Encyclopedia of Religion and Film

(Hardback)

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Description

Comprising 91 AZ entries, this encyclopedia provides a broad and comprehensive introduction to the topic of religion within film. Technology has enabled films to reach much wider audiences, enabling today's viewers to access a dizzying number of films that employ diverse symbolism and communicate a vast array of viewpoints. Encyclopedia of Religion and Film will provide such an audience with the tools to begin their own exploration of the deeper meanings of these films and grasp the religious significance within. Organized alphabetically, this encyclopedia provides more than 90 entries on the larger religious traditions, the major film-producing regions of the globe, the films that have stirred controversy, the most significant religious symbols, and the more important filmmakers. The included topics provide substantially more information on the intersection of religion and film than any of the similar volumes currently available. While the emphasis is on the English-speaking world and the films produced therein, there is also substantial representation of non-English, non-Western film and filmmakers, providing significant intercultural coverage to the topic.

Reviews

Although the American cinema dominates the films represented in this work there are still many international films and directors featured. The resource examines an eclectic list of film titles and is highly recommended for public libraries and academic libraries that support the study of film, religion and philosophy. * Reference Reviews *
Private church-related colleges, theological seminaries, and public libraries should find this volume helpful. Summing Up: Recommended. * Choice *
It provides an interesting approach to a topic that is central to many people's lives. Though classified under film, it would have uses in religion collections as well. * Booklist *
Clearly written entries will offer much discussion material for anyone interested in religion and film, either as separate or combined disciplines. Recommended for academic and large public libraries. * Library Journal *

Author Bio

Eric Michael Mazur is associate professor of religious studies and holds the Gloria & David Furman Chair of Judaic Studies at Virginia Wesleyan College, Norfolk, VA.