I have read quite a few of the comments. It's very much the case of you liked it or you didn't. I am a Christian but I found it left me slightly emotionless. But the boy tried his best. What I do find offensive is the crowd who didn't enjoy it are very free with their opinions. They feel they need to denigrate anybody who did enjoy it as a moron and that they are uneducated, numbskulls etc etc. Personnally I don't give a dam what you think of Christians or any other religion for that matter, but don't try and make out we are stupid and you are they great informed of this world. Your are not. Every time you open your mouth you exhibit to the whole world what a pathetic numbskull you are. Keep the gob shut and maybe someone might think you have a brain.… Expand

Im sorry but 47/100 on Critic Reviews? C'mon people! This was, and still remains, as a classic film about the true nature of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This film will not only bring you to tears, but put a smile on your face once you realize that one man put his own life on the line for us. Christian or non-Christian, you need to see this film. Now.

Don't most anthropologists and historians believe that Jesus was in fact not this long-haired, white guy and more of a man that looks like...what people from the Middle East actually look like? Also; exploitative, boring, sensationalist, and unimportant. We allow our kids to see a movie of a man being tortured and beaten for two hours but we won't let them see a hint of nudity when it comes up in film ratings.… Expand

The film is so focused on Christ's death and how violent and terrible it was, that the film loses any kind of heart and simply becomes about guilt. Essentially, The Passion is the biggest guilt trip in history. The film offers no insight as to what Christ's death taught any of his followers, and simply tells it's viewer that Christ died for them, and now they have to earn it like in Saving Private Ryan. Nothing is learned, and only guilt is felt.… Expand

One of the most well done movies I've ever seen. It was violent but the Bible tells it the same way...how could the film do any less? I felt throughout the film: how could someone love and forgive as this Man did! A lesson for us all.

Gibson stepped out on a limb to portray the story of Christ outside the civilized norm of consumer religion. For those that prefer a cross-less Christ, this is not the movie to watch. The event is historically documented by secular and religious sources and yet is scandalized as gratutious and sadistic. To accept the event, as Gibson portrays it, is an indictment of the human condition; one that most defiintely needs rescuing. Gibson leaves the viewer with a perplexing question: what to do with a Christ that claimed to suffer on the behalf of humanity?… Expand

People need to realize that the "passion" depicts how much torture the Son of God would endure because he loved us all enough to endure. That was the point Gibson was trying to make, everyone is to blame for His crucifixion because He put himself through that torture for all of us. To make us believe, have faith, and show us how to behave when under persecution for our beliefs.

Mel Gibson has filmed his Christian perspectives about Man's insanity against man, and against (his) God within the context of the Passion Play. Yes it's gory, unbelievibly gory. But it's also illuminating, and affecting: it got in my bones. Well cast, and beautifully photographed, this film is also an intensly personal work of cinematic art. (My only quibble is Mel's use of slow motion. It's like a straight A student who knows the subject inside and out, and still needs to cheat to make his point. Slow motion isn't needed, the statement this movie makes is powerfull enough.) … Expand

Mr. Gibson compeletely misses the point. Jesus is about love, not hate. He did not blame anyone for his death as he asked his father (God) to forgive them for they know not what they do? Instead of focusing on his teachings, and explaining the narrowmindedness that still exists today about why Jesus was considered a threat (politically) to society, Mr. Gibson went over the top to teach us hatred against others for his suffering. This is a total disgrace as Jesus life and death is taken out of context. Jesus stood for love and compassion for his fellow man. I just wonder why Mr. Gibson did not take on Jesus holy alliance with his Apostles who betrayed him? Makes you think doesn't it? Were they any less guilty than the Jews and the Romans? The point being is that corrupt political government(s) place no value on human life. Take a look at the Middle East today? What has changed? … Expand

This violence contained in this film is one of the factors that made this movie so powerful. Yes, at times the scenes were too gory. All the buzzes that is surrounding this movie, the audience should already know that they're going to be seeing a very violent film. Also I don't consider this an anti-Semitic film. Gibson focused more on how Jesus suffered and that's what the audience is supposed to be focusing about because that's the film's essence.… