A co-creation between a Christian and an atheist, MWIA had the potential to be an unbiased and calm look into both paradigms. I am elated to say, unreservedly, that this was achieved.
Hard questions are asked on both sides of the pasture. The Problem of Evil, evolution/creationism, sin, biblical genocide, eternal torture, politics and religion, empiricism and tough bible verses are just a few of the hard topics addressed in this film (I only wish they could have included more, but fortunately, the extra features and deleted scenes are copious). Traveling cross-country, the interviewers amass a wide variety of opinions and are always respectful. I recommend this film for anyone who wants to learn about both worldviews (or even how to make a fair documentary).
Some portions that really stood out for me include the profound end-stage Stockholm Syndrome exhibited by John Christie. His indignation, though kept well under control, was palpable. I could tell that he was feeling profoundly uncomfortable and indignant just below the surface. He was unable to objectively apply consistent standards to the god he worships and human beings. His deity of choice is given a pedestal from which he could never fall. Morality by fiat is John's paradigm du jour. His attempts to weasel out of the Problem of Evil are equally flimsy. According to John, free will necessarily entails the possibility for suffering. So either there will be suffering in heaven, or there will be no free will in heaven. Either way, there's no reason (at least that I can see) that god cannot simply create an incorruptible heaven and be done with creation at that point. Creating Adam and Eve, two beings who god already knows will sin and fall, is pointless and viciously cruel.
John Christie disgusted me at 1:35:30. Can't he put 2 and 2 together? If god is omnipotent, then it WAS his will that Michelle was raped.
Whose free will was more crucial? Obviously Castro's.
And this has been pointed out countless times in debates, but simply because our meaning in our lives won't last for eternity doesn't mean there's no meaning in the here and now.