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1 Hollywood Community
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Motion Picture Association Jack
Valenti
CEO I thought Passion was a
superior recounting of the ‘greatest story ever told,’ the last days of Jesus.
There is in the film the gravity and seriousness it deserves. There are moments
so heart-rending, the tears come easily. I cannot but believe that people of all
religions will find this truly an impressive (and respectful) piece of art and
realism, emerging from the New Testament. As a cinema artist, you have just
reason to be proud of what you have done. (From a letter to Mel Gibson, July
2003) Excerpts from Valenti’s appearance on MSNBC’s Scarborough:
SCARBOROUGH: What can you tell us about “The Passion”?
VALENTI: Well, I was quietly moved by it. I thought it
was a serious and gravely told story about the last days of Jesus. …I found this
to be an extraordinary movie.
SCARBOROUGH: So you do not believe that it was anti-Semitic?
VALENTI: No, I don't. Actually, the villains in this
movie are the Roman legionnaires who, on orders from their legion commanders,
flogged Jesus before they made him take the cross to the mount. So they were the
villains. …I have read the New Testament and I think this accurately portrayed
what is in the gospels. |
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2 Hollywood Community
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William Peter Blatty Director of
The Exorcist The Passion is a masterpiece. And beyond. I love his film
and I love his faith and ardor and guts for doing it. (From an e-mail to Icon)
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3 Hollywood Community
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Dean Devlin Producer of
Independence Day, The Patriot, Godzilla First off, thank you so much for
allowing me to see your incredible film, “The Passion”. In all honesty, I think
it’s a masterwork. I loved everything about your film. The performances, the
staging, the photography and the story telling are everything I dream about when
I think of movies. You’ve totally outdone yourself with this exquisite film. I
can’t begin to tell you how honored I was to be able to see the film. I’m still
getting over the incredible impact the film had on me. (From a letter sent to
Icon) |
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4 Hollywood Community
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Variety Peter Bart Editor
The precept of freedom of expression often takes a back seat once the
ideologues and pedants get involved. Mel Gibson’s movie, “The Passion,”
provides the latest and most vivid example. Though Gibson is still editing his
film and has shown it to a very small number of people, there already are cries
of protest and dark insinuations of an anti-Semitic subtext. …These blatherings
strike us as irresponsible. The film, which depicts the final hours of Jesus’
life, was fully financed by Gibson, who directed it but did not appear in it.
It is clearly an art film, dark and disturbing. Some will be moved by this
film, others disturbed. As with all previous films depicting the period, some
scholars and theologians will doubtless challenge Gibson’s historical accuracy –
indeed he is an actor, not a Biblical scholar. But to condemn both the film and
the filmmaker in advance reflects both bigotry and a disdain for free
expression. (Variety, |
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5 Mainstream Media |
Peggy Noonan Author,
Columnist
It is a powerful film, and I
believe it will prove historic -- a real moment in the history of cinematic
treatments of the greatest story ever told. Be happy and proud. It is going to
be huge. (From an email to Icon) |
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6 Mainstream Media |
Drudge Report
Matt Drudge
From MSNBC: DRUDGE:
This may be the last movie Mel Gibson makes. This is the ultimate film. It's
magical. Best picture I have seen in quite some time, and even people like Jack
Valenti were in the audience in tears at this screening. There was about 30 of
us. It depicts a clash between Jesus and those who crucified him, and speaking
as a Jew, I thought it was a magical film that showed the perils of life on
earth.
BUCHANAN: Right. "The New Republic" -- today I read a long report in "The New
Republic" said it is an anti-Semitic film, just about flat-out. What's your
take?
DRUDGE: They haven't seen the darn film and those of us, every single person in
there, and I'm not talking about tears, I'm talking total tears. It is something
Mel Gibson stood back at the end and took questions for about an hour, and he is
-- he told me he's tired of Hollywood. That this is it. He's going to do it.
He's going to do it his way, and this film, I tell you, is magic. It's a
miracle. It's a miracle... (MSNBC, Jul 23, 2003) |
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7 Mainstream Media |
Rush Limbaugh Radio Talk Show
Host If you've heard the conventional wisdom about this movie, due out during
Lent next year, you should listen to my firsthand account of it. I really didn't
want to give you all the details of the movie, but I did want to tell you its
affect on us. My stepdaughter cried for the last 30% of the movie, for example.
It's that powerful. Some people are probably put off because they think this
movie is religious. They shouldn't be, because it's not. There is nothing
offensive about this film. It's a movie about a religious figure, but the movie
itself isn't religious. I'm not making a fine point here, as you'll understand
after you see it. There is violence, of course, and that's factually accurate.
This movie does not preach; it
doesn't try to convince you one-way or the other who or what Jesus was. It is
very intimate. It doesn't matter if you're religious or atheistic or a snake
handler. This movie will hit you in the gut. It has themes about man's
inhumanity to man. It's also about one man standing by what he believes to be
true - no matter the cost - and enduring. (Rush Limbaugh Show, Jul 28,
2003)
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8 Mainstream Media |
American Enterprise Institute
Michael Novak President In the Nicene Creed sung or recited by some 2
billion-plus Catholics (Greek, Orthodox, Roman), Anglicans, Lutherans, and other
Protestants every Sunday, Jesus Christ is characterized as “suffered under
Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried….” These ten words are the
theme of Mel Gibson’s new movie (scheduled for release at Easter, 2004). It is
the most powerful movie I have ever seen. A week after having watched a
rough-cut version, I have still not been able to get The Passion out of
my mind. At every Mass I have attended since, at the raising of the Body of
Christ and then the Chalice of his Blood, its darkly colored, shocking images
have flooded my memory, and suffused new vividness into the passion being
reenacted on the altar. I don not know whether Mel Gibson and I are in any
other way kindred spirits. No matter. I am in awe of the twelve-year work of
art that Gibson has accomplished. No other movie on Christ even comes close.
It belongs in the company of Handel’s Messiah and Bach’s St. Matthew’s Passion.
