With the evolution of American Christianity, families have splintered from their long-lived denominations or generational religious interests. In the 1960's, a family worshipped in any number of Christian denominations: Baptist, Catholic, Lutheran, Methodist, Pentecostal, etc. But in the 2000's, young adults seek their own system of Christianity. It could be in the 12,000 weekly membership of The Rock mega-church where former NFL player Miles McPherson inspires their classmates and community. Or they could be finding a place of prayer and gratitude while surfing in the majestic splendor of the Pacific Ocean with members of Pastor Taylor Storey's Vintage Faith Church. The Arena of Life Cowboy Church with Pastor Ty Jones is a place where people are closer to God when they're out in the pasture more than they would ever be in a building. Pastor Jesse West meets them on their own turf in Santa Cruz's Skate Town, and in Middle Island, N.Y., members of the Rushing Wind Biker Church share that faith isn't something you can actually see or feel, but you know it's there.
The adventure of American Jesus takes you yet to the extremes with pastors preaching beneath bridges, in yoga studios, on the sex-ridden streets of Las Vegas, and even to those addicted to porn. Plus, there is a bizarre exposure of the snake handler preachers who risk their lives to passionately and fatally prove their faith. There is no judgment, no condemnation, just delivering service and love to a nation whose mothers and fathers have left the home for the work force.
American Jesus has one-on-one interviews with entertainers like Northern Exposure's Janine Turner who is a "Christoga" enthusiast, porn star Ron Jeremy who offers advice on conversion, and Green Power Ranger, Jason David Frank, who has a Christian clothing business incorporating his love of Jesus and martial arts. This documentary is complete with comments from singers, poets, artists, and punkers, and steps into all walks of life. Familiar faces include Pat Robertson, Creflo Dollar, John Hagee and others. Bonus features include short interviews featuring Joanne Cash and Dave Ellefson among others with a "Making-Of" Featurette.
American Jesus covers many subjects from how commercialism of Christianity filled a void for the Moral Majority and carved an indelible pattern in American politics, to satisfying the need for Creationism lost in today's schools with the Museum built in its memory. The documentary offers a kaleidoscope of insights into America's Christian world. Author Frank Schaeffer (And God Said, "Billy!") says that "American Jesus documents the strange relationship between faith, materialism, politics and personal spiritual passions in what is a uniquely American inner life."
The United States Constitution guarantees freedom of religion. Pastor Keenan Smith of Crosby Church says, "I will die for my faith. I will die to stand and not compromise what I know are Godly convictions on my life." He reminds us that America was founded on the freedom of Judeo-Christianity, not any other religion. In their Team Impact, the athletes use their God-given talents for God's kingdom with athletic ability and feats of strength. The Pastor cautions that America was founded on the freedom of Judeo-Christianity and no other religion, and that it is dangerous to try to rewrite its foundation. Christianity has an "exceptionalism" of men and women who have dared to dream big without allowing any limitation on their designs, hopes and aspirations.
American Jesus is a brilliant documentary on American Christianity by director Garriga and Xavi Prat. The cinematography and interviews give insight into the complex characteristics and contrasting viewpoints that portray America's search for peace in this chaotic world.
