Thursday, October 9, 2014

Christian (Subcultural) Art Apologetics?

It seems that two recent events have really sparked more discussion on "Christian film" and even general Christian subcultural production. First, there was LeCrae's new album Anomaly, its success and his statements about Christian art. Now, there's the (non-Christian and Christian) lambasting of the new Left Behind movie.

I admit that I'm a bit surprised at the voices rising up to defend the artistic output of Christian subculture. I think it's good that discussions are getting deeper into artistic philosophy and vision when it comes to Christian art. Here are some links to some of the discussion:

In Defense of Christian Subculture

How Christian Critics are Killing the Christian Film Industry 

Defenders of Christian subcultural film and art are correct to point out the artistic shallowness and moral vacancy that plagues most of the commercialized entertainment industry, and I wouldn't find it hard to believe, personally, that there might be a bit of prejudice against "Christian film" among reviewers. However, I really think that an improvement of Christian subcultural production is possible when we ask (and try to answer) the hard theological and artistic questions. What makes a film "Christian"? What is this art's purpose? To entertain, affirm, evangelize, disciple, and/or make a certain statement (all the while keeping in mind that too much "purpose" can easily detract artistic integrity)? In better answering these questions as artists and consumers, I'll be brave to say that there's could be a day where reviewers don't lambaste Christian art.

Thoughts?

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