Consider some of the scenes in which James plays with the boys.

[Q] What needs do those playful experiences meet for the boys? What needs do they meet for James?

[Q] Do you think it was appropriate for James to behave this way? Why or why not?

In one scene, George speaks earnestly with James about his mother’s health. James notes that within the span of 30 seconds, George has grown up. James calls this a magnificent change.

[Q] What changed in George during those 30 seconds?

[Q] Considering James’s perspective on childhood and adulthood, why do you think he would call this change magnificent?

[Q] What is this movie’s message about what it means to grow up? Read Hebrews 5:12–6:3.

[Q] Why does the writer say that people of faith should be mature? What are the benefits of maturity? Are there any drawbacks?

[Q] Can a person be mature and childlike at the same time? Was James Barrie mature or immature? Explain.

3. The Truth (John 8:32; Ephesians 6:14) Finding Neverland has many examples of people hiding the truth from each other. From Charles Frohman’s outright overbilling (“The best I’ve produced in 25 years”), to clipping the bad reviews out of the newspaper, to hiding a secret love affair.

[Q] Is the blunt truth always the best answer? Why or why not?

[Q] Can you think of times when it might be best to soften the truth? Would it still be the whole truth if it were softened?

[Q] Throughout the movie, Sylvia Davies refuses to face her illness, glossing over it as a mere chest cold. Do you think she believed it was only a chest cold? Is it possible to convince oneself of a lie?

[Q] If you faced a similar situation, what would you tell your children? Scene to Watch: Peter lashes out against his mother’s deception (elapsed time: 00:47:04–00:48:40) When Sylvia becomes ill at the cottage, Peter clearly sees that it is more than a mere chest cold. In fear and anger, he tears apart the play that he imagined, saying that he won’t be made a fool by silly stories.

[Q] Have you ever uncovered a lie? How did you respond?

1 [Q] Would Peter have been better off knowing the whole truth? Why or why not?

When Jesus stood trial, Pilate asked a penetrating, yet valid, question: “What is truth?” In this scene, James suggests that Sylvia’s response to her husband’s illness wasn’t a lie—it was hope. She needed hope that her husband might get well again.

[Q] Was Sylvia’s hope realistic? Does hope have to be realistic? Leader’s note: Refer back to the group’s discussion of Hebrews 11:1 from Section 1.

[Q] At what point does valid hope become a matter of clinging to something that is blatantly untrue? Read John 8:32 and Ephesians 6:14.

[Q] How does the truth set a person free? Free from what?

[Q] Why did Paul include truth as part of the armor of God? What does the truth provide in spiritual battle?

[Q] What freedom might the Davies family have found if Sylvia had been more honest?

[Q] What freedom might James and his wife Mary have found had they been more honest with each other?

4. Marriage and Fidelity (Exodus 20:14, 17; Proverbs 5:18; Malachi 2:15) A look at Finding Neverland would not be complete without exploring what it says about marriage. At the end of the movie, James and Mary’s marriage ends in infidelity and divorce.

[Q] What is the movie’s overall message about marriage?

[Q] As a group, identify some of the weak points of the Barries’ marriage. There are many instances in which James and Mary don’t see eye to eye. She thinks he should have been seated in his box at the theater. Before he visits the park, James invites Mary to join him, but she declines. She thinks it inappropriate for him to spend so much time with the Davies family, but he overlooks her request.

[Q] What are some of the attempts that James and Mary make to reconcile with each other? What is the result of their efforts? How does the other person respond? Leader’s note: Possible answers include James’s invitation to join him in the park, Mary asking James not to join the Davies family in the park, James kissing Mary on the cheek, Mary’s ultimatum. Scene to Watch:

1 James comes home to find Mr. Cannon paying a very late call on Mary (elapsed time: 00:49:00–00:51:15)

Finding Mary and Gilbert Cannon together, James recites the script he expects their confrontation would take. But instead of talking it through with Mary, he backs out, claiming he’s not ready for such a conversation.

[Q] What do you make of James’s reaction in this scene?

[Q] Suppose Mary arranged for James to find her with Gilbert. Why might Mary stage such an encounter? What did she expect to happen?

[Q] Mary and Gilbert Cannon later engage in a sexual affair. Compare their illicit relationship to James’s relationship with Sylvia Davies. Who was more unfaithful? Why? Leader’s Note: One thing for the group to consider is if an emotional affair is as serious as a physical affair. Many psychologists would say that it does just as much damage. Read Exodus 20:14, 17.

[Q] Discuss what marital faithfulness means, both physically and emotionally.

[Q] How might the command against coveting apply to James? To Mary? To Sylvia? Read Proverbs 5:18, Malachi 2:15.

[Q] In what ways did James attempt to honor and love his wife? How did he neglect this part of his marriage?

[Q] Do you think James was aware of any unfaithfulness?

[Q] What can husbands and wives do to “guard themselves in their spirits”? What did James and Mary fail to do?

As the Credits Roll

[Q] Though she seemed tyrannical at times, Sylvia’s mother intervened in the boys’ best interest. When might children (or anyone) need someone to step in on their behalf?

[Q] Arthur Conan Doyle remains James’s true friend, even through the scandal of lies, rumors, and true accusations. What does Finding Neverland say about the nature and importance of friendship? Between adults? Between adults and children?

[Q] How should husbands or wives respond if they find themselves in emotionally unfulfilling relationships?

[Q] How was your own faith challenged by James Barrie’s belief and imagination?

1 —Caleb Sjogren is an editor at Tyndale House Publishers and a freelance writer

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Finding Neverland The power—and danger—of transforming one’s imagination into reality.

Finding Neverland is the story of author J. M. Barrie’s friendship with Sylvia Davies and her four sons, which inspired him to write the classic play Peter Pan.

This study will look at a few of the movie’s major themes. What difference do faith and belief make in the characters’ lives? Should people be more childlike? What is the nature of truth, and should people always be fully truthful? When marriage breaks down, how should a husband and wife respond?

Based on: Finding Neverland (Miramax Films, 2003), directed by Marc Forster, based on the play The Man who was Peter Pan by Alan Knee, screenplay by David Magee, rated PG. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Finding Neverland Page 2

Movie Summary

After his latest play fails, James M. Barrie (Johnny Depp) finds inspiration in his newfound friendship with Sylvia Davies (Kate Winslet) and her four sons. After the death of their father, Peter Davies (Freddie Highmore) is particularly reluctant to open his imagination, but James slowly reveals to all of them the power of imagination and belief. As James spends more and more time with Sylvia and her sons at their home and at his own cottage in the country, James’s wife Mary (Radha Mitchell) and Sylvia’s mother Emma (Julie Christie) each speak out against the improprieties of the relationship. At the same time, rumors of adultery, and even pedophilia, threaten to defame the playwright. But James is committed to Sylvia and her boys, and to his role as a father figure in their lives. Based on his adventures with the Davies brothers (pirates, cowboys and Indians) and the imagination they inspire in him, James develops the concept for his greatest and most famous play, Peter Pan. Sadly, James’s deepening relationship with the Davies family and the amount of time he devotes to them puts further stress on his already strained marriage. James must decide which relationships mean the most to him.

—For more coverage of Finding Neverland, visit http://www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/findingneverland.html

Rated PG For adult themes relating to divorce, adultery, illness, and death. Early in the film, James uses some coarse Scottish slang, but none of his words are strictly taboo in American culture.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 5. Belief and Faith 6. Childlikeness 7. The Truth 8. Marriage and Fidelity

— Caleb Sjogren is an editor at Tyndale House Publishers and a freelance writer

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE About a Boy A self-absorbed man and a troubled boy develop a transforming friendship.

