12 Popular Movies With Subtle Christian Themes
Movies can confirm or strengthen our faith. For decades they have been used to spread the message of the Almighty, whether through epic productions like The Ten Commandments or Ben-Hur , or low-budget indie church-oriented dramas like Fireproof or Left Behind .
There are other films that, while not overtly Christian, have subtle positive messages that can be just as inspiring. Here are 12 (one for each apostle) for you to choose from.
First Reformed (2018)
You could argue that the Taxi Driver writer has spent his entire life making Christian-themed films, but Paul Schrader’s faith (he’s a Calvin College graduate) is most evident in this A24 film. It stars Ethan Hawke as a reverend searching for hope as the religious world becomes increasingly corrupt, but his existential journey leads him down a path of violence.
Where to watch: Digital rental, Kanopy, Cinemax.
Signs (2002)
Not as cynical as First Reformed , M. Night Shyamalan’s alien invasion horror film features an unfaithful ex-priest as its protagonist. The central theme of the film is whether God has a grand plan? — becomes quite obvious as the secrets of the plot become known.
Where to watch: digital rental.
Devil’s Advocate (1997)
This legal thriller/horror hybrid, made during the height of Al Pacino’s flashy career, revolves around a young lawyer (Keanu Reeves) whose impeccable legal reputation lands him in a prestigious New York law firm, where he is slowly corrupted by his boss (Pacino). . The film’s excessive nudity and strong language make it unsuitable for family movie night, but it does deal with Christian themes such as the seven deadly sins and Lucifer’s fall from heaven.
Where to watch: digital rental, Tubi.
A Crack in Time (2018)
When this big-budget adaptation of Madeline L’Engle’s novel was released, there were concerns about its lack of Christian elements. However, the film stays true to the book’s core themes: there is meaning in our chaotic universe, and our weaknesses can be our greatest strengths.
Where to watch: digital rental, Disney+.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
Speaking of young adult fantasy adaptations, this blockbuster about “two sons of Adam and two daughters of Eve” who find a magical land in a closet delves deep into Christian themes. They become undeniable when Aslan, the wise chief lion, is brought back to life by sacrificing himself for one of the children at the center of the story, just as a certain Christian did for the world.
Where to watch: digital rental, Disney+.
The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001–2003)
Like K.S. Lewis, author of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , writer and devout Catholic J.R.R. Tolkien (also a friend of Lewis) did not shy away from the fact that his novels, on which these award-winning films are based, were based on religious themes. A simple Google search will yield any number of interpretations, from a ring symbolizing temptation to the resurrection of the wizard Gandalf after his death.
Where to watch: Digital rental, Max.
Blues Brothers (1980)
Featuring epic car crash scenes, musical sequences and a classic soundtrack, this hilarious film revolves around a pair of brothers (Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi) who get their band back together to organize a fundraiser for the orphanage where they live. grew up in, has religious overtones. Like Joan of Arc, the main characters see a celestial vision that sends them on a “mission from God”, although it is doubtful that He asked them to drive through a shopping mall to avoid the police.
Where to watch: digital rental.
Lars and the Real Girl (2007)
Ryan Gosling is having a big moment right now, so it would be unwise not to include one of his films on this list. At first glance, this drama about a shy soul who becomes the (chaste) girlfriend of a sex doll doesn’t seem like a film that reflects Christian values. Quite unexpectedly, however, the themes of tolerance, faith and love led churches to use the film as a teaching tool.
Where to watch: Fubo, MGM+, Hoople, Tubi, Pluto TV, Kanopy, digital rental.
Chariots of Fire (1981)
One runs to overcome intolerance; the other runs to bring glory to God. The true story of British sprinters Harold Abrahams, an English Jew, and Eric Liddell, a Christian missionary, at the 1924 Olympics won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1982. What sets this inspirational film apart from other sports dramas is that both men firmly believe that their athletic abilities are part of a greater purpose. Each of them finds strength in staying true to their beliefs.
Where to watch: digital rental.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Frank Capra’s film about redemption and life is everyone’s favorite holiday movie for a reason. It also touches on faith, purpose and family—many of the touchstones of Christianity.
Where to watch: The Roku Channel, Freevee, Plex, Hoopla, digital rental.
The Blind Side (2009)
Beyond the recent drama between the real-life Michael Oher and his adopted family, this inspiring sports drama wears themes of charity and faith on its metaphorical sleeve. The Tuohys are open about their Christian beliefs and believe their faith in God makes everything possible.
Where to watch: digital rental.
Leap of Faith (1992)
This drama looks like a typical Steve Martin movie, with the comedian trading jokes with the likes of Liam Neeson and Debra Winger. The film is about a traveling preacher/con man who performs “miracles” at his awakenings every night, but when the actual divine events occur, he doesn’t understand why. Although the film begins by presenting Christianity as a get-rich-quick scheme, it becomes a deep meditation on faith and God’s plan.
Where to watch: Max, Digital rental