The work of artists often soars above their human limitations. (Weekly
Standard, Aug 25, 2003) |
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9 Mainstream Media |
Cal Thomas Syndicated Columnist
As one who has seen virtually every modern biblical epic – I can say “The
Passion” is the most beautiful, profound, accurate, disturbing, realistic and
bloody depiction of this well-known story that has ever been filmed. Jim
Caviezel, who plays Jesus with tender understatement, may be the best “Jesus”
ever (not counting the original). To those within the Jewish community who
worry that the film, which is scheduled for release next Easter season, might
contain anti-Semitic elements, or encourage people to persecute Jews, fear not.
This film does not indict Jews for the death of Jesus. It is faithful to the
New Testament account. Gibson, a devout Roman Catholic, does not elevate Mary,
Jesus’ mother, beyond what Scripture says of her, which will broaden the film’s
appeal to Protestants. Thirteen years ago, actor Mickey Rooney wrote an
editorial for “Variety” in which he said, “The on-screen depiction of religion
is less than flattering, and as a Christian, I pray the era of denigrating
religion on screen comes to a screeching halt. And soon.” Rooney’s prayer has
been answered with “The Passion.” It is a soul-stirring film, which deserves
wide distribution and viewing. Its message is not just for Christians, but for
everyone. I doubt if a better film about Jesus could be made. (Tribune Media,
Aug 5, 2003) |
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10 Jewish Community |
David Klinghoffer Author,
Historian Jewish officialdom — that small, cozy world of community leaders and
other machers — is already getting agitated by Mel Gibson's
still-in-production Jesus movie. "The Passion" depicts the last 12 hours in the
life of Christianity's founder, and press reports suggest that it places blame
for the man's death firmly on Jewish shoulders.
…One such orthodox belief insists that, despite what the Christian Gospels say,
it wasn't Jews who killed Jesus: it was Romans acting on their own. You've heard
this a million times, from Hebrew school onward. The Simon Wiesenthal Center's
Rabbi Marvin Hier, referring to Gibson's making of "The Passion," recently told
Reuters that he's concerned "that the film's purpose is to undo the changes made
by Vatican II," which absolved the Jews of collective responsibility for Jesus'
death. That "would unleash more of the scurrilous charges of deicide directed
against the Jewish people."
Yet authoritative Jewish sources teach that Jesus died at least partly thanks to
decisions taken by his fellow Jews. That fact used to be covered up by our
communal leaders lest antisemites discover and publicize it. But the discovery
has already happened, as a quick Internet search will reveal. So why keep
fooling ourselves?
Maimonides says it unapologetically in his "Letter to Yemen": "Jesus of
Nazareth... impelled people to believe that he was a prophet sent by God to
clarify perplexities in the Torah, and that he was the Messiah that was
predicted by each and every seer. He interpreted the Torah and its precepts in
such a fashion as to lead to their total annulment, to the abolition of all its
commandments and to the violation of its prohibitions. The sages, of blessed
memory, having become aware of his plans before his reputation spread among our
people, meted out fitting punishment to him."
In this passage, Maimonides draws on the Talmud and the Tosefta, another ancient
rabbinic text. One key talmudic passage, from tractate Sanhedrin (43a),
was expunged by censors but preserved in manuscripts and is well known today:
"On the eve of Passover they hung Jesus of Nazareth. The herald had gone forth
forty days before [his death], (crying): 'Jesus of Nazareth goes forth to be
stoned, because he has practiced magic and deceived and led astray Israel.
Anyone who knows anything in his favor should come and declare concerning him.'
But they found nothing in his favor."
Stoning would have been followed by briefly hanging the body on a tree. As one
modern scholar notes, "the Talmudic story of the execution of Jesus does not
implicate the civil [Roman] government at all."
…What's clear beyond doubt is that the Jewish community has a strong interest in
fostering positive, warm relations with Catholics and other Christians. Surely,
though, the cause of friendship with our non-Jewish fellow citizens is unlikely
to be advanced by critiquing religious beliefs which closely mirror our own
tradition. Our loyalty should be to Judaism and to truth, not to an officially
sanctioned, sanitized version of Judaism or the truth — which may be neither
Jewish nor true. (The Forward, May 3, 2003)
David Klinghoffer is the author of "The Discovery of God: Abraham and the
Birth of Monotheism," published this month by Doubleday. |
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11 Jewish Community |
David Horowitz Talk Show Host &
Columnist Gibson's film is an artistic vision and must be judged that way. It
is an awesome artifact, an overpowering work. I can't remember being so affected
by a film before. It is extremely painful to watch and yet the violence is never
gratuitous. You never feel like you want to take your eyes off the screen. It is
a wracking emotional journey, which never strays from its inspirational purpose.
It is as close to a religious experience as art can get. It is not
anti-Semitic, as the film-burners have charged. Two illustrative details: Jesus
is referred to in the film as "rabbi," and there is never any distancing of
Jesus or his disciples from their Jewishness. (One point missed by ignorant
bigots like Fredericksen whose only familiarity with The Passion is with a
stolen script) is that while the film is in Aramaic -- a brilliant effect that
enhances the symbolic resonance of the story -- it has subtitles. Second detail:
A Jew carries Jesus' cross along the terrible route to Golgotha and shares his
miseries. But yes the film is also faithful to the Gospels and therefore the
Pharisees are Jesus' enemies and they and their flock do call for Jesus' death
(and why wouldn't they since Jesus was a threat to their authority and their
beliefs?). But all this is to miss the point. This is a Christian parable. The
cruelty, intolerance and lack of compassion of human beings is limitless -- and
we who have lived through the Twentieth Century know this all too well. The
moral of this Christian story -- of Mel Gibson's film -- is that we all killed
Jesus -- Jew and Gentile alike -- and tortured him, and we do so every day. But
if you believe the vision that Gibson has rendered so searingly and so well,
Jesus forgives us for that very act. Whosoever will give up cruelty and love his
brother will enter paradise. That is the message that Gibson has framed in his
extraordinary work. The effort to shut down his film before it opens is just
another station of the cross. (FrontPageMag.com, Jul 30, 2003)
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12 Jewish Community |
Toward Tradition Rabbi Daniel
Lapin Never has a film aroused such hostile passion so long prior to its
release as has Mel Gibson’s Passion. Many American Jews are alarmed by
reports of what they view as potentially anti-Semitic content in this movie
about the death of Jesus, which is due to be released during 2004. Clearly the
crucifixion of Jesus is a sensitive topic, but prominent Christians who
previewed it, including good friends like James Dobson and Michael Novak who
have always demonstrated acute sensitivity to Jewish concerns, see it as a
religiously inspiring movie, and refute charges that it is anti-Semitic. While
most Jews are wisely waiting to see the film before responding, others are
either prematurely condemning a movie they have yet to see. As an Orthodox
rabbi with a wary eye on Jewish history which has an ominous habit of repeating
itself, I fear that these protests, well intentioned though some may be, are a
mistake. I believe those who publicly protest Mel Gibson’s film lack moral
legitimacy. What is more, I believe their actions are not only wrong but even
recklessly ill-advised and shockingly imprudent. I address myself to all my
fellow Jews when I say that your interests are not being served by many of those
organizations and self appointed defenders who claim to be acting on your
behalf. Jewish groups that fracture friendship between Christians and Jews
are performing no valuable service to American Jews. Jewish organizations
protesting Passion are remarkably selective in their ire. It is so
bizarre that the new movie Luther, which champions someone who was surely
one of history’s most eloquent anti-Semites, gets a free pass from our
self-appointed Jewish guardians. Only Gibson is evil, is that right? Again,
why would the soon to be released new movie, The Gospel of John, be
utterly immune to the censoring tactics of certain Jewish organizations? After
all, the soundtrack includes virtually every word of the Gospel including the
most unflattering descriptions of Jewish priests and Pharisees of Jesus’ time,
along with implications of their complicity in the Crucifixion, yet not a peep
of Jewish organizational protest. Could their conspicuous silence possibly have
anything to do with the ethnicity of the producers of The Gospel of John?
