Avid film fan and LCM missionary Scott Gentry shares how films can help us point to the greatest story ever told.

Imagine the scene: You’re putting the bins out, and you see your neighbour Kevin walking his dog. You know from previous chats that Kevin is big into his films. So, you ask him if he’s seen anything recently.

“New Mission: Impossible,” he says with a grin. “Classic Tom Cruise legging it around, saving the world. It’s always the same – you just know he’s gonna pull it off. Bit predictable, isn’t it? Should be called Mission: Probable at this point!”

You share a laugh, but his words spark a thought. “You know what, Kevin – that reminds me of something,” you say. “You said those films are predictable, because Tom Cruise always pulls it off and saves the world. That made me think… I actually believe God sent Jesus to earth on a rescue mission to save humanity. The Bible says it was a mission no one else could complete - not even Ethan Hunt! Only Jesus could deal with the mess of this world caused by sin and fix what was broken between us and God. I’d be happy to chat more about it with you some time.”

Kevin smiles and nods. “Yeah, maybe I will. Cheers.”

This hypothetical chat, though perhaps not perfectly tactful, illustrates a key point: God can open doors for the gospel in unexpected ways. And films provide a great way of talking about Jesus.

From June to September, the cinema-going public flocks to their local for Blockbuster season. It’s packed with spectacle: Tom Cruise clinging to a biplane (is there anything he won’t do to save cinema?), a fire-breathing but cuddly dragon soaring through the skies, or yet another reimagining of Superman – reminding us of timeless virtues.

And people are watching. In 2024, UK cinema visits rose by 2.3% to 126.5 million. These statistics represent millions gathering to experience the power of storytelling.

And critically, cinema’s appeal is universal. Films are often one of the few cultural reference points which cut across class, race and generational divides. Ethan Hunt jumping out of a biplane is just as exciting for me as it is for Kevin.

Films provide an opportunity for us to engage with culture, spark deeper conversations, and gently point toward the greatest story ever told – especially from people different to ourselves. So, how do we go about this?

1. Discern what to watch - and why

Notice what’s capturing people’s attention and ask God which stories He’s prompting you to engage with.

Stitch, that mischievous blue alien, made a triumphant return in late May with the live-action Lilo & Stitch remake. It's already raked in over $800 million worldwide and shows no signs of stopping.

The film’s lasting appeal is clear. Lilo & Stitch speaks to our longing for family, redemption, transformation, and belonging. At its heart is the line: “Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” It sticks with us because it speaks to our own desire to be seen, known, and included.

Now, for the record, I’ve got no interest in seeing this live-action version (the original is untouchable!). But its cultural impact is undeniable. So rather than ignore it, I’m choosing to see it as an opportunity to speak about God’s ohana – the family He invites us into. Through faith in Jesus Christ (John 1:1-4; Ephesians 1:5-6), we are adopted as his children and made heirs of an eternal kingdom (Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 4:4-7; Matthew 25:34). A family where no one is forgotten, and no one gets left behind.

It’s important to stay aware of what people are watching so we can engage in gospel-centred conversations. But that doesn’t mean we need to watch everything that’s trending… Take the recent hit Black Bag – a spy thriller with crude language and violence, content that may lead Christians to think carefully before watching. Yet, amidst deception and betrayal, the film surprisingly affirms the institution of marriage through its portrayal of a central couple. This rare stance in mainstream media may open the door for Christians to speak about why we see marriage not merely as a human arrangement, but as a covenant from God – mirroring the loving, faithful union between Christ and His Church... (Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:22-33).

Still, even as we acknowledge their cultural significance, we must approach such films with discernment. Yes, it's helpful to be regular and thoughtful consumers of film, especially if we want to meaningfully engage with the culture around us. But that doesn't mean we can consume anything and everything without caution.

The apostle Paul encourages us in 1 Corinthians 9 to become “all things to all people” for the sake of the Gospel, but he never meant that we should indulge in whatever culture offers out to us. Paul himself also urged believers to “…be careful how you live… don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise” (Ephesians 5:15), to “flee from sexual immorality” (1 Corinthians 6:18), and to “have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness” (Ephesians 5:11), even while remaining present in the world.

