Get Passionate

I went with some family members this past weekend to view The Passion of the Christ. I feel compelled to throw my two-cents in to ferment with the many other opinions before me. Personally, I can't say I enjoyed the film. I find it difficult for anyone to say that.

I loved the film. It was powerful. Even though I have witnessed violence in movies so often I hardly blink anymore, it was difficult to watch at times. I believe Mel Gibson tried to portray to the smallest detail, the events as they unfolded. It wasn't pretty but as Pope John Paul II said after viewing it, "It is as it was."

I walked out of the theatre feeling emotionally spent. I can't equate any other time where a film had such an impact on a viewing audience. The packed theatre emptied in silence when the film ended. I did not believe the film to be anti-Semitic. Simply put there are times in history when we would rather not relate ourselves to the people involved. Whether you're discussing slavery, apartheid, the Jewish Holocaust with Hitler and his Nazi regime, Saddam Hussein's execution of Kurds... History is filled with people who did bad things. The telling of the sacrifice Christ made through crucifixion is no different.

I think this is a historical film that people from all walks of life are lining up to see, whether they believe in Christ and the crucifixion or not. I do not believe it is a film for everyone, particularly young children, although I know many of you God-fearing parents are taking your children to see it. I'm not sure what you hope to accomplish? Frighten them into being good boys and girls? Tell them the next time they misbehave... "Don't you remember how Jesus was beaten? Aren't you ashamed of yourself?"

Get a life. I don't think any child under double digits in age should see this film and young teens only on a individual case by case basis depending on parental involvement. If you really want your kids to see it... Buy the video or DVD when it comes out next year and show it to them when they are older.

The acting in the film was superb. If the academy shuns the film, well, I have watched my last Oscars, Billy Crystal or not. It's hard to deny a film that will likely finish among the top 10 films of all time. Jim Caviezel was very believable as Jesus although I thought Maia Morgenstern as Mary, Jesus's mother, tore at the hearts of the audience with her performance. There was such pain and anguish shown through her eyes. Another character who gave a riveting performance was Rosalinda Celentano, as Satan. You could just feel the hair on your arms rise as she fixated her eyes on you.

Rather than get all caught up in the hype of what people are writing or saying, go see the film and decide for yourself. You can learn more about the film at the website, The Passion of the Christ

Regardless of your faith or lack of, there can be no denying the story of ultimate love and sacrifice being told.

In a world of such uncertainty, the timing couldn't be more perfect.

Mike Gowen © 2004