Commentaries on the Passion of the Christ

From the Jewish Community…
It is by a large margin of advantage the most effective cinematic adaptation of a biblical story I have seen. And it's the kind of movie that's going to touch people very deeply. (Fox News, The O'Reilly Factor, Aug 4, 2003)
Michael Medved
Film Critic
Radio Show Host

Gibson's film is an artistic vision and must be judged that way. It is an awesome artifact, an overpowering work. I can't remember being so affected by a film before. (FrontPageMag.com, Jul 30, 2003)
David Horowitz
Talk Show Host & Columnist

Jewish officialdom - that small, cozy world of community leaders and other machers - is already getting agitated by Mel Gibson's still-in-production Jesus movie. "The Passion" depicts the last 12 hours in the life of Christianity's founder, and press reports suggest that it places blame for the man's death firmly on Jewish shoulders.…What's clear beyond doubt is that the Jewish community has a strong interest in fostering positive, warm relations with Catholics and other Christians. Surely, though, the cause of friendship with our non-Jewish fellow citizens is unlikely to be advanced by critiquing religious beliefs which closely mirror our own tradition. Our loyalty should be to Judaism and to truth, not to an officially sanctioned, sanitized version of Judaism or the truth - which may be neither Jewish nor true. (The Forward, May 3, 2003)
David Klinghoffer is the author of "The Discovery of God: Abraham and the Birth of Monotheism," published this month by Doubleday.
David Klinghoffer
Author, Historian

Never has a film aroused such hostile passion so long prior to its release as has Mel Gibson's Passion. Many American Jews are alarmed by reports of what they view as potentially anti-Semitic content in this movie about the death of Jesus, which is due to be released during 2004. Clearly the crucifixion of Jesus is a sensitive topic, but prominent Christians who previewed it, including good friends like James Dobson and Michael Novak who have always demonstrated acute sensitivity to Jewish concerns, see it as a religiously inspiring movie, and refute charges that it is anti-Semitic. As an Orthodox rabbi with a wary eye on Jewish history which has an ominous habit of repeating itself, I fear that these protests, well intentioned though some may be, are a mistake. I believe those who publicly protest Mel Gibson's film lack moral legitimacy. What is more, I believe their actions are not only wrong but even recklessly ill-advised and shockingly imprudent. I address myself to all my fellow Jews when I say that your interests are not being served by many of those organizations and self appointed defenders who claim to be acting on your behalf. Jewish groups that fracture friendship between Christians and Jews are performing no valuable service to American Jews. (WorldNetDaily.com, Sept. 25, 2003)
Rabbi Daniel Lapin
Toward Tradition

From the Hispanic Community…
The greatest movie ever made. La película mas importante de toda la historia.
Charles Cotayo
El Nuevo Herald
Entertainment Writer

The Passion movie portrays most faithfully and impressively the Passion of Our Lord. It is providential for our times. It is a marvelous opportunity to rediscover this deep profound love, that is the hope for humanity. Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" maintains itself true to the Gospel and Tradition. La película de La Pasión es providencial para nuestros tiempos ya que presenta el sacrificio radical de Cristo en toda su realidad al mismo tiempo brutal y sublime. Es una oportunidad maravillosa para redescubrir la profundidad de este amor que es la esperanza de la humanidad. La Pasión de Mel Gibson se mantiene siempre fiel a los Evangelios y a la Tradición.
Fr. Jordi Rivero
Archdiocese of Miami, Fl.

The Passion of the Christ is a work of art - a real demonstration of the best in Cinematography. I am certain Mr. Gibson's film will become an all-time classic, for the benefit of generations to come. Those who see this film will be changed forever.

La Pasion de Cristo es una obra de arte - una verdadera demonstracion de lo mejor en la historia del cine. Estoy seguro que la pelicula del Sr. Gibson, se convertira en una obra clasica, para beneficio de las futuras generaciones. Todo el que vea esta pelicula experimentara un cambio interior.
Fr. Alberto R. Cutié Pax
Catholic Communications
General Director

From the African American Community...
The Passion of The Christ is an extremely impacting depiction of an event that defies human comprehension. The quality of the movie will make it a timeless work of art. I really think everyone regardless of their religious perspectives should see it.
Bishop T. D. Jakes, Sr.
Senior Pastor The Potter's House of Dallas, Inc.

This film is one of the most significant works that Hollywood has ever produced. It is certain to make a mark on the lives of millions of people. Everyone should see it.
Dr. Creflo Dollar
Founder & Senior Pastor
World Changers Church International

Awesome. A must see for every Christian.
Dr. Frederick Price
President Crenshaw Christian Center

On the heels of the release of "The DaVinci Code", an extremely fictional representation of Christ's personal life, it is imperative that society experiences a work that remains true to Holy Scripture. Not only does Mel Gibson's, "Passion" accomplish this but it also leaves the viewer gasping at the reality of Christ's sacrifice for the sins of mankind. Very few will leave this movie without being compelled to reread the Gospels to see if these things are true!
Dr. A.R. Bernard
President Christian Cultural Center

