Episode 211 - Can Film Critics Make Christian Films Better? - with Joseph Holmes This interview is also published in video format. If you prefer to watch it, you can do so here: https://youtu.be/M_OvgvJn-3UIn this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Matt Chastain talks with New York City-based film critic, screenwriter, and filmmaker Joseph Holmes about the role of film critics, particularly in Christian media, and how thoughtful criticism can help strengthen storytelling. Joseph shares his journey from discussing movies and theology with his family as a pastor’s kid to becoming a professional critic, writing for outlets like Religion Unplugged, and co-hosting The Overthinkers. They explore the sometimes complicated relationship between filmmakers and critics, why both ultimately share a love of storytelling, and how filmmakers can better understand critics’ perspectives to improve their work. The conversation also examines the growth and challenges of Christian filmmaking, the influence of familiar formulas and audience expectations, and the importance of authentic storytelling. Joseph shares examples of faith-based films he has praised and criticized, and what filmmakers can learn from them.Highlights Include:Why Film Critics MatterMeet Joseph HolmesA Pastor's Kid Approach to Film TheologyCritic vs Filmmaker TensionHow to Critic-Proof Your FilmWhat Critics Really DoCritics and GrumblingChristian Criticism ReflexWhy Christian Films StruggleAudience and Formula TrapGreat vs Bad ExamplesWhere to Find JosephBio:Joseph Holmes is an NYC-based award-winning film critic, culture critic, and screenwriter who's spent over ten years making and writing about film and culture in Christian and non-Christian spaces. He's written for Forbes, Christianity Today, World Magazine, Relevant Magazine, First Things, Religion Unplugged, and has been the co-host of the award-winning Overthinkers podcast since its beginnings in 2020. He wrote and directed the feature film Jim vs the Future, which is available on DVD and streaming on Amazon, Tubi, YouTube, and more.Links:https://www.josephholmesstudios.com/https://linktr.ee/JosephHolmesVideo Edited by Jacob HensonThe Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. We interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers, talent agents, and distributors.If you would like to support the production of this podcast, you can do so at https://www.faffpodcast.com/support Get Email Notifications: https://faffpodcast.com/emailEnter the Faith & Family Filmmakers Awards festival: https://filmfreeway.com/FAFFawardsFAFF Association Weekly Zoom Meetups for Filmmakers: https://www.faffassociation.com/eventsJaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9VProduced by G