Episodes
Grab your umbrellas and seek shelter with us in the dark alleyways and sewers of Gotham City, exploring the darker side of human nature and a bat-free exploration of broken people. James and Kat discuss Oswald Cobb’s fascinating yet monstrous nature and the stories of his compromised family, friends and foes. Is there any hope or redemption to be found in this life under the sun? Watch the episode HERE. Rate and review to get 2 FREE Popcorn Theology Stickers! Write a 5-star review and send a...
Published 11/19/24
Watch the episode here. To kick off Musical Month, we're opening the "Popcorn Theology Vault" to re-release a legacy episode from 2018. This week, David and newly added guest host James Harleman are joined by Aaron and Patrick of the Feelin’ Film Podcast to talk about La La Land. In this surprisingly long episode, we discussed the mixed reactions to this movie, contagious passion, traditionalism vs. revolution, heartbreak and regret, and more. For more "legacy" episodes like this one, check...
Published 11/12/24
Published 11/12/24
Join James, Kat, and David in their underground lab as we cook up a top-notch discussion on Breaking Bad Season 4. We explore Walt’s continual metamorphosis into Heisenberg, the importance of catechizing our families, how we can bring about our own destruction, and the role of sympathy and loyalty in entertainment. As we Face Off with these themes. we sure hope it… rings a bell. Watch the video episode here. Rate and review to get 2 FREE Popcorn Theology Stickers! Write a 5-star review...
Published 11/05/24
"It shows you things... horrible things.” Our Patron Saint supporters sent us a distress signal and we sent two Popcorn Theologians to check if there’s any life left in this film, reappearing from its cinematic origins in 1997. What they find has scared lapsed churchgoers back to their faith, and surprised many sci-fi fans with an unexpected journey into the supernatural. Will Eric and James survive, or will this frightening film be their last assignment? Join us and find out… Watch the...
Published 10/29/24
Join Jam and Miles as they discuss the deep facets of The Wild Robot. This movie explores the programming of a godly parent and themes of preparing children for the world. If you have ever wondered what godly parenting looks like, or how children’s movies will get back to the basics, this is the episode for you. Watch the video episode here. ---- Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: https://linktr.ee/popcorntheology  Support:...
Published 10/22/24
For only our second documentary ever, Miles and James dive into “Am I Racist?” and discuss how documentaries (and mockumentaries) tell a story. As Matt becomes a DEI/antiracist expert, we highlight the underlying worldview and how it mimics the Biblical doctrines of creation, fall, and, religious penance. Join us and “do the work” of Popcorn Theology! Watch the video episode here. — Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect:...
Published 10/15/24
Do you like scary movies? This week, our “In The Lobby” materializes from the mist with “Christians on Horror”. Novelist Mike Duran emerges from his coffin as the hairy, howling Pastor Joe Thorn claws his way into the conversation, moderated by our host and horror expert James Harleman. Over the coming weeks we’ll delve into the controversy surrounding an oft-misunderstood genre: what are the attractions, the objections, the redemptive aspects, and our hosts’ favorite horror films for those...
Published 10/10/24
Eric and Maddy cover one of the more controversy inducing shows in recent memory. Does this show have anything compelling to say? Is it good? Is it bad? or does it commit the worst story telling sin: being boring?  Wherever you land on these questions there are still many themes to receive and redeem and a good reminder that there is a wind that will carry believers far beyond the reaches of the enemy and the enemy can never follow. Watch the video episode here. — Don't forget to...
Published 10/08/24
Come away with us for a secluded podcast? What could possibly go wrong? James and Jonathan refuse to hold their tongues and get into the deeper themes of this tense thriller, from family dynamics to people pleasing and how we deal with strangers. Watch the episode here. —  Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and click the notification bell. Follow & connect: https://linktr.ee/popcorntheology Support: https://www.patreon.com/popcorntheology Chapters: COLD OPEN - 00:00 INTRO THEME MUSIC...
Published 10/01/24
Don’t say the name of this episode out loud! Kat and James get their goth on and tackle these two Tim Burton comedies separated by 36 years yet so eerily similar. Like the ghost, this episode has the most as they discuss the cultural impact of Lydia Deetz and goth subculture, the movie’s skewed view of the afterlife, and the extremes of non-belief regarding spirits versus an unhealthy interest in them. Watch the episode here. Chapters: Cold Open: Are we dead? Or... - 00:00  Welcome &...
Published 09/24/24
In space, no one can hear you scream, but everyone can hear and see this episode covering all things Xenomorph! James and Rory are joined by Thomas Thorogood as they rank and discuss the entire franchise and then zero in on its latest entry, discussing biblical views of AI and how the film’s characters yearn for a better world. Watch the episode here. Check out Thomas’ YouTube channel on film and more - https://www.youtube.com/@ThorogoodFilms Chapters: Introduction - 00:00 Welcome...
Published 09/17/24
David and James continue to cook, passing the midpoint of our exploration of this award-winning series; there will be no half measures! This time they are joined by Kat to discuss hot takes on Skyler‘s three word bomb drop, the series most divisive episode, and the worship of Mammon. Season 2: https://youtu.be/ciyqeggk5m8 Season 1: https://youtu.be/d4BxozxMfR8  Chapters: Intro: Skyler Meets Saul - 00:00 Welcome - 2:57 Popcorn Ratings - 3:56 Theology Ratings - 11:15 Subscribe, Share,...