These include Garth Drabinsky, Sandy Pearl, Joel Michaels, Myron Gottleib, and
Martin Katz. So if Jews quote the Gospel it is art but if Mel Gibson does the
same, it is anti-Semitism? The Talmudic distinction eludes me. It probably
eludes most Christians too. These protests against Passion are not only
morally indefensible, but they are also stupid, for three reasons. The first
reason is that that they are unlikely to change the outcome of the film. Mr.
Gibson is an artist and a Catholic of deep faith of which this movie is an
expression. By all accounts, his motive in making this movie was not
commercial. In addition, anyone who saw his Braveheart would suspect
that Mel Gibson profoundly identified with the hero of that epic, who allowed
himself to be violently disemboweled rather than betray his principles. Does
anyone really believe that Gibson is likely to yield to threats from Jewish
organizations? Do any Jews actually believe they are going to prevent millions
of Christians from seeing this movie? I don’t think Jews should see this movie;
it isn’t about our religion. However the millions of Christians who do see it
will find themselves profoundly moved and uplifted by it. The second and more
important reason I consider these protests to be ill-advised is that while Jews
are telling Gibson that his movie contradicts historical records about who
really killed Jesus, Vatican Cardinal Darío Castrillón Hoyos has this to say:
Mr. Gibson has had to make many artistic choices in the way he portrays the
characters and the events involved in the Passion, and he has complemented the
Gospel narrative with the insights and reflections made by saints and mystics
through the centuries. Mel Gibson not only closely follows the narrative of the
Gospels, giving the viewer a new appreciation for those Biblical passages, but
his artistic choices also make the film faithful to the meaning of the Gospels,
as understood by the Church. Do we really want to open up the Pandora’s Box of
suggesting that any faith may demand the removal of material that it finds
offensive from the doctrines of any other faith? Do we really want to return to
those dark times when Catholic authorities attempted to strip from the Talmud
those passages that they found offensive? Some of my Jewish readers may feel
squeamish about my alluding to the existence of Talmudic passages
uncomplimentary toward Jesus as well as descriptive of Jewish involvement in his
crucifixion. However the truth is that anyone with Internet access can easily
locate those passages in about ten seconds. I think it far better that in the
name of genuine Jewish-Christian friendship in America, we allow all faiths
their own beliefs even if we find those beliefs troubling or at odds with our
own beliefs. This way we can all prosper safely under the constitutional
protection of the United States of America. Finally I believe the attacks on
Mel Gibson are a mistake because while they may be in the interests of Jewish
organizations who raise money with the specter of anti-Semitism, and while they
may be in the interests of Jewish journalists at the New York Times and
elsewhere who are trying to boost their careers, they are most decidedly not in
the interests of most American Jews who go about their daily lives in
comfortable harmony with their Christian fellow citizens. You see, many
Christians see all this as attacks not just on Mel Gibson alone or as mere
critiques of a movie, but with some justification in my view, they see them as
attacks against all Christians. This is not so different from the way most
people react to attack. We Jews usually feel that we have all been attacked
even when only a few of us suffer assault on account of our faith. Right now,
the most serious peril threatening Jews, and indeed perhaps all of western
civilization, is Islamic fundamentalism. In this titanic twenty-first century
struggle that links Washington DC with Jerusalem, our only steadfast allies have
been Christians. In particular, those Christians that most ardently defend
Israel and most reliably denounce anti-Semitism, happen to be those Christians
most fervently committed to their faith. Jewish interests are best served by
fostering friendship with Christians rather than cynically eroding them.
