Recently, my husband and I watched a movie from 1998 called Pleasantville. It was a really good movie. The movie broaches subjects such as sex, lying, reputation, unhappiness, boredom and change. It focuses on how people do conform to what is expected by the majority and what happens if they don’t conform to expectations. The movie reflects on societal changes and struggles. It demonstrates what can happen when you step out in faith. It focuses on the outcome of being authentically you.
Let’s explore Pleasantville’s relevance in 2025 and the lessons it teaches through the FACE framework: Faith, Action, Change, Empowerment. Faith pertains to embracing the unknown. Action would be stepping outside of the comfort zone. Change is growth through transformation. Empowerment is living authentically.
The World of Pleasantville vs. The World Today
Pleasantville is a classic television show. It is set in a black-and-white world that is a symbol of comfort, tradition, and resistance to change. The people and families in it have traditional values where the husbands work and the wives dote on the husband and kids. The kids are perfect, never doing wrong. Days are repetitive and expectations are low. Nothing bad happens and everyone always seems happy and is pleasant to every other person.
Today’s world is plagued with societal issues. There is political division, broken families, resistance to progress, and fear of the unknown. There is an abundance of crime and hate towards other people. Kids are often left to raise themselves without a moral compass. We can be the change. We can apply the lessons in Pleasantville to change the world for the better.
Lesson #1: Faith- Embracing the Unknown
In Pleasantville, characters gain color when they experience emotion, knowledge, and self-discovery. It often starts small with just a bit of color and grows from there. Sometimes it happens all at once with a big discovery. Some of the characters get embarrassed when they start to get color. Some even hide it because they don’t want to stand out or have other people know that they are different.
Faith can have the same impact on a person. It can have a very positive impact if we don’t try to hide it. Just think how knowing that you are loved for who you were created to be can spark that color of emotion and knowledge in you. It can provide that foundation of strength and belief in self to allow you to grow and embrace transformation. It can also be a beacon of hope for other people to see how faith creates a strong foundation in you. Be the light.
2 Corinthians 5:7: “for we walk by faith, not by sight.” (usccb.org)
Lesson #2: Action- Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone
The main characters, David and Jennifer, entered Pleasantville from the modern day world. David struggled with being accepted in his world, not quite fitting in. Jennifer would be considered a “bad girl” with rather loose morals. Together, they pushed Pleasantville’s residents to experience life far beyond their routines. They took action by showing them what they were lacking in life by accepting the status quo. They helped people of Pleasantville to take their own action outside of their comfort zone.
This relates to taking action in today’s world. It is similar to stepping outside of comfort zones in faith, relationships, and social issues. Knowing that you are created for more than just getting by. You need to speak up for what is right, even when it’s uncomfortable. Use your talents to lead the way. Be an example of what can be. Be the change.
James 2:17: “So also faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (usccb.org)
Lesson #3: Change- Growth Through Transformation
Pleasantville demonstrates that transformation is inevitable and necessary for progress. You cannot move forward without it. Doing the same thing, being the same person day in and day out yields the same results. You can see transformation in today’s world. We are evolving in faith, social justice, and cultural identity. Sure, there are setbacks and challenges, but people keep moving forward.
People often fear change. Embracing it leads to spiritual and personal growth. Just think about expanding your circle of friends and collaborators. Their knowledge can become your knowledge. Resources can be shared to build something bigger and better. It is through this transformation where progress is found. Grow forward.
Romans 12:2: “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” (usccb.org)
Lesson #4: Empowerment- Living Authentically
The characters in Pleasantville become empowered when they embrace their true selves. This theme starts early in the movie. Not only are they empowered, but they also discover true happiness. Some do it hesitantly while others embrace it and dive right in.
People today can empower themselves through faith and purpose. Knowing who you are along with knowing your innate talents can help you discover your purpose. Living this out leads to a fulfilling life of purpose. Break away from what society expects you to be and align your life with who God created you to be. Be you!
Matthew 5:16: “Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” (usccb.org)
Faith Through Change
Surprisingly, Pleasantville’s themes align with the world of today. Be the person who you were created to be so you can find happiness in this world. Societal expectations can mute the colors of your life, especially when they do not align with who you authentically are.
Remember FACE and its importance in living your life. Faith is needed to embrace the unknown. Many times the unknown is more rewarding than staying in your comfort zone. You need to take Action to actually move beyond your comfort zone, Change is where your growth occurs. Embrace it. You will find Empowerment when you live an authentic life. The world will be a better place because of it.
It is time to reflect on your own journey and embrace change through faith.
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