Transcendence and Spirituality in Chinese Cinema: A Theological Exploration

This book explores the theological implications of contemporary films produced in mainland China by Chinese directors, using Richard A. Blakes concept of afterimage and engaging with Confucianist and Daoist ideas of spirituality. It offers a Western audience a new perspective on Chinese culture and traditions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book offers a comprehensive framework for theologians to explore the spiritual dimensions of contemporary films produced in mainland China by Chinese directors. While the academic discipline of Christian theology and film has primarily focused on Western cinema, this book highlights the valuable insights offered by Chinese spirituality on film. By employing Richard A. Blake's concept of "afterimage," the book delves into the spiritual imagination of Chinese filmmakers and their quest for transcendence. It then engages in a dialogue with Jürgen Moltmann's notion of "immanent-transcendence" and Robert K. Johnston's concept of "God's wider Presence" to incorporate Confucianist and Daoist ideas of spirituality beyond mere material existence. This interdisciplinary approach allows for a fresh perspective on Chinese culture and traditions, offering a Western audience a deeper understanding using familiar Western terms while avoiding the imposition of a Western mindset. This book is of immense interest to scholars in the fields of Religion and Film, Religious Studies, Theology, Sociology of Religion, and Chinese Studies.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367528720