THE Passion of the Christ hit the headlines earlier this year, and at the height of its hype we heard many a review from the cinema-going public at large. But were their reactions largely a response to the film’s vast media attention and hi-tech, big-screen presentation? I was living in North America at the time, and despite the enthusiastic encouragement of Church leaders, prolific advertisements and startling trailers, I, like many, shied away from seeing the film on the big screen. But now that the DVD is out to rent (with its reassuring ‘pause’ button), and away from the madding crowds, how would a home viewing of the film compare? To this end, in the cold half-light of a September evening, I sat down in front of my crackly 12-inch TV, to watch the film for the first time.
I soon realised that the film conveys a message far more powerful than the ‘stunning cinematography’ and ‘inspired performances’ billed on the glossy cover. It brings the events of the hours leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus into sharp focus, for the believer and sceptic alike; the terrors of the preceding night, the mockery of a trial, the barbarous torture, but also, the powerful forces at play, both human and ‘unseen’, the resurrection, and the subsequent questions raised. This is made all the more poignant by the underlying knowledge that this is not just another Hollywood blockbuster, but the undeniable events of history, no matter what you believe.
Watching those last hours unfold on screen could not have stirred more emotion in me had I seen the events at first hand, although I was painfully and ironically aware of the fact that had I been there at the time, I, like the majority, would most likely have been amongst the hecklers in the crowd instead of the mourners at his side.
My own personal reaction, having been a Christian for many years with firm beliefs as to who Jesus was and is, was to cry throughout a large proportion of the film. I felt the stark reality of a story that I have read about in the Bible, understood and believe; yet perhaps never allowed myself to fully contemplate.
Everyone’s reaction will be different, as it should be. But it is the reaction that is the key. For if Mel Gibson’s film is successful in only one aspect, I hope it is this; to raise enough emotion or interest in each viewer to provoke them to ask the fundamental question that Jesus asked throughout his life ‘Who do you think I am?’
Is it a DVD that I would buy? Perhaps not. The Passion is a film that everyone should see, once.
Natalie is Editorial Assistant for The Door.
The Passion of the Christ DVD costs £16.99