It took my breath away…It's a very daring attempt and very biblically accurate.
Bishop Eddie Long
Senior Pastor New Birth Missionary Baptist Church

This is a film few words could describe, yet, few words would be needed.
Dr. Joseph M. Ripley, Sr.
Founder & Senior Pastor Body of Christ Church International, USA

Man, it was incredible! So inspirational, just what the world needs. Rodney Jerkins
President and CEO Darkchild Records

I cried...This movie will change a lot of people's lives.
Ray Buchanan
Atlanta Falcons Cornerback

From the Catholic Community…
I experienced moments of profound spiritual intimacy with Jesus Christ. It is a film that leads the viewer into prayer and reflection, into heartfelt contemplation. (La Stampa, Sept 18, 2003)
Cardinal Castrillón Hoyos
Worldwide Prefect of the Clergy
The Vatican

I found it to be a very moving experience, a true meditation on the Passion of Jesus Christ.
Archbishop John Foley
President Pontifical Council for Social Communications
The Vatican

An extraordinary work of art and extraordinarily faithful to the gospels. Archbishop Charles Chaput
Archbishop of Denver Rocky Mountain News

The Passion of the Christ is in my opinion perhaps one of the most important films ever made.
Carl Anderson
Supreme Knight Knights of Columbus

In time, I expect the film to be declared a masterpiece, and more importantly believe that it could have stunning and very positive repercussions throughout the world.
Fr. Tom Forrest
Evangelization 2000

I have spent my life teaching the Great Books and have a strong interest in film. I think what you have done in "The Passion" is extraordinary - it will probably be recognized as the best religious film ever made.
Thomas Dillon
President Thomas Aquinas College

From the Christian Community…
The Passion is a forthright, compassionate, evenhanded presentation of the historic facts of the trial, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. I found it deeply moving, factually accurate and unprejudiced in its presentation.
Jack W. Hayford
Chancellor
The King's Seminary

The Passion by Mel Gibson is one of the most deeply disturbing and powerful movies I've ever seen, but one that everyone should watch. I recommend it highly.
James Dobson
Chairman
Focus on the Family

Brilliant, biblical - a masterpiece.
Rick Warren
Pastor - Saddleback Church
Author - "Purpose Driven Life"

Mel has chosen the narrow road of staying true to the Scriptures.
Stan Kellner
International Bible Society

Mr. Gibson has attempted to painstakingly recreate the crucifixion of Christ, not to assail Jews, but to arouse in people a desire to understand the price paid for their salvation. (Falwell Cofidential, Sept 24, 2003)
Dr. Jerry Falwell
The Liberty Channel

I think the Passion is going to make history. I can see that film being shown around the world to touch untold millions of people. Mel has created a resource that will make a difference in the lives of many for time and eternity.
Pastor Greg Laurie
Harvest Crusades

I predict The Passion will be one of the most talked about experiences of our generation It is not a movie but an experience.
Doug Martinez
Chief Operating Officer Outreach Inc

Three words summarize for me: Sobering, Stunning, Haunting.
Dr. Darrell Bock
Research Professor of New Testament Studies
Dallas Theological Seminary

Filmmakers are the history teachers of our culture -- and Mel Gibson's movie, "The Passion of the Christ," teaches us about history's most important event. The impact of this movie will be immeasurable.
Mark Mittelberg
Author, "Building a Contagious Church"

The Passion will stun audiences and create an incredible appetite for people to know more about Jesus.
Lee Strobel
Author "The Case for Christ"

All I can say is Whoa! And get ready! It is one of the most powerful things I've ever seen.
Paul Crouch, Jr.
Trinity Broadcasting Network

The Passion of The Christ is the most moving film I've ever seen. I've never encountered anything that I reacted to as passionately, or responded to as strongly, as I did this movie. This is a movie you have to see.
Tom Fortson
President Promise Keepers

I feel the film is the most powerful treatment of Jesus passion that I have ever witnessed. It is true to the text and done with the quality that it deserves. The range of emotions caught me by surprise but the message is so powerful that it captures your soul.
Roger Cross
President Youth For Christ

My plea to everyone is, "Go see The Passion!" Go with your skepticism or your questions, but go. You will leave the film forever changed.
Larry Poland
Chairman and CEO Mastermedia International

I am still haunted by the images, the characters, the powerful action, and of course, the message. I find myself reviewing certain scenes in my mind, and longing to see the film again…and again. It was that compelling.
Elisa Morgan
President and CEO MOPS
Mothers of Pre-Schoolers

I think the film will have tremendous mass appeal simply because of the quality of the production and the historical nature of the content.
Denny Rydberg
President Young Life

Without question, this is the finest work that has ever been done on this subject. The casting is superb. The action is gripping, and I believe that having the dialogue in Latin and Aramaic adds tremendously to the dramatic effect.
Pat Robertson
Chairman and CEO Christian Broadcasting Network

The Passion of The Christ is impacting, compelling, transformational and truthful. It is a powerful retelling of the most important story in history.
Jon R. Wallace
President Azusa Pacific University

The acting and production were superb, and the message leaves a lasting impact on both Christians and non-believers. It gives a message that will benefit people of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds.
Tim LaHaye
Author of "Left Behind" book series