Discerning what is pure or impure on screen can often feel like navigating a grey area. A film may include questionable elements while also exploring deeply biblical themes like justice, mercy, or redemption. So how do we decide what is redeemable and what isn’t? We begin by acknowledging that no secular film will perfectly align with God's holiness - “…my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9). And yet, we also trust Jesus’ promise that the Holy Spirit – who is with us and in us – will “guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). We need not fear every morally complex moment on screen, but neither should we become desensitised. Instead, we walk in step with the Spirit, who, like the wind (John 3:8), moves in unseen ways and prompts us with gentle conviction.

Whether you watch a film like Black Bag or not, let it be a Spirit-led decision. In a world shaped by media, even your "no" can be a powerful, countercultural witness, honouring God above man (Galatians 1:10).

2. Watch & pray, then reflect on what spoke to you

Watch each film with openness and prayer. Ask God to speak through it and notice what stirs your heart. What moments stood out? What themes or emotions came up?

One powerful way to redeem the screen is by approaching film not merely as entertainment, but as an opportunity for spiritual reflection. Before pressing play at home or easing into a comfy cinema seat, take a moment to pray. We want to be spiritually attentive and ready for God to speak to us through the themes of the film and for Him to point to His story – not just so that we can share our thoughts with others, but as a way of spiritual growth.

That was certainly my experience while watching Worth – a powerful drama based on the true story of an attorney tasked with determining fair compensation for the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. I felt God reminding me that no formula or financial payout can define a person’s value. The film’s central question – “How much is a life worth?” – echoed many street conversations I’ve had while sharing the gospel alongside churches. And yet, the Bible makes it clear that our worth isn’t found in wealth, success, or public opinion, but in the fact that we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), lovingly formed by Him (Psalm 139:13), and eternally valued – proven at the cross where Jesus gave His life for us (John 3:16). Worth reminded me how deeply God loves us, and how urgently the world needs that truth. I’d been refreshed, and now I was ready to refresh others with this incredible truth.

After watching, take time to reflect – journal your thoughts or discuss them with others. This simple rhythm of prayerful watching and intentional reflection can transform an ordinary film night into a sacred space. To help you start, here's a prayer of mine you can use before each film:

“Dear Lord, as I watch this film, I ask that you would be present here with me. Highlight to me anything within it that is honourable – anything that can be used in conversation for your Kingdom purposes. Amen.”

3. Share when the time is right

Stay alert for moments to link a film’s story to faith - film references can spark unexpected spiritual conversations.

Films don’t just entertain – they often spark conversations. A simple film reference can open the door to spiritual dialogue, so stay ready for when the Holy Spirit prompts you to speak!

Dan Strange, who came to visit LCM last year, says in his book Plugged In that film helps us uncover the hidden worldviews of others. When we understand what people care about, we gain insight into the hopes, fears, and longings that shape their lives. As I mentioned earlier, Paul embodied this mindset in becoming “all things to all people” (1 Corinthians 9:22) for the sake of the gospel – not by compromising, of course, but by connecting. Likewise, we don’t need to force gospel messages onto every film scene in hopes of it connecting with someone later on a spiritual level. But when a theme aligns with God’s truth – whether it’s justice in Black Panther, compassion in The Blind Side, or grace in Les Misérables – and it strikes a chord with someone you know, we can speak to them first about why these themes resonate so powerfully with them. Take a genuine interest before gently pointing them to the bigger, greater story behind the stories they’ve seen played out on screen. Ask them why these themes resonated so strongly with them. It’s in these moments, that we may have a powerful opportunity to explain how justice, compassion, and grace find their fullest expression in what God says about them, and ultimately his Gospel.

So, next time you’re at a church drop-in or scrolling Netflix with a friend, remember: you carry the greatest story ever told. Whether you’re watching, reflecting, or chatting with someone, the Holy Spirit can turn an ordinary moment into an opportunity to speak of Him. So be discerning, be prayerful, and be ready to share.