“No man is an island,” poet and preacher John Donne wrote in the early 1600s. Well, maybe not an island, but perhaps a personal pleasure cruise nowadays? Our “stuff” has helped us cut our moorings with those around us. About a Boy is a film about two disconnected people—two “islands.” One is a self-centered, affluent man who is disconnected from others by choice and by means. The other is a troubled, outcast boy who longs for healthy connections with others but can’t find them. Interestingly, the man’s self-absorbed, pleasure-cruise lifestyle intertwines with the boy’s, leading to transformation and community for both.

This study guide will help you discuss the themes and questions raised in About a Boy. How do the cultural values of isolation and affluence affect us? How are incarnation and human transformation related? What’s the place of community in our disconnected society?

Based on: About a Boy (Universal, 2002), directed by Paul Weitz & Chris Weitz, rated PG–13 MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE About a Boy Page 2

Movie Summary

About a Boy is a film that contrasts the life of Will (Hugh Grant), a self-centered, wealthy bachelor, with that of Marcus (Nicholas Hoult), a geeky, outcast, middle-school kid. Will’s inheritance affords him a work-free life of leisure, shopping, and women. His goal is to be a human “island,” pursuing pleasure without any human entanglements. With this end in mind, he devises a plan to meet vulnerable, attractive single mothers by concocting an imaginary son. In the course of one of his deceptive dates with a single mom, Will meets Marcus. Soon, Will is embroiled in a troubled family’s life when Marcus’s mother, Fiona (Toni Collette), attempts suicide. Marcus realizes that his life is precarious with his unstable mother and seeks to build up his support system. Thus, Marcus threatens to blow Will’s single-dad cover unless Will promises to date his mother. Reluctantly, Will spends time with Marcus and tries to teach him how to be cool. Will realizes that even this charitable gesture is a shallow attempt to use another person. Marcus, despite his quirkiness, shows Will his need for others, and the two of them develop an extended family of caring friends.

—For more coverage of About a Boy, visit http://www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/aboutaboy.html

Rated PG-13 About a Boy earns its PG–13 rating for language. Along with a fair amount of obscenities, there are several times when characters use Jesus Christ as profanity. There are also sexual references, although no sexual scenes.

Discussing the Scenes Select one or more of these themes to discuss:

1. Isolation and Affluence 2. Sacrificing for Others 3. Community (Leader’s Note: You may want to use the subtitle feature on the DVD to better understand the British accents.)

1. Isolation and Affluence (Amos 6:1–7) Christian thinker Francis Schaeffer wrote in his book How Should We Then Live? that our culture has taken on two main values: personal peace and affluence. He explains: Personal peace means just to be let alone, not to be troubled by the troubles of other people, whether across the world or across the city—[it is] to live one’s life with minimal possibilities of being disturbed. Personal peace means wanting to have my personal life pattern undisturbed in my lifetime, regardless of what the result will be in the lifetimes of my children and grandchildren. Affluence means an overwhelming and ever increasing prosperity—a life made up of things, things, and more things—a 1 success judged by an ever-higher level of material abundance.

If this is true, how can we escape? Scenes to Watch: In the opening credits, Will puts forth his philosophy that all men are islands. (Elapsed time: 00:00:40–00:02:05) Will explains “island living” and gets a call from Marcus. (Elapsed time: 00:29:48–00:32:22)

[Q] John Donne wrote, “No man is an island.” Will says, “All men are islands.” In what ways are they both right?

[Q] Will says this is an “island age” due to the cool stuff we now have. In what ways have technology and wealth made us less interdependent?

[Q] Will breaks up his days into 30-minute units. In what ways is time our cultural currency more than money? How is this true for you?

[Q] Marcus takes Will up on his social lie of “see you soon.” What is Will’s reaction? What other social lies do people tell to maintain barriers?

[Q] How do you deal with people like Marcus who are needy and have no social barriers?

[Q] What do you think Will’s initial motivation for meeting with Marcus reveals about Will’s character?

[Q] What do you think of Francis Schaeffer’s quote above? Is it true? How does Will live these values out? How do you see these values in our culture? In yourself? Read Amos 6:1–7. The prophet Amos decries social injustice in Israel.

[Q] For what does the prophet condemn these people?

[Q] How do you think complacency and security (verse 1) are connected here?

[Q] What activities in verses 4–6 show the complacency of Israel? Compare this to our culture.

[Q] Verse 6 says that Israel, despite its wealth and life of leisure, does not “grieve over the ruin of Joseph.” What is God’s heart towards this complacency? Who is in need or in ruin around us, despite our abundance? Leader’s Note: Amos draws the parallel between complacent Israel and the sons of Jacob who sold their brother, Joseph, into slavery; they actually sit down for lunch while Joseph lies in the cistern (Genesis 37).

[Q] Where does your security lie? What habits of complacency do you need to shake free from this week to see the needs of those around you?

2. Sacrificing for Others (John 1:1–14) Think about times in your life when you changed for the better. Those times are probably attributed to a relationship rather than a program. Dr. John Perkins, of the Christian Community Development Association, posits that to see change in at-risk communities, Christians must employ the ‘3 Rs’: relocation, reconciliation, and redistribution. The first ‘R,’ relocation, requires that the Christian move into the neighborhood where the need is and live there, rather than simply dropping off a box of food at holidays. Radical, but how far might this go toward human transformation? Scene to watch: Will, Fiona, and Marcus meet for a “date” at a restaurant. (Elapsed time: 00:32:22–00:37:56; Warning: this scene contains an obscenity.)

[Q] Have you had experience helping with charity or relief work? What have you done?

[Q] What do you think Will means when he says, “That’s the problem with charity … you have to mean things to help people”?

[Q] “Me, I didn’t mean anything, about anything, to anyone, and I knew that guaranteed me a long, depression-free life,” Will says. Have your experiences in helping those in need ever gotten messy? How?

[Q] Will resists letting Marcus into his apartment. Marcus says, “I’ll be back,” and Will admits that he is scared of the idea. What are some reasons people don’t get involved in the lives of those in need? What scares us?

[Q] Will calls his relationship with Marcus and Fiona “charity.” Incarnation means “taking on human form; in the flesh.” What’s the difference between giving charity and being incarnational—actually coming alongside someone in need? What creates the more lasting change? Who has been incarnational with you? Read John 1:1–14. God comes to us in the flesh.

[Q] Who is “the Word” and “the light” in these verses? Leader’s Note: “The Word” means God’s vehicle for creation, God’s law, and God’s message through the prophets. Essentially, it represents God himself. Here John, amazingly, uses “the Word” to mean Jesus.

[Q] What do the Word and the light do in this passage?

[Q] “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us …” (v. 14). What does this do to people’s conceptions of God? What does it mean to you that God moved into your world of need?

[Q] What were the results of Jesus coming in the flesh that couldn’t have been

1 accomplished any other way?

[Q] Someone said that the Word of God always has to become flesh. What do you think incarnational ministry might look like? How can you do that for the people around you this week?

3. Community (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12; Acts 2:42–47)

“It’s times like this when you know who your real friends are.” You’ve heard people say this, or maybe you’ve even said it yourself. The hard times hit—an accident, a health problem, a financial crisis, some emotional turmoil—and hopefully there is a safety net: a community of people that we can connect with for encouragement and help. Some have even defined poverty as the state of having no healthy connections with others. How do we find community in a disconnected society? Scene to watch: Will drops Marcus off at home after Fiona’s suicide attempt. (Elapsed time: 00:26:08–00:29:47)

[Q] Who are the first people you call when you need help?

