Savage's Review of 'The Passion'

michaelsavage.com ^ | 2/7/04 | Michael Savage

[truthandlife]

The Capture of Jesus choreographed in Kurosawa-esque movements.

The ancient Hebrew, Aramaic, and Latin linguistics.

A must for every Christian and Jew; every rebel, independent, iconoclast who has felt the blunt steel of rejection, isolation, humiliation, or castigation.

As for portraying Jews in a negative light - a resounding NO! That is, for rational educated people. There is always the fear that bigots will use this film as they might use any pretext to advance their hateful agenda. The wild card question is: How will radical Muslims use this film? Will they seek to turn Christians against Jews?

During the trial of Jesus, two ancient Hebrew Judges who loudly claim the hearing biased are boldly thrown from the court. The biased judges do not want to hear the opinion that Jesus is innocent of the charges against him.

Good Jews. Fair Jews. Bad Jews. Biased Jews.

Good Romans. Bad Romans. Like today, in historical context.

A passion play about faith and fear, the blessed and the cursed.

The loyal and traitorous. For everyone who has craved a portrait of living biblical history, there has never been a more accurate portrayal.

The Judas-tree scene alone is worth the price of admission. Both for its dramatic content as for its moral imperative.

For every parent wanting to instill moral values in a child, The Passion can be a good teacher.

But we mustn't run from the most pregnant question. Some Jewish organizations have legitimate fears that this remarkable work of art might instigate hatred against the Jewish people. We cannot predict what demented bigots might do nor should we permit them to dictate the terms of our civilization and its artistic creations.

How is it that the most vile films imaginable are being made with little or no protest from the very same organizations attacking Gibson's artistic creation. Murder, Rape, Drug Usage - all standard fair in a theater near you. No protest about these vile works from these organizations who object to what appears to be 100% biblically correct.

Following the screening of his controversial film, Mr. Gibson asked me what I thought of it. I said, "Of course there are going to be those who are going to look to blame the Jewish people, but it is the Romans who flay Jesus nearly to death and who actually crucify him." I added, "Mel, what are people going to do, stop eating pasta!" There was then much laughter all around the boardroom. But I repeat, are people to stop eating Italian food because of Pontius Pilate and the Roman sadists? It would be foolish to think so.

[truthandlife]

[EggsAckley]

Boy, Michael does have, as they say "a face for radio."

[eastsider]

We cannot predict what demented bigots might do nor should we permit them to dictate the terms of our civilization and its artistic creations.

Well said, Dr. Savage.

[Johnny_Cipher]

For every parent wanting to instill moral values in a child, The Passion can be a good teacher.

I'm still struggling with this one. From what I'm hearing, the crucifixion is depicted brutally (read honestly), and I'm not convinced yet that this is fare for young children.

[Grampa Dave]

Michael appears to have some severe health problems.

[Andy from Beaverton]

They both look so happy!

[Blzbba]

"From what I'm hearing, the crucifixion is depicted brutally (read honestly), and I'm not convinced yet that this is fare for young children."


Hmmm..that's an interesting point. Reading the New Testament, it's no surprise that these scenes are horrifically brutal. Yet, I wouldn't want my children's initial exposure to Jesus Christ to be a scary one - one that gives them nightmares. I think I'll hold off on showing it to them until they are of an age that can handle it.

[EggsAckley]

Yeah, he really does not look well.

[Reelect President Dubya]

From what I'm hearing, the crucifixion is depicted brutally (read honestly), and I'm not convinced yet that this is fare for young children.

Neither is MTV, but most kids watch that every day.

[fishtank]

He might be just overwhelmed by the movie he just saw. He did not "enjoy" the movie as he said on the air. If anyone comes out of the movie with a smile on their faces, I would then worry.

Why does Savage have to have a goofy grin on his face? What's wrong with being grim sometimes?

[Johnny_Cipher]

A literal and honest rendering of quite a bit of the Old Testament, ala The Passion, would also be on the questionable list for young children under my control. Like any great work, the Bible is a study in its own unique contrasts; some wondrous and uplifting, some horrifically savage and graphic.

In my case, the child in question is 5 and remarkably mature for his age. But I will see the movie first then make the final decision.

[nutmeg]

ping!

Please FReepmail me if you want on or off my infrequent ‘miscellaneous’ ping list.

[Johnny_Cipher]

I don't allow MTV in my home, and the youngster in question doesn't get it either.

[Hank Rearden]

That pinball machine behind (gay-posing) Savage tells me where the picture was probably taken.

