The Passion of the Christ (2004)

the JoshMeister's Rating
⭐️⭐️

2 out of 5 stars: "Didn't enjoy it; don't recommend it."

the JoshMeister's Review
Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ (2004) is a somewhat controversial film, partly because of the irony of being an R-rated Christian movie.

While films depicting Jesus Christ are typically uplifting and inspirational, The Passion of the Christ is overall rather depressing, and, strangely, at times it's even a bit creepy. There are moments depicting Satan's temptations or demonic possession that are rather disturbing and odd.

Even watching the movie with filters, there's an awful lot of blood and gore; the film doesn't try to appeal to a broader audience by minimizing the violence that was inflicted upon Jesus in the hours leading up to his crucifixion through his death on the cross.

The film does what it intends: it's hyper-focused on Christ's "Passion," meaning His suffering and death. It barely touches on His resurrection, and doesn't fully explain the purpose or significance of Christ's Atonement, other than an opening screen quoting Isaiah:

''"He was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; by His wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53; 700 B.C.''

Non-Christians may walk away from the film with a somewhat better understanding of why many Christians place so much emphasis on the crucifixion, and Christians may gain a better understanding of the intensity of the suffering Jesus endured. But the extremity of the gore, the disturbing and confusing depictions of Satan and his minions, and the general depressing nature of the film make it a rather unpleasant experience. For these reasons, I do not recommend it. There are other depictions of Jesus that are more appropriate for both Christians and those interested in learning more about Christ, for example the free Bible Videos series produced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which includes a collection of videos about the final events of Jesus' life and His post-resurrection ministry.

MPAA Rating
"Rated R for sequences of graphic violence"

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How to watch

 * Watch The Passion of the Christ on Amazon Prime Video
 * Find out where else to stream, rent, or buy this movie on JustWatch or Reelgood.