Is Film "Art"? | Ep 23 The TAC Podcast
The TAC Podcast
What separates a masterpiece from mere entertainment? In this episode of The TAC Podcast, we move beyond film criticism to explore the "first principles" of cinema. Drawing on the insights of Aristotle, Aquinas, and contemporary thinkers, we discuss whether film truly "imitates nature" and what it means to make the invisible visible on screen. We dive into the ethics of storytelling, the difference between art and propaganda, and the paradoxical necessity of stories being both "surprising and inevitable." Whether you're a filmmaker, a cinephile, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and art, join us for a deep dive into the soul of cinema. In this episode, we discuss: The nature of contemplation in a digital age. Why "bad movies" often feel like commercials. The role of human action and "the promise" in storytelling. A philosophical defense of bleak masterpieces like No Country for Old Men. Whether "Christian Film" is a coherent artistic category. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction: Why talk about film? 02:15 - Art vs. Work: The nature of contemplation 05:03 - What makes a movie "bad"? 06:43 - Art, prayer, and the perversion of manipulation 09:13 - The first principles of cinema 10:05 - Does art imitate reality? 12:21 - The artist's role: Making the invisible visible 16:46 - Revealing the meaning in humble realities 21:00 - Respecting the medium of film 26:10 - The Pixar framework: "Surprising and Inevitable" 31:00 - The juxtaposition of images 36:08 - Can a "bad person" make great art? 41:00 - The philosophy of No Country for Old Men 48:40 - Defending the hero of the story 50:50 - Is there such a thing as "Catholic Film"? 54:00 - Can you evangelize through art? 01:02:04 - Why movies are miracles 01:04:30 – Conclusion
About Podcast
Each week, senior members of the teaching faculty open a window into the intellectual life of the College through conversations rooted in the Great Books and the pursuit of first principles. Together, they explore the foundational questions that have shaped Western civilization.
Grounded in the liberal arts tradition, the podcast invites listeners into the same kind of thoughtful, rigorous dialogue that defines the classroom experience. From ancient mathematics and astronomy to philosophy, theology, and modern science, each episode seeks to understand the truth of things by returning to first principles.
Occasionally featuring guest scholars and educators, the show offers rich discussions on the Great Books, liberal education, and the enduring relevance of classical learning.
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