Filmmakers Craig Detweiler and John Marks will visit Abilene Christian University on March 23 and 24 to discuss their new award-winning film, "Purple State of Mind." ACU students and faculty will participate in discussions on the film and the challenges of faith and film.
"'Purple State of Mind' is a riveting film, so the entertainment factor Craig and John are bringing to campus is huge," said Al Haley, associate professor of English and writer-in-residence at ACU. "Even better, though, is what I think they can teach us—how to talk about issues of faith and culture in a way that is respectful and leads to understanding. We live in the time of what's been called 'the new atheism.' This award-winning film is a great way for students to consider again why they believe what they do and whether or not it can hold up once they move beyond this campus."
While on campus, Marks and Detweiler will speak to several classes and during a fine arts chapel, host an open post-film panel, participate in special sessions and be available for a book signing.
In conjunction with the visit, the ACU Department of Music will host the "Contraries" and "Unities" Concert, at 8 p.m. in the William Performing Arts Center Recital Hall on the ACU campus.
Detweiler, a filmmaker, author and cultural commentator, has been featured in The New York Times, CNN, and NPR. Marks is a novelist, journalist and a former 60 Minutes producer.
For more information about Marks, Detweiler and the movie "Purple State of Mind," visit www.purplestateofmind.com.
The filmmakers' visit is sponsored by The ACU Center for Christians and the Arts and the Adams Center for Teaching and Learning.
If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact ACU's Public Relations Office or call (325) 674-2696.
