Paul, Apostle of Christ Movie Review

Writers: Terence Berden, Andrew Hyatt

Stars: Jim Caviezel, James Faulkner, Olivier Martinez

Trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4TivPaPEWU

My Review:  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥  ♥

When I heard Jim Caviezel was starring in this movie, I knew I wanted to see it. I was right. Caviezel has been one of my favorite actors for a while now. He starred in some great Christian movies such as When the Game Stands Tall and The Passion of the Christ as well as some secular movies and TV shows.

The first thing that surprised me in the movie was Caviezel played Luke not Paul. The story was really about Luke as he struggled to support his friend, Paul, and help the Christians in Rome during their darkest hour. He was brilliant in his portrayal as was the actor who played a worn out, tired, old Apostle Paul who was ready for his martyrdom.

Another surprise was this was a story about one of the darkest hours of Christianity. The world was in chaos. It looked like evil had one. Christians, children included, were being lit on fire to light Nero’s garden parties and being thrown to lions in the Colosseum. Priscilla and Aquilla were struggling with whether to lead their Roman community out of Rome to escape the persecution or stay and show the light of Christ. Some of the younger men were struggling with anger and a desire for revenge. It was a dark time. At first, the movie seemed depressing. I’m glad I didn’t give up on it too soon.

This movie had an awesome theme of hope in the midst of despair and overcoming evil with love. It reminded me what true Christianity was all about. There was one poignant scene of Christians marching into death content and without fear. The only thing that was missing from the historical accounts was that in real life they sang hymns. I would have loved to have seen that. That is the only criticism I have with the movie, and that is minor.

This is a movie I recommend strongly for every Christian to see.