Published 09/10/24
This week kicks off our new series "In The Lobby: Popcorn Politics", where we discuss the intersection of entertainment, theology, and politics. In this series, we interview NYT best-selling author and Daily Wire culture reporter, Megan Basham. This week, we discuss her new book (Shepherds for Sale: How Evangelical Leaders Traded Truth for a Leftist Agenda) and the concerning trends that motivated her to write it. Over the coming weeks, we'll discuss the incursion of politics and social...
Published 09/05/24
The final episode of In The Lobby: Back to School is here! Join our panel of educators (Bridget, Jam, & David) as we ask James Harleman common questions about Film & Theology. Share this with your friends so they can learn more about mindful engagement of film. Watch the episode here. To hear more of our "Back to School" series, watch Part 1 (https://youtu.be/3QdLBWjdIAQ), and go to www.Patreon.com/PopcornTheology for the rest. Thanks Patron Saints! Your support is greatly...
Published 09/03/24
Eric and Maddy go on a epic adventure to battle the forces of Sauron that have corrupted their beloved franchise. Will our two diehard Lord of the Rings fans overcome their prejudice and find themes to Reject, Receive, and Redeem? Watch the episode here. Here was our coverage of Season 1: Episodes 1-2: https://youtu.be/CQIxq_KmpGk Full Season: https://youtu.be/IZuC809-bVU Chapters: Welcome - 0:54 Season One: 4:55 Popcorn Ratings - 9:26 Theology Ratings - 21:30 Themes to Reject:...
Published 09/02/24
Watch the episode here. The Patron Saints of Popcorn Theology hit a home run this week by voting for the beloved summer classic, The Sandlot. This often silly coming-of-age tale may surprise you with its existential and theological depth. On this episode Eric and Miles discuss the blessedness of friendship, the Christ figure at the center of the movie, and how the journey of Scotty Smalls mirrors the Christian life; from lost to convert and from convert to disciple maker.  This episode is...
Published 08/27/24
Watch the episode here. This week we drive into the eye of the storm to wrangle the narrative in Twisters. Our hosts discuss this surprisingly fresh movie and dive deeper to explore how it touches on foundational themes of what it means to be human and the relationship between science and religion. This episode is brought to you by Reel Leadership, the new book that helps you understand how your favorite films can make you a better leader. To learn more, visit www.jmlalonde.com/popcorn,...
Published 08/20/24
Watch the episode HERE. It’s high time we took a second stab at what many consider the best Wolverine film, and one of the greatest comic book movies ever made. Take a trip with Old Man Foltz and Professor Lee as they journey through themes of dehumanization, nature versus nurture, and promised lands. Sink your claws into this classic episode! For more "legacy" episodes like this one, check our archives on your audio podcast app or www.popcorntheology.com! This episode is brought to...
Published 08/13/24
Watch the episode here. Why is Thor crying? Jamespool recruits Jamerine to explore this fourth-wall breaking, record-shattering blockbuster film, with Gregpool along for the ride as they explore themes of what it means to matter, to be a hero, and to find redemption and meaning in a multiverse of mixed messages. Also, they geek out on cameos, Easter eggs, and a movie that celebrates three decades of Marvel movies! This episode is brought to you by Reel Leadership, the new book that helps...
Published 08/06/24
Watch the episode here. This month, we’re going Back to School with our series In The Lobby. For this series, our panel of educators (Bridget, Jam, David, & James) dissects the narratives surrounding education in film. This week, we discuss the portrayal of teachers in movies/TV and Hollywood’s false concepts for the role of education. The first episode of this series is available to the public; the next 3 episodes will release every Thursday throughout August, and are exclusive...
Published 08/01/24
Watch the episode here. Thanks to our super team of Patron Saints, James and David dive into the origins of the X-Men with First Class. This film explores the bonds of biblical friendship, mirrors the building of the early church, and illustrates different responses to an opposing world. Enjoy this episode and consider joining our team so you can vote on next month’s Patreon Pick. And remember… Popcorn Theologian and Proud! James' book Cinemagogue has a new edition! Hear more in this...
Published 07/30/24
Watch the episode here. You’re probably thinking “Why would you review THESE movies?” Well, underneath the exaggerated reputation and some admittedly objectionable content are two films about family, legalism, judgment, underestimating love, and more. Also murders, explosions, and a tongue that surely personifies James 3:6. But James and Greg jump in the deadpool and dare explore what we can reject, receive and redeem. Will they stick the superhero landing? You decide. James'...
Published 07/23/24
When the brink of Mutant existence is threatened by Trask’s Sentinels, the X-Men come up with an elaborate plan to send Wolverine back in time to right the wrongs of the past. Join James, Miles, and Jam as they discuss the deep themes of X-Men Days of Future Past, and look forward to the coming day of Christ! James' book Cinemagogue has a new edition! Hear more in this episode and read more here. For a sneak peak at the Director's Cut, click here. — We've got new merchandise! Check it out...
Published 07/16/24
James, Miles and Jam tackle a mutant-sized episode of the comic book movies that proved the concept and paved the way for the MCU. We pop our claws and take a stab at this movie’s themes, from the overarching prejudice motif to the unfolding character studies and growth of Rogue and Wolverine across the trilogy. Logan (Episode 077): https://popcorntheology.com/2017/03/05/077-logan/ James' book Cinemagogue has a new edition! Hear more in this episode and read more here. For a sneak peak at...
Published 07/09/24