http://thimblerigsark.wordpress.com/2014/03/25/whats-wrong-with-christian-filmmaking/
1) We need to permit our artists (writers, actors, musicians,
filmmakers) to take more risks. And artists, whether you are permitted
or not, take more risks. Did you really get into your
artistic field because you liked playing it safe? Why play it safe with
the most important thing you have to say?
2) We need to encourage our artists to challenge rather than stroke
our sensibilities. A pearl is made when dirt is irritated inside the
oyster, after all. And so artists, don’t wait for permission. Start challenging your audience. They will undoubtedly resist you, but we need to be challenged or we’ll stagnate and fade away into irrelevance.
3) We need to recognize that art is art, the pulpit is the pulpit,
and while the two might cross paths from time to time, they are
completely different animals. This goes for everyone. Does everyone truly understand this? With all the recent criticisms of Noah because it “is unbiblical”, I have to think that lots of people don’t.
4) We need to be okay with movies that don’t give all the answers.
If they succeed in asking some good, deep questions, they might
actually open the doors to conversations where answers can be explored. Artists, isn’t part of our job to provoke questions? Don’t feel you have to end every sentence with a period
5) And most importantly: tell good stories.
As Frank Capra famously said, “If you want to send a message, try
Western Union.” If you are an artist, the quality of your work should
be at the top of your list of considerations. Jesus wasn’t known for
telling mediocre stories that ticked off all the correct religious
boxes. He was known for telling compelling stories that challenged his
listeners while communicating God’s truth. Aren’t we supposed to be
like Jesus?
