5 Recent Films and TV Shows That Stirred Major Controversy

5 Recent Films and TV Shows That Stirred Major Controversy

“Let’s Go to the Movies” from Annie (1982) used to be one of my favorite scenes to watch as a little girl. The thought of dressing up and heading to a theater to watch a live performance was cool in and of itself, but to have the entire theater to yourself — whoa! I watched that part over and over, rewinding the VHS (wink, wink).

Growing up in the 80’s, there were classic and nostalgic movies like the Back to the Future series, The Goonies, Top Gun, and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

Then there were others that weren’t as well-known, like Somewhere in Time, but a definite must-see! I know I am dating myself with these films (and declaring I watched them on VHS), but if you haven’t seen any of them, I assure you they are worth a watch with a big bowl of popcorn!

However, unlike today, these movies and shows (like many back in the day) had a TV version, which was edited to dub out offensive language and inappropriate scenes. Basically, there were safety measures put into place, especially for the youth.

So, even though many movies pushed boundaries and fueled debate, after all the 80s was the generation of Flash Dance, Dirty Dancing, and Footloose, it made family movie time enjoyable and relatively safe.

Unfortunately, the current trend and unveiling of movies in today’s culture is getting bolder and pushing more envelopes. While there could be a number of reasons to blame, one being that the movie sets have gotten bigger and better at creating more realistic and “in-your-face honesty” due to the emergence of reality TV, I believe it goes even deeper than that.

The truth of the matter is that we all have access to an endless supply of movies at our fingertips, including the full unedited versions. Maybe this has gave way to become a society that is somewhat jaded or a bit numb to questionable content.

However, as believers, we are called to guard our hearts and minds and to focus on what is pure, noble, good, and right (Philippians 4:7-8). In other words, it is invaluable to understand the motive and meaning behind current movies so we can take better precautions and put boundaries in place as needed.

That said, let’s dig into a few films that have caused quite a stir as of late, and see what the big fuss is about. Better yet, let’s find out if it is worth the watch.

Below is a list of films, networks, and a few shows that have sparked controversial debates. Please note that while this is an opinion piece, it’s best to stay informed so you can pray about these films and form your own analysis, doing what is best for you and your family.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images Evgenyatamanenko

  • Disney Plus, Disney plus welcomes rated R movies

    1. Recent Disney Movies

    Disney has been under fire for quite a few reasons recently, but it appears the themes of their movies have something to do with it!

    The multitude of Disney+ shows, as well as recent movies, have openly taken a detour, pushing an agenda on children and targeting their innocence with questionable and concerning content, leaving many parents concerned.

    Sadly, this isn’t a first for the big corporation, as it has been plagued for years for having cultural and divisive stereotypes, misguided themes, lack of male role models, and encouraging same-sex couples, such as in the film Lightyear.

    But an even more alarming and disturbing trend is the added evil and satanic elements that have appeared in their recent films.

    Pauline, (as well as a few others), are casting demons and Satan as main characters. This is just a reminder that we must be observant and stay alert to what our children are watching!

    Photo Credit: ©Thibault Penin/Unsplash

  • Margot Robbie as Barbie, Movieguide warns parents not to bring their kids to see the Barbie movie

    2. Barbie (2023)

    The Barbie movie made its debut in theaters last summer and came with a rocky start from the very beginning. While there was opposition on all fronts and bashing from every angle, there were also many voicing a different opinion, noting the brilliance of the film and that it took a totally different spin from the stereotype of the original Barbie.

    So, what gives? Should Christians see this film? Personally, I decided to sit this one out. The concerns that didn’t settle well with me were the worldly view of gender roles, from the toxic and undermining of men to the hyper-feminism of women, not to mention the gender fluidity that clearly goes against God’s design for men and women.

    Honestly, I am growing more and more disheartened and concerned with the blatant and blurring lines of gender, as it is causing so much confusion for our children.

    Related articles:

    5 Themes in Barbie That Will Surprise You

    4 Things Parents Should Know about Barbie

    Photo Credit: ©Warner Brothers, used with permission.

  • Sounds of Freedom

    3. Sound of Freedom (2023)

    Angel Studios, a free streaming platform that premieres shows and movies such as The Chosen, delivered quite a controversial storyline last summer. 

