Believing in Film: Christianity and Classic European Cinema

Mark Le Fanu's new book explores religion as a cultural force, shaping the narrative of many classic European films, discussing cineastes such as Eisenstein, Tarkovsky, Wajda, Zanussi, Kieslowski, Frances Rohmer, Bresson, Pasolini, Fellini, Rossellini, and Buñuel, Bergman, and Dreyer.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In the secular realm, where the arts thrive, cinema finds its place. It is not necessary for filmmakers to be devout believers, just as it is not expected of novelists, poets, or painters. Nevertheless, a remarkable phenomenon emerges when we examine the greatest directors of classic European cinema, spanning from the aftermath of World War II to the mid-1980s. These visionary filmmakers were deeply captivated by the spiritual realm and the intricate complexities of religion itself. In his groundbreaking book, Mark Le Fanu takes a fresh perspective on religion, focusing specifically on Christianity. Rather than seeing it as a mere repository of theological dogma, he views it as an invigorating cultural force, an "inflexion" that has profoundly influenced the narratives of many remarkable films of the twentieth century.

Le Fanu's exploration spans a diverse range of cinematic masterpieces from various regions. He delves into the works of renowned directors such as Eisenstein and Tarkovsky from Russia, Wajda, Zanussi, and Kieslowski from Poland, Frances Rohmer and Bresson from France, Pasolini, Fellini, and Rossellini from Italy, as well as the Spanish masterpieces of Buñuel, Bergman, and Dreyer from Scandinavia. Through his meticulous analysis, Le Fanu sheds light on the profound influence of religion on these filmmakers' artistic visions.

This book makes a remarkable contribution to both film and religious studies. It offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of faith and cinema, challenging traditional notions and opening up new avenues for understanding. Le Fanu's insights and analysis provide valuable insights for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike, enriching our understanding of the complex relationship between religion and the visual arts.

In conclusion, as we navigate the secular world, cinema continues to be a vibrant testament to the human spirit. The directors of classic European cinema, driven by their passion for the spiritual and religious dimensions, have left an indelible mark on the history of film. Mark Le Fanu's book serves as a valuable resource, illuminating the profound influence of religion on the narratives of great films and contributing to our understanding of the multifaceted relationship between faith and art.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350160491