Having viewed the film, I see no basis for the ongoing allegation that the film is anti-Semitic in any fashion. Please express our deep appreciation to Mr. Gibson for his excellent work.
Chuck Moore
President Northern Baptist Theological Seminary

What you showed to us was not simply another movie, to be compared with remembrances of previous cinematic portrayals of Christ, but rather something that breaks old boundaries and enters dramatic new territory. Donald Hodel
President and CEO Focus on the Family

I was moved deeply by the film. In fact, it was a deep spiritual experience for me. Without a doubt, it was the closest I have ever been to actually witnessing the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Paul Cedar
Chairman/CEO Mission America Coalition

The movie is Biblical, powerful and potentially life-changing. There's no question it is the most hard-hitting display and demonstration of the crucifixion. (Baptist Press, Aug 22, 2003)
Jack Graham
President Southern Baptist Convention

I was moved to tears. I doubt if there has ever been a more graphic and moving presentation of Jesus' death and resurrection
Billy Graham
President Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

The bottom line is that our sin nailed Christ to the cross, and that message in the movie crosses all barriers to black, white, Jew, gentile, white-collar, pink-collar, blue-collar. The whole message is one of love and forgiveness and grace.
Ed Young Jr.
Pastor Dallas-Area Fellowship Church

The images and the authenticity left our members "spell bound". The message went right to the heart of those who watched.
Max Lucado
Pastor and Best selling Author

Adjectives like "powerful" or "moving" are inadequate when it comes to describing Mel Gibson's movie, The Passion of the Christ. Regardless of creed, this film will profoundly change all who experience it.
Judie Brown
Founder and President American Life League

The movie portrays historical accounts realistically, it demonstrates the profound love Christ has for all people. (NAE Release, July 22, 2003) Ted Haggard
President National Association of Evangelicals

This movie will forever change your view of God Himself, and what He did for us all on that dark day in history as He endured an ignominious trial and hung on the cross.
Bill Bright
President Campus Crusade

The Passion is simply fabulous. It is emotionally wrenching because it is brutally honest about the violence of Jesus' death. Never in my life have I seen any movie that comes even close to depicting what Roman crucifixion was really like.
Ron Sider
President Evangelicals For Social Action

The Passion is an awe-inspiring portrayal of the last hours of Jesus' life. It is an accurate account of Jesus' real sufferings for the sins of the whole world. This is not a film anyone should miss.
Dr. Robert Schuller
Crystal Cathedral / Hour of Power

It's a monumental accomplishment. It continues to impact me in ways I couldn't have imagined.
Pat Boone
Singer, Actor

This film will not only have widespread interest but will finally make sense out of the Easter story for thousand of people who have never entered the door of a church, especially young people.
The Late Michael Yaconelli
CEO Youth Specialities

From the Hollywood Community…
In all honesty, I think it's a masterwork. I loved everything about your film. I'm still getting over the incredible impact the film had on me. (From a letter sent to Icon)
Dean Devlin
Producer of Independence Day, The Patriot, Godzilla

The Passion is a masterpiece. And beyond. I love Mel's film and I love his faith and ardor and guts for doing it. (From an e-mail to Icon)
William Peter Blatty
Director of The Exorcist

Some will be moved by this film, others disturbed. As with all previous films depicting the period, some scholars and theologians will doubtless challenge Gibson's historical accuracy - indeed he is an actor, not a Biblical scholar. But to condemn both the film and the filmmaker in advance reflects both bigotry and a disdain for free expression. (Variety)
Peter Bart
Editor

Variety From Various Commentators…
This may be the last movie Mel Gibson makes. This is the ultimate film. It's magical. This is it. He's going to do it. He's going to do it his way, and this film, I tell you, is magic. It's a miracle. It's a miracle... (MSNBC, Jul 23, 2003) Drudge Report
Matt Drudge

It is a powerful film, and I believe it will prove historic -- a real moment in the history of cinematic treatments of the greatest story ever told. Be happy and proud. It is going to be huge.
Peggy Noonan
Author, Columnist

As one who has seen virtually every modern biblical epic - I can say The Passion is the most beautiful, profound, accurate, disturbing, realistic and bloody depiction of this well-known story that has ever been filmed. (Tribune Media, Aug 5, 2003)
Cal Thomas
Syndicated Columnist

This movie does not preach; it doesn't try to convince you one-way or the other who or what Jesus was. It is very intimate. It doesn't matter if you're religious or atheistic or a snake handler. This movie will hit you in the gut. It has themes about man's inhumanity to man. It's also about one man standing by what he believes to be true - no matter the cost - and enduring. (Rush Limbaugh Show, Jul 28, 2003)
Rush Limbaugh
Radio Talk Show Host The mood

The Passion generates is meditative and contemplative. The tone is awe. One finds one's emotions hushed. For minutes after the film ended, the audience at the showing I attended did not speak or move. We felt part of an indescribably important human moment. We had been drawn into an axial point of silence and wonder. Such is the power of a genuine work of art-and in its artistic integrity, The Passion dwarfs any previous Biblical film.
Michael Novak
President American Enterprise Institute