Extra credit for the Freeper who identifies the pin and the likely location. And yes, I know which pin it is.

[PaulaB]

I am taking my 12 year old and my 9 year old to see it...I understand your concern about how brutal it is but I think in todays time ...kids need to see this for what it really was....it was a horrific sacrifice made by our Savior...remember the devil is coming full force for our kids...we need to counter that with the full punch of Christ...

[Huck]

Looks like Mel's getting a little thin on top. The chicks'll still dig him.

[Maigrey]

Mel Ping!

[Maigrey]

So what floor age would be respectful and responsible for kids?

I'm thinking of taking some nephews and nieces to it (ages range from 14 to 8) but I don't want to be too brutal to them.

[truthandlife]

I think 8 might be a little too young. Remember it will be coming on DVD and it might be more appropriate to show it when you feel they are ready.

Pray for wisdom on it and God will give it to you.

[PaulaB]

I think it may be different for each household...if the kids you are taking have been taught all their lives about the death of Christ and how it was(sunday school class etc..).... this shouldn't come as a shock...if the kids are just now learning about Christ..this movie may be to much....I agree with truthandlife ...ask for God to put it on your heart if its a yea or nay with your kiddos

[GOP_Proud]

< Looks like Mel's getting a little thin on top. The chicks'll still dig him. >



Why shouldn't we "dig" him? Sexy is sexy. Hair or no hair. Have you forgotten Sean Connery? We women have stayed with him thru hair, little hair, toops and almost no hair. Again, sexy is sexy.

[ClancyJ]

What an awesome thing Mel Gibson has done. Such a legacy for him.

Who would have thought someone in Hollywood could do such?

Brings to mind how the people the Lord has picked to do great things were not the ones man would think would be picked. Jesus was born in a manger to just an ordinary woman. Moses was picked and even had a speech problem. George Bush was picked and has been classified as stupid, insignificant, unqualified, and a bad speaker. All through history, help for God's purposes has not come from the society esteemed but from the ordinary.

Makes you realize that society is not the best judge of qualifications of man.

[Barnacle]

BumpPing!

(If you want on or off my Catholic Ping List, please send a Freepmail.)

[Squawk 8888]

How will radical Muslims use this film?

They probably won't use it at all. The muslim faith prohibits actors from portraying any prophets on stage or screen so devout believers never see films like this.

[RightOnline]

Muslims will HATE it. It will show the stark differnce(s) between Christianity......and it's Namesake.........and their own God-less "faith". This film will glorify the Lord, and anything that does NOT glorify Muhammed is filth in their eyes.

Here was a man who underwent excrutiating, horrific torture and death..........to die for US. Compare such a man to Muhammed's spreading of his faith by fire, sword, and death.

It is said that Muslims revere Jesus as a great philosopher, if not the Son of God. You'd think that would color their view of Christians. Guess we all see the evidence of their bigheartedness, right? Ahem...........

[Happy2BMe]

Thanks for the PASSION PING!

During the trial of Jesus, two ancient Hebrew Judges who loudly claim the hearing biased are boldly thrown from the court. The biased judges do not want to hear the opinion that Jesus is innocent of the charges against him.

Good Jews. Fair Jews. Bad Jews. Biased Jews.

Good Romans. Bad Romans. Like today, in historical context.

A passion play about faith and fear, the blessed and the cursed.

[Aquinasfan]

From what I'm hearing, the crucifixion is depicted brutally (read honestly), and I'm not convinced yet that this is fare for young children.

For that reason, Mel is suggesting 12 or older.

As I'm sure you agree, there is a need to depict the crucifixion honestly. I remember an elementary school age child in my CCD class looking at a crucifix and saying rather matter-of-factly, "that must have hurt."

[dead]

It's a Lethal Weapon pinball machine, most likely in Gibson's own screening room.

BTW, as a movie review, this was pretty worthless.

[Aquinasfan]

They probably won't use it at all. The muslim faith prohibits actors from portraying any prophets on stage or screen so devout believers never see films like this.

Unless it's put on the internet. I expect Mel to eventually put this movie on the internet. Remember, he owns it. Maybe he'll stream it 24/7.

Once this becomes the biggest movie in motion picture history, and he recoups his initial investment 100 times over, he'll be very open to the idea. And if not, we can suggest it 8-)

There are very few ways to penetrate Mohammedan society, but this could be one. I wonder if this would represent bringing the Gospel to the entire world?

[sweetliberty]

"As for portraying Jews in a negative light - a resounding NO!"

Savage is a Jew isn't he?

