Goodness in the movie Starman
Christian forms and symbols in contemporary movies
Symbolic forms of Christianity found in contemporary movies can be self-revealing and even inspiring.
The 1980 film “Starman” starring Jeff Bridges and Karen Allen reveals goodness on the levels of spiritual and divine goodness on the levels of spiritual and divine goodness as well as goodness from an individual’s character. “Starman” is about a supernatural being (Jeff Bridges) who is from a star in the galaxy, accidently lands on planet earth and enters a window’s house. He transforms himself into the physical appearance of the widow’s deceased husband with his super-human powers.
On the level of spiritual goodness, Starman brings to life a dead deer and frees it into the wilderness. He also reveals the widow, Jennie Hayden (Karen Allen) from a state of death through his magic. Her death occurs as a result of an accident by which she and Starman escape from the police and the FBI. They want to capture Starman for scientific investigation. Finally, his spiritual goodness is revealed in Jennie Hayden’s discovery in her being pregnant, who initially, cannot have a baby.
Starman is manifested as a compassionate and caring person. Upon Starman’s time to return to his planet, Jennie Hayden does not want him to leave and expresses her desire to take her with him. However, Starman does not want to take Jennie with him for fear she will die there. He is also a good person because he carried her safely from the burning wreckage during their chase from the police and the FBI.
There are similarities between Starman and Jesus Christ in that both of them were individuals who had the power to perform impossible and miraculous acts. For example, in the section of the gospels, “The First Miracle: Water made Wine,” Jesus Christ says, “Draw out now, and bear unto the ruler of the feast.” Jesus Christ in this respect, miraculously turned the water into wine.
Goodness in its traditional form is almost taken for granted in contemporary forms of media. This movie makes one rethink through Christian elements while promoting a bit of Hollywood. What I found enlightening and even inspiring was the modern day Jesus Christ persona that Jeff Bridges embodied in his screen character.
