Lone Star Holy War is a 2014 documentary that explores the cultural and political divide between Texas' Evangelical Christians and their Muslim counterparts. The film delves into the complex history of these two communities, tracing their roots in the state's founding and examining their respective contributions to its social and economic landscape.
At its heart, Lone Star Holy War is a story of two worlds colliding. On one hand, there are Texas' Evangelical Christians, who believe in a strict interpretation of the Bible and the importance of spreading their faith to others. On the other hand are Texas' Muslims, who are viewed by many as foreign interlopers whose values and beliefs clash with those of the state's conservative Christian population. The film explores these two communities in depth, examining their histories, their beliefs, and their interactions with one another.
Directed by Kevin Knoblock, the film features interviews with prominent figures from both sides of the debate, including pastors, activists, scholars, and politicians. These interviews offer valuable insights into the worldviews, motivations, and aspirations of Texas' Evangelical Christians and Muslims, as well as the challenges they face in a society that often sees them as outsiders.
One of the most compelling aspects of Lone Star Holy War is its examination of the role of religion in Texas' politics. The film illustrates how Evangelical Christians have become a powerful political force in the state, leveraging their considerable influence to push for laws and policies that reflect their values. From abortion to same-sex marriage, these Christians have worked tirelessly to make sure that their moral vision of the state becomes reality.
But the film also highlights the ways in which Texas' Muslims are pushing back against this dominant narrative. Through their activism, outreach programs, and engagement with local communities, these Muslims are working to build bridges between themselves and their Christian neighbors. They are also making important contributions to Texas' economy, representing a significant source of innovation and entrepreneurship in the state.
What sets Lone Star Holy War apart from other documentaries on religion and politics is its unwavering commitment to objectivity. The film refuses to take sides in the debate, and instead presents a nuanced and complex portrayal of both Christians and Muslims. It offers no easy solutions or prescriptions, but instead invites viewers to confront their own preconceptions and biases.
Overall, Lone Star Holy War is a thought-provoking, compelling, and insightful documentary about the intersection of religion, politics, and culture in Texas. Through its examination of the state's Evangelical Christian and Muslim communities, the film illuminates the challenges and opportunities that arise when two vastly different worlds meet. It is a must-see for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of religion in contemporary American society.
Lone Star Holy War is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.
