Am I a "bad reader?"

In class we discussed the concept of being a bad reader vs. a good reader, and I began to ponder whether or not I actually read into films and seek the deeper meanings. The example we used in class, the Christmas movie "It's a Wonderful Life" lead me to realize that I am often a bad reader. I watch this movie every Christmas, it's a family tradition and our favorite film of the holiday season. Therefore, I was very intrigued in studying this film, as it sparked my personal interest through the connection I have with it.

However, I realized that through this film, I am a bad reader. This movie always peeks my interest and emotions; it's a comedy, tragedy, and love story all wrapped up in one heart-warming film. Although I showed some signs of being a good reader, such as watching the film over and over, and being actively engaged, I lacked the key concept of reflecting what I am watching. I did not take into account the various symbols relating to the bible such as the splitting of the dance floor as the splitting of the red sea, Potter being the devil, and the most obvious - Mary being the Virgin Mary. I never even considered this holiday film to have such symbolic meanings, although it does make sense that a Christmas film would be centered around the Virgin Mary and other themes throughout the bible. I realize that I need to begin reading more in depth of films and learn to recognize symbols that imply more important themes.



 

Maybe I'm completely off-base here, but is it possible that through the various symbols to the bible, that the film maker was suggesting it can only be a wonderful life if we obtain the love of Christ? Just a thought.