Theological Jurisprudence of Popular Cinema: Superheroes, Science Fictions and Fantasies of Modern Law

Timothy Peters explores how fictional worlds, particularly those that make strange the world of the viewer, can render visible and make explicit the otherwise opaque theologies of modern law. He illustrates that speculative cinema's genres of estrangement provide a way for us to see and engage the theological concepts of modern law in our era of late capitalism, global empire, and the crises of neoliberalism.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 256 pages
\n Publication date: 30 June 2021
\n Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
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Through meticulous examinations of a diverse selection of widely acclaimed Hollywood speculative fiction films, including Shyamalan's Unbreakable, Snyder's Man of Steel, Lucas's Star Wars, Nolan's The Dark Knight & The Dark Knight Rises, Proyas' I, Robot, Nolfi's The Adjustment Bureau, and Jackson's The Hobbit, Timothy Peters delves into the profound capacity of fictional worlds, particularly those that challenge the perception of reality, to unveil and elucidate the often enigmatic theologies of modern law. He demonstrates that the genres of estrangement prevalent in speculative cinema offer a unique avenue for us to perceive and engage with the theological concepts of contemporary law in our era of late capitalism, global empire, and the crises of neoliberalism.

In his insightful analysis, Peters explores how these films utilize imaginative narratives and visual aesthetics to present alternative realities and explore the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise in societies grappling with complex legal systems. By examining the themes of power, justice, and the nature of humanity, they offer a thought-provoking commentary on the evolving nature of law and its impact on individuals and societies.

One of the key insights of Peters' work is that speculative cinema provides a means to engage with the theological concepts of modern law in a way that is both accessible and relatable. By presenting these concepts in the context of imaginative worlds, filmmakers can help viewers to understand and appreciate the complexities of legal systems and the ethical dilemmas that they present. This, in turn, can lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of the role of law in shaping our world and the individuals who inhabit it.

Moreover, Peters argues that the genres of estrangement in speculative cinema offer a unique perspective on the relationship between law and power. By exploring the ways in which power is wielded, manipulated, and challenged within these fictional worlds, filmmakers can shed light on the power dynamics that exist in our own society and the ways in which they contribute to the perpetuation of inequality and injustice.

In conclusion, Timothy Peters' exploration of the relationship between fictional worlds and theologies of modern law is a valuable contribution to the field of legal studies. Through his meticulous analysis of a range of popular Hollywood speculative fiction films, he demonstrates the profound capacity of these films to render visible and explicit the otherwise opaque theologies of modern law. By offering a unique perspective on the relationship between law and power, Peters helps to deepen our understanding of the legal system and its impact on individuals and societies. His work encourages us to think critically about the role of law in shaping our world and to consider the ways in which we can work towards a more just and equitable society.

\n Weight: 604g\n
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781474424004\n \n