The Passion of the Christ, an epic motion
picture directed by Mel Gibson (Braveheart) and starring Jim Caviezel (The
Count of Monte Cristo), opens in theaters nationwide on February 25.
Christian leaders already endorsing the film include the Reverend Billy
Graham, Focus on the Family founder James Dobson, Newsboys singer Peter
Furler, and worship band Delirious?
The Passion of the Christ is indeed a rarity in Hollywood;
the script is based on the Gospels, and the actors speak in Latin and
Aramaic with English subtitles shown onscreen. Early viewers say the $30
million project holds nothing back in its visual depiction of Jesus'
crucifixion, and that it presents without question one of the most
effective faith-sharing opportunities in this generation.
Saying that he "was moved to tears" by The Passion of the
Christ, Reverend Graham issued this statement:
"No one who views this film's compelling imagery will ever
be the same. I doubt if there has been a more graphic and moving
presentation of Jesus� death and resurrection, which Christians believe
are the most important events in human history.�
Dobson called The Passion of the Christ, "deeply moving,
powerful, and disturbing. A film that must be seen."
Furler was among a group of Christian and country music
artists invited to attend advance showings hosted by Mel Gibson. After
each screening, the actor/director has encouraged question and answer
sessions about the film, leaving viewers assured of his genuine, humble
faith.
"This is Gibson's most important work to date. It's
shockingly beautiful," Furler said. "The Passion Of The Christ might just
be what he is remembered for."
"The movie is graphic, hard-hitting," said Jon Thatcher,
bass player for Delirious? "It brings home the truth of Jesus Christ's
life. It's so easy to sanitize, water down, and make irrelevant, but
hopefully this will bring it back home for everyone."
Now, Christian artists, leaders, and organizations alike
are encouraging fellow believers to see The Passion of the Christ, to
share it with family, friends, and neighbors, and to be ready for the
spiritual questions many will have about the life, death, and resurrection
of Jesus.
The Passion of the Christ, in theaters everywhere February
25, is rated R for violence and is not suitable for viewers under 17 years
old without adult supervision. For more information, visit www.ThePassionoftheChrist.com
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