[Q] What do you think of Will’s view that “a person’s life is like a TV show”? Do you think most people think like that? Do you?

[Q] How would it feel to be in Marcus’s shoes in this scene?

[Q] How might Marcus and Fiona’s lives been different if they had healthy connections with a community of people? Scene to watch: Will has people over to his apartment for Christmas. (Elapsed time: 01:33:49–01:36:08; Warning: this scene contains obscenities.)

[Q] How has Will amended his “every man is an island” philosophy? What caused the change?

[Q] How has Marcus changed in the movie? Why?

[Q] Marcus says, “I don’t think couples are the future. You need more than that. You need backup.” How have you experienced backup from a larger community of people? Read Ecclesiastes 4:9–12.

[Q] How are two better than one in this passage?

[Q] This passage is often read at weddings, but how does it apply to all people?

[Q] Who needs to be strengthened around you? How do you need to be strengthened?

[Q] What is hard for you about asking for help from others? What are some results of isolation? 1 Read Acts 2:42–47.

[Q] What are the activities of the community here?

[Q] What are the benefits and results of the community?

[Q] What have been the benefits and results of your involvement in a sharing, Christian community?

[Q] Into which of the activities of your church community do you need to delve deeper with others? In what ways would your attitudes and beliefs about others have to change to allow for deeper Christian community?

[Q] Who around you needs to experience the life of your Christian community? How can you invite him or her into that life this week?

As the Credits Roll

[Q] What in this film encouraged your faith? What challenged your beliefs?

[Q] Consider taking a family fast from shopping or media for a week or a month. What could you do with your extra time that would benefit others?

[Q] Mother Teresa wrote: Once in a while we should ask ourselves several questions in order to guide our actions. We should ask questions like: Do I know the poor? Do I know, in the first place, the poor in my family, in my home, those who are closest to me—people who are poor, but not because they lack bread? There are other types of poverty just as painful and no less real. Perhaps what my husband or wife lacks, what my children lack, what my parents lack, what my siblings or friends lack, is not clothes or food. Perhaps they lack love, because I do not give it to them! (from In My Own Words, 1997, Hodder & Stoughton Ltd, London, edited by José Luis González-Balado) Do you know the poor in your community? Where are they? What do they need? How about the poor among your family and friends? What do they need?

— Study by Kyle White, freelance writer and regular contributor to CHRISTIAN BIBLE STUDIES.

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE About a Boy A self-absorbed man and a troubled boy develop a transforming friendship.

“No man is an island,” poet and preacher John Donne wrote in the early 1600s. Well, maybe not an island, but perhaps a personal pleasure cruise nowadays? Our “stuff” has helped us cut our moorings with those around us. About a Boy is a film about two disconnected people—two “islands.” One is a self-centered, affluent man who is disconnected from others by choice and by means. The other is a troubled, outcast boy who longs for healthy connections with others but can’t find them. Interestingly, the man’s self-absorbed, pleasure-cruise lifestyle intertwines with the boy’s, leading to transformation and community for both.

This study guide will help you discuss the themes and questions raised in About a Boy. How do the cultural values of isolation and affluence affect us? How are incarnation and human transformation related? What’s the place of community in our disconnected society?

Based on: About a Boy (Universal, 2002), directed by Paul Weitz & Chris Weitz, rated PG–13 MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE About a Boy Page 2

Movie Summary

About a Boy is a film that contrasts the life of Will (Hugh Grant), a self-centered, wealthy bachelor, with that of Marcus (Nicholas Hoult), a geeky, outcast, middle-school kid. Will’s inheritance affords him a work-free life of leisure, shopping, and women. His goal is to be a human “island,” pursuing pleasure without any human entanglements. With this end in mind, he devises a plan to meet vulnerable, attractive single mothers by concocting an imaginary son. In the course of one of his deceptive dates with a single mom, Will meets Marcus. Soon, Will is embroiled in a troubled family’s life when Marcus’s mother, Fiona (Toni Collette), attempts suicide. Marcus realizes that his life is precarious with his unstable mother and seeks to build up his support system. Thus, Marcus threatens to blow Will’s single-dad cover unless Will promises to date his mother. Reluctantly, Will spends time with Marcus and tries to teach him how to be cool. Will realizes that even this charitable gesture is a shallow attempt to use another person. Marcus, despite his quirkiness, shows Will his need for others, and the two of them develop an extended family of caring friends.

—For more coverage of About a Boy, visit http://www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/aboutaboy.html

Rated PG-13 About a Boy earns its PG–13 rating for language. Along with a fair amount of obscenities, there are several times when characters use Jesus Christ as profanity. There are also sexual references, although no sexual scenes.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Isolation and Affluence 2. Sacrificing for Others 3. Community

— Study by Kyle White, freelance writer and regular contributor to CHRISTIAN BIBLE STUDIES.

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Cheaper by the Dozen A family-friendly comedy about ambition, community, and loyalty.

Cheaper by the Dozen is the story of Tom and Kate Baker and their 12 children. Tom is a college football coach, and Kate is an aspiring author, but their priority is their family. That is, until Tom accepts a dream job at his alma mater and finds that coaching two teams—his football players and his kids—may be more difficult than he anticipated.

This study will help you discuss the deeper themes of the movie. In what ways do the Bakers’ various ambitions either help or hinder their familial cohesiveness? How does the movie portray the different facets of community? What do the Bakers learn about loyalty and family commitment?

Based on: Cheaper by the Dozen (Twentieth Century Fox, 2003); directed by Shawn Levy; screenplay by Sam Harper, Joel Cohen, and Alec Sokolow from a story by Frank B. Gilbreth, Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey; rated PG for language and some thematic elements. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Cheaper by the Dozen Page 2

Movie Summary

Tom Baker (Steve Martin) is a full-time college football coach and a full-time father in the small country town of Midland, Illinois. Tom and his wife, Kate (Bonnie Hunt), a homemaker-turned-author, have become masters at managing chaos, as their family is comprised of one dozen children ranging in ages from five to twenty-two. Life as the Baker family knows it changes when Tom receives a job offer from his alma mater, Illinois Polytechnic University, to coach the IPU Stallions. Since coaching the Stallions has been a lifelong dream of Tom’s, he readily agrees to take the job in Chicago despite the protests of his children, who wish to stay in Midland. The family moves four hours away to the Chicago suburb of Evanston, where they “have it all,” including a beautiful home, a new car, and name-brand clothes. Yet, amidst the material wealth, the Baker children realize their new stuff comes at a price—their parents’ attention and their siblings’ devotion. As Kate begins a two-week book tour and Tom focuses on his new job, the Baker children become more marginalized and less manageable, forcing Tom and Kate to reconsider their priorities.

—For more coverage of Cheaper by the Dozen, visit www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/cheaperbythedozen.html

Rated PG This film includes some language and thematic elements, including the ongoing theme of Nora Baker’s decision to cohabitate with her boyfriend against her parents’ wishes.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Pursuing Ambitions 2. Living in Community 3. Determining Loyalties

1. Pursuing Ambitions (Genesis 11:1–9; 1 Corinthians 7:17; Psalm 20:4) At the beginning of the movie, the Baker kids discover their parents are considering moving to Chicago so Tom can take a job with the Stallions. The family meeting that ensues quickly deteriorates into an obstinate mess as the children protest the move. Scene to watch: “We’re not moving!” (Elapsed time: 00:15:54–00:18:40)

[Q] Why are the Baker children upset with their parents? How do you feel about the way 1 the children, in their frustration, speak to their parents?

