I saw several movies this weekend (one at the theater and two via rental).

My dad called Saturday morning and asked if I wanted to go see Ben Stein’s documentary/propaganda piece called Expelled.  It was very interesting.  I would have loved to see this movie with a group of my scientist / atheist / creationist / religious fundamentalist friends.  The conversation afterwards would have been very insightful.  The documentary contends that in scientific circles (especially in the academy) there is a suppression of thought that would point to intelligent design as a legitimate option for explaining the origins of existence.  I especially enjoyed Ben Stein’s interview of Richard Dawkins (author of The God Delusion and an Atheist Fundamentalist).  I would recommend the movie and I’m curious among scientists if Ben Stein’s theory would be affirmed or denied.

Second, saw the movie Juno.  LOVED IT!  Was about a teenage girl who gets pregnant.  I loved it for a couple of reasons:  1) It is real.  Represented the struggle of thought well and didn’t feel like it was trying to push anything other than the real emotions of a Junior in High School trying to deal with the consequences of actions.  Real.  2) Loved the character of Juno.  Ellen Page was awesome!  Sharp wit.  Sarcastic.  Very funny. 

Third, saw Amazing Grace.  I know it has been out forever…but I just saw it.  Story of William Wilberforce and his struggle to convince the British Parliament to outlaw slavery.  Very powerful.  Excellent movie.