Watching movies can be a fun escape, but watching them can and should be more than a passive reception of messages. Movies, TV shows, and other media present a chance for young people to critically analyze and discuss the characters, plot, and overall message. Rather than taking away the fun, this discussion can make the experience richer, and sharpen young peoples' sense of right and wrong.
This month’ s Teaching the Faith with Current Events eLesson offers two sets of discussion questions (one set for younger students and one for older students) that can be applied to most any movie or TV show. Ultimately, this resource is aimed to help you develop in your students the discernment necessary to critically analyze all texts and all media that are offered to them, and decide whether or not to consume them.
Extension Options
- Read and discuss Proverbs 4:23, Romans 12:2, and Philippians 4:8. What do these teachings tell us about how we should choose TV shows and movies to watch?
- Have students draw a cartoon or write a review about their chosen film in which they focus on Catholic themes. For example: self-sacrifice in Frozen; family bonds in the Lego Movie; or justice in Captain America.