Jane Lippman

From the "Christian anti-Communism" of the '50s to the sophisticated politics of the Christian Coalition today, evangelical Christians have slowly but steadily re-shaped the context of mainstream American politics and culture. Using rare archival footage and candid interviews, "With God on Our Side: The Rise of the Religious Right in America" chronicles the conservative Christian political movement.

In this 1987 documentary, the issue before the New York City Council is a resolution concerning gay rights. The voices of citizens and witnesses for and against this resolution are heard as they testify, and in interviews in the council chamber and on the sidewalk outside. Advocates on either side of the issue are shown to be earnest and sincere, and despite the fact that emotions are running high during the debate, basic civility somehow prevails.