O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU? (2000)

Directed by: Joel Coen
Written by: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
Studio: Touchstone Pictures
Starring: George Clooney, John Turturro, Tim Blake Nelson
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
Loosely based upon Homer’s Odyssey and set in the 1920s, three convicts escape from a work crew and set off in pursuit of the loot one of them has stashed away. Oddly enough, during their journey, they become singing sensations and meet up with ‘Babyface Nelson.’

Movie Quote:
“It’s a fool who looks for logic in the chambers of the human heart.”
Ulysses Everett McGill (George Clooney) in O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

Bible Quote:
“He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.”
Proverbs 28:26 (NIV)

Commentary:
The erudite Ulysses Everett McGill makes a good point. Logic and emotion are often diametrically opposed to one another.

Logic, as defined by Webster’s, is a system of reasoning… the process by which rational thought is achieved. To reason, one must draw from knowledge originating outside of one’s own self.

We believe in God, but not in response to an emotional reaction or feeling. Such ‘faith,’ when tested, would never be able to stand because it lacks a truly solid foundation. Rather, we know God to exist simply because we logically conclude it to be true. That conclusion is basd upon our study and application of the Word which He has had recorded and committed to us.

The Word of God (itself called ‘logos’ in the Greek language) contains the standard of truth from which logical thought may be built. As we learn and understand more of His Word, our believing is strengthened, our thoughts become sound, and our logic is unmatched. God has provided us with a solid foundation upon which we may build our entire lives. As we do, He promises our lives will be more than abundant.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. O Brother Where Art Thou? is something of a redemptive tale. In what ways is this manifested in the story?
2. Often, the scriptures us the word ‘fool’ to describe someone who turns from God or doesn’t believe and trust in Him. How does that compare to McGill’s description of a fool?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com