Vicar Sparks Debate by Defending Horror Films for Christians
Ravi Holy, the vicar of Wye in Kent and a standup comedian, has ignited a fiery discussion after praising the new Sam Raimi film, Send Help. His rave review prompted unexpected backlash, with some Christians arguing that horror movies are off-limits for believers. Holy, however, stands firm in his belief that true Christianity allows for such entertainment, criticising what he calls neo-puritanism for its misplaced priorities.
The Controversy Over Send Help and Horror Films
Send Help, described as a gore-laced plane-crash survival face-off, blends comedy and horror elements. While the Guardian review was less favourable, Holy sees value in the film, noting that even The Exorcist features a priest who rediscovers his faith after battling evil. He argues this sends a positive religious message, despite extreme reactions from some who claim Christians should avoid not only horror but also soap operas like Emmerdale.
Holy acknowledges that sensitive viewers might find aspects like language or projectile vomiting overwhelming, and he wouldn't show such films to youth groups. Yet, he has used clips from The Exorcist to facilitate adult discussions on faith and doubt, similar to how he might use Saving Private Ryan for other purposes. This approach highlights his liberal stance amidst growing neo-puritan sentiments.
Neo-Puritanism and Its Historical Roots
Holy recalls encountering radical neo-puritanism in the 1990s, when attending a Pentecostal church in west London led him to discard his record collection of bands like AC/DC, Black Sabbath, and Led Zeppelin. He later regretted this but notes no lasting harm. At the time, he avoided films with occult themes, such as Oliver Stone's The Doors, but never boycotted cinemas entirely.
One street preacher in Leicester Square expressed horror at Holy watching Terminator 2, arguing Christians shouldn't visit cinemas. Holy reflects on the irony, given subsequent scandals within the Jesus Army, the preacher's organisation. He cites Jesus's teachings about focusing on larger issues rather than minor faults, criticising neo-puritanism for its narrow focus.
Broader Implications for the Church and Society
Holy points to the Church of England's General Synod as an example of misplaced priorities. Nearly 13 years after same-sex marriage legalisation, debates still rage over whether prayers for gay and lesbian couples are permissible. He argues this reflects a righteous indignation over trivial matters, echoing Richard Holloway's view that God cares more about boardrooms than bedrooms.
He frames this as a cold war between neo-puritans and liberal cavaliers, rooted in differing theological visions. Some, like his friend who avoids EastEnders, see the world as irredeemably sinful, akin to Noah's ark, and dismiss environmental concerns. In contrast, Holy emphasises Genesis's declaration of creation as very good and Jesus's welcoming of sinners, portraying him as a cavalier figure.
Holy advocates for a perspective inspired by Ernest Hemingway, quoted in Se7en: The world is a fine place worth fighting for. He believes everything, from horror films to rock music and Emmerdale, holds beauty, urging Christians to embrace a more inclusive and joyful faith.
