A high-budget movie with awesome graphic effects based on the Biblical account of Noah's Ark and the world wide flood in Genesis. Right? I mean, that's what the movie trailer portrays. The above featurette certainly hints at projecting this cinematic presentation as being in-line with Christians' beliefs and Christianity in general, with some artistic license, of course. We all know that the movie version of any book is a bit... enhanced. They have to add in a romance or two, a few plot twists, fill in with some extra characters, etc. But that part where Russell Crowe so confidently and faithfully says that God provides everything necessary... that could perk a believer's hopes that this movie may hint at the true nature of God and of His tremendous love and provision for mankind since the beginning of time.
When was the last time you saw these "big" of actors and actresses in a movie which accurately portrays Scripture or the character of God?
N-E-V-E-R
Let's not jump to conclusions and believe that things aren't too-good-to-be-true in this case. When I first saw the original movie trailer, I was intrigued. Having heard some of the controversy and read some very well written reviews on the subject matter, I became skeptical.
The Gospel Coalition wrote a post about "How Christians Should Respond to the Noah Movie" which was very observant on how Christians can tend to over-react in one way or another to movies which attempt to present Biblical accounts. I found it well-written and as well as giving me some food for thought, it was calming. Maybe this movie isn't really a big deal. I mean, how many spin-offs of Bible stories or concepts have we already seen? No reason to get our panties in a bunch over this one.
Then I came upon a source which I trust. Answers in Genesis with Ken Hamm. If you just rolled your eyes or sighed right there, don't dismiss this just because you dislike him as a person or disagree with his young-earth science stances. This particular article he wrote provides a much better sneak peek into the actual content of the movie than the featurettes released to youtube will. It is worth taking time to read regardless of whether or not you agree with any of Ken Hamm's other stances.
You know how the movie trailers always show the "best" parts of a movie? (Or the funniest, in the case of comedies) Well, I have a sneaking suspician that the Noah Movie trailers are showing the "most agreeable" parts to reel in the 'religious folk' at the box office. If that were the only agenda, I'd be irritated, but I have come to a place in life and understanding that I have the wisdom to know
The media and entertainment industry isn't just about making money. It's about social and cultural impact and modification. Living in denial abo
ut that won't change the fact that it's true.Television elites are not in media "just for the money." Sixty-six percent believed that television should promote their vision of social reform. They seek to move their audience toward their own vision of society. (1981 Lichter/Rothman Study published in a book titled, "The Media Elite")
The New York Times Public Editor, Daniel Okrent, is quoted as saying, "Is the New York Times Biased? Of course it is! The issues are gay rights, gun control, abortion, and environmental regulations, etc. If you think [we are unbiased], you've been reading the paper with your eyes closed."
If this movie isn't trying to promote a positive, wholesome view of the Bible, Christianity, and Christians, then what is its agenda?