The Passion of Christ

The Passion Of The Christ follows the last twelve hours of Jesus before his crucifixion.

Mel Gibson’s biblical epic is a film of great standing that has stayed with this reviewer since November of last year when he witnessed the powerful film very early on.

Let’s ignore all the hype and controversy attached and focus on the two hours of film and what Gibson has achieved rather than what he has stirred up.

In the central role we see the almost holy Jim Caviezal who brings to the screen more believability than most could create. He is going to find it difficult following this, as people will see this as his career defining moment.

The 12-hour journey we suffer (and this is meant to be interpreted as being with the character) is probably the most powerful, horrific and visually shocking I have ever seen that - you cannot fail to be moved. Whether it is the severe beatings Jesus receives or the attacks he gets from the political heads, it is very hard to watch at times.

Mel Gibson’s decade of struggle to get his version to film has obviously been tough, but the artist has proven his talent is more than simply bearing his arse. His material is intelligent, shocking and brutally honest to his beliefs, that has upset people both inside the church and the film industry.

The performances by the key leads are incredible, again powerful and striking and memorable that they stay with you for a long time.

His actors focus the direction on performance and he does know how to get the best from his cast to the point where you forget you are watching a film! The production values are rich and expensive and the sets and locations are all in keeping with the gospels. The use of sound and light are good, as he knows exactly what button to press to get you.

Where do you go from here…?

At the US box office the film is crossing all ages and ripping up the manual that analyses film trends. As it takes its religious message across the world one thing is for sure the church cannot ignore the power of this film!

Ignore every scathing negative review you may encounter and I urge you to see this, as it will affect you like no other film you see. The language of the picture is Aramaic but you forget it is even there as the lasting images are just so strong.

Make your own mind up about whether it did or did not happen but believe me it will put your life in perspective as a film like Schindler’s List did. It is going to be hard for you but it is necessary you endure it as it does teach you many things - the most important being what is right and wrong.

5/5 – I implore you.

- Nurse Ratched is angry, but not about the film...
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- Holy says Tyler