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Finding Deep Meaning Of Film

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Finding Deep Meaning in Film As was demonstrated in my analysis of Uys’ (1980) film, the techniques used for biblical interpretation may be used not merely for biblical interpretation or as a means to read literature as an example of the modern parable. These techniques may also be used to the interpretation of film as a medium of communication. Rosenberg, Lucchesi, Boardman, Vinson, Flynn, and Derrickson’s (2005), The exorcism of Emily Rose, provides a wonderful platform for examining these techniques as it is fraught with meaning, should the viewer take time to peel back the layers of the onion. Rosenberg et al. (2005) tells the story of the death of Emily Rose and the Catholic priest who is charged with the negligent homicide. On …show more content…

There are many theological themes that flow from the basic narrative if one takes time to consider them. Beyond the question of the cause of Emily’s death, one finds themes that relate to faith and rational thought, the existence of God and demons, the relationship between faith and science, suffering and faith, compassion and pain, and submission to a higher authority. While I will not take the time to delve into each one of these themes independently, I will select a few that are the most critical to this author. The first theme that becomes apparent is an overt attack on religion. Early on in the film, we find a group of lawyers talking about who will prosecute the case. It is stated that, “We need a Christian on this, preferably a Catholic. Someone who knows this stuff inside and out, and who the public will see as unbiased. We’re going after a holy man here” (Rosenberg et al, 2005). It was not merely about identifying a prosecutor who was capable, but one who took attack the faith and discredit the exorcism rite. The courtroom attacks on Father Moore continue in this vain claiming that his views were based upon, “archaic and irrational superstition” (Rosenberg et al, 2005). The Christian faith is depicted as the product of fiction; because it cannot be rationalized. A second theme that flows from the film is the question of the existence of God and demons. Peter Chattaway (n.d.),

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