Rejecting flagrant anti-Christianism on the part of Jews claiming to be acting
on our behalf would be our wisest course as a community. Doing so would have
one other advantage: it would also be doing the right thing. (WorldNetDaily.com,
Sept. 25, 2003) |
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13 Jewish Community |
Michael Medved Film Critic Radio
Show Host Recently I watched a rough version of this work in progress, and it
represents by far the most moving, substantive, and artistically successful
adaptation of Biblical material ever attempted by Hollywood. The premature
efforts to discredit Gibson and his ambitious movie come at a time when
committed Jews and serious Christians have been working together as never before
to advance our common values – in the Middle East and in America. All people of
conscience should encourage their burgeoning coalition, and resist unfair
attacks on an unfinished project by an inspired, idealistic filmmaker. (Salem
Radio Network, Aug 2003) It is by a very large margin of advantage the
most effective cinematic adaptation of a biblical story I have ever seen. And
it's the kind of movie that's going to touch people. (Fox News, The O’Reilly
Factor, Aug 4, 2003) |
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14 Catholic Leaders |
The Vatican
Pontifical Council for Social Communications Archbishop John Foley
President A senior
Vatican official who watched clips from Mel Gibson's controversial film "The
Passion" offered enthusiastic praise Saturday for what he saw, despite concerns
from Jewish groups that the movie will promote anti-Semitism. U.S. Archbishop
John P. Foley of the church's social-communications office said he hoped to show
the film in the Vatican and said he doubted whether criticisms of the film were
valid. "From what I could see of the trailers, it seemed to be an excellent
film," Foley said. "I don't think they would be well-founded criticisms because
all the material in the film comes directly from the Gospel accounts. There's
nothing in the film that doesn't come from the Gospel accounts. "So, if they're
critical of the film, they would be critical of the Gospel." (Associated
Press, Sept 13, 2003) |
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15 Catholic Leaders |
The Vatican
Cardinal Castrillón Hoyos Worldwide Prefect of the
Clergy
As I watched this
yet unfinished version of the film, I experienced moments of profound spiritual
intimacy with Jesus Christ. It is a film that leads the viewer into prayer and
reflection, into heartfelt contemplation. In fact, as I told Mr. Gibson after
the screening, I would gladly trade some of the homilies that I have given about
the passion of Christ for even a few of the scenes of his film. With this
film, Mr Gibson has achieved something truly extraordinary. He has used the
marvelous technology available through our modern means of communication to make
the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ come alive for the people
of our times.What is more, the film as a work of art – the performances, the
dazzling cinematography, the sounds, lighting, and pacing– is just as powerful
as the message it contains. In my opinion, one of the great achievements of
this film is to have shown so effectively both the horror of sin and
selfishness, and the redeeming power of love. Seeing this film provokes love
and compassion. It makes the viewer want to love more, to forgive, to be good
and strong no matter what, just as Christ did even in the face of such terrible
suffering. The viewer is drawn into a powerful experience of God’s strong yet
gentle love, of his overflowing mercy. It is my belief that if we could
understand what Jesus Christ did for us and we could follow his example of love
and forgiveness, there would not be hatred or violence in the world. This film
will help to make that possible.
This film is a
triumph of art and faith. It will be a tool for explaining the person and
message of Christ. I am confident that it will change for the better everyone
who sees it, both Christians and non-Christians alike. It will bring people
closer to God, and closer to one another. Mr. Gibson has had to make many
artistic choices in the way he portrays the characters and the events involved
in the Passion, and he has complemented the Gospel narrative with the insights
and reflections made by saints and mystics through the centuries. Mel Gibson
not only closely follows the narrative of the Gospels, giving the viewer
a new appreciation for those Biblical passages, but his artistic choices also
make the film faithful to the meaning of the Gospels, as understood by
the Church. Anti-Semitism, like all forms of racism, distorts the truth in
order to put a whole race of people in a bad light. This film does nothing of
the sort. It draws out from the historical objectivity of the Gospel narratives
sentiments of forgiveness, mercy, and reconciliation. It captures the
subtleties and the horror of sin, as well as the gentle power of love and
forgiveness, without making or insinuating blanket condemnations against one
group. This film expressed the exact opposite, that learning from the example
of Christ, there should never be any more violence against any other human
being. (La Stampa, Sept 18, 2003) |
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16 Catholic Leaders |
Cardinal Francis George
Archbishop of Chicago From Chicago Sun Times Is “The Passion” – Mel
Gibson’s upcoming film about the hours leading up to Jesus’ death –
anti-Semitic? That depends how you interpret the Bible, says Cardinal Francis
George, who saw a rough-cut version of the film two weeks ago. It’s a very
graphic presentation of the passion of Christ in the Gospels,” George said
Saturday. “For people who think that the passion narratives are themselves
anti-Semitic, well then, it’s a presentation of those narratives. For those of
us who don’t believe they’re anti-Semitic, that Christ died for our sins, all of
us, and so therefore we all caused his death, it’s a way to portray, very
graphically, the brutality of that execution in a Roman style.” “I’ve read the
Passion narratives of the Lord and contemplated them and prayed over them many,
many times, and I’ve never thought of the crucifixion with the images that I
received while watching this,” George said. “I’ll never read the words the same
way again.” (Chicago Sun Times, Aug 3, 2003) |
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17 Catholic Leaders |
Archbishop Charles Chaput
Archbishop of Denver From Rocky Mountain News Beal: And what do you
think [of The Passion]? Chaput: I thought it was an extraordinary work of art
and extraordinarily faithful to the gospels. If I was critical of the film's
detractors it's because I think it's unwise for any group to try to intimidate
either the church or people of Mel Gibson's faith from speaking very clearly
what they believe to be true. You know anti-Semitism is a terrible sin; it's a
sin the church has repented from and will need to continue to repent from if and
when there are examples of it in church life. But to clearly proclaim our belief
that Jesus is the messiah and that he suffered, died and rose from the dead is
for us something we have a duty to proclaim. We can't be intimidated from
proclaiming it. It seems to me the rush to judge the film before it was even
completed was an act of intimidation to prevent Christians from doing what they
need to do. I can't speak for Mel Gibson, of course, but I think making the
movie was for him an act of faith. I think it's a hugely significant personal
venture for him. I think it's important for him to listen to the criticisms that
come his way, but I also think he should be free to pursue his best judgments on
the matter. Beal: The Anti-Defamation League and Rabbi Marvin Hier, the dean and
founder of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, have also objected to the film on the
grounds that it is anti-Semitic and that, once released to the public, it could
inflame anti-Semitic sentiment. Chaput: I don't agree. I think some members of
the Jewish community have felt that any passion play, any depiction of the
passion whatsoever, automatically begins in anti-Semitism. If such a case
occurred the church would act to show how it is wrong and a sin. But with
Gibson's film, certainly the version I saw, this isn't the case. (Rocky
Mountain News, Aug 21, 2003) |
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18 Catholic Leaders |
Knights of Columbus
Carl Anderson
Supreme Knight Carl A.
