A Whole Life in Twelve Movies:
A Cinematic Journey to a Deeper Spirituality
By Kathleen Norris and Gareth Higgins
An insightful exploration of how 12 acclaimed films can guide us through life's stages, offering profound spiritual reflections and discussions.
This book:
- Invites readers to deepen their spirituality through the lens of cinema.
- Provides thoughtful analyses of twelve significant films.
- Explores themes corresponding to different life stages.
- Includes discussion questions for personal or group reflection.
- Offers additional film recommendations for further exploration.
- Bridges the gap between cinema and spiritual growth.
- Encourages viewers to find deeper meaning in movies.
- Is written by celebrated spirituality writers.
Features
- Analysis of films like 2001: A Space Odyssey, Malcolm X, and Babette's Feast.
- Chapters aligned with stages of the human life cycle.
- Foreword by James Martin, SJ.
- Questions designed for church groups, book clubs, and individual study.
- Insights suitable for a diverse audience across the faith spectrum.
Soft cover, 192pp
1.5cm H x 20.6cm L x 13.5cmsW (0.2 kgs)
ISBN 9781587436338
Brazos Press (2024)
[Allow 4 weeks]
Description
Norris and Higgins invite readers to embark on a cinematic journey that mirrors the stages of human existence. Through the lens of twelve carefully selected films, the authors delve into profound themes that resonate with each phase of life, from birth to death and beyond.
Each chapter focuses on a specific life stage, pairing it with a film that encapsulates its essence. For instance, 2001: A Space Odyssey is explored in the context of "Waiting to Be Born," while Malcolm X is discussed under "Vocation—To Step into Your Own Shoes." This structured approach allows readers to reflect deeply on their own journeys, drawing parallels between the cinematic narratives and their personal experiences.
The book is designed for both individual contemplation and group discussion. Each chapter concludes with thought-provoking questions, making it an ideal resource for churches, small groups, and book clubs.
Additionally, the authors provide recommendations for further viewing, encouraging readers to continue their exploration of spirituality through cinema.
Norris and Higgins's combined expertise offers a rich tapestry of insights.
Norris, an American poet and author, brings a lyrical and contemplative perspective, while Higgins, an Irish storyteller and peace activist, offers narratives steeped in cultural and social awareness.
Their collaborative dialogue provides a multifaceted exploration of each film, appealing to a wide audience across the faith spectrum and seekers alike.
Whether you're a film enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or someone looking to explore life's big questions through a new medium, A Whole Life in Twelve Movies serves as both a guide and a companion on a journey toward deeper understanding and meaningful living.
About the Authors
Kathleen Norris is an award-winning poet and the author of five New York Times bestsellers, including The Cloister Walk and Dakota: A Spiritual Geography. She speaks regularly at colleges, churches, and teaching hospitals.
Gareth Higgins (PhD, Queen's University Belfast) is the cofounder of multiple spirituality festivals, including Wild Goose, The Porch Gathering, and Movies and Meaning. He edits The Porch Magazine and is the author of How Not to Be Afraid. Higgins has been involved in peacebuilding and violence reduction in Northern Ireland and lives in Asheville, North Carolina.
Contents
- Foreword by James Martin, SJ
- Introduction
-
Waiting to Be Born
- 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
-
Childhood
- What Maisie Knew (2012)
-
Community
- The Seventh Fire (2015) and Smoke Signals (1998)
-
The Breaking and Remaking of Self
- The Fisher King (1991)
-
Vocation—Meaning in the Ordinary
- Paterson (2016)
-
Vocation—To Step into Your Own Shoes
- Malcolm X (1992)
-
Relationships
- Make Way for Tomorrow (1937) and Love Is Strange (2014)
-
Overcoming Success
- Faces Places (2017)
-
Generosity
- Babette's Feast (1987)
-
Transforming Conflict
- Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)
-
Death and Beyond
- After Life (1998)
-
Waiting in Silence
- Into Great Silence (2005)
- Epilogue: It's Still a Beautiful Day
- For Further Viewing
