Flatliner Philosophy

   For anybody who doesn't know, Flatliners was a movie in 1990* about a bunch of medical students who decided to stop their hearts (Carefully) to glimpse what comes next. While somewhat flawed in it's theology, it actually had a good message. For the purposes of this article, I flatlined twice in 2014. Okay, that's not why, but I did watch both versions of this movie (Plus, I died for a bit and saw stuff.) And I'm about to share what I've learned, saving you time and money. If you're not squeamish, let's get into it!

      First up: Stuff I liked. The whole concept is, "There's something more after medical death."* Even the token skeptic from each version eventually agrees. And while they're not super religious, elements of Christianity slip in, but more on that later.  The focus is really on how life in this world changes after that experience, and the knowledge that comes with it. Which, having flatlined, I relatet to. But shouldn't all Christians live differently?**

      Second, stuff I didn't like. Right away, even after flatlining, there's always somebody who's like, "But isn't it just electrical impulses?" Spoiler warning: It's not that. Plus, the main "Proof" is that they all experience some bad memory. Apparently, the character who's idea this was wants to make up for some mistake to people they wronged, but who aready died.

      Which brings us to the finale, along with the Biblical stuff I noticed. In both versions* they call their past actions "Sins." I bet you could list plenty more, but in every scenario, the mistake breaks one of the 10 commandments. Otherwise, there are verses and prayers mentioned, and a popular transition (Upon death.) is an arial shot of a tree. Maybe the Tree of Life, but they don't actually say. The point, it seems, is to treat people well while you're alive, (Or, love thy neighbor.) Because there's more after this life, and you don't want to suffer for what you'e done. [My addition] Which is why God sent His son.

   I hope that blessed you. For a little more, check out voiceintha on blogspot, facebook, X, and instagram       Thanks!

*Flatliners, 1990, 2015

**Isaiah 40:28