Anderson, head of the 1.6 million member Knights of Columbus, attended a July
screening of The Passion. In introducing Gibson to leaders of the
Knights, Anderson said “The Passion” was a powerful depiction of Christ’s
crucifixion. “I urge critics who have not seen the final film to keep an open
mind and not prejudge it,” Anderson said. If there is going to be a public
debate about “The Passion” and religious rights, Anderson said, the Knights
“would not duck from it.” Giving Gibson the opportunity to meet with the
Knights, he said, “was making sure ‘The Passion’ gets a fair hearing. We hope
such a hearing will promote better religious tolerance and dialogue among all
religious faiths.” (Knights of Columbus, Aug 12, 2003) |
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19 Catholic Leaders |
Santa Clara University Jesuit
Community Rev. Matthew Carnes I found “The Passion” to be a deeply moving and
reverent presentation of Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross. I believe
that this film will have a special appeal to young adults. I think “The
Passion” will give them a rich sense of the person of Jesus and the meaning of
his suffering, and will invite them deeper into faith and exploring the Bible.
I will certainly promote the film among the students with whom I work, and can
imagine hosting student discussions of it after viewing it. (From an email to
Icon) |
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20 Catholic Leaders |
Thomas Aquinas College Thomas
Dillon President I have spent my life teaching the Great Books and have a
strong interest in film. I think what you have done in “The Passion” is
extraordinary and will probably be recognized as the best religious film ever
made. I will continue to pray for you and for the success of the film, and will
ask our students to do so as well. (From a letter to Icon) |
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21 Catholic Leaders |
Evangelization 2000 Fr. Tom
Forrest In time, I expect the film to be declared a masterpiece, and more
importantly believe that it could have stunning and very positive repercussions
throughout the world. For sure, it will make people talk and think, and that
alone is a wonderful thing. Count on it that he and you have our prayers and
the prayers of everyone we can invite to join with us in storming heaven for the
spiritual and artistic success of this fine work of art. (From a letter to Icon)
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22 Catholic Leaders |
Crisis Magazine Deal Hudson
From an aesthetic standpoint, the film is beautiful. Its visual narrative
carries traces of the long tradition of Christian art, from the very earliest
Christian styles and medieval iconography up to pre-Raphaelite images. My wife
Theresa and I came away from the film with a sense that our faith had been
revitalized. Make no mistake: this movie will convert and uplift hearts. Once
you've seen it, you'll never again take for granted the words: "He suffered,
died, and was buried." And what about all the alleged anti-Semitism? I didn't
see any kind of anti-Jewish bias in the film. If anything, it was the
unspeakable brutality of the Roman soldiers that enraged me. Of course, that
doesn't make me hate modern-day Italians. Nor do I hate the French when I see a
film about the brutality of the French Revolution. Simply put, there's no reason
to be concerned that this movie will spark any sort of anti-Jewish campaign. (Crisis,
Aug, 2003)
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23 Catholic Leaders |
Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua
I think that Mel Gibson has
tremendous experience in the film world. I think used a lot of his, almost
genius, in the film, having intuition almost on film making – how he was able to
use that and take the scriptures, surely he and the others he used must have
done a lot of research. I believe that he depicted it as something like
Michelangelo would have done and say, “what’s the essence here, what am I trying
to teach?” Art is generally getting beyond the physical, you have to teach
something in any kind of artistic presentation, whether it be in music, or
painting or a sculpture, you must be able to look at it and see beyond just what
was the artist actually depicting, what was he trying to teach. And the highest
art is when you can see God in any art. Whether it is depicting a landscape,
you’ve got to see it’s God, a manifestation of God’s beauty. That’s the highest
form of art, especially when it’s not a mystery, like modern art, because I
don’t understand it. But great art to me is that I can see a manifestation of
the attributes of God, the beauty of God, the mercy of God, the love of God, all
of them. And I think that that came through in this film, of manifesting God’s
infinite love for us and what He did for us. |
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24 Catholic Leaders |
Father Richard John Neuhaus
First Thing
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25 Christian Leaders
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National Association of
Evangelicals Ted Haggard
President
The National Association of
Evangelicals (NAE) affirms the importance of the authentic retelling of the New
Testament accounts in Mel Gibson’s latest film, The Passion. The NAE has
established this position of support for the film in response to numerous
attacks leveled at Gibson and the film. In interviews on CNN and various radio
networks, Ted Haggard, President of the NAE has described The Passion as,
"A beautiful, wonderful account of the last twelve hours of the life of Jesus
Christ. It is consistent with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John."
At a special showing in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Haggard, along with 30 other
prominent evangelical leaders, reviewed the film and encouraged Gibson to
release it with minor stylistic adjustments. All acknowledged the biblical
accuracy of Gibson’s creative dramatization of the historical account.
CNN questioned Haggard on specific claims from the story, including Jewish
leaders' offering blood money for Jesus' betrayal and Jewish people's inciting
hatred toward Jesus, leading to his crucifixion. Haggard responded, "The movie
portrays historical accounts realistically, but the Body of Christ worldwide
does not blame Jewish people for the crucifixion. Evangelicals believe that our
sins are responsible for creating the situation that required the crucifixion of
Christ. Christ did not die because of the political and religious powers of the
day, but for a far greater purpose. We are all responsible. This is why
evangelicals view The Passion as a love story. It demonstrates the
profound love Christ has for all people."
Haggard emphasized that evangelical Christians--who have a high view of the
historical accounts in the Bible as shown in the film--are some of the most
ardent supporters of Israel and defenders of Jewish people worldwide. He
maintained that evangelical Christendom values the realistic portrayal of Jesus'
last day and believes that the final effect of The Passion will be
positive for Judaism in America and around the world.
(NAE Release, July 22, 2003) |
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26 Christian Leaders
|
Focus on the Family James Dobson
Chairman It is deeply moving, powerful, and disturbing. A film that must be
seen - although the graphic scenes of the scourging of Jesus are emotionally
wrenching. (From an email to Icon) |
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27 Christian Leaders
|
Focus on the Family Donald Hodel
President and CEO What you showed to us was not simply another movie, to be
compared with remembrances of previous cinematic portrayals of Christ, but
rather something that breaks old boundaries and enters dramatic new territory.
For what I believe to be the right reasons The Passion was profoundly
compelling and affecting. The quality and realism of the acting, the setting,
adherence to the historical record, its intensity and pacing all amount to an
outstanding and moving film. It is unusually provocative concerning vital
spiritual issues. For both Christian believers and for non-believers The
Passion will penetrate the mind, heart and soul in ways that can only be
memorable and positive. Any attempt to create a film rendering of a crucial
portion of the life of Jesus Christ is a bold endeavor, and one bound to
generate some amount of controversy. Let me further encourage you to withstand
this premature and unjust criticism of your film and complete this important
work of art. While some of its depictions of violence are adult-level material,
this stunning film must be seen by as many people as possible. For our part,
Focus on the Family applauds The Passion and it is a film we will
heartily recommend to our constituents. (From a letter to Icon)
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28 Christian Leaders
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The King’s Seminary Jack W.
