Mel Gibson’s spectacular film, which can be described as the greatest work in his cinematic oeuvre. A powerfully realistic depiction of the passion of Jesus, which offends some and makes others think. The author drew his subject matter from the New Testament Gospels, the work of mystic Anna Catherine Emerich, the Shroud of Turin, and other sources.

The Passion of the Christ is a film focusing on the sacrifice of Jesus, culminating in His death on the cross and resurrection. Shots of Christ’s Calvary are interspersed with scenes from the time of Jesus’ teaching.

The film highlights what Jesus was willing to go through out of love for people so that we could be saved in spite of our sins. He could have done it with a snap of his fingers, but he wanted to do it this way so that as many people as possible would understand how much God loves us. That He is willing to sacrifice His Son’s life for us.

The authenticity of the film’s depiction is supported by historical written records, where, for example, in connection with the Roman scourging, one can read that prisoners had their flesh torn from their bodies, their bones exposed, or sometimes even their victims’ entrails were visible during this brutal punishment.

With a little self-criticism, many will surely recognise themselves in some of the characters. Sin makes everyone a monster like that, though too often we don’t like to take off our rose-colored glasses when we look at ourselves.

The original archaic languages – Aramaic and Latin – add to the atmosphere. The elaborate period costumes are a plus point of the film.

Parents Guide: Several times violent scenes of torture.

Cast: James Caviezel, Maia Morgenstern, Monica Bellucci, Claudia Gerini, Hristo Jivkov, Ivano Marescotti, Rosalinda Celentano, Hristo Shopov, Sabrina Impacciatore, Jarreth J. Merz, Mattia Sbragia, Sergio Rubini

Crew: Mel Gibson

USA, 2004

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