THE CROWN: Moondust

“Moondust” is an engrossing episode of THE CROWN with a strong Christian worldview. Its story follows Prince Philip through questions about aging, purpose, action and faith. The emotions feel poignant, and the filmmakers deftly combine the drama with soundbites and film clips from the actual moon landing.

The episode’s strongest movement is spiritual. Philip begins as an apathetic Christian who resists discussions about faith. His questions eventually lead him toward repentance and a need to walk alongside other believers.

The content concerns are limited but real: brief foul language, wine, champagne, a cocktail party and smoking in one scene. Christian viewers who can navigate those elements should find much to consider. For your family, this is worth watching with older children and adults.

Set in July 1969, “Moondust” follows Prince Philip as he watches American astronauts prepare for, complete and return from their historic journey to the moon.

Philip, Queen Elizabeth’s husband, is an adventurer who struggles with aging, his role in the world and his desire to remain a man of action. As the royal family responds to the moon landing and Philip meets the people behind it, he also begins confronting questions about faith, purpose and the limits of human achievement.

Four stars means this is a particularly strong episode of television. “Moondust” is well produced, with evocative music and a story that poignantly depicts the characters’ emotions.

The filmmakers also stylistically marry the actors’ performances with soundbites and film clips from the actual events. The result is an engrossing drama that gives both the historical spectacle and Philip’s inner questions emotional weight.

“Moondust” presents a very strong Christian worldview through Prince Philip’s struggle with Christian faith. He moves from apathy toward repentance and admits that he needs help, turning to Christian priests who can come alongside him. The episode also treats the beauty and vastness of creation with awe and wonder.

Characters discuss how people are turning away from the church in pursuit of worldly knowledge. The idea is ultimately refuted by the glory of the Lord as Creator. Scripture is discussed, scenes take place in a church, and crosses are depicted.

The episode also shows Philip scorning priests for not being men of action, then apologizing and repenting for his poor behavior. Its central question is not whether people can achieve extraordinary things, but whether achievement can satisfy the deeper need for God and for fellowship with other believers.

Creation itself points beyond human accomplishment: “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork” (Psalm 19:1).

“Moondust” is engrossing, emotionally rich and openly concerned with faith, repentance and the need for Christian fellowship. Brief language, alcohol use and smoking call for discernment, but older children and adults can find much here to discuss. WORTH WATCHING — OLDER CHILDREN AND ADULTS.