The documentary “In God We Trust?” takes us on a thought-provoking journey through the complexities of faith, patriotism, and the contentious concept of Separation of Church and State in the United States. Filmmaker John Anderson was spurred into action after witnessing a protest rally in the small town of King, where thousands of people fervently waved Christian flags and expressed sentiments that challenged the tolerance and inclusivity of their community.
Driven by his initial anger, Anderson decided to dig deeper into the heart of the matter. Armed with his video camera, he embarked on a year-and-a-half-long quest to discover the truth behind the notion of Separation of Church and State, and to understand the motivations and beliefs of the various religious groups in the area.
At the center of the controversy was a returning Afghanistan Veteran who demanded the removal of the Christian flag from the public Veteran’s Memorial, sparking a fervent debate about the Founders’ intentions and the idea of America as an officially Christian Nation. Anderson was astonished to find that many residents fervently believed that the Founders indeed meant for America to be a Christian Nation, citing historical facts from David Barton, a well-known figure in the Christian nationalist movement.
Through candid interviews with diverse religious groups and community members, Anderson captured a spectrum of perspectives on faith and the role of religion in public life. The documentary delves into the underlying questions of what people believe about God, truth, and the foundation of American values.
What sets “In God We Trust?” apart is Anderson’s approach of allowing the interviewees to speak for themselves, refraining from imposing his own narration or opinions on the audience. This decision enables viewers to make their own judgments and fosters a nuanced understanding of the diverse viewpoints presented.
As Anderson delves into the core issues of faith and nationhood, he finds himself forming unexpected connections with the interviewees, even those whose beliefs he initially disagreed with vehemently. The process of creating this documentary transforms his initial anger into a sense of responsibility to accurately represent each perspective, leaving the audience to ponder and draw their own conclusions.
Though not professionally produced, “In God We Trust?” possesses an authenticity that resonates with its viewers. It is a heartfelt and sincere exploration, not only of the clash between faith and secularism but also of the diverse tapestry that makes up the American identity.
The film raises essential questions about the role of religion in the public sphere and invites viewers to engage in a deeper conversation about the Founders’ intentions and the nature of truth itself. As “In God We Trust?” peels back the layers of faith and patriotism, it uncovers the complex and evolving dynamics that shape America’s social and political landscape.”
