A welcome satirical look at religion, with some serious commentary
Pros:
No outside ads, equal opportunity offender, refreshing
Cons:
Underrated, underestimated, undervalued and undersold
The Bottom Line:
A great magazine for those who need an honest, refreshing and humorous look at religion, but needs more consumers.
|
|
Overall Rating:
|
 |
|
Author's Review
For thirty years, The Door has focused on separating the dishonest, misleading and just plain foolish from religion, especially Christianity, all with a potent dose of satire. It's like a Mad magazine (without the ads) for religion. There's something for everyone, as The Door's many subjects range from televangelists to the (former) Taliban in Afghanistan. This magazine focuses on authentic religion at all costs, using a potential lawsuit in one issue to hold the televangelist Benny Hinn accountable, including depicting him as the potential Antichrist. (They've released an informational video about Hinn's antics since then!) Another issue "spanks" Dr. James Dobson for refusing an interview because of potential negative publicity! He was deemed the "Loser of the Month", and his office's rejection letter was published! No stone is left unturned with these people, so watch out!
No outside advertisements are featured in the Door, so it can satirize widely without being biased. Moreover, the Door is owned by the non-profit Trinity Foundation, which helps middle to lower-income people find affordable housing. The Door also keeps itself relevant by utilizing and critiquing pop culture when helpful. (For example, in the 25th anniversary Christmas issue, they had Madonna and Dennis Rodman replacing "Madonna and child" on the cover!) They have a serious side too, featuring serious interviews, an ending editorial and a "Loser of the Month" to challenge and educate you. In issue #177 (November/December 2001) gave a perspective about Timothy McVeigh (as well as Hitler and Osama bin Laden) in the Loser of the Month section. (Did this reviewer forget to say they were relevant?)
So, whether you are disillusioned, critical or quite cynical about religion, The Door will be a refreshing change from easy answers or pious arrogance. (This reviewer found the Door Magazine when he was struggling with such things around him, and has been very thankful for the perspective it gives.) Unfortunately, even with great content, the Door is often underrated and undersold. It's struggling right now to keep afloat financially without selling out because of that. It can be hard to find if you don't subscribe too, but it's worth the read when you find it. Plus, you're helping them help others in the process! What could be better?
If this doesn't convince you, check out the Door's website at:
www.thedoormagazine.com