Hayford Chancellor “The Passion” is a forthright, compassionate, evenhanded
presentation of the historic facts of the trial, crucifixion and resurrection of
Jesus of Nazareth. I found it deeply moving, factually accurate and
unprejudiced in its presentation. As a Bible scholar, I was impacted by the
integrity of the film to the testimony of scriptures. As a friend and supporter
of world Jewry and modern Israel, I reject all suggestions of anti-Semitic bias
for flavor in the film. As a Christian, I am grateful for the film’s potential
to deepen devotion to the Savior and to more broadly offer the evidence of His
love and sacrificial death to people everywhere. |
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29 Christian Leaders
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Focus On The Family Del Tackett
Executive Vice President It has been nearly three weeks since I saw the rough
cut of The Passion. It is still impacting my life. I can’t stop
thinking about it nor can I stop talking about it. I have never seen a film
that has so affected my life. It is powerful, moving, and disturbing. The film
is true to the Bible and other historical evidence, yet it is alive with emotion
and the harshness of reality. I do not want to see it again, yet I will be
compelled from within to do so – not only again, but again and again. No one
will be able to leave the theatre and not be moved at the core of their being.
(From a letter to Icon) |
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30 Christian Leaders
|
Rick Warren
Pastor – Saddleback Church
Author – “Purpose Driven Life”
Brilliant,
biblical – a masterpiece. (Comments following a screening) |
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31 Christian Leaders
|
Southern
Baptist Convention Jack Graham
President
The movie is biblical, powerful and potentially
life-changing. The thing that I'm most excited about is the opportunity it's
going to give those of us who preach the cross to explain the meaning of the
cross and message of the cross to untold millions of people who are going to be
asking questions about the cross and why Jesus died. There's no question it is
the most hard-hitting display and demonstration of the crucifixion. (Baptist
Press, Aug 22, 2003)
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32 Christian Leaders
|
The Liberty Channel
Dr. Jerry Falwell
Mr. Gibson has attempted to painstakingly recreate the crucifixion of Christ,
not to assail Jews, but to arouse in people a desire to understand the price
paid for their salvation. I am praying that Mel Gibson's movie will have a
powerful impact on our culture and that it will appeal to millions of movie
lovers who are starving for a glimmer of honesty regarding the miraculous and
life-changing story of the One who died for everyone, no matter their religious
heritage, station in life, sexual preference or skin color. (From Falwell
Cofidential, Sept 24, 2003) |
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33 Christian Leaders
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Crystal Cathedral / Hour of Power
Dr. Robert Schuller I can’t tell you how I admire, respect and applaud you.
May God give you the blessing you need, where you need it most. The
Passion is an awe-inspiring portrayal of the last hours of Jesus’ life. It
is an accurate account of Jesus’ real sufferings for the sins of the whole
world. This is not a film anyone should miss. I make available to you the use
our television program – the most widely viewed religious television program in
the world – to promote your upcoming film! (From a letter to Icon)
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34 Christian Leaders
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Christian Broadcasting Network
Pat Robertson Chairman and CEO Without question, this is the finest work that
has ever been done on this subject. The casting is superb. The action is
gripping, and I believe that having the dialogue in Latin and Aramaic adds
tremendously to the dramatic effect. Your treatment of the high priest and
temple officials is sensitively done. It is clear that the small group of
religious leaders were acting in an extra legal fashion without the full body of
the Sanhedrin being present. The terrible suffering inflicted on Jesus Christ
by the Romans was at the urging of a small band of power-hungry religious
leaders, not by the Jewish nation. More than anything your portrayal of the
suffering of Jesus is with a few exceptions in total accord with the biblical
narrative. It is therefore wonderfully authentic. I understand there are at
least 50 million evangelicals in the United States and nearly as many Roman
Catholics. From what I can gather, the interest in your film is very high among
those in these groups who have heard about it. In my opinion you will see a
very large and enthusiastic audience when The Passion is released next
March. It will be my pleasure to use whatever facilities we have available at
The Christian Broadcasting Network to help you publicize this outstanding work.
(From a letter to Icon) |
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35 Christian Leaders
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Trinity Broadcasting Network Paul
Crouch, Jr. All I can say is Whoa! And get ready! It is one of the
most powerful things I've ever seen. It basically starts at the Garden
of Gethsemane and ends at the resurrection. It is without a doubt the best
portrayal of Christ and the Crucifixion I've ever seen. In fact, it makes you
want to take all Biblical epics and most "Christian" films and throw them right
in the trash. (Including many of ours!!) This will do for "Jesus" movies what
"Saving Private Ryan" did for war pictures. Every Christian MUST go see this
movie and hold Mr. Gibson up in prayer. He's going to take a lot of heat for
this project, but if we'll support him, this movie could have a profound
spiritual effect on millions of people. (From a TBN email) |
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36 Christian Leaders
|
Faith Television Network Jim West
President It took a brave heart to make “The Passion”. “The Passion” is
the most graphic, gritty and gripping depiction of Christ’s arrest, trial and
execution ever made. As a film, it will become a classic work of art with
dramatic lighting, authentic sets, compelling music, realistic dialog,
believable actors coupled with a timeless story. (From an email to Icon)
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37 Christian Leaders
|
Young Life Denny Rydberg
President As President of Young Life, I am pleased to voice my strong support
for The Passion. The Young Life sphere of influence includes tens of
thousands of staff and volunteers, as well as hundreds of thousands of adults
and kids who would be lining up in an instant to see this film. In addition, I
think the film will have mass appeal to people of any faith or no particular
faith, simply because of the quality of the production and the historical nature
of the content. My best to you as you move into the final stages of production
and distribution. I'm thrilled about the prospect of a quality film of
historical substance and modern appeal hitting the marketplace. Thanks for
improving our options. (From a letter to Icon) |
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38 Christian Leaders
|
Youth For Christ/USA
Roger Cross
President I feel the film is the most powerful treatment of Jesus passion that
I have ever witnessed. It is true to the text and done with the quality that it
deserves. The range of emotions caught me by surprise but the message is so
powerful that it captures your soul. From a ministry perspective I tried to
imagine what young people would think and how they would respond. My hope is
that they will also be captured by the presentation. I believe they will
because it is simply the telling of God’s story. I am most encouraged by the
fact that they will see a true representation of Jesus: fully God and fully man.