[lawgirl]

Thanks for the ping!!

[Thommas]

Michael does have, as they say "a face for radio."

Well, maybe so. However, it appears to be an honest and sincere face, by whatever standards are used to judge such matters. Additionally, and this is ONLY an observation, is it possible for anyone other than Danny Devito to be shorter than Mel?

[lawgirl]

Yeah and those blue eyes can mesmerize me anyday.

I can't wait to see this movie. I do think that it's important for kids to see this- but kids that can understand the story and fully understand what is happening and not just be terrorized by the violence.

I don't have any kids so I won't even try to comment on what age that is.

[EggsAckley]

I was quoting an old joke.

[hardhead]

They should love it - violence is right up their alley. To them He will be just another Jew/Christian being torn apart.

[ohioman]

Yep. Savage's Jewish Grandparents left Mother Russia around 1910-1915. Talk about great timing.

[sweetliberty]

"From what I'm hearing, the crucifixion is depicted brutally (read honestly), and I'm not convinced yet that this is fare for young children."

While I understand your position, I think this is the kind of brutal honesty that can, and should, make an indelible impression on young minds. Children are exposed to brutality at a much earlier age now, whether theatrical or real, and the society around you will make no such effort to protect the innocence of your children. You can't be there 24/7, however much you might want to be nor however much you try. How much better that they can weigh the violence they see later against the backdrop of Christ's suffering. It can also open the way for strong teaching about the need for Christ's suffering and death. Better to experience it in Christ BEFORE they are innoculated by its counterpart in the world.

Just my opinion. Of course, only you can decide what is best for your own children. My daughter at age 2 was quite affected by the scene of the crucifixion in the movie "Jesus." I held the same opinion then as now. While I am certain the portrayal of the brutality is not comparable, the message is and the brutality only serves to make it more real. While I would probably preview the movie myself before making a final decision (as was my habit with most movies), I do not believe that I would choose to do differently.

[Hank Rearden]

It's a Lethal Weapon pinball machine, most likely in Gibson's own screening room.

Bingo on both counts. Kewpie Doll for you!

Here's the scoop:

The machine: Lethal Weapon 3.

I'm not holding my breath for a "Passion" pinball theme. The ruleset would be interesting.
Maybe we need a FReeper Pinhead ping list.

[Dianna]

I'm going with my two teenagers, but my 11-year-old is staying home with Dad until I've seen it and decide if I think he is able to handle it.

My 11 year old will be staying home also. I've talked with him about the film and that it's supposed to be accurate, and therefore brutal, and explained that I just want to see it first. I'll decide then.

[sweetliberty]

"Makes you realize that society is not the best judge of qualifications of man."

Yeah; no kidding!

.

[Bigg Red]

Boy, Michael does have, as they say "a face for radio."

__

Ah, c'mon! How many guys can stand next to Mel Gibson and look good?

[Bigg Red]

Looks like Mel's getting a little thin on top. The chicks'll still dig him.

**
For most women past the age of 22, a full head of hair is not a requirement for attractiveness. Actually, at one time I considered Gibson a little too pretty, but the more I learn about his character, the more attractive he becomes to me.

[GSWarrior]

On his own, Savage is not much of writer.

[GSWarrior]

For most women past the age of 22, a full head of hair is not a requirement for attractiveness

Names and numbers please.

[50sDad]

I am amazed on this that some Jews are freaking out over it. We *all* killed Christ, or more correctly, He chose to die to perform the ritual sacrifice that makes all who accept it clean. What if the Pharasees had correctly lay down and worshipped Jesus, and made him King? How would the gentile world be made clean, and how would Jewish prophecy have been fulfilled? Clearly the Pharasees had free will, and could have done this, but God the Father exists in the past, present, and future, and had already seen the outcome of Crucifiction before Christ came to earth. Grace could not have come without the passion.

1) The Gentiles shouldn't condemn the Jews of today for what happened in the past, and shouldn't condemn Jews of any time at all for playing a part in what God wanted to happen!

2) The Jews are being persecuted on all sides by Muslims and Arabs. The fundamentalist Christians of today are fighting for Isarel's survival, on the basis that we, as faithful Christians are to support Israel and God's (First) Chosen people. Wake up! The people you MOST want to get along with are the faithful of Jesus Christ!!!!!

[GigaDittos]

So?

[GSWarrior]

Oh boy....I have a new fan.

[karenbarinka]

As the father of 7 kids, Mel has been asked this by a lot of Christians, and he has said his age recommendation for Passion is mature 13 year olds and up.