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Cheaper by the Dozen Page 3

[Q] In this scene, what are Tom and Kate’s desires, and what are the children’s desires? Does anyone yield any ground in the discussion? How does the family meeting end?

[Q] Tom says, “This is a job I’ve wanted since we left Chicago. And, in fact, it’s more than a job to me. This is my team and it’s my colors … and it’s the Stallions. And, they’re finally calling my number.” Do you think Tom is truly considering his family’s best interest, or is he blindly pursuing his own ambition?

[Q] It is clear that Tom has a great ambition to coach the Stallions. At what point does an ambition or goal become an obsession? Is obsession healthy? Why or why not? Read the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1–9.

[Q] What is the ambition of the people in the Tower of Babel story? Leader’s Note: The Scripture discusses the intention of the people: to build a tower that reaches the heavens to make a name for themselves. However, the message behind the act of building such a tower is clear—the people wanted to be as high and mighty as God himself. The ambition of the people was misguided and selfish.

[Q] Not all ambition is negative. What are some examples of good ambition that you have seen throughout history or in your life?

[Q] How can God use our ambition for the good of others and ourselves? At the beginning of the movie, Kate narrates the Baker family story over a montage (series of short clips) of scenes from Tom and Kate’s college days and subsequent early marriage days. Kate says, “Twelve is our number” and tells the viewer that she and Tom always dreamed of having a big family.

[Q] What do you think of Tom and Kate’s ambition to have such a large family? Is it a good or poor ambition? Why?

[Q] During the film, there is a definite shift from big, happy family to scattered, depressed family. When does this shift occur? Why does it occur? How does ambition play a role?

[Q] Read Psalm 20:4. What are the desires of your heart? How can believers have faith that God works in our best interests?

[Q] Read 1 Corinthians 7:17. This verse says that God has a place for each person and each person should set about doing the task God has assigned. How can we know if God’s desire for our lives and our desire for our lives will align? Is there any guarantee that God will give us whatever we desire? Why or why not? Leader’s note: This is a tough question that many people wrestle with each day. Part of being a Christian is trusting that God will lead us in our journeys. Another

1 part of being a Christian is trusting that God has a plan for our lives. To help us in that plan, God employs our strengths and develops our talents to equip us for any given task. We may not always receive what we think is the desire of our hearts, but

God has a way of introducing us to new and wonderful things, transforming our desires.

2. Living in Community (Psalm 133; Proverbs 22:6; 1 Corinthians 12:12; Ephesians 4:1-7) Tom and Kate have a bustling household, as evidenced by one of the first sequences in the movie. Despite having 14 people under one roof, the Bakers work well together. Scene to Watch: “We’ve become experts at managing chaos.” (Elapsed time: 00:06:25–00:10:40)

[Q] During this breakfast scene, what are your first impressions of the Baker community?

[Q] What specific interactions indicate that this is a healthy community? What specific interactions indicate that this is an unhealthy community? Why?

[Q] From what you have seen, do you agree that Tom and Kate are experts at managing chaos? What are Tom and Kate’s parenting strengths? What are their weaknesses?

[Q] Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” How can parents live out and trust the intention of this verse?

[Q] Read Psalm 133. Why is it “good and pleasant” for brothers to live in unity? What are the advantages of community? What are the disadvantages? Leader’s note: The Bible contains many references to the importance of community. Jesus instructed his believers to have fellowship with one another, and the author of Ecclesiastes says, “A cord of three strands is not easily broken” (4:12). Yet, people are wired differently. While some are extroverts and enjoy the social aspect of humanity, others are introverted and need time alone to rejuvenate. During one of his first press conferences as the Stallions’ head coach, Tom is asked how he can manage a team at home and a team at work, to which Tom replies that he has a great team at school and a support system at home. Sarah Baker, watching the press conference on television, says, “In Midland, we were a family. Now we’re a support system?” Lorraine Baker, Sarah’s sister, responds with “A family is a support system.”

[Q] Why does Sarah take offense when her father calls their family a support system?

[Q] Do you agree with Lorraine’s comment that a family is a support system? What does a support system do? How is a support system relevant to the idea of community? Read 1 Corinthians 12:12 and Ephesians 4:1–7.

[Q] What do these passages have in common? Why does the Bible refer to Christians as the body of Christ? What does it mean for Christians to be part of the body of Christ? Leader’s note: This is an opportunity to discuss spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12)

1 and the idea that Christians are blessed with unique gifts from God—talents believers contribute to the collective, working body of Christ. As a body, the

Christian community can work in several different ways to accomplish common missions: spreading God’s Word and love, among other endeavors.

[Q] Consider the idea that families operate as small-scale bodies and then join with other families and communities to form larger bodies, such as the body of Christ, which includes all believers. How are a family’s day-to-day operations symbolic of the larger tasks assigned to the body of Christ? In what ways do families serve as training grounds for life and faith?

[Q] Reflect on your life for a moment. In what ways do you live in community with others? Do you have communities at work, school, or church? How do those communities compare with and contrast to each other?

3. Determining Loyalties (Exodus 20:12; Matthew 18:12–14; Luke 15:11–32; Romans 12:10) Nora Baker, the oldest Baker child, decides to live with her boyfriend, Hank, against her parents’ wishes. During Nora and Hank’s first visit to the new Baker home, the other Baker kids play a terrible joke on Hank, dipping his underwear in ground meat and allowing the family dog to chase him. Nora realizes that her siblings plotted to attack Hank and, as she storms out of the house, she turns to her brothers and sisters and says, “My loyalty is to Hank now. And, that’s the way it’s going to be.”

[Q] What do you think of the practical joke that the Baker kids play on Hank?

[Q] What do you think of Nora’s response to her siblings? Was she right in asserting herself and her loyalty to Hank in that manner? Should she have responded differently? Why or why not?

[Q] At this point in the movie, what do you think of Hank’s character? If you could describe Hank’s personality, what words would you choose?

[Q] Why do you think Nora likes Hank? What does Hank represent? Leader’s note: From the beginning of the movie, we sense that Tom and Kate are unhappy with Nora’s decision to live with Hank. For Nora, Hank represents freedom from rules. By living with Hank, Nora can push the boundaries her parents have set for her. All is not well in the relationship, though, as Hank’s narcissistic attitude gradually destroys their relationship.

[Q] Read Exodus 20:12. The Bible is clear that children are to honor their parents. Why do so many children dishonor their parents, even amidst biblical mandates to do otherwise? What causes humans to rebel? Leader’s Note: Sin is a direct result of the fall of man (Genesis 3). Part of humanity’s rebellious tendencies stem from the sinful nature of man. Another aspect of the discussion, though, is man’s God-given free will. Instead of ruling with an iron fist, God allows people to make their own decisions—and those decisions have the potential to result in dangerous or ugly situations.

During the final act of the movie, Kate and Tom discover that one of their children, Mark, has run away. Mark’s actions occur at the climax of the film, a time when the Baker family is in turmoil. Yet, as soon as the family realizes that one of its own is in danger, their loyalty springs into action, and they abandon everything to pursue the lost child. Scene to watch: “Mark’s gone.” (Elapsed time: 01:19:28–01:21:35)

[Q] Why does Mark run away? Instead of running away, how could Mark have voiced his needs and desires?

[Q] What do you think about the way the Baker family reacts to Mark’s disappearance? How do they demonstrate loyalty to Mark and to each other?

