Christian Groups Claim Religion-Purged 'Golden Compass' Movie Promotes Pro-Atheism Books

By Katherine T. Phan|Christian Post Reporter

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Other critics of the movie also include fans of Pullman’s trilogy. Many say they were disappointed that anti-religious and anti-Church themes of the book were “castrated” from the movie to make it more marketable to audiences in the United States and United Kingdom.

“It was clear right from the start that the makers of this film intended to take out the anti-religious elements of Pullman's book. In doing that they are taking the heart out of it, losing the point of it, castrating it,” said Terry Sanderson, president of the National Secular Society, a British organization that promotes secularism and which Pullman is an honorary associate of.

“It seems that religion has now completely conquered America's cultural life and it is much the poorer for it," she said in The Guardian newspaper earlier this month. "What a shame that we have to endure such censorship here too.”

Back in 2004, director Chris Weitz had told fans in an online posting that the removal of godless themes in the book was a high possibility since the "perceived anti-religiosity" would make the project financially “unviable."

Despite the changes, however, Pullman said in an interview with Western Mail, a Welsh newspaper, that he was “very happy” with the movie version of his story.

Pullman has revealed that his main contention is with those who “misuse religion, or any other kind of doctrine with a holy book” as means “to dominate and suppress human freedoms,” according to a 2004 posting on his website Philip-Pullman.com.

The author, who is an honorary associate at Britain's National Secular Society and supporter of the British Humanist Association, has also admitted that “His Dark Materials” is a response to Christian author C.S. Lewis' "The Chronicles of Narnia.”

"I loathe the 'Narnia' books," Pullman has said in previous press interviews. "I hate them with a deep and bitter passion, with their view of childhood as a golden age from which sexuality and adulthood are a falling away."

"The Golden Compass” is scheduled to hit U.S. theaters on Dec. 7, 2007.

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mike4511 »

Thu Dec 06, 2007 3:07 pm Agree: 0 Disagree: 3

This website has more info and answers to the idaes in the books/movie
www.pullmanwatch.com
ChristianChick »

Wed Dec 05, 2007 5:49 pm Agree: 11 Disagree: 2

Ok, I absolutely loved the "His Dark Materials" series of books. It's a genius idea that's superbly written by Philip Pullman. I am a Christian and am in no way offended by the books or the upcomming movie. I'll be first in line! Instead of "us Christians" boycotting it or judging it, read it. Watch it. The world is not perfect. All movies have themes that could be considered "anti-Christian" like violence, sex and drug use. Just look at what's on TV right now. But in the end it's our decision what we watch and what we read, and also what we believe. If you are firm in your Christian beliefs I don't see how any book or movie could change you.
S_bone »

Tue Dec 04, 2007 3:16 pm Agree: 1 Disagree: 4

~In the story, a malevolent governing body called "the Church,” which answers to the "Vatican Council,"

In this statement I think really needs to be type as it is ACTUALLY mentioned in the movie. CNN just had a segment on this "issue" and the movie does not state it is the Vatican out right. It states it the Magistal or something very close to that. The point is I feel you have put biased in this report by wording it the way you have, and that is shameful to put knowingly into any report. Though I do know at times it can be hard to be purely unbiased no matter how careful we are.
LyraBelaqua »

Sun Dec 02, 2007 12:56 am Agree: 6 Disagree: 0

I think it is simply hilarious, the sort of deal you’re all making over this. Yes, the book is about killing God. Is it your God, maybe. Do they have a point, yes. In the eyes of Pullman and of his characters, the obsession over God has caused some serious issues for humanity, and has opressed free will and thought for far too long a time. Some people may agree with this, and just because you dont does not mean that the people who do enjoy and appreciate the quality of being powerfully human should be deprived of their chance to share these views with the world. If you can spread the Christian messages around the world with blood and war, why should you deprive Pullman and his beliefs from having an audience with our children in a much more intellectual and imaginative manner. Is Atheism not also a form of religion? Now, now… tolerance, shall we?

