Holy Fools, Indie Film, and Finding God: Josh David Jordan on El Tonto Por Cristo

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The Pursuit of Beauty with Matthew Wilkinson

Matthew Wilkinson

30 episodes

1 day ago

We explore topics such as classical music, Orthodox chant, Bach, Messiaen, architecture, symbolism, the philosophy of mind, aesthetics, and the general pursuit of Beauty.

Music Commentary

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We explore topics such as classical music, Orthodox chant, Bach, Messiaen, architecture, symbolism, the philosophy of mind, aesthetics, and the general pursuit of Beauty.

Music Commentary

Music

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Holy Fools, Indie Film, and Finding God: Josh David Jordan on El Tonto Por Cristo

The Pursuit of Beauty with Matthew Wilkinson

2 hours 49 minutes 14 seconds

4 months ago

Holy Fools, Indie Film, and Finding God: Josh David Jordan on El Tonto Por Cristo

In this deep and engaging interview, filmmaker Josh David Jordan joins Matthew Wilkinson to explore the inspiration, philosophy, and cinematic influences behind his latest project, El Tonto Por Cristo. From Tarkovsky’s meditative pacing to the spiritual starkness of Robert Bresson, Jordan opens up about his creative process, the challenges of low-budget filmmaking, and the delicate balance between art, audience, and authenticity. The conversation covers everything from editing heartbreaks to the importance of restraint in storytelling, as well as the legacy of great directors like Wim Wenders, Béla Tarr, and the Coen Brothers.

The two also dive into broader artistic questions—what makes great cinema, how to avoid chasing novelty for its own sake, and why true art often finds its audience years later. Jordan reflects on the tension between humility and confidence, the value of patience in a fast-paced digital age, and how his Orthodox Christian faith informs his vision as a filmmaker. Whether you're a cinephile, a student of filmmaking, or simply interested in spiritual cinema and the fool-for-Christ tradition, this conversation offers a rare look into the heart of a director creating boldly outside the Hollywood mold.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Filmmaking and Influences

07:22 The Role of Editing in Film

13:33 The Importance of Patience in Art

19:26 The Evolution of Acting and Performance

25:22 The Impact of Technology on Creativity

31:15 The Legacy of Art and Its Reception

42:02 The Impact of Art on Family and Community

47:45 The Balance of Humility and Confidence

53:13 Influences in Filmmaking: Directors and Philosophies

01:13:04 The Balance of Art and Authenticity

01:18:05 The Impact of Iconic Cinema

01:24:47 The Emotional Resonance of Cinema

01:31:16 Tarkovsky's Legacy and Influence

01:37:30 The Importance of Mystery in Storytelling

01:44:17 The Fine Line of Comedy and Drama

01:52:06 Balancing Creativity and Mental Health

01:57:25 The Impact of Iconic Directors

02:03:24 The Role of Entertainment in Cinema

02:14:33 Intentionality in Filmmaking

02:19:41 Literary Influences and Symbolism

02:25:40 Cultural Reception and Audience Response

02:41:32 Black and White Aesthetic Choices