Hoppers - AYJW171

A Christian review of Hoppers exploring incarnation echoes, anthropomorphism, human nature, and what the film gets right and wrong.

Are You Just Watching?

Episode 171: Hoppers

For the full show notes please visit areyoujustwatching.com/171

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What do you do with a movie that asks whether someone should become one of them to save them, then wraps that question in the bright, furry chaos of Hoppers? Scored by Mark Mothersbaugh, the film offers more than its cute surface suggests. In this episode, we examine the movie’s incarnation echo and how its hopping premise approaches questions of knowing and saving. We also confront the thornier issue of anthropomorphism, which only grew more bothersome the longer we considered it. From there, we question the familiar lie that everyone is good deep down, and the related promise that letting go of anger is easier when you believe you are part of something bigger.

Takeaways:

• The Pixar movie Hoppers presents an intriguing narrative that prompts a critical analysis through a biblical lens.
• A significant theme of the film revolves around the concept of becoming one with to save one, aka, the parable of the birds, an important step toward understanding the incarnation of Christ
• The portrayal of anthropomorphism in Hoppers raises important questions about the representation of animal intelligence and social structures.
• The underlying message suggests that without a biblical worldview, audiences may may walk away from the film indoctrinated by a false worldview.
• The film's protagonist embodies a journey of personal growth, but there is concern about the influence of Asian philosophy on the underlying theme of her journey.
• The discussion highlights the necessity of parental guidance in interpreting the film's themes to ensure children understand its moral complexities.