You forget also that it is only a story. The difference between fiction and reality is, however, a most troubling distinction to make. Which is why, it seems to me, you are so overly hostile towards all other ideas except your own to begin with.
ronin »

Fri Nov 30, 2007 2:04 pm Agree: 9 Disagree: 4

wes: I'm sure you meant to say, "JUST LOOK AT THE STATE OF OUR WORLD TODAY AND YOU CAN SEE WHERE "AN EYE FOR AN EYE" HAS GOTTEN US SO FAR.

"Live and Let Live" hasn't caused as nearly as much trouble as the above quote... from the bible.
wes »

Fri Nov 30, 2007 10:36 am Agree: 0 Disagree: 5

JUST LOOK AT THE STATE OF OUR WORLD TODAY AND YOU CAN SEE WHERE "LIVE AND LET LIVE" HAS GOTTEN US SO FAR.
infidel13 »

Wed Nov 21, 2007 1:53 pm Agree: 8 Disagree: 2

Three cheers for Ronin's post! One of the core philosophies of this country is to grant equal protection to individuals of all religious persuasions, including those with none at all. There is no need to be frightened or angry about the expression of views contrary to yours. You don't have to listen, and you certainly don't have to agree. Further, you don't have to take the condescending view that others are incapable of defending their own philosophies and hence need 'protection' from potentially "subversive" messages. They are quite capable of making reasoned arguments of their own, and some people are open-minded enough to examine ideas before deciding against or in favor of them. What society needs is not censorship from one side or the other, but a healthy dose of "live and let live."
ronin »

Mon Nov 19, 2007 2:00 pm Agree: 10 Disagree: 1

I respect the religious beliefes of ALL of the posters in this thread. That's because I live in the United States of America, a country that gives "freedom of religion" to everyone. It doesn't just protect the beliefs of christianity. To feel an artistic creation, such as a film, should be boycotted simply because it's beliefs might be contrary to your own is in direct opposition to the constitutional protection that allows you to worship as you see fit.

Chronicles of Narnia.. a thinly veiled christian message released at Christmas time with talking animals, targeted at children.

Golden Compass... a thinly veiled atheist message released at Christmas with talking animals, targeted at children

It's the same identical formula that is actually just trying to make money. It's not subversive, it's capitalism. If you don't want to see the film because of it's message, don't go. That's a choice we should all make for ourselves, not tell others not to do something because we personally believe it's wrong.

If you believe in the christian God, then you know he gave each individual free will. Don't you think he wants us to use it?

BTW, I am a christian too, and I still beilieve people ahould choose for themselves.
lanshar4GOD »

Sun Nov 11, 2007 8:10 pm Agree: 2 Disagree: 6

For Adelphe.......Thank you!!!! I could not have said it better!!!! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!!
rowdyrich »

Sat Nov 10, 2007 8:09 am Agree: 3 Disagree: 7

It is true Christians are called to be "in the world, not of the world." We are called to live, serve and witness in the world – not escape from it. But we are also to avoid being contaminated by the world. The author's stated mission of the series this film is taken from is to contaminate people – and, more specifically, children.

http://therowdyone.blogspot.com/2007/11/why-is-golden-compass-more-dangerous.html
WiccanTexan »

Thu Nov 08, 2007 11:24 am Agree: 1 Disagree: 0

Pullman speaks about God, his atheism and the movie in video clips. Judge for yourself.

http://blog.beliefnet.com/idolchatter/2007/11/exclusive-video-philip-pulman.html

As for the Narnia books, I enjoy what I've read, and the whole family has seen the Chronicles of Narnia movie numerous times.
Adelphe »

