Congregational Libraries Today, Jan/Feb 2008

Among other influential writings by C.S. Lewis is his small but dynamic book, The Screwtape Letters, based on fictional correspondence between Screwtape, a senior devil, and Wormwood, his nephew and junior apprentice.

This wonderful DVD will give those who are new to The Screwtape Letters and those who are long acquainted with it a new appreciation of Lewis' allegory. The video includes a biography of Lewis and background for the story. It discusses the name of the devil, how Christians throughout the years have viewed good and evil, heaven and hell, God and Satan, and whether good can truly overcome evil.

Two academics and a pastor, each a Lewis scholar, give fresh insights. Extras include extended interviews with the three scholars, music, and PDF files for further study. Sessions are divided into five units for discussion purposes.

This is an excellent study of Lewis' book. The portrayal of Lewis in the biography and the players acting the parts of Screwtape and Wormwood help bring the story to life. Background material is strongly supported with visual images.

Many of Lewis' memorable lines are included, such as when Screwtape encourages wormwood to subtly tempt his charge. "Why use adultery when golf will do?"

Delve into the book and use this DVD to enrich your experience. - Mary Lou Henneman

Eclectic Homeschool Online, Jan 2008

Affectionately Yours, Screwtape: The Devil and C.S. Lewis, discusses such difficult and theological questions as good and evil, or good versus evil, and how each person receives free will. Of course, the reference point is The Screwtape Letters and Lewis' perspective on the world.

CS Lewis, a most beloved author, wrestles with the temptation dilemma and many of the ways a devil might try to engage and lead an individual into sin. Initial presuppositions include who Satan is through the Bible and other historical texts and art, as well as how demons might be arranged in a hierarchy not unlike today's corporations. The letters from a higher demon to his demon nephew/employee reveal the subtle ways in which temptation bombards the unaware and how even a good person may succumb to sin in minute increments.

Everyday spiritual battles are the essence of The Screwtape Letters just as it is the issue for everyone who wishes to guard their souls from sin's temptations.

I read The Screwtape Letters for the first time about twenty years ago and it is among my all-time favorite books. I revisited the experience before watching this DVD and found that Affectionately Yours, Screwtape revealed some of the author's personal history of which I was previously unaware. This information gave greater depth to the book and Lewis' perspective and intentions for The Screwtape Letters. The DVD is thoroughly enjoyable, easy to watch, and may be used as a 5-part study guide or as a documentary. I would highly recommend reading the book first so that one may understand all the references in the DVD. Reviewed By: Kate O'Mara

Libraries Alive, Feb 2008

This documentary introduces us to a short biography of C.S. Lewis and explores the many levels of Lewis' "The Screwtape Letters." "The Screwtape Letters" are a correspondence between Screwtape, head devil, and his nephew, Wormwood, apprentice demon. Uncle Screwtape offers witty comments and strategies to corrupt a brand new Christian and steal him from the "Enemy" -- God. First published in 1942 in a weekly newspaper, "The Screwtape Letters" quickly became a popular work during World War II. The DVD consists of interviews from scholars and actors portraying Lewis, Screwtape and Wormwood. The DVD raises the issues of free will, the existence of Satan, and the question whether good can overcome evil. A bit heady for viewers not familiar with "The Screwtape Letters," but a good accompaniment for those wanting to delve into the books. This can be used as a five-part study for a small group. PDF files and questions are available for download as well as expanded interviews with Lewis and theological scholars.

Program Script

Questions for Group Discussion