Ask a Question - or - Return to the Faith and Spirituality Forum Index

Question Title Posted By Question Date
Movies with objectional content Mary Friday, December 23, 2011

Question:

Dear Brother Ignatius Mary,

I was wondering if its a sin to watch a movie with objectionable content, rated R. Is it morally permissable or not? Thanks!

Yours in Christ,
Mary



Question Answered by Bro. Ignatius Mary, OMSM(r), L.Th., D.D.

Dear Mary:

It is very difficult to find movies that do not have at least a scene or two that is not objectionable—even G-rated movies.

There is no definitive answer as to whether watching films with objectionable content is sin. You need to follow your conscience. If any movie places you in the near occasion of sin (such as lust), then do not watch the movie. It is certainly sinful to watch pornographic movies. But, most mainstream films these days includes nudity and sometimes very explicit sex scenes.

In general, it is not so much about sin as it is about prudence. St. Paul teaches us, (1 Cor 10:23)  "All things are lawful; but all things are not expedient. All things are lawful; but all things edify not."

St. Paul also teaches: (Php 4:8)  "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

These teachings can help to form our conscience about what films we watch. You have to decide, according to your conscience, where to draw the line. A single scene of nudity does not indict the whole film, for example, unless that violates your conscience.

The decisions on films needs to be much broader than issues of nudity and sex. Films can include too much violence, promote immorality, or even offend Christianity.

There is no set formula to give you as a general rule. Each movie must to be evaluated individually.  Follow your conscience always remembering that even when Christians are morally permitted to watch a movie, the movie may still not be prudent.

God Bless,
Bro. Ignatius Mary


Footer Notes: This forum is for general questions on the faith. See specific Topic Forums below:
Spiritual Warfare, demons, the occult go to our Spiritul Warfare Q&S Forum.
Liturgy Questions go to our Liturgy and Liturgical Law Q&A Forum
Liturgy of the Hours (Divine Office) Questions go to our Divine Office Q&A Forum
Defenfing the Faith Questions go to our Defending the Faith Q&A Forum
Church History Questions go to our Church History Q&A Forum