Oscar-Nominated Film Discussion Set to Unite Students and Alumni
By erin conner, writer and communications associate
In 2021, Christian Union alumni from Columbia and Penn gathered to discuss religious themes in film. This event was spearheaded by Columbia alumnus and Film and Media Studies major Stephen Cone ’20. Participants of the event gathered, in part, at Christian Union's Ministry Center at Columbia for a discussion entitled, “Where Is God in the Movies?”
Attendees enjoyed a presentation from Cone that examined the role of religion in Terrence Malick’s Days of Heaven (1978). The discussion that followed focused on how Christian artists can represent and convey their faith through their chosen medium. Megan Foo, '19 alumna of Penn who currently works in Hong Kong, was in attendance that day. She enjoyed the event so much that she decided to help Cone plan a similar event on Jane Campion's 'The Power of the Dog' in 2022.
These two alumni are working together again: Cone and Foo are hosting an online film discussion via Zoom on Saturday, February 8th, from 6-7 pm EST.
The hosts are eager to engage Christian Union students and alumni in a discussion on Christian themes in Academy Award-nominated movies. While this event will begin with everyone’s general comments on the nominees and conclude with some select predictions of the ultimate winners, the hosts will focus the discussion on 'Conclave,' one of the Best Picture nominees that directly involves Christian themes. Conclave is a 2024 political thriller film directed by Edward Berger and written by Peter Staughan, based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris and is currently streaming on Peacock, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV.
This online event will start with a presentation and then open up to a larger group discussion; depending on size, participants may be split into breakout rooms or may stay in one large group discussion. 
Foo shared, "The film 'Conclave' addresses many themes, including those around expectations of Christian leaders in a world tainted by the brokenness of humanity." The aim of this discussion-based event is for participants to leave more connected to members of Christian Union's worldwide community, as well as for each participant to leave more open-minded and able to see these ideas occurring in art and in practice. "It's very invigorating and thought-provoking to see Christian themes played out in film," said Cone, who noted that this event is open to anyone interested in participating.
“Though our world may appear to be heading in a more secular direction, Christian and religious themes continue to influence artists, including filmmakers,” Cone stated. “Understanding these cinematic connections not only deepens our faith but also allows us to appreciate another aspect of His presence here on earth that we initially may not recognize.”
Christian Union's Alumni Engagement Coordinator, Susan Brown, anticipates events like these will produce fruitful fellowship and engagement to further connect the next generation of Christian leaders.
Whether you are a student at one of CU's university ministries, a Cornerstone Partner, an alumnus or alumna, or a friend of the ministry, feel free to register for this event, held on Sat, Feb 8th at 6 pm EST, by clicking here.
