With the upcoming December release of “The Golden Compass” film, there has been increasing buzz from the Christian community. Based on the first book of the “His Dark Materials” Trilogy by British author Philip Pullman, the movie follows the adventures of young Lyra, who, in search for a lost friends, discovers herself at the heart of an epic adventure in which the fate of all existence is at stake. Having read the whole trilogy myself, I thought I should comment on the growing controversy.
Many Christians and Christian groups have begun calling for a general boycott of the film (and the books), citing that they were written with the explicit intention to undermine Christian belief (substantiated by an interview with Pullman- found here- where he says “I’m trying to undermine the basis of Christian belief”, though the wider context should be noted). Others have noted how this trilogy clearly tries to represent an opposing version of the Narnia Chronicles, with some interesting parallels between the basic story lines, but diametrically opposed purposes. These and other related factors have stirred many Christians into opposition of the film.
When reading the trilogy, it was obvious to me where Pullman stood with respect to his beliefs. They were as explicit reflections of his beliefs as C.S. Lewis’s beliefs in the Narnia Chronicles. Pullman clearly has a bone to pick with religion, especially Christianity. However, I am not convinced that this qualifies the film or the books for boycott, for several reasons. First, we need to consider the merits of Pullman’s critique.
With respect to the series being a humanist response to the Narnia tales, Pullman finds Lewis’s books laced with sexism and racism. While I believe his critique is overly exaggerated, his point is not without some merit. In our attempt to celebrate Lewis and his success in the broader world of literature, Christians needs to be open to the possibility that he made mistakes (or at the very least, was a man of his times, prone to the prejudices of his day). Further, we need to consider that, to some, the propagandist nature of the Narnia books/films (be it the recent Disney version or the BBC version) are no less exploitive than Pullman’s. Obviously our belief colours our acceptance, but this cannot be ignored in the public arena of arts & entertainment.
As to the explicitly anti-Christian material in the books, Pullman pulls no punches. He clearly fears and opposes the abuses of religious systems and powers, whose self-justifying, self-serving exploits run contrary to their supposed, espoused beliefs. Frankly, Pullman’s critiques (while obviously stronger than we would think fair) are often pointedly accurate. The Church could learn a great deal if we had the humility to listen to such critics, looking past the exaggerated and unfair extremes into the heart of our own, very real failings.
Another interesting point emerged as I read the series. While Pullman was clearly against religion and religious institutions, with a plot moving towards the over-throwing of “God”, his parallels almost never included reference to Christ. Whether he avoided Jesus intentionally or not, I do not know, but his attacks didn’t seem to target Him throughout the series. Further, the “God” that they were seeking to destroy was no “God” at all, but a self-proclaimed “deity” who deceived and exploited people for his own purposes. While Pullman likely sees no difference between our God and this characterization, the fact is that the enemy plays this same role today (as has been so since the Fall). In that, Christians can learn to be aware of how easily we can be drawn away into well-intentioned, but deeply flawed and dangerous religion.
Another distinction needs to be made, that being between the books and the film. The books are clearly written for an older audience, while the film is trying to win the same demographic as the Narnia and Harry Potter films. My brother and sister-in-law saw an advanced screening of the film this weekend, and so were able to report their take on the movie. Interestingly, they noted that (in addition to it being very well done) the religious themes of the book were significantly underplayed in the film, focusing more on the action and adventure. To be sure the thread was still there, but not nearly as explicit as in the books. In fact, the film portray more of an anti-government stance than anti-religion (a fitting twist for todays viewers).
Therefore, with proper supervision and discussion, I believe the movie could be very enjoyable to watch with opportunities to discuss the issues beneficially. After all, there are far worse films we let our kids watch that aren’t explicitly opposed the Christianity, but are intrinsically incompatible (but that is another topic for another blog). The books, again aimed at an older audience, are also very well done, but again should be read with care and intentionality. Ultimately, I do not see either as a genuine threat to our faith that should be avoided at all costs. That response is an over-reaction.
Finally, I am simply stymied at the impulse of Christians to raise a public outcry to boycott the film. While I understand their concerns, it seems we don’t learn from our mistakes. If your intention is to keep people from seeing this film and to undermine its success, then boycotting and public attacks are the last approach you should take. People need to be aware that many film companies contribute to negative critiques of content (not quality) in order to stir public interest. The Da Vinci Code film, while critically doomed for its lack of cinematic quality, can credit a significant amount of its commercial success to the Christian community. These attacks only feed success. It is a proven marketing tool.
In the end, I will be seeing the film- just as I read the books- out of both an interest in the nature of the content & critique, as well as with respect to the very creative literary crafting of a great story. I caution parents to be aware of the realities of the film, just as I would of any film these days (including the Narnia Chronicles), but would not call for a general ban. Further, I would encourage my fellow Christians to recognize that our well intentioned, but dangerous over-reactions will not only fuel the fire you seek to put out, but may also alienate and discredit your witness to the very people you seek to love and serve.
Missional The Golden Compass Boycott Film Christianity Atheism Philip Pullman
