About

Cinematic Doctrine is a mature, millennial-infused film/TV discussion podcast from Melvin Benson.

Is Cinematic Doctrine a Christian Movie Podcast?

In Acts 17, we see Paul’s zeal as he witnesses the mass idol worship of the Athenian people. In response, he “…reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the devout persons, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there.” (Acts 17:17). As for Cinematic Doctrine, we hope to provide an opportunity for Christians to take a step in imitating Paul’s spirit-led mission by engaging and understanding the culture of cinema, whether it be the new blockbuster or art-house film, and dissecting the themes and messages there-in. In doing so, we imitate Paul’s very own tactics in evangelizing as he drew from the culture that surrounded him and responded to it with Biblical precision. Additionally, we pursue each discussion with compassion, recognizing that it is the Lord’s kindness that turns people toward repentance (Romans 2:4).

Cinematic Doctrine also seeks to entertain anyone and everyone. Producing content on a weekly schedule, we review movies and provide topical discussions regarding film and film culture. The reason for this is twofold: We want to create a comprehensive environment for Christians to feel safely educated on film culture, and we want to create an attractive, inviting environment for non-Christians to feel welcome and respected.

What People Say

There are so many movie podcasts out there, and so many Christian movie podcasts. But this one dares to talk intelligently, with a real understanding of art.
Glowingnose

There are many Christian podcasts that cover and review media. But this show is set apart by being well-structured with professional recording and truly interesting conversation (not just rambling).
SJake057

Committed to the glory of Christ throughout.
manthonyxp

Where to Listen

Cinematic Doctrine is available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and other major podcast apps.

It Ends – horror in lower case – Cinematic Doctrine: A Movie Review Podcast Hosted by Christians

Send us a Question!MOVIE DISCUSSION: Kathryn joins Melvin to discuss a little-seen existential horror, It Ends, a film about a car that drives on and on… and on. From its curious hook to its Gen Z attitude, the two explore what works, what doesn't, and what it has in common with its modern contemporaries.Topics:(PATREON EXCLUSIVE) 42-minutes discussing The Hollywood Reporter's "Top Genre Filmmakers of 2026: From Curry Barker to Guillermo del Toro", whether its top 10 actually makes sense, why we think these directors are revered so well, and more. (PATREON EXCLUSIVE)In honor of the film; Choose two who will attack you and two who will defend you: 50 hawks, a rifleman, 5 gorillas, or 10,000 rats.Kathryn feels the movie is "fine", and found the film both easy to understand and not necessarily engaging.Melvin feels the first act is the strongest, while the second and third act start to meander and run out of ideas.For Kathryn, she didn't connect with the film because she's self-proclaimed, "unc". Melvin, however, feels the characters aren't strong enough to carry the film.Choosing when and how to grow up.Melvin has a few complaints, although some people may call them nitpicks.How the ending probably would have been better if it was part of the second act, and the third act was entirely different.Recommendations:Hidden (2015) (Movie)Reread your favorite book! Support the showSupport on Patreon for Unique Perks! Early access to uncut episodes Vote on a movie/show we review One-time reward of two Cinematic Doctrine Stickers & PinsSocial Links: ThreadsWebsiteInstagramLetterboxdFacebook Group

Author

Written by

Melvin Benson

Melvin Benson is the Founder, Executive Editor, and Lead Host of Cinematic Doctrine, a mature, millennial-infused film/tv discussion podcast influenced by Acts 17 and Romans 2:4. His hope is to see King Jesus glorified as far as the east is from the west!