Review of Of Gods and Men (2010) by Zac M — 18 Dec 2011
What does it mean to commit to a calling of servitude? When does the supposedly simple monastic life become complex? It's seemed like ages since I've seen a film so at ease with its contemplative mood, so faithfully thought out, so humanly and beautifully realized, I finally found again for what I had been thirsting.
Most American films would not bother to even touch this subject, or if they did, the violence would be sensationalized, the acting would be more 'theatrical,' and the ambivalence resolved with the interference of convention.
It would also be cluttered with dialogue. Not a word is wasted, each scene is soaked in meaning, each character is the antithesis of stereotype. Christmas and Easter are given new meaning with the context of violent threat and poverty.
The concept of living a countercultural example in the form of monasticism, not in isolation but fully engaged with people who desperately need others to walk alongside them. All of this is revealed by showing love in action, how pacificism can and must be chosen, not as a passive avoidance but a faithful alternative.
This is one of the best films of 2010 or virtually any year. I hope more of us seek it out...
This review of Of Gods and Men (2010) was written by Zac M on 18 Dec 2011.
Of Gods and Men has generally received positive reviews.
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