A friend asked me for a list of films that can be used to talk about the Seven Sacraments with teens and young adults. My friend did not mention if she wanted films that show the interaction of the drama with the sacraments explicitly or metaphorically.
Most of these films refer to the sacramental matter as a sign of grace.
I suggest that if you wish to use a film or show clips, first get a license (unless you are showing the film or clips within the regular school curriculm during the school day; www.cvli.org handles the majority of studios.)
You can also get clips at www.wingclips.com but I advise, always, seeing the entire film first.
I was not given much turn-around time, but here is the beginning of a list. Feel free to comment and add more. I will be happy to add films that you suggest. Most of these films are dramas and deal with the challenges to marriage, reconciliation, etc., so make sure the ratings meet your school policy.
All the sacraments explicitly: The Godfather
All the sacraments metaphorically: The Spitfire Grill
Baptism: The Lion King; The Mighty; Big Fish (also reconciliation and matrimony)
Eucharist: Places in the Heart, Lord of the Rings… I think Part III; The Lion, Witch and Wardrobe, Mostly Martha, Moonstruck, Babette’s Feast (which will put kids into a coma but if he uses the exact last 60 mins. It works), Because of Winn Dixie.
Confirmation: The Winslow Boy; Whale Rider; Spider-Man II
Reconciliation (including restitution in some cases): The Mission, The Straight Story, Changing Lanes, Shreck (all guys), Home Alone, Les Miserables; Toy Story; Smoke signals; Cry the Beloved Country; The Power of Forgiveness (documentary); Son of Rambow; Fireproof; the End of the Spear; The Painted Veil (also Martimony); Life as a House
Anointing of the Sick: Marvin’s Room, Brideshead Revisited; Dead Man Walking (also reconciliation); Shadowlands; charlotte’s Web; Departures (Japanese film; excellent)
Holy Orders: See this list that just came out: Top Ten Priest Movies. It seems to only list American films and I don’t really think Bing Crosby’s old movies are that realistic – they are romanticized visions of the priesthood. I love Robert Bresson’s DIARY OF A COUNTRY PRIEST (though its spare visuals may not appeal to teens) and KEEPING THE FAITH which would be excellent for young people; also BECKETT and MASS APPEAL (though dated, it is very good on the priesthood.) (Nor does the list does not include films about bishops and popes.)
Matrimony: Shall We Dance (Richard Gere); The Enchanted April; Fiddler on the Roof; Paris, Je t’ame (22 vignettes some appropriate for high school)
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