Evangelical Christians rarely get to speak for themselves in a mainstream media setting (and when their presence is noted, the context is usually a shrill political dialogue rather than a serious consideration of theological principles). In contrast, Holly Hardman's documentary—set primarily in the Gulf Coast region—offers a relatively objective view of this demographic, exploring how self-identified fundamentalists preserve and maintain their faith in an increasingly secular society. For many of the men and women interviewed here, religion is the anchor that keeps them moored—especially in the aftermath of the 2005 Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, which devastated communities and left many homeless. Most tap into their belief system for the strength and emotional clarity to move ahead with their lives. Admittedly, some behavior can be considered excessive, most notably the journey of a bearded gent who walks along the highways toting an oversized cross. And there are critics: one young man compares his fundamentalist upbringing to life in a Communist country; leaving home to join the Marines, he knew nothing of contemporary music and popular culture. But aside from a brief lapse into a negative consideration of the gay lifestyle, the outlook presented here is overwhelmingly positive and life-affirming. Hardman herself may have learned something from being exposed to this world, considering that her much more provocative working title for the film was Good People Go to Hell, Saved People Go to Heaven (which is being sold for the home video price of $19.99 at www.goodpeoplegotohell.com). Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)
Left Behind in Louisiana
(2012) 87 min. DVD: $59.99 ($125 w/PPR): public libraries; $295 w/PPR: colleges & universities. Collective Eye (<a href="http://www.collectiveeye.org/">www.collectiveeye.org</a>). March 10, 2014
Left Behind in Louisiana
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