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The Philosophy of Movies

The Philosophy of Movies

By Josh Matthews

A close look at the meanings of movies, old and new -- their philosophies, ideologies, presuppositions, and religious beliefs. From Dr. Josh Matthews. For more, visit joshmatthews.org
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2019 Episode 1 -- Ad Astra, Robocop, The New World, Revenge

The Philosophy of MoviesSep 22, 2019

00:00
43:47
Werner Herzog -- Season 2, Episode 1 of The Philosophy of Movies Podcast
Jan 30, 202025:59
2019 Episode 5 -- Dante, the Godfather, and the Tree of Life -- with special guest Dr. Walker Cosgrove

2019 Episode 5 -- Dante, the Godfather, and the Tree of Life -- with special guest Dr. Walker Cosgrove

What do the Godfather and Terrence Malick's "The Tree of Life" have in common?  I talk to Dr. Walker Cosgrove about his argument that the great Italian poet Dante Alighieri has influenced not just the Godfather trilogy, but also Malick himself and the great 2011 movie "Of Gods and Men."  Whether you've seen these movies or not, this is a fun, wide-ranging conversation.  There are spoilers within.

Dec 11, 201931:15
2019 Episode 4 -- Villains in Children's Animated Movies, with special guest Dr. Tom Clark

2019 Episode 4 -- Villains in Children's Animated Movies, with special guest Dr. Tom Clark

Why are villains in children's movies changing?  Some recent kids movies have villains who are redeemed in the end, while others have no villain at all.  I talk about this with my special guest this episode is Dr. Tom Clark, mathematics professor at Dordt University.  (He and I both have young children, so we are well-versed in contemporary kids' movie fare.)

Our conversation ranges from Toy Story 4, to Coco, to Frozen, to Ratatouille and Inside Out.  SPOILER ALERT: we will assume that you are okay with us discussing the entirety of those movies, including the ending.  


Nov 20, 201927:58
2019 Episode 3 -- The Eight Movies that Changed My Life

2019 Episode 3 -- The Eight Movies that Changed My Life

In honor of my upcoming 40th birthday, I consider which movies were among the most influential in my life and why.  There might be a few surprises.  Also, write in to me and tell which movies influenced you the most.

Oct 26, 201936:40
2019 Episode 2 -- Joker, Ikiru, Marathon Man

2019 Episode 2 -- Joker, Ikiru, Marathon Man

This episode discusses the simplistic politics of "Joker," the controversial new movie starring Joaquin Phoenix. As well, I highly recommend "Ikiru" and make fun of this episode's Stupid Fun Movie, "Marathon Man."

Oct 05, 201944:45
2019 Episode 1 -- Ad Astra, Robocop, The New World, Revenge

2019 Episode 1 -- Ad Astra, Robocop, The New World, Revenge

I'll tell you why "Ad Astra," the new Brad Pitt-in-space movie, is overhyped and not worth anyone's time.  I'll also give movie recommendations about Robocop (1987), The New World (2005), and Revenge (1989).

Sep 22, 201943:47