Religion and film?two pervasive elements of American culture?have seldom been studied in connection with each other. In this first systematic study of the two, the authors look beyond surface religous themes and imagery, discovering a deeper, implicit presence of religion. Employing theological, mythological, and social and political criticism, they analyze the influence of religion on popular film as well as how the medium has helped influence and shape American religious culture, secular or otherwise.Screening the Sacred provides fresh and welcome insight for film criticism; it also holds far-reaching relevance for the study of religion. This book is written for students, scholars, and other readers interested in religion, popular film, and the impact of each on American culture.