(From an email to Icon)
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39 Christian Leaders
|
International Bible Society Stan
Kellner Mel and his team marvelously wove a tapestry of subtle and not so
subtle Hebraic insights into the movie, e.g., the heal hitting the serpent’s
head, Mary asking in Hebrew “Why is this night different from all other nights”,
the flashbacks to the Jesus’ Passover Seder with his disciples (commonly called
the Lord’s supper). The list goes on and on. As a Jew, while I see why some
Jewish leaders might be offended, I must say that the only reason they would be
is because of how close to the Scriptures you stayed in the telling of the
story. There are a whole host of reasons why we, as Jewish people, can feel a
keen sense of rejection, offense or other things by what some Christians have
done “in the name of Christ” during the last 2,000 years. But, let me assure
you that Mel Gibson is not to be named in that number. Mel has chosen the
narrow road of staying true to the Scriptures. (From a letter to Icon)
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40 Christian Leaders
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Harvest Crusades Pastor Greg
Laurie I think the Passion is going to make history. Even after the
film has had its impact in the theatres it will have a very, very long shelf
life through DVD, etc. I can see that film being shown around the world to touch
untold millions of people. Mel has created a resource that will make a
difference in the lives of many for time and eternity. (From an email to Icon)
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41 Christian Leaders
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Tim LaHaye Tim LaHaye Ministries
THE PASSSION is the finest presentation of the last hours of Jesus’
life I have ever seen. It is a scripturally accurate account of how He really
suffered for the sins of the whole world. The acting and production were
superb, and the message leaves a lasting impact on both Christians and
non-believers. Everyone should see this movie. The believers who see this
film will be renewed in their commitment to Christ. Many non-believers will be
moved to reevaluate His claim of dying for the sins of the whole world. No film
in my lifetime has the potential of impacting more people with the world’s
greatest story than THE PASSION. It is sensitive to the Savior,
Biblically accurate, and both production and acting are of the highest quality.
It could be Hollywood’s finest achievement to date. I was extremely impressed
with Mel Gibson’s spiritual passion on wanting to present the true nature of
Christ’s suffering for all the world to see. It gives a message that will
benefit people of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds. (From a letter to Icon)
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42 Christian Leaders
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Chuck Colson Break Point
Imagine for a moment that an Oscar-winning director, such as Steven Spielberg or
Roman Polanski, announces that his nest project will be an historical drama.
Now imagine that groups representing the people depicted in the film are
demanding to see the script to see if it meets with their approval. There’s no
way that any responsible director would give in to those demands. And, in
refusing, he’d have the whole-hearted support of what is called “the creative
community” and the First Amendment watchdogs. The exception, of course, is if
the history in question is the passion of our LORD, in which case creative
freedom is expected to take a back seat to the demands of political correctness.
That’s what’s happening with Mel Gibson’s upcoming film The Passion.
The Passion tells the story of the twelve hours surrounding the
Crucifixion. While The Passion is only the latest in a series of films
about Jesus, it stands out for two reasons: First, it is unsparing and
unsentimental. In Gibson’s opinion, previous cinematic efforts had failed to
capture the enormity of Jesus’ suffering on our behalf. This quest for
fidelity has made some people nervous. Even without seeing the film, some
Jewish and Catholic leaders have accused Gibson’s film of fomenting “religious
animosity” and even anti-Semitism. They worried that the film might blame “the
Jews” for the death of Jesus. And they requested that a panel of scholars be
allowed to review the script before the film’s release. Gibson’s defenders
include Archbishop Charles Chaput of Denver. He wrote that he found I “puzzling
and disturbing that anyone would feel licensed to attack a film of sincere faith
before it has even been released.” He reminded Gibson’s liberal critics that
when The Last Temptation of Christ – and attack on the historic Jesus –
came out, “movie critics piously lectured Catholics to be open-minded and
tolerant. Surely that advice should apply equally for everyone.” (Break
Point, Aug 2003) |
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43 Christian Leaders
|
Dallas Theological Seminary Dr.
Darrell Bock
Research Professor of New Testament Studies Three words summarize for
me: Sobering, Stunning, Haunting. The film speaks for itself. I hope you keep
the graphic nature of it complete in the film, because it will cause everyone to
reflect on what His death was. The world tends to wash over this directness.
The details are very accurate -- this is the kind of death our Lord died for me.
(From an email to Icon)
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44 Christian Leaders
|
Northern Baptist Theological
Seminary Chuck Moore President Having viewed the film in Chicago, I see no
basis for the ongoing allegation that the film is anti-Semitic in any fashion.
Please express our deep appreciation to Mr. Gibson for his excellent work and
assure him of our ongoing prayers in this important endeavor. (From an email to
Icon) |
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45 Christian Leaders
|
Mastermedia International Larry
Poland Chairman and CEO Based on first century eyewitness accounts, The
Passion is a historically accurate film chronicling the events surrounding
the trial, torture and death of Jesus of Nazareth. Far beyond this, the film is
a life-changing glimpse into a person and into a world that contemporary
Americans can scarcely imagine. My plea to everyone is, “Go see The Passion!”
Go with your skepticism or your questions, but go. You will leave the film
forever changed. (From an email to Icon) |
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46 Christian Leaders
|
Vanguard Church Kelly Williams
Senior Pastor Our team went to see the movie – we each came away from that
movie greatly impacted and affected by the images and scenes that we took in
that day. Without reservation we will recommend this film to our community. If
there is anything we can do as an organization to help promote this film we are
more than willing to do so. (From an email to Icon) |
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47 Christian Leaders
|
American Life League Judie Brown
Founder and President Please rest assured that we at American Life League will
do all we can to help promote this amazing film. (From an email to Icon)
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48 Christian Leaders
|
Evangelicals For Social Action
Ron Sider President “The Passion” is simply fabulous. It is emotionally
wrenching because it is brutally honest about the violence of Jesus’ death.