[Q] Read Romans 12:10. Even though the film does not comment on the Baker family’s faith, do you think the family lived out the instructions in this verse where the search for Mark is concerned? Why or why not? Read the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32).

[Q] In this parable, which character demonstrates loyalty? How does he demonstrate it?

[Q] What do you think of the faithful son? What do you think of the prodigal son?

[Q] Consider the movie characters, Mark and Nora. How are these characters similar to the prodigal son? How are they different? Read the parable of the lost sheep (Matthew 18:12–14).

[Q] In this parable, which character demonstrates loyalty? How does he demonstrate it?

[Q] Why do you think the shepherd is “happier about that one [recovered] sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off”? Why is that one found sheep so important to the shepherd and to the parable as a whole?

[Q] How does Cheaper by the Dozen relate (knowingly or not) to the parable of the lost sheep? What comparisons can be made from having watched the movie and having read the parable? How does the meaning of the parable come through in the movie itself?

As the Credits Roll

[Q] What are the advantages of having a large family? What are some disadvantages?

[Q] What is Tom’s attitude toward coaching in the first half of the film? In what ways does that change?

1 [Q] What makes moving so difficult? How can God give us grace to handle a move?

[Q] Name some aspects of the movie that either encouraged or discouraged your faith.

[Q] What does the title, Cheaper by the Dozen, mean?

[Q] What additional themes or messages did you notice in the movie?

—Study by Mary Lasse, freelance writer from the Chicagoland area

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Cheaper by the Dozen A family-friendly comedy about ambition, community, and loyalty.

Cheaper by the Dozen is the story of Tom and Kate Baker and their 12 children. Tom is a college football coach, and Kate is an aspiring author, but their priority is their family. That is, until Tom accepts a dream job at his alma mater and finds that coaching two teams—his football players and his kids—may be more difficult than he anticipated.

This study will help you discuss the deeper themes of the movie. In what ways do the Bakers’ various ambitions either help or hinder their familial cohesiveness? How does the movie portray the different facets of community? What do the Bakers learn about loyalty and family commitment?

Based on: Cheaper by the Dozen (Twentieth Century Fox, 2003); directed by Shawn Levy; screenplay by Sam Harper, Joel Cohen, and Alec Sokolow from a story by Frank B. Gilbreth, Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey; rated PG for language and some thematic elements. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Cheaper by the Dozen Page 2

Movie Summary

Tom Baker (Steve Martin) is a full-time college football coach and a full-time father in the small country town of Midland, Illinois. Tom and his wife, Kate (Bonnie Hunt), a homemaker-turned-author, have become masters at managing chaos, as their family is comprised of one dozen children ranging in ages from five to twenty-two. Life as the Baker family knows it changes when Tom receives a job offer from his alma mater, Illinois Polytechnic University, to coach the IPU Stallions. Since coaching the Stallions has been a lifelong dream of Tom’s, he readily agrees to take the job in Chicago despite the protests of his children, who wish to stay in Midland. The family moves four hours away to the Chicago suburb of Evanston, where they “have it all,” including a beautiful home, a new car, and name-brand clothes. Yet, amidst the material wealth, the Baker children realize their new stuff comes at a price—their parents’ attention and their siblings’ devotion. As Kate begins a two-week book tour and Tom focuses on his new job, the Baker children become more marginalized and less manageable, forcing Tom and Kate to reconsider their priorities.

—For more coverage of Cheaper by the Dozen, visit www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/cheaperbythedozen.html

Rated PG This film includes some language and thematic elements, including the ongoing theme of Nora Baker’s decision to cohabitate with her boyfriend against her parents’ wishes.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Pursuing Ambitions 2. Living in Community 3. Determining Loyalties

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Radio “A story about how one young man changed a town.”

Radio is based on the true story of a high school football coach (Ed Harris) and his relationship with a developmentally challenged young man named Radio (Cuba Gooding Jr.). This movie dramatically demonstrates the power of one life, even a life that is not considered valuable by some.

Use this discussion guide to explore the spiritual themes of the movie. What lessons can we learn about forgiveness and making amends? How is generosity illustrated? How can we better understand kindness?

Based on: Radio (Columbia Pictures, 2003), directed by Michael Tollin, screenplay by Mike Rich, rated PG for mild language and thematic elements. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Radio Page 2

Movie Summary

As the film opens, a high school football coach (Ed Harris) watches a young man (Cuba Gooding Jr.) push a shopping cart, with a few treasures tucked inside, around the perimeter of the football field. The football team decides to have some fun with this mentally challenged young man, so they lock him in a sports shed. When Coach Jones discovers the frightened young man, he reprimands his team by having them work out until they are physically exhausted. In addition, he takes the man, Radio, under his wing and into his life. We watch the characters grow as the school year progresses. Each football game finds Radio on the sidelines cheering the team on. His obvious enthusiasm, while heartfelt, is not shared by all, and soon there are objections to his being at the games. While his own family misses him, the coach continues to pour his life into Radio. When the football season ends, Coach decides to enlarge Radio’s knowledge about sports and invites him to attend all the basketball practices and games as well. Radio is ultimately a story about a community coming together to help one individual overcome his difficulties.

—For more coverage of Radio, visit http://www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/radio.html

Rated PG This film is rated PG for mild language and thematic events.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Forgiveness 2. Kindness 3. Generosity 4. Making Amends

1. Forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32; Romans 12:21; Matthew 18:21–35) Scenes to watch: Wrong committed and an apology made. (Elapsed time: 00:08:00–00:10:01 and 00:12:34–00:13:40) In the first scene we watch as Radio is treated harshly by a group of people. Radio could have closed up and been angry with the perpetrators, but instead, he remained open. In the second scene, although Coach Jones had nothing to do with the crime, he apologizes to Radio for the team.

[Q] Watching these scenes, do you think the guilty were sorry for what they had done? Support your answer.

[Q] What evidence do you see in the movie that Coach Jones had forgiven the boys?

[Q] Why did the coach apologize for the team instead of having them apologize to Radio?

[Q] If you had been the coach, how would you have handled the situation? Read Ephesians 4:32. God tells us we are to forgive one another as he forgives us. Read Romans 12:21. Not only does God want us to forgive one another, but he also wants us to withhold evil when someone has treated us unjustly. We are to go even further and treat the person who wronged us with kindness. Finally, read Matthew 18:21–35. When asked how many times we should forgive those who have wronged us, Jesus gives an unbelievable answer. Not a few times, but seventy times seven times. God wants us to continually be forgiving. Thankfully, when this is difficult for us, God will empower us to do it.

[Q] Why do you think we have such a hard time with forgiveness when we have been totally forgiven by God?

[Q] If you were Radio, what would have been hard for you to forgive?

[Q] How does Radio exemplify the kind of forgiveness we read about in our Bible passages?

[Q] What is the hardest thing you’ve had to forgive someone for? How did you go about it? What fears do you think we have about forgiving someone who has wronged us?

[Q] Some say, “I can forgive what they did; I just can’t forget it.” Do you think true forgiveness forgets the wrong? Why or why not? Scene to watch: No grudges held. (Elapsed time: 01:14:04–01:14:25) In this scene Radio was not to blame for what he did, but he did not want Coach to get mad at Bobby, the guilty one. So he sat there and did not incriminate him.

[Q] Even though Radio was set up and ultimately did the wrong thing, how can you explain his lack of anger or bitterness toward those who wronged him?

[Q] What are some practical things you can do when you struggle with forgiving someone?

