I just got in from viewing the sneak preview of Evan Almighty for pastors and church leaders. I thought it was pretty weird that they decided to promote this one to the Christian community and was a little skeptical about how this was going to play out. After all, the lead actor is Steve Carell, not known for making wholesome, family films. Then I noticed the movie was one of the sponsors of the (now cancelled, on account of flooding) Collide Festival this year. And of course, if they get us on board the ark, it’s a way to create buzz about the movie.
Well, they got me on board. I loved the way they dealt with this potentially difficult story. I mean, I really didn’t want them to have God flooding the earth again, since He promised that wasn’t going to happen. And the movie does express some very appropriate environmental overtones, without going "overboard." I think the ending for this one is probably cooler than the one for Pirates.
So, we’ll definitely be planning on taking a group to see it together on June 23rd when it releases to the theaters. And this movie ties in with our priority of finding a need and meeting it. We’ll be doing some servant evangelism projects after we discuss the implications of the film. July 8th is the day we’ll be talking about this one during God on Film.
After it was over, I met Pastor Randy Phillips from Austin in the lobby. It’s been pretty funny that since coming over to Kyle, a lot of people want to know if we’re related. For the record, no. But he was wearing a cool paisley shirt, so I introduced myself to him. He said we probably were related and asked where my family came from. His ancestors were from France. I told him mine were all from prison. He politely excused himself. Another brush with greatness, another lasting impression. At least I’m consistent 🙂