A Christian Philosophy of Entertainment and the Family

Speaker: Kevin Swanson

In the words of one cultural commentator, are we entertaining our families to death? As a father of five, Kevin Swanson is engaging a multi-generational attempt to find the right balance of entertainment, work, and serving in life. What role should entertainment play in our children’s life? Here Kevin Swanson measures the relative benefits or drawbacks of the cotton-candy novel (eg. Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew), historical adventures (eg. G.A. Henty), the “classic” novels, the 19th century Victorian fare, the fantasy genre, Walt Disney motion pictures, television (from Andy Griffith to 24), recorded music, and radio drama. This very practical presentation will provide some helpful suggestions for bringing biblical principle to bear as you seek maximum edification for your family.

Music & Cinematic Storytelling

Speaker: Geoff Botkin, Benjamin Botkin

The subject matter in Hollywood films is getting worse. But some of the musical scores are getting better. Why is this, and what can filmmakers learn from the more brilliant composers? This survey of scoring techniques will teach filmmakers about the devices that are reintroducing better music into the culture through film.

What We Should and Should Not Learn from Hollywood about True Manhood: A Journey in Confusion from Clarke Gable & John Wayne to Will Smith & Tom Cruise

Speaker: Voddie Baucham

Even a broken clock is right once a day. And once upon a time Hollywood projected some imagery which reinforced elements of strong, manly leadership. But after nearly a century of cinema, the verdict is in — Hollywood has become one of the most destructive influences on American manhood. In this message Dr. Baucham looks at some of the more iconic images and messages of manhood from Hollywood past and present and compares them to the biblical ideal.

Narration and Performance Art for the Glory of God

Speaker: George Sarris

George Sarris is a veteran actor and voice-over personality. Over the years, he has developed a distinct style and philosophy of narration and performance art which reflects his priorities and worldview as a Christian in a field dominated by secular humanists. In this informative message, George draws from his own experience and biblical convictions to explain the issues surrounding narration and performance art for the glory of God. He offers advice on developing your own unique performance style, marketing your skills without compromise, and he provides practical insights for producers on how the right talent can be selected for their projects.

Innocence And Joy: Christian Filmmaking and the Kingdom of God

Speaker: R.C. Sproul, Jr.

This talk will consider our calling to innocence and joy, arguing that it is our trust in our heavenly Father that makes these possible. It will suggest that films grounded in these traits will have power to change us, to make us more like children, and to make us more like Jesus.

How to Analyze a Hollywood Movie

Speaker: Geoff Botkin

Geoffrey Botkin has taught his children that modern films are not to be viewed as amusement or entertainment. He has used some movies, however, to teach his children about media, culture, history, theology, and the motion picture arts and sciences. See how he does it live in this practical lecture.

How Christian Families & Filmmakers can Wisely Communicate with Images: A Practical Symposium on the Power of Photography

Speaker: Peter Pallock

As an instructor for the Institute of Photographic Studies, Peter has taught principles of composition applicable to both photography and film. Offering a practical introduction to the basics of still photography, this workshop will cover simple, applicable ways to improve your still photography skills while offering insights into the broader application of those principles in the world of video.

Jesus Christ: The Lord of Actors and Filmmakers

* A Special Dialogue for the Students of the Christian Filmmakers Academy

Speaker: Dean Jones

Veteran actor Dean Jones will offer a private address to the students of the Christian Filmmakers Academy. Drawing from a lifetime of experience in Hollywood, spanning a career of more than fifty years and dozens of film projects including more than a decade as an A-list Disney star, Dean will share some of the most important lessons God has taught him since his conversion to Christ, and will encourage and exhort the filmmakers on the importance of serving Christ in their work outside of Hollywood.

More Than a Camera: Entrepreneurial Principles for Independent Thinkers

Speaker: Ted Pittenger

Success as an independent filmmaker requires more than just a good camera and a great idea. It takes vision, courage and perseverance. Join Ted Pittenger as he shares the biblical principles that guided him in his journey from his kitchen table to the board room of the world's largest medical need sharing ministry.

The Decentralization of Media and How I Started My Own International Radio Broadcast

Speaker: Kevin Swanson

Kevin Swanson explains how he started a daily radio program from his basement that reaches all 50 states and over 80 nations around the world. He touches on the concomitant decentralization and internationalization of media will effect society in the 21st century, and how Christians can best use this for the kingdom of Christ.

Wonder: Christian Filmmaking and the Kingdom of God

Speaker: R.C. Sproul, Jr.

This talk will consider how children come to the world ready and eager to be astonished by His creation. It reminds us that as we remember how big God is, we are better able to rest in Him, and perhaps better still, to delight in Him. It will argue that film-making (and film viewing) ought to look for the glory of God in all the creation, and it ought in turn to rejoice. We glorify Him as we walk through His world like children at a circus.