[Q] Name someone else in the movie who showed forgiveness. Was the forgiveness received? How do you know?

2. Kindness (2 Samuel 9:1–13; Colossians 3:12–13) Scene to watch: A cup of water. (Elapsed time: 00:21:35–00:26:05) When Coach Jones looks over the gate, Radio is there. He has compassion on him and asks his assistant coach to offer water to the thirsty boy.

[Q] Is this the first thing Radio was offered? If not, what was?

[Q] What was Radio’s immediate response when the water was offered to him?

[Q] In what other ways does Coach Jones show Radio kindness?

[Q] What acts of kindness do you see Radio do? Read 2 Samuel 9:1–13. Because David loved Jonathan, he extended kindness to Jonathan’s son. Read Colossians 3:12–13. God tells us to put on kindness, showing us it is a choice we can make. He also tells us to bear with one another, which he will give us the ability to do. Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), which means that God doesn’t expect us to be able to be kind on our own, but gives us his Holy Spirit to produce kindness in us. As we admit our inability to be kind and ask God for his kindness, we will experience his transforming power.

[Q] When David extended kindness to Jonathan’s son, how did he go about it? Describe a time someone showed you great kindness. Was it expected, or a complete surprise? Explain.

[Q] Share a time when you bore with another person. What did that look like? What are some of the things that keep us from doing this with one another? How can you let the Holy Spirit produce kindness in you when you are struggling with someone?

3. Generosity (Matthew 26:6–13; Luke 6:38; Romans 8:32) Scene to watch: Christmas is for giving. (Elapsed time 00:57:02–01:00:55) People shower Coach with gifts for Radio. Radio’s enthusiasm is endearing as he sees each brightly colored present and wonders what is inside.

[Q] Coach Jones’s daughter misunderstands why people are giving presents to Radio. What does she think?

[Q] How does this scene make you feel? What does it make you want to do for others? Do you think generosity is seen more clearly during the holidays? Should it be? Why or why not?

1 Scene to watch: Radio is a giver. (Elapsed time 01:03:50–01:04:39)

From an overflowing heart, Radio gives.

[Q] What is revealed about Radio’s character when he gives away almost all his Christmas presents?

[Q] When Radio’s generosity is misunderstood by the new police officer, Radio is presented with yet another opportunity to become angry. What happened? What was good about his response? Read Matthew 26:6–13. When the woman opened the alabaster jar and poured the perfume on Jesus, she was met with much opposition. The money could have been spent on the poor, the disciples told Jesus, and yet Jesus admired the fact that the woman gave wholeheartedly. Read Luke 6:38 and Romans 8:32. God makes a comparison with how we give and how we will receive. God did not spare the most precious thing he had, Jesus Christ; nothing he gives us could ever compare to that. We are encouraged to ask God for what we need and to be lavish in our giving. God is not a withholder; he is a giver.

[Q] Imagine you were there when the woman with the alabaster jar of very expensive perfume poured it out on Jesus. Do you think you would have been thrilled with her action, or would you have been more in agreement with the disciples? Explain your answer.

[Q] How is the woman with the alabaster jar similar to Radio? How is she different?

[Q] Name a person from the Bible who was generous. Do you think what we have determines how generous we can be? Why or why not?

[Q] What are your obstacles to giving generously? Between your time and your resources, which is harder for you to give?

[Q] If you have children, what are some practical ways you can encourage them to be givers?

[Q] Sometimes when we give, there are hidden strings attached. Share a time God enabled you to freely give, without any expectation of a return or a response. What did that feel like?

4. Making Amends (Luke 19:1–9; James 1:22–25) Scene to watch: A mistake not repeated. (Elapsed time: 01:21:40–01:24:05) Touched by Radio’s mother’s death, Coach opened his heart to his daughter, sharing for the first time what had moved him to want to help Radio. Though it had been many years earlier, he shares his story of regret and the desire not to repeat his former mistake.

1 [Q] In the last scene Coach makes a decision to step down as head coach. What amends was he attempting to make?

[Q] What other character made amends with someone? What was involved?

[Q] Do you think regret can be an effective motivator? Why or why not? Share a regret you had that prompted you to do something. Read Luke 19:1–9. Zacchaeus was a tax collector who had taken advantage of people all his life. When he came face to face with Jesus, he changed. It wasn’t enough that he was sorry for what he had done; his heart was moved to make amends. He paid back four times what he had taken. Read James 1:22–25. James tells us who are followers of Christ to not merely listen to the Word, but to do what it says. Knowing what God’s Word says should change us. We need to read it and apply it to our lives.

[Q] When we are convicted by the Holy Spirit of something we’ve done, God sometimes requires that we make amends. Share a time when you made amends.

[Q] Do you think there is ever a time when making amends is not possible? Share a time when you were not able to make amends.

[Q] Is it enough to simply feel sorry for the wrongs we have committed against others? Why or why not?

[Q] In what ways do you struggle with being a doer? Share an area in which you have applied God’s Word instead of just reading it. Share an area in which you need to apply it.

As the Credits Roll

We watched a young man circle a football field, remaining outside while looking in. We saw another man’s compassion offering that thirsty soul some water. We watched as the gate opened, and Radio took little steps, eventually making his way into the hearts of the whole town. He started out being taught but ended up teaching everyone he met. When Coach Jones was questioning whether he had made a mistake in trying to help Radio, his wife responded, “It’s never a mistake to care for someone.” This movie continually illustrates that truth.

[Q] Name some of the things Radio taught the town.

[Q] Share the most difficult scene in the movie for you to watch, and why.

[Q] Did you learn something about yourself from this movie? What was it?

[Q] What did you find most endearing about Radio?

—Study prepared by Anne Peterson, poet, speaker, and regular contributor to

1 CHRISTIANBIBLESTUDIES.COM.

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Radio “A story about how one young man changed a town.”

Radio is based on the true story of a high school football coach (Ed Harris) and his relationship with a developmentally challenged young man named Radio (Cuba Gooding Jr.). This movie dramatically demonstrates the power of one life, even a life that is not considered valuable by some.

Use this discussion guide to explore the spiritual themes of the movie. What lessons can we learn about forgiveness and making amends? How is generosity illustrated? How can we better understand kindness?

Based on: Radio (Columbia Pictures, 2003), directed by Michael Tollin, screenplay by Mike Rich, rated PG for mild language and thematic elements. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Radio Page 2

Movie Summary

As the film opens, a high school football coach (Ed Harris) watches a young man (Cuba Gooding Jr.) push a shopping cart, with a few treasures tucked inside, around the perimeter of the football field. The football team decides to have some fun with this mentally challenged young man, so they lock him in a sports shed. When Coach Jones discovers the frightened young man, he reprimands his team by having them work out until they are physically exhausted. In addition, he takes the man, Radio, under his wing and into his life. We watch the characters grow as the school year progresses. Each football game finds Radio on the sidelines cheering the team on. His obvious enthusiasm, while heartfelt, is not shared by all, and soon there are objections to his being at the games. While his own family misses him, the coach continues to pour his life into Radio. When the football season ends, Coach decides to enlarge Radio’s knowledge about sports and invites him to attend all the basketball practices and games as well. Radio is ultimately a story about a community coming together to help one individual overcome his difficulties.

—For more coverage of Radio, visit http://www.christianitytoday.com/movies/reviews/radio.html

Rated PG This film is rated PG for mild language and thematic events.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Forgiveness 2. Kindness 3. Generosity 4. Making Amends

—Study prepared by Anne Peterson, poet, speaker, and regular contributor to CHRISTIANBIBLESTUDIES.COM.

