God's Not Dead

A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Faith vs. Reason

The 2014 film "God's Not Dead" delves into the age-old conflict between faith and reason, set against the backdrop of a university philosophy class. When freshman student Josh Wheaton (Shane Harper) refuses to submit to his professor's assignment to deny the existence of God, it ignites a confrontation that tests the beliefs and convictions of both characters.

Directed by Harold Cronk, the film presents a clear evangelical Christian worldview, unashamedly advocating for belief in God while engaging with the intellectual arguments surrounding the topic. Josh is tasked with defending his faith against the staunch atheism of Professor Radisson (Kevin Sorbo). Ironically, it's amusing to see Sorbo, known for his role as Hercules—a son of a god—playing the part of a misotheist (someone who believes in God but harbors a hatred for Him). This adds a layer of humor to the film, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The film thoughtfully explores various philosophical and historical debates about God's existence. Josh's presentations are grounded in arguments like the cosmological argument, the teleological argument, and the argument from morality, constructing a compelling case for the plausibility of a Creator. In contrast, Radisson offers the classic objections to theism, tackling issues like the problem of evil and the perceived lack of empirical proof.

While the film's outcome may be predictable for those familiar with apologetics, it does not shy away from the complexities of belief. The characters grapple with personal struggles, including loss and doubt, making the narrative resonate on multiple levels.

Performances are generally solid, with Sorbo delivering a nuanced portrayal of the embittered professor haunted by personal loss. The film's production values can feel uneven at times, with moments of melodrama and visual clumsiness that interrupt the more reflective flow.

Nevertheless, "God's Not Dead" stands out as one of the more substantive faith-based films of recent years. It avoids the simplistic moralizing or saccharine sentimentality that often plagues Christian cinema, engaging both the viewer's mind and heart in a thoughtful exploration of the clash between secular reason and religious belief.

For believers, the film will likely affirm and strengthen their faith. For skeptics, it may serve as an accessible introduction to Christian apologetics. And for those with open minds, "God's Not Dead" offers a compelling case study in the ongoing dialogue between science, philosophy, and theology. With its mix of earnest debates and the unexpected humor of a former Hercules championing atheism, it offers a unique viewing experience that is both entertaining and enlightening.