Review of Paul, Apostle of Christ (2018) by Donna P — 30 Mar 2018

First, the great news. Hollywood made a movie about the Apostle Paul and featured a major TV star in the leading role.

The production itself was first rate. The portrayal of the personalities of and relationship between Luke and Paul was intriguing and well considered. My guess is that Paul was indeed a bit of a curmudgeon, which is the way the actor chose to interpret him.

The prominent role given to Priscilla and Aquila was enjoyable. These are two wonderful New Testament characters worthy of wider consideration.

The reality of Paul's daily life in a dark, dank prison cell really hit home for me, as well as the reality of how his body must have been absolutely wracked with constant pain from years of abuse. Deeply moving and very humbling.

I was disappointed by the extended focus on a fictional sub-plot that added nothing to the film when the Book of Acts is filled with so much fascinating material that could have been brought to life.

I heard the movie was filled with flashbacks and had assumed they would flesh out some of his missionary journeys. They did not. I also would have liked to see more of Ancient Rome than two houses and a prison cell - although these three scenes certainly provide a glimpse onto the pages of the New Testament.

Finally, I thought the portrayal of the 1st Century church as impotent and befuddled was inaccurate. They turned the entire Roman Empire upside down. And they certainly couldn't have done that hunkered down in a state of perpetual fear and confusion.

Nevertheless, the film accomplishes much and we should rejoice in that. In just about two weeks, I will be co-leading a biblical tour "In the Footsteps of Paul" and we will be visiting the prison featured in the film. It promises to be a very powerful experience...and even more powerful having so recently seen the film.

Let's pray for Hollywood to produce more faith-affirming films in the days to come.