In a commentary published in today's (Friday December 23, 2005) Los Angeles Times, writer Joanna Connors attempts to advance a simply laughable premise. The piece is entitled "God's recurring role in Hollywood." The money quote:
"Contrary to popular belief, Hollywood not only believes in God, Hollywood loves God."
What is Connors' supporting evidence for such a claim? She cites the works of Cecille B. DeMille and D.W. Griffith. She also claims biblical allegories in films such as E.T. (1982) and Shane (1953). Does Connors realize these examples are decades old?! (Some are several decades old!) A lot has changed in the last 25 years!
Connors then stretches her premise to claim, "The Matrix and the Star Wars series set the Christ allegory in science fiction." OK ... but I'm sure you could also find a Christ allegory in Cheaper by the Dozen 2. Twelve apostles: 12 kids! God the Father: Steve Martin the father!
Connors also cites the resounding success of Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ, but she fails to note that the film was not financed, made, or distributed by any Hollywood studio!
"Hollywood loves God"? Connors might want to get in touch with the Catholic League, who, let's say, has a different view. The group endlessly cites countless Hollywood movies and television shows that knock Catholicism and religiosity. (Just last week, the Catholic League cited a particularly offensive episode of South Park on Comedy Central [link].) Hasn't Connors heard of films such as Priest (1994), The Last Temptation of Christ (1987), The Order (2003), The Magdalene Sisters (2002), and Stigmata (1999)? (And don't forget the upcoming film of the anti-Christian, fictional The DaVinci Code.)
"Hollywood loves God"? Sorry, Joanna. That is science fiction.