Never in my life have I seen any movie that comes even close to depicting what
Roman crucifixion was really like. Long familiarity and theological explanation
have leached out in our minds the awful brutality of Jesus’ trial and death.
John’s simple words, “the Pilate took Jesus and scourged him” feel vastly
different as you watch two brutal Roman soldiers go on minute after terrible
minute bludgeoning Jesus near-naked body with flesh-gouging whips. Pious talk
about Jesus’ death for our sins takes on a whole new meaning. (From an email to
Icon) |
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49 Christian Leaders
|
Pat Boone Singer, Actor It’s a
monumental accomplishment. It continues to impact me in ways I couldn’t have
imagined. (From a letter to Icon) |
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Christian Leaders |
Ed Young Jr.
Pastor Dallas-Area Fellowship
Church
I have no doubt that the movie will be one of the
greatest evangelistic tools in modern day history. I think people will go to it
and then flood into the churches seeking to know the deeper implications of the
movie. That's where we have a chance to capitalize. The bottom line is that our
sin nailed Christ to the cross, the movie crosses all barriers to black, white,
Jew, gentile, white-collar, pink-collar, blue-collar. The whole message is one
of love and forgiveness and grace. (From an email
to Icon) |
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50 Christian Leaders
|
Youth Specialities Michael
Yaconelli CEO I believe this film will have a powerful impact on students and
adults. This film will not only have widespread interest but will finally make
sense out of the Easter story for thousand of people who have never entered the
door of a church, especially young people. We heartily recommend this film and
will do everything we can to mobilize our constituency to see it. (From an email
to Icon) |
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51 Christian Leaders
|
Mothers of Pre-Schoolers (MOPS)
Elisa Morgan President and CEO I have had the privilege to view a rough cut of
Mel Gibson’s new film, “The Passion.” That was weeks ago. I am still haunted by
the images, the characters, the powerful action, and of course, the message. I
find myself reviewing certain scenes in my mind, and longing to see the film
again…and again. It was that compelling. The audience that MOPS represents is
mothers of preschool age children. There are 14.3 million in the United States
alone. While preschool age children would obviously be too young to view this
film, I believe that mothers everywhere will respond to the dramatic interaction
between mother and son in this film. Further, in a culture where mothers are
stretched beyond themselves to raise the children under their care, and in a
season when they are depleted of their own resources, mothers are hungry for the
hope that comes from outside themselves in the form of this story of a God who
loves them and cares for them. This film offers a graphic picture of the hope
all mothers’ want. It is a powerful telling of a message that families need to
hear. I plan to encourage our audience to see this movie and to take their
families with them. (From a letter to Icon) |
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52 Christian Leaders
|
Berean Christian Stores Roger
Feenstra President This is the movie that people have been waiting for. For
years producers have attempted to portray the life and death of Jesus Christ,
but they were never able to get it right. Mel Gibson got it right! I have been
in the Christian retailing business for over 23 years and I can tell you that
people will come out in droves to see this movie. I have already sensed an air
of excitement from people who have gotten wind of it. (From an email to Icon)
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53 Christian Leaders
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Mission America Coalition Paul
Cedar Chairman/CEO How delighted I am to share this letter of affirmation for
the remarkable and powerful film, “The Passion.” It was my privilege to
view the film a few weeks ago in a private screening of a few religious leaders.
I was very moved by the film. In fact, it was a deep spiritual experience for
me. Without a doubt, it was the closest I have ever been to actually witnessing
the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. I highly recommend this powerful
film to you. I believe that it is accurate and very consistent with the
Biblical account of the passion of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. I am very grateful
to Mel Gibson for his vision in producing this marvelous film. It is not
exaggerated or glamorized in ways that many of the Hollywood films in the past
have portrayed the life and death of Jesus. It is a film that I would encourage
every young person and adult of every religion or philosophical persuasion to
view. |
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54 Christian Leaders
|
Mark Mittelberg
Author – “Building a Contagious Church”
Film makers are the history teachers of our culture – and Mel Gibson's movie,
“The Passion”, teaches us about history's most important event. The impact of
this movie will be immeasurable.
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55 Christian Leaders
|
Promise Keepers
Brian W. Blomberg
VP and Chief Development Officer
The Passion is one of the most amazing images of the real account of the
Crucifixion. What struck me most was the gritty, in your face account of the
ultimate hero Jesus Christ. Although graphic and brutal, it is a film worth
taking your children and friends to witness on the big screen. This may be the
next great evangelism tool of our time.
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56 Christian Leaders
|
Outreach Inc Doug Martinez
Chief Operating Officer
I predict The Passion will be one of the most talked about experiences of our
generation It is not a movie but an experience…a life changing recognition of
the true love of GOD for me through the sacrifice of his willing son Jesus
Christ. It is my hope that the body of Christ will embrace this movie as one of
the most opportunistic forms of Outreach of their lifetime and will be obedient
to invite their friends, family members, and people they come in contact with to
theatres to experience Gods love.
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57 Christian Leaders
|
Max Lucado
Pastor – Best selling Author
Thank you for allowing our congregation to preview the movie trailer of The
Passion. In just four short minutes, the images and the authenticity left our
members “spell bound”. Something went right to the heart of those who watched
the trailer. You have our prayers and support as we look forward to the release
of the movie.
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58 Christian Leaders
|
Worship Leader Magazine
Chuck Fromm
The Passion resonates in both art and message crushing the Gnostic head of a
superficial Christianity with a Braveheart style of gospel experiential
narrative. I think Gibson is a Giotto on celluloid. He makes all past Biblical
narrative cinematic interpretation seem tepid or grossly unreal. As I said in
the meeting, I thank God that my 17, 16 , 15, and 11, year old children will
have an opportunity to experience the Passion of Jesus Christ in a language
they can understand, and to be confronted with the killing of God, and finding
their own lives washed in the blood of the redemption story. My hope and
prayer is that Icon’s investment will pay off 1,000 fold so that you can
continue to create and promote media art with eternal meaning for decades to
come.
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59 Christian Leaders
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Lee Strobel Author “The Case
for Christ”
The Passion will stun audiences and create an incredible appetite for people
to know more about Jesus. I urge Christians to invite their spiritually seeking
friends to see this movie with them - and then to use it to launch discussions
about why He chose to endure the cross.
The End of these Testimonials for The Passion of
the Christ. |
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