© 2005 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Les Misérables Les Misérables follows the life of one man in pre-revolutionary France as he struggles to be free of his past—and transforms many lives through the power of grace.

This film is the 1998 adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel. We see convict Jean Valjean’s pardon and redemption at the hands of a fiercely loving bishop. We then watch as his transformed life brings hope to others in the midst of economic and political turmoil. When a ruthless police inspector recognizes Valjean, he is forced to face his past. Eventually, when justice is satisfied, and as the people of France call for freedom, Valjean is freed from the burden of his crime.

This study will help you discuss some of the prominent themes in Les Misérables. How does this film portray the power of redemption? What role does justice play in this story? How does grace make a difference? When and why might war be justified?

Based on: Les Misérables (Columbia, 1998), directed by Bille August, rated PG–13 for battle scenes and other violence, brief nudity, some profanity, and sexual references. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – LEADER’S GUIDE Les Misérables Page 2

Movie Summary

Frenchman Jean Valjean (Liam Neeson) has served 19 years of hard labor as a consequence for stealing bread when he was starving. Now released from prison, he is doomed to a life without respect, meaningful work, or a livable wage. Rather than report to his parole officer, he steals silverware from a bishop who has given him shelter for the night. When he’s caught and the generous bishop forgives him (and sends Valjean away with even more silver), he has new hope. Valjean starts a new life and devotes himself to bringing hope and grace to others. Among other deeds, he cares for a dying woman, Fantine (Uma Thurman), who has been forced into prostitution to support herself and her daughter after being fired from Valjean’s factory. Before Fantine dies, Valjean promises to care for her daughter, Cosette. Unfortunately, Valjean can’t escape his past. When Inspector Javert (Geoffrey Rush) recognizes Valjean from his days in the quarries, Valjean flees and again starts a new life. He rescues Cosette (Claire Danes) from her cruel caretakers and takes her to Paris. They take refuge in a church, where he raises her as his daughter. Ten years later, outside the church’s haven, Valjean finds himself again hunted by Javert. Cosette falls in love with an outspoken revolutionary student, Marius. As the people of Paris call for revolution, Valjean rescues Marius from the firing squad and unites him with Cosette. At the film’s conclusion, Javert takes his own life and releases Valjean to live in freedom. Rated PG-13 Les Misérables earned its PG–13 rating with some violence, including two fistfights and brief battle scenes. Both forms of violence are sanitized and light on blood. In one of the more disturbing acts of violence, a child is shot in battle; sensitive viewers should beware. An act of suicide is implied but not shown. This film also includes brief female nudity, which is appropriate in the context of a story about a desperate woman forced into prostitution. Profanity and sexual references are present throughout the movie, mostly in reference to the prostitute and her child born out of wedlock. This movie deals with serious themes and is not appropriate for young children.

Select one or more of these themes to discuss: 1. Redemption 2. Justice 3. Grace 4. War

1. Redemption (Galatians 3:10–14; 1 Peter 1:13–21) Jean Valjean’s life presents a striking picture of redemption and its results. When Valjean moves from despair to hope, he follows through on his promise to become a new man.

1 God wrote the book on redemption—literally. The Bible tells how Jesus can make us new too.

Scene to Watch: The bishop ransoms Valjean (Elapsed time: 00:06:21–00:09:50) As the film opens, we learn of Jean Valjean’s despair at his future life as a convict. He has no hope for fulfillment or true freedom. When the bishop sends him away with a bag of silver, he claims the silver is a ransom for Valjean’s soul: He is giving Valjean back to God. This act of redemption gives Valjean new hope and changes the course of his life.

[Q] What does redemption mean? Give an example of redemption from everyday life.

[Q] Why did the bishop refuse to have Jean Valjean punished?

[Q] Why did the bishop insist that Valjean take the candlesticks as well?

[Q] What did the bishop mean when he said, “With this silver, I’ve bought your soul”?

[Q] How did Valjean immediately respond to this redemption? In the long run? Leader’s Note: Initially, Valjean was baffled by this generosity. As the film unfolds, however, we see the long-term results of the bishop’s actions. Valjean becomes generous, redeeming others and giving them new hope. The Bible is all about redemption. In fact, redemption through Christ is the most significant unifying theme of Scripture. Central to Christian truth is the message that Jesus has paid our ransom and redeemed us from a life of sin. Read Galatians 3:10–14.

[Q] What is the curse these verses mention? Leader’s Note: The curse is the burden of sin. Because we are imperfect (everyone has sinned), we fall short of perfection. Because God is perfect, we can’t live up to God’s standards. We are cursed to suffer eternal punishment and separation from God.

[Q] How did Jesus become “a curse for us”? Leader’s Note: When Jesus died, he took on the burden of our sin and paid the consequences. When we accept Jesus’ ransom, the curse no longer applies to us. Read 1 Peter 1:13–21.

[Q] How has Jesus redeemed us? Leader’s Note: By dying in our place, Jesus paid the consequences of our sin and bought our souls so we could become new people.

[Q] How does this compare to Jean Valjean’s redemption?

[Q] How should we respond to Jesus’ act of redemption? 1

[Q] How has Jesus’ act of redemption affected you?

2. Justice (Deuteronomy 6:1–9) Jean Valjean both longs for and runs from justice. He resents the injustice of his punishment that outweighs his crime. Yet he rejects justice when it pursues him and threatens his freedom. We all face the same struggle: We want to see justice in the world, but we fear its force when it demands satisfaction for our own actions. The Bible makes clear that we can’t live without God’s perfect justice. Scene to Watch: Inspector Javert’s confession (Elapsed time: 00:41:50–00:45:37) Inspector Javert believes he was wrong in suspecting that the mayor is really the convict Jean Valjean. He confesses that he has denounced Valjean before the prefect of police in Paris. Javert demands that he be punished and dismissed from his position. Valjean refuses—in fact, he orders Javert to forgive himself.

[Q] Why does Javert insist that he be punished?

[Q] What does Javert mean when he says, “You must punish me or my life will have been meaningless”?

[Q] How does justice bring meaning to life? Leader’s Note: Justice sets boundaries for us, then hands out consequences when we fail to live up to its requirements. Justice brings order from chaos. We need to know that we can count on justice. God has revealed his laws for us in the Bible. God’s laws are perfect and necessary for life. Read Deuteronomy 6:1–9.

[Q] What do these verses say about how God’s laws can bring meaning to life? Leader’s Note: God’s laws remind us who God is, help us live well, and give us purpose.

[Q] How are laws and justice related? Leader’s Note: Laws form the foundation for justice. Justice declares the law’s requirements and holds people accountable to them.

[Q] How have God’s laws and justice brought meaning to your life?

3. Grace (Ephesians 2:1–10; Romans 6:23; Romans 5:8) Grace is the overriding theme and ultimate victor in Les Misérables. From the transformation in Valjean’s life, to his peaceful life in Vigau where he acts as mayor, to his decision to spare Javert’s life—grace is evident and transforming. What can this film teach

1 us about God’s grace? And what does the Bible say about the power of grace?

Scene to Watch: Valjean cares for Fantine (Elapsed time: 00:35:39–00:38:40) Fantine, who had worked in Valjean’s factory, was fired because she was not “an honest woman.” Fantine turned to prostitution to support herself and her daughter. She became seriously ill but was attempting to work when some men attacked her. After fighting back, she was arrested and sentenced to six months in prison. Valjean declared her innocent, then took her into his home and cared for her.

