TomPayne
Joined Jan 2000
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TomPayne's rating
I was listening to Dr. Peter Kreeft describe heaven and hell on a recent episode of "Pints With Aquinas", viewable on YouTube.
At the 2:25:50 mark, he described hell as a selfish inwardly focused man as being ultimately alone.
That same night, I was watching The Twilight Zone with the family and the Good Lord gave us "The Mind and the Matter" episode. It perfectly illustrated Dr. Kreeft's image of hell. That is, hell is not fire and other miserable people -- that would be too easy for a soul to endure. Rather, hell is simply the selfish prideful man all alone with himself and his thoughts for eternity.
At the 2:25:50 mark, he described hell as a selfish inwardly focused man as being ultimately alone.
That same night, I was watching The Twilight Zone with the family and the Good Lord gave us "The Mind and the Matter" episode. It perfectly illustrated Dr. Kreeft's image of hell. That is, hell is not fire and other miserable people -- that would be too easy for a soul to endure. Rather, hell is simply the selfish prideful man all alone with himself and his thoughts for eternity.
This film was much, much better than I expected. And much more inspiring than I had hoped.
I had read dozens of reviews previously from others and almost decided not to see the movie. After talking to a good friend of mine, I decided to attend a showing with our Catholic parish. How thankful I am that I went.
Indeed it is graphic. Though, I must say, less so than I was expecting - after hearing all the hype from the media. But what happened to this man, Jesus, was brutal and this film justly depicts that brutality. It is, however, portrayed in a way that is "watchable". Know that the violence is inflicted on him, but embrace it and look through it and beyond it. There is much more to Gibson's "Passion".
What touched me the most in the film - and quite unexpectedly - was the portrayed parental love. The extreme love shown of Mary to her son was absolutely incredible. My wife and I - new parents of 16 months - cried in each other's arms. Seeing Mary love her son so much, made me love my wife more and my daughter more. Truly I am touched by her example.
There is also a single "heavenly" tear shed after the crucifixion from a loving father. Perfect.
If you're not sure about going to see this film, GO SEE IT! You can look away or close your eyes during a few of the "difficult" scenes, but don't miss the opportunity to see this incredible, awe-inspiring, faith-filled account of Jesus' gift of life.
I had read dozens of reviews previously from others and almost decided not to see the movie. After talking to a good friend of mine, I decided to attend a showing with our Catholic parish. How thankful I am that I went.
Indeed it is graphic. Though, I must say, less so than I was expecting - after hearing all the hype from the media. But what happened to this man, Jesus, was brutal and this film justly depicts that brutality. It is, however, portrayed in a way that is "watchable". Know that the violence is inflicted on him, but embrace it and look through it and beyond it. There is much more to Gibson's "Passion".
What touched me the most in the film - and quite unexpectedly - was the portrayed parental love. The extreme love shown of Mary to her son was absolutely incredible. My wife and I - new parents of 16 months - cried in each other's arms. Seeing Mary love her son so much, made me love my wife more and my daughter more. Truly I am touched by her example.
There is also a single "heavenly" tear shed after the crucifixion from a loving father. Perfect.
If you're not sure about going to see this film, GO SEE IT! You can look away or close your eyes during a few of the "difficult" scenes, but don't miss the opportunity to see this incredible, awe-inspiring, faith-filled account of Jesus' gift of life.
Last night we showed `Mass Appeal' at our parish's monthly Movie Night - REEL Conversations. There was a mixed reaction from the viewers and some lively discussion afterwards.
Some questioned why Hollywood has trouble portraying Catholics (priests, monsignors, laity) in a positive light. We had difficulty coming up with a movie that showed a believer acting like a true believer. In this film, for example, in times of crisis or need, the characters don't turn to prayer for God's help. Seemed odd.
We very much enjoyed the dialog between the mentor priest and young seminarian. It was interesting to see the roles of the two alternate throughout the movie. Plenty of still-pertinent topics they covered (authority of the church, power, homosexuality, celibacy, sin, being lukewarm in one's faith) with some very interesting outcomes.
All in all, an enjoyable film with moments of great humor and warm sentiment. A fine choice for a group discussion. One that challenges your faith and is encouraging to those who believe.
Some questioned why Hollywood has trouble portraying Catholics (priests, monsignors, laity) in a positive light. We had difficulty coming up with a movie that showed a believer acting like a true believer. In this film, for example, in times of crisis or need, the characters don't turn to prayer for God's help. Seemed odd.
We very much enjoyed the dialog between the mentor priest and young seminarian. It was interesting to see the roles of the two alternate throughout the movie. Plenty of still-pertinent topics they covered (authority of the church, power, homosexuality, celibacy, sin, being lukewarm in one's faith) with some very interesting outcomes.
All in all, an enjoyable film with moments of great humor and warm sentiment. A fine choice for a group discussion. One that challenges your faith and is encouraging to those who believe.