As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, Bad Faith offers a clear-eyed examination of contemporary threats to democratic norms, presenting a timely and compelling documentary from directors Stephen Ujlaki and Chris Jones. Rather than relying on alarmism, the film focuses on the rise of Christian Nationalism and the ways its influence intersects with major cultural and civic institutions. Through meticulous reporting and thoughtful storytelling, Ujlaki and Jones illuminate a movement whose impact extends far beyond politics.
Renowned filmmaker Ken Burns has praised Bad Faith as “a great and powerful and timely film,” applauding its incisive exploration of how religion can be co-opted for ideological ends. Widely acclaimed for its craftsmanship, the documentary was named one of Variety’s “10 Best Movies of 2024” and has continued to evolve; an updated 2026 version will be screened at Tom Tom with Charlottesville NOW, which involves a panel discussion with religious and political scholars to follow. The film’s excellence has also been recognized on the festival circuit, earning the Grand Prize for Best Feature Documentary (Rhode Island), the Justice Matters Award (Washington, D.C.), and the Best of Fest Audience Favorite (Palm Springs).
The panel will include Brenda Brown-Grooms, Pastor at New Beginnings Christian Community Church; Melina Bell, Professor of Philosophy and Law at Washington and Lee University; and Brian N. Williams, Professor of Public Policy at the University of Virginia.
********* Link to register for this event:
https://www.cvillenow.org/event-registration*********If you would like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Humanitix and select the free “Create Your Personal Schedule” ticket. Once complete, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to get started!*********A special thank you: The 14th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, Virginia Tourism, R.L. Beyer Custom Homes, Ludwig Kuttner, and The City of Charlottesville
