Los Angeles Times

Preaching from a progressiv­e pulpit

- — Kimber Myers

With news coming in a constant deluge, even political junkies can find it difficult to think about anything other than the present — and the next presidenti­al election. But the documentar­y “American Heretics: The Politics of the Gospel” doesn’t just look at the current situation and the entangleme­nt of government and religion; it illuminate­s the origins of their relationsh­ip with insight, centering on a single state: Oklahoma.

Though more Americans identify as nonreligio­us than ever before, the Bible Belt still lives up to its name in many ways. However, not every person of faith adheres to the idea that Christians must also be conservati­ve. The film follows Bishop Carlton Pearson (subject of the Netflix drama “Come Sunday”), the Rev. Robin Meyers and the Rev. Lori Walke as they champion progressiv­e causes such as civil rights and fighting poverty, remaining true to their interpreta­tion of the Bible while often coming into conflict with the solidly red base that surrounds them.

“American Heretics” could benefit from a more structured and focused approach, but director Jeanine Butler and her sister and producing partner Catherine Lynn Butler tackle the issue with equal parts intellect, empathy and faith. For anyone interested in politics, religion, American culture or the ever-overlappin­g space they occupy, this documentar­y has the potential to move hearts and minds.

“American Heretics: The Politics of the Gospel.” Not rated. Running time: 1 hour, 25 minutes. Playing: 7:30 p.m., Wednesday only, Laemmle Playhouse 7, Pasadena; Laemmle Monica Film Center, Santa Monica

 ?? Abramorama ?? THE REV. Robin Meyers and other clergy members in the doc champion both Christian and liberal ideals.
Abramorama THE REV. Robin Meyers and other clergy members in the doc champion both Christian and liberal ideals.

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