Ep. 63 - Ray Comfort's Audacity: A Review and Discussion with Actor Travis Owens
Friendly Atheist Podcast
Deep Dive
Why did Ray Comfort create the film 'Audacity'?
Ray Comfort created 'Audacity' with the goal of convincing gay and lesbian viewers to renounce homosexuality, aiming to open a conversation between religious people and the LGBTQ+ community.
What is the main plot of 'Audacity'?
The film follows Peter, a devout Christian who struggles with evangelizing, especially to LGBTQ+ individuals. He hesitates to share his beliefs, leading to symbolic consequences, such as a nightmare where he fails to save a lesbian couple from an elevator crash.
How does the film portray the relationship between Peter and Diana?
Peter and Diana are coworkers who develop a friendly relationship, with some tension due to their differing religious views. The film hints at a potential romantic interest, but their relationship remains undefined.
What is the significance of the elevator scene in 'Audacity'?
The elevator scene symbolizes Peter's internal struggle with evangelizing to LGBTQ+ individuals. His failure to act leads to a nightmare where the lesbians die, serving as a metaphor for the consequences of not spreading his religious beliefs.
How does Travis Owens feel about his role in 'Audacity'?
Travis Owens, who plays Peter, is supportive of LGBTQ+ rights and found the role challenging as it was 180 degrees different from his personal beliefs. He took the role to explore acting and found it fascinating despite the film's controversial message.
What was the production quality of 'Audacity' like?
The production quality of 'Audacity' was surprisingly high, with real actors and a professional crew. Ray Comfort intentionally sought out non-religious professionals to improve the film's quality, which was better than typical faith-based films.
How does Ray Comfort argue against homosexuality in the film?
Ray Comfort argues against homosexuality by questioning whether people are born gay and comparing it to being born an adulterer or fornicator. He uses street interviews to challenge people's beliefs and suggests that homosexuality is a choice that leads to hell.
What was the reaction of Travis Owens' friends and family to his role in 'Audacity'?
Travis' friends and family, particularly his LGBTQ+ siblings and best friends, were initially excited for him but later faced criticism from some gay men who were upset by his role. They understood his position as an actor but still found it challenging.
What is the significance of the convenience store scene in 'Audacity'?
The convenience store scene is a turning point where Peter, despite his hesitation, ultimately saves a gay couple from a robbery. This act of bravery is used to justify his evangelizing efforts, suggesting that his actions align with his Christian beliefs.
How does the film conclude?
The film concludes with Diana, who is revealed to be a lesbian, waking up from a coma and expressing her newfound belief in Christianity. The ending suggests that Peter's evangelizing efforts have successfully converted her, despite their initial conflict.
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