On Watching Theology, Joe, Duke, and Melissa take a single film and examine it closely, looking at the assumptions and ideas in the story. Every episode considers the theological, philosophical and thematic elements of a film, listening closely to what the author has to say, and interacting with those ideas. (It's more fun than it sounds).

Joe watches too many movies. He grew up in central Washington, earned his B.A. in Education and Fine Art, an M.A. in Theology and is currently completing an M.A. in English Literature. He's smuggled film classes into each degree. He is interested in writing, theology and hopes to one day compose the ultimate Joe Versus the Volcano commentary track.

Melissa has a B.A. in History and an M.A. in English with an emphasis on Film Studies. She has taken classes on everything from silent to romance to post-colonial films and much in between. Her research and interests lie mainly in feminist film theory, women in film, Hitchcock and the studio era. At the end of the day, however, she just loves films; from Notorious to Die Hard!
Duke enjoys the way movies can tell stories like no other medium. He is an amatuer critic that loves the atmosphere of the theater and the taste of overpriced popcorn. He loves a good story and appreciates the effort and skill of good story tellers. He is a nerd at heart and a sucker for heist movies. He hopes to see every good movie and lampoon every bad movie ever made before he dies.

Contact the hosts at mail@watchingtheology.com for more information.

Show DescriptionWatching Theology

The Fountain (2006)

Watching Theology May 22nd, 2007

The Fountain (2006)It's easy to talk about the meaning of life - we can test those philosophies here and now. But what about the meaning of death? How do we face death and dying, especially in the face of losing those we most care about? Darren Aronofsky's The Fountain is a movie/poem/existential mini-epic that wants to ask these questions. On this episode, we'll look closer at his questions and answers. Did the Mayans know something we don't and is there peace to be found in accepting our end?
See the Hollywood Jesus article.

Watching The Directors next edition: May 29 - Rob Reiner
Next WT edition: June 5 - Rob Reiner's The Princess Bride (1987)

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5 Responses to “The Fountain (2006)”

Craig May 22nd, 2007

Hi - Great show. I agree that the film 'The Fountain' is like a tone-poem. I'd like to add that someone in an interview (which I cannot find the link to) suggested that Darren Aronofsky's three movies - 'Pi,' 'Requiem For A Dream,' and 'The Fountain' - could make up a Mind, Body and Soul trilogy as each movie deals with one of those concepts. From what I remember Aronofsky seemed rather suprised by this, but it does work. Also, some of the main characters in each film are like seekers who are going down a dangerous path.

Daniel May 27th, 2007

I really enjoyed your discussion of the film. I also did not agree with all of Aranofsky's conclusions, but I did appreciate many aspects of the film. I think another interesting film that you guys could discuss is Magnolia. I would love to hear your ideas about this film. But, great work on your analysis of "The Fountain" and I look forward to your future broadcasts.

Mat June 6th, 2007

I enjoyed your discussion of this film and look forward to many more. I have been a big fan of "Watching the directors" and look forward to whatever comes next.

Joseph R. June 29th, 2007

I finally got to see The Fountain and listen to your podcast. At first I was reluctant to see it since I did not enjoy and found little to appreciate in Pi and Requiem for a Dream. The Fountain was a refreshing change from the director (for me, at least). Thanks for encouraging me to see an engaging and worthwhile film I otherwise would have blown off.

Keep up the good work.

britton December 11th, 2008

I have caught on too late and realized there is only a limited amount of episodes. This is sad to me. You have taught and shown me a deapness that is achievable in film although not present in many. I encourage you to rekindle these programs. It is hard to find film reviews and discussion from people with your values and depth of commentary.

I am an aspiring cinematographer that has been in videography for 8 years and you have opened a new depth in film and story to me. Thanks for all the time you have put into these progams and I pray for more… one day.

britton.

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