    The intent behind the movie was to capture the true story of a former government agent who revealed the brutal truth of child sex trafficking. The film captures the dangerous journey to save a little girl from sex traffickers in Colombia. 

    Rotten Tomatoes gave the movie three stars denouncing it as crass and manipulative. However, I took my older daughters, who are both teens, to see the film and it gave way to lots of open and meaningful discussions about the dangers that consume this world. 

    Yes, it was difficult to watch and disturbing to know that such people violate innocent and young lives. But I also believe it is imperative to know the truth behind such issues to be in prayer for justice because, as the movie clearly announced, “God’s children are not for sale.”

    Related article:

    4 Things to Know about Sound of Freedom

    Photo Credit: ©Angel Studios, used with permission.

  • Jesus and Judas Iscariot converse while disciples walk behind them in a season 4 episode of The Chosen

    4. Season 4 of The Chosen (2024)

    If you are a Chosen fan, you most likely anticipated the release of Season 4 like many. But without any spoilers for those who haven’t seen it, events unfold that cause a ripple effect of shock for the viewers. Unfortunately, this caused many to take to social media to shame the director, Dallas Jenkins.

    While the hit TV show has tried to portray the events of the Bible in an artistic way, there are critics that have claimed the director misrepresents Christ, taking His words out of context, making it inaccurate.

    The truth of the matter is that no matter what we “watch,” it should merely be used as a form of entertainment. The reason I enjoy watching The Chosen is that it is a springboard to further dig into His Word and seek to find answers. After all, the Bible is the only sound doctrine we should seek for wisdom and our source of Truth.

    Needless to say, amid the controversy and all the other shows and films out there, I believe that The Chosen has done a beautiful job at trying to portray the gospels and storyline of Jesus.

    Related article:

    The Chosen Heads to Disney Plus and Gains New Audience

    Photo Credit: ©The Chosen / Angel Studios

  • movie theater popcorn critic movies seats premier

    5. Civil War (April 2024)

    This movie is currently being dubbed as the most anticipated movie of the year. It comes out in just a couple of weeks so as many flock to go see it, as believers, it is wise to gain understanding behind the making of this film.

    Honestly, with the current climate of our nation and many on edge with the upcoming election, I must say this movie piqued my interest as well. 

    The film is supposedly about four journalists who travel around the nation to gather information amid a national crisis and a second civil war. 

    This movie, while eerily similar to many other movies that capture a world at war or an encroaching doomsday scenario, seems to be trending and gaining a lot of attention lately.

    Keeping that in mind, I wanted to see for myself if it was worth a watch, so I googled it, and sought out the trailer. Well, from what I could tell, it is definitely an action-packed movie! 

    But I couldn’t even watch to the end due to the continual brutal attacks and harsh, violent scenes (which included children). Frankly, it seems a bit much for my taste, and one I will most likely stay away from.

    Dear brothers and sisters, we must be mindful that these movies (and ones of the like) are based on presumptions and created with wild imaginations. 

    Hollywood has a way of making things look very realistic and can stoke unneeded anxiety and tension. Not to mention, many times, the language that accompanies these films is not worth it.

    In the end, we must choose to live by the truth found in God’s Word and not allow movies based on “the end of the world” or “war” to bend us toward fear. 

    When trying to decide on a movie to watch, always pray for discernment, set healthy boundaries, and choose to opt for networks that will reflect and stand by your values. 

    Currently, Great American Family, Pure Flix, and UP faith and family offer movies and films that are wholesome and family friendly.

    Father, we ask that You place a hedge of protection around us as we seek to find ways to connect with our family and seek sources of entertainment. Grant us wisdom and discernment when it comes to films that come with troubling controversy and help us make choices that honor You. Amen.

    Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/batuhan toker

    Alicia SearlAlicia Searl is a devotional author, blogger, and speaker that is passionate about pouring out her heart and pointing ladies of all ages back to Jesus. She has an education background and master’s in literacy.  Her favorite people call her Mom, which is why much of her time is spent cheering them on at a softball game or dance class. She is married to her heartthrob (a tall, spiky-haired blond) who can whip up a mean latte. She sips that goodness while writing her heart on a page while her puppy licks her feet. Visit her website at aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.