[Q] When has someone been gracious to you? How did that experience affect your life?

[Q] Why did Valjean decide to take care of Fantine?

[Q] What did Valjean risk by taking a prostitute into his home?

[Q] Why did Fantine want to “pay” Valjean for caring for her? Does this reference to prostitution seem appropriate at this point in the film? Grace is also an overriding theme in the Bible. God’s grace permeates all of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation. Read Ephesians 2:1–10. One of the most powerful aspects of God’s grace is that it’s free—we can’t earn it. Because God’s grace flows from his perfect character, it’s unrelated to what we do.

[Q] How would you describe God’s grace?

[Q] What has God’s grace done for us?

[Q] How does God’s grace compare to the grace Valjean showed Fantine? Read Romans 6:23.

[Q] How does grace relate to justice? Read Romans 5:8.

[Q] What makes God’s grace so remarkable?

[Q] How does Fantine symbolize the human condition?

[Q] How has grace made a difference in your life?

4. War (Ecclesiastes 3:8; Romans 13:1–7) A backdrop to Valjean’s story is the economic and political turmoil in pre-revolutionary France. As Valjean struggles for freedom, the people call for revolution and justice. We see 1 the downtrodden and underprivileged, from Valjean to Fantine, Cosette, and the people of Paris. But does the people’s plight justify a war? And what does the Bible say about war?

Scene to Watch: Marius rallies the people (Elapsed time: 01:16:34–01:19:15) As Cosette wanders the Paris street, she encounters children in squalor, people begging, and a restless crowd. At the center of the crowd is Marius, speaking of the people’s plight and the king’s broken promises. His rallying cry, “We are the republic,” reminds the people that they deserve—and should demand—a voice in their government.

[Q] When have you solved a conflict in a positive way?

[Q] How does the contrast between Cosette and the other people add power to this scene?

[Q] How do the images in this scene relate to Marius’ words?

[Q] Marius is stirring the people toward revolution. What would be the appropriate Christian response to this situation? In the Bible, God both endorses and condemns war along with other forms of violence. In the Old Testament, God sent his people into battle, even giving them detailed battle plans to follow. At other times, God punished people who lived in violence. Christ called us to live peacefully but also to stand up for truth and for oppressed people. So what is the biblical answer to calls for war? In Ecclesiastes 3:8, the writer declared there is “a time for war and a time for peace.”

[Q] When is an appropriate time for war?

[Q] When is the proper time for peace? Read Romans 13:1–7.

[Q] What might this passage mean for wars and political revolutions?

[Q] When do you believe war is justified? When is it not justified?

[Q] From what you know about history, was the French Revolution justified? Why or why not?

[Q] How can we determine whether to support wars in our own times?

As the Credits Roll

[Q] What role did the church play in this film? How did this role compare to what you have seen in other films?

[Q] How was hope symbolized in this film?

1 [Q] In the opening scene, how did the bishop compare to the way you envision Jesus?

[Q] What can this film teach us about the importance of generosity and respect for others?

[Q] Valjean was eventually set free from a burden he had carried for nearly 40 years. What burdens have kept you from living life to the fullest?

—Study by Amy Simpson

© 2006 • C H R I S T I A N I T Y T O D A Y I N T E R N A T I O N A L Visit Smal lG roup s.c om and ChristianB ibl eStudies.c om MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Les Misérables Les Misérables follows the life of one man in pre-revolutionary France as he struggles to be free of his past—and transforms many lives through the power of grace.

This film is the 1998 adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel. We see convict Jean Valjean’s pardon and redemption at the hands of a fiercely loving bishop. We then watch as his transformed life brings hope to others in the midst of economic and political turmoil. When a ruthless police inspector recognizes Valjean, he is forced to face his past. Eventually, when justice is satisfied, and as the people of France call for freedom, Valjean is freed from the burden of his crime.

This study will help you discuss some of the prominent themes in Les Misérables. How does this film portray the power of redemption? What role does justice play in this story? How does grace make a difference? When and why might war be justified?

Based on: Les Misérables (Columbia, 1998), directed by Bille August, rated PG–13 for battle scenes and other violence, brief nudity, some profanity, and sexual references. MOVIE-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE – PARTICIPANT’S GUIDE Les Misérables Page 2

Movie Summary

Frenchman Jean Valjean (Liam Neeson) has served 19 years of hard labor as a consequence for stealing bread when he was starving. Now released from prison, he is doomed to a life without respect, meaningful work, or a livable wage. Rather than report to his parole officer, he steals silverware from a bishop who has given him shelter for the night. When he’s caught and the generous bishop forgives him (and sends Valjean away with even more silver), he has new hope. Valjean starts a new life and devotes himself to bringing hope and grace to others. Among other deeds, he cares for a dying woman, Fantine (Uma Thurman), who has been forced into prostitution to support herself and her daughter after being fired from Valjean’s factory. Before Fantine dies, Valjean promises to care for her daughter, Cosette. Unfortunately, Valjean can’t escape his past. When Inspector Javert (Geoffrey Rush) recognizes Valjean from his days in the quarries, Valjean flees and again starts a new life. He rescues Cosette (Claire Danes) from her cruel caretakers and takes her to Paris. They take refuge in a church, where he raises her as his daughter. Ten years later, outside the church’s haven, Valjean finds himself again hunted by Javert. Cosette falls in love with an outspoken revolutionary student, Marius. As the people of Paris call for revolution, Valjean rescues Marius from the firing squad and unites him with Cosette. At the film’s conclusion, Javert takes his own life and releases Valjean to live in freedom. Rated PG-13 Les Misérables earned its PG–13 rating with some violence, including two fistfights and brief battle scenes. Both forms of violence are sanitized and light on blood. In one of the more disturbing acts of violence, a child is shot in battle; sensitive viewers should beware. An act of suicide is implied but not shown. This film also includes brief female nudity, which is appropriate in the context of a story about a desperate woman forced into prostitution. Profanity and sexual references are present throughout the movie, mostly in reference to the prostitute and her child born out of wedlock. This movie deals with serious themes and is not appropriate for young children.

1. Redemption (Galatians 3:10–14; 1 Peter 1:13–21) Jean Valjean’s life presents a striking picture of redemption and its results. When Valjean moves from despair to hope, he follows through on his promise to become a new man. God wrote the book on redemption—literally. The Bible tells how Jesus can make us new too.

2. Justice (Deuteronomy 6:1–9) Jean Valjean both longs for and runs from justice. He resents the injustice of his punishment that outweighs his crime. Yet he rejects justice when it pursues him and threatens his freedom. We all face the same struggle: We want to see justice in the world, but we fear its force when it demands satisfaction for our own actions. The Bible makes clear that we can’t live without God’s perfect justice.

3. Grace (Ephesians 2:1–10; Romans 6:23; Romans 5:8) Grace is the overriding theme and ultimate victor in Les Misérables. From the transformation in Valjean’s life, to his peaceful life in Vigau where he acts as mayor, to his decision to spare Javert’s life—grace is evident and transforming. What can this film teach us about God’s grace? And what does the Bible say about the power of grace?

4. War (Ecclesiastes 3:8; Romans 13:1–7) A backdrop to Valjean’s story is the economic and political turmoil in pre-revolutionary France. As Valjean struggles for freedom, the people call for revolution and justice. We see the downtrodden and underprivileged, from Valjean to Fantine, Cosette, and the people of Paris. But does the people’s plight justify a war? And what does the Bible say about war?

1 —Study by Amy Simpson