Wed Nov 07, 2007 12:48 pm Agree: 6 Disagree: 9

Please keep these verses in mind - 1Corinthians 1:18-19 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written:"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent". and - Ephesians 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickednessin the heavenly places.
Ashley having said that I would invite you to consider this question - What is your purpose for existing? If you truly believe that you are just a byproduct of nature then you have to admit that you are part of the problem and therefore should not exist. survival of the fittest should allow anyone stronger than you to kill you without being punished. God loves you Ashley He has a plan for your life read the Bible for yourself and then decide if your life ruler will be Evolution or Jesus who died so that you Ashley could live .
Prophet »

Sun Nov 04, 2007 9:12 pm Agree: 3 Disagree: 4

to whom ever flagged ashley---that was really inconsiderate. there was nothing offensive in what she said. and i think it was really immature and unchristian like to do that.
lanshar4GOD »

Sun Nov 04, 2007 9:07 pm Agree: 5 Disagree: 15

This message is for asheychan and all the other atheist like her. Movies as such should be boycotted due to offending my Christianity. You say your offended???? Well, I was to when prayer was taken from the schools and how the Supreme Courts wants to remove everything that has anything to do with GOD. You people better open your eyes and believe that there is a GOD! A wonderful GOD that loves you though you chose NOT TO BELIEVE. I suggest you take a good look around and read the Bible. The answers are in there. I do hope you turn your life around before it is too late. I will be praying for you.
Prophet »

Sun Nov 04, 2007 4:53 pm Agree: 3 Disagree: 1

ashley--
You are right on! Christianity is not the sole source of good morals...its just the sole way to heaven. You can be a good person without God, but you cant be with God by just being a good person.
ashleychan »

Sat Nov 03, 2007 11:34 pm Agree: 13 Disagree: 9

Daniel Jacob- do you really believe that Atheists don't have any moral inclinations? That we really just think that no ethics really matters? Basically, are you saying Atheists can't be good without God? Well I certainly find this offensive, as I myself am an Atheist. Yes, I accept evolutionary science, but I in no way am a social Darwinist.(meaning i don't act like an unintelligent animal). Thanks to evolution, we have brains that help us think and make decisions. It also helps us when it comes to deciding things we should and should not do. Empathy for another is completely natural, and not just exclusively religious. If that were so, then the thousands of years before Christianity came along, we would have torn each other apart and never would have gotten this far. While morality isn't absolute, and varies from culture to culture, there are some aspects that pop up no matter where you live, or what you worship. Usually they will be things like : don't kill others, stealing is wrong, don't hurt people..etc.
steveh20 »

Sat Nov 03, 2007 8:35 am Agree: 5 Disagree: 2

I really enjoyed the trilogy, they deepened my faith as they caused me to confront issues that arise from having a personal faith. We have encouraged our children to read them also, so that they too may grow and have a deeper faith.
anniefourjesus »

Thu Nov 01, 2007 1:29 pm Agree: 1 Disagree: 3

I meant to say, that Shame kept me away from God for many years until He showed me that His love covers that too! Romans 8:1 is a great truth of God that I have fully embraced!
In Jesus Christ, I discovered my all in all, HE is all I ever needed when I discovered HE was all I had!
He found me in the gutters of death and imagine my surprise when HE spoke to my heart and shared that HE created me with a purpose and a plan. Most of my life I thought was meaningless; but now I know that my great God used every single moment for my good and His glory!
God is so much more than we can ever comprehend; but HE does reveal Himself to HIS children. He says, "if you seek ME with all your heart, you will find ME, for I am not very far from each one of you." What else can HE do to, HE gave everything for us and yet sadly so many reject Him. I did too for many years and I just give Him all praise for HIS patience and understanding!
So many speak about Him, and yet they do not even KNOW HIM! I pray that whoever reads this, you will give Him a chance to change your life like He changed mine. HE gave me a new heart and put a new spirit within me and gave me a new Song in my heart to sing His praise.
It is all about Him and For Him, and why not??? HE is glorious!! For Your Glory Lord! Annie
anniefourjesus »

