HOW TO USE THIS GUIDEBeasts of the Southern Wild whisks you to a surreal realm, where little girls and mythical animals coexist in a bayou called The Bathtub, all intertwined in the cosmic mesh of the universe. Hushpuppy relentlessly explores her world for answers, to satisfy her curiosity and to make her budding mark on a world she’s only beginning to comprehend. The film examines themes and convictions about our place in the universe and our intention in life. This conversation guide is designed to be a starting point for a conversation between you and your friends to explore a deeper meaning behind the film.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY Romans 12.4 (GNT) We have many parts in the one body, and all these parts have different functions.

Without community, Hushpuppy and her friends would not have survived the storm. Even when her father faces the end of his life, Hushpuppy is supported by an entire group of people who love and care for her.

Community is a critical part of our role as sons and daughters of Christ, and God calls us to fellowship and commune with one another repeatedly through Scripture.

Q1 If the bottom of your world dropped out, who would be community for you?

Q2 Throughout the Bible, the Christian community is described as a “living body.” What is your experience of this in your life?

Q3 What do you see as the central gift you bring to your own closest community?

GO DEEPER

“Body life” is a big theme for Christians, and can take on several implications. For example, we’ve all experienced healthy and sick physical bodies. What have you experienced in Christ’s body, the church? How would you define a healthy and sick body, as it relates to a community of believers?

“They think we’re all gonna drown down here, but we ain’t going nowhere.”– Hushpuppy

BEASTSSOUTHERNWILDOF THE

FOR SMALL GROUPS

“The entire universe depends on everything fitting together just right. If you can fix the broken piece, everything can go right back.”– Hushpuppy

WHERE DO WE FIT IN THE UNIVERSE?Jeremiah 29.11 (GNT) I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.

Romans 8.28 (GNT) We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. Throughout the film, Hushpuppy has this remarkable sense of our place in the universe and how everyone and every thing plays his or her part. Her conviction is pretty clear: The entire universe has been orchestrated with intention and purpose.

Q1 Do you sense a purpose or call in your life, as it relates to a broader story around you? Do you struggle with “purpose?” Talk more about your purpose and calling.

Q2 In your life, what challenges have you gone through that have put your faith to the test?

Q3 What good have you seen emerge from this process in your life?

GO DEEPER

It’s easy to say that everything has its purpose in the universe and that everything happens for a reason, but oftentimes, in the thick of it, we have a hard time believing this.

Consider the famous hymn “It Is Well With My Soul,” written by Horatio Gates Spafford. After the Chicago Fire of 1871 ruined his entire business, his four daughters sailed to England and all died in a shipwreck. When he sailed to England to meet his wife, he passed over the water in which they drowned and wrote the hymn. Here is the first verse:

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Across the Bible is the promise that even with trials and tragedies that seem unbearable, God’s presence and purpose are never lost. There is never a moment where he is out of control. No matter what the universe hits us with, it is there for a purpose.

For God, it is all personal. It doesn’t always mean that everything will always go our way; but again and again, the Bible describes God as a very present help in all.

Take a few minutes to read one of the most celebrated passages in all of Scripture: Psalm 23. Though often selected for strength amidst tragedy, let the descriptions of God here and the words of hope connect to wherever you find yourself today.

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© Copyright American Bible Society 2012

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*The impact of movies, television and theater on culture is profound, shaping how millions perceive social and moral issues. ABS builds resources for mainstream releases to facilitate culture-reaching conversations, inviting viewers to use themes presented to explore a new or refreshed relationship with Christ. This should not be perceived as direct endorsement or any particular media content.

Has this guide been useful? Let us know and share some your group’s insights.BCurrent@AmericanBible.org