by Mitchell Skelton

Walking into the theatre to view this long-awaited film, I had several preconceived notions. I was prepared to see inflammatory scenes that made Jews seem like "Christ killers", gratuitous violence and an obvious Catholic viewpoint. Much to my surprise, I found none of these to be true. Overall, I found this movie to be both balanced and biblical.

Before anyone gets too critical, let us remember that this is a film we are talking about and not a translation of the New Testament. One should anticipate some "literary license". It goes without saying that there are scenes in this movie that one cannot find in any of the gospel accounts. However, none of these scenes takes away from or changes the overall biblical account, which is always in full view. A few moments in the film do have a perceptible Catholic slant. (i.e. Those other than her children call Mary the mother of Jesus simply "mother" several times throughout the film, and there is the scene where Jesus falls while carrying the cross and a woman close by gives him a scarf with which he wipes his face, leaving on it the bloody imprint of his face.)

Concerning the violence, it was admittedly disconcerting but not unwarranted. Anything less would have been sugar—coating what actually took place during the last hours of Jesus' life. That being said, this is not a film for children. Teach your children about Jesus and the crucifixion but wait until they are able to process what is happening before showing them this movie.

The one thing about this film that really pricked my heart was the subtle way the blame for Jesus' death was placed exactly where it belonged. The Jewish priests were in the forefront pressing for crucifixion, and Pilate's role was not diminished. However, as you watch the film you realize that the Jew's are not to blame and neither is Pilate. Sin is the culprit and I am the one to blame!

At the risk of sounding like a bandwagon cheerleader, I am willing to stand up and say, Go see this film! Enjoy it for what it is, The Passion of the Christ.