Thu Nov 01, 2007 1:18 pm Agree: 3 Disagree: 2

Speaking as an adult who was abused as a child, I am a great fan of C.S. Lewis! When someone holds a bitter and passionate hatred of anything (I used to be filled with hatred and passionate about it) the deeper the pain the louder the cry!!!
I was raped of my innocence, my trust, faith and love and it was the love of Jesus Christ who turned my dark night of the soul into eternal light and love.
Jesus came to destroy "religion" and HE showed what was the most excellent way..Love, God's love heals and restores. It took me working with the Lord, and He is still working with me, He helped me to face things in my life, to learn to forgive, and to see that HE cares very deeply about abuse...read Matthew 18...and HE speaks very plainly about what happens to those who cause ONE of HIS little ones to sin...God does NOT cause men to sin, HE died and all that sin was placed on HIM...and I say thank You Lord, for taking what the enemy meant for my distruction and the destruction of my family; and YOU turned it all around for our good and YOUR glory! When there is hate, bitterness in your heart, examine that and see where it comes from....I had to take responsibility for my own sin (and I had to let go of anger, hate and revenge) by giving that all to God.
The Lord is in the processing of healing our family and I give Him all praise. I learned, just because God allows things, doesn't mean He approves.
God gave me a bigger picture and a better understanding of who HE is and who I am in Him.
I am His daughter, and I was stolen from Him and HE moved heaven and hell and every obstacle to get me back into a right relationship with HIM!
That is my FAther, and that is your Father. The Enemy, Satan has blinded hearts and minds so that people have no clue to their true identity.
People are always searching, "who am I," "where do I belong", listen! He is The King and we are HIS children, Princes and Princesses of the Eternal One!
That is the truth my friends! When this revelation came to my heart, I knew it was true, I knew with all certainty that I had been lied to most of my life and I allowed myself to continue in the lie because of the same involved in my life.
The Lord God showed me that JESUS died for all of that, HE took it all upon Himself on the Cross. It is finished!! Praise God! for HIS unconditional love, that nothing can separate me from and no one can snatch me out of my Father's hand!
Pullman needs our prayers as do all those who would reject the Lord. In His love and grace, Annie
danieljacob76 »

Thu Nov 01, 2007 8:12 am Agree: 4 Disagree: 5

Pumman's contention religion being used “to dominate and suppress human freedoms" makes no sense in light of his atheism. Without a God and the moral absolutes that come with it, why should it be wrong to supress human freedoms? With no Lawgiver, life is simply the survival of the strongest. In an atheist universe there are really no freedoms at all. We do the things we do simply because we have to do them. All our actions and thinking are the result of physical causes and according to the impersonal laws of physics and biology. He opposes the implications of his own worldview. His hatred of, and opposition to Narnia is laughable. What place does Pullman have as some sort of moral crusader when his worldview implies we are simply matter-in-motion?
GoldenEagle »

Thu Nov 01, 2007 7:45 am Agree: 1 Disagree: 2

I really like CS Lewis, so anything I say is going to come off as a biased response.He is one of my favorite writers.So, what I will say is thanks for the good posting, Prophet.Well said!!
Prophet »

Wed Oct 31, 2007 3:29 pm Agree: 11 Disagree: 2

I like Pullman's last comment..."I loathe the 'Narnia' books," Pullman has said in previous press interviews. "I hate them with a deep and bitter passion, with their view of childhood as a golden age from which sexuality and adulthood are a falling away."
Ain't that the eptiome of ignorance. C.S Lewis could have used adults, monkeys, or whatever he wanted. It has nothing to do with "a golden age from which sexuality and adulthood are a falling away." Actually, the way I see it, since the Narnia books are a allegory of Christianity, Lewis uses children because of Jesus' view of children: "for such is the Kingdom of God".
I could take the antithesis stand on Pullmans book saying "I hate them with a deep and bitter passion, with their view of childhood as an opportunity to rape them of their innocence, faith, turst, and love."

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