The cinema business is booming, and shelves laden with videos and DVDs are on display in local video libraries and chain stores. Studies of the relationship between film and Christian theology are also growing in number, but this collection of essays has the special aim of offering help to those who want to draw on current films in church services or in small study groups.

Questions of theory are kept in mind, especially in the first part of the book, which explores theological, existential and ideological approaches to film. But the writers never forget their concern for the practical needs of pastors, preachers and study-group leaders.

The second part of the book thus aims to model a variety of ways of holding the dialogue between film and theology, with examples which include romantic comedies, 'block-busters', sci-fi and fantasy. The format of the third part is designed for reflecting on a film in a group context, each chapter providing a detailed synopsis followed by a series of comments and questions gathered round a number of themes.

The contributors believe that the popular culture of film provides rich material for theological and spiritual reflection. It may even, as David Coffey suggests in his introduction, offer a 'revelatory experience'.

Anthony J. Clarke is the Tutor in Community Learning at Regent's Park College, Oxford.

Paul S. Fiddes is Professor of Systematic Theology at the University of Oxford, and Principal of Regent's Park College. They are both Baptist ministers.