52 Weeks, 52 Religious FilmsI’m ending the month with possibly the most controversial religious film of all time, Martin Scorsese’s
The Last Temptation of Christ. This film has intimidated me for quite a long time, as I’ve always wanted to watch this to finally finish Scorsese’s filmography, but my parents have told me to stay away from this film. I guess you could say this was my last temptation, as I gave in and decided to view this film with a closed mind.
First of all, this is a great film from a cinematic standpoint. I wasn’t expecting Scorsese to show off, but there’s so many unique ideas on display here. But, it doesn’t make up for the fact that this film is 1000% sacreligious. The film opens up with a statement, stating that this is a fictional story, not based on the Gospels. It’s not trying to be an accurate portrayal of the life of Jesus, and that’s one of the reasons why it’s so controversial.
But onto what really makes this film controversial, Christians are upset that this film portrays Jesus as a sinful man. And I have to agree, from what I believe, Jesus is the Messiah, sent by God, and was a sinless man. In the film, His lustful desires for prostitute Mary Magdalene feels like a slap in the face to what I believe. But I will say that there are people who can’t grasp the idea of Jesus being perfect, and feel like this film makes them have a better connection with Jesus. I think that’s great, but biblically mistaken. Yes, we all sin, but it feels like this film is telling people that it’s completely okay to sin, which isn’t true. Do I sin? Absolutely. But it’s about where your heart is at if you feel remorse for your wrongdoing. That’s the issue I have with this film.
Those are some of my thoughts on this highly controversial film. If you are religious and want to watch this film, make sure that you are strong in Faith and understand that this portrayal of Jesus is biblically inaccurate. And I’m also not condemning those who love this film. Again, I think this is a great film from a filmmaking standpoint, but not a strong religious film.
Be sure to be kind and spread love in this world full of hate. God bless.Featured Lists:
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