The paradox at the heart of Christianity is that we must die in order to live again. And few movies witness to that truth like “Romero” (1989).
John Dougherty
John Dougherty is the director of mission and ministry at St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia, Pa.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
In ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,’ Jimmy Stewart has a Palm Sunday moment
An idealist—like Jesus or Jefferson Smith—can be dangerous because he refuses to accept the compromises that form the foundation of their power.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
‘The Secret of Kells’ proves that even in dark times, Ireland created beautiful things
When we create, we refuse to let darkness have the final say.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
Catholic Movie Club: 1993’s ‘Philadelphia’ challenges the ‘Doubting Thomases’ of the AIDS crisis
This is a film aimed at the Doubting Thomases, the ones who dismissed the AIDS crisis as the natural consequence of a risky and deviant lifestyle.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
Catholic Movie Club: ‘Moonstruck’ is the perfect rom-com for Lent
‘Moonstruck’ is a great film to watch during Lent, as we reflect on our finitude and what we should do with the time we’re given.
Posted inCatholic Movie Club, Faith
Catholic Movie Club: Spike Lee’s ‘Inside Man’ challenges our ideas of who the good guys are
A conversation with Phadadria M. Randall, L.C.S.W., on “Inside Man” (2006) for Black for History Month.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
Unlearning racism on a college campus: Lessons from John Singleton’s ‘Higher Learning’
“Higher Learning” interweaves the stories of three freshmen wrestling with identity and belonging.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
Catholic Movie Club: How ‘Moonlight’ deals with identity, maturity and men’s friendships
A conversation on Barry Jenkins’ Oscar-winning film for Black History month.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
‘Love and Basketball’: a seminal Black love story about desire, discernment and expectations
Monica and Quincy are competitive basketball players whose drive to succeed often clashes with their feelings for each other.
Posted inArts & Culture, Catholic Movie Club
Hard truths, Catholics and women in Hollywood: takeaways from this year’s Oscar noms
America’s Catholic Movie Club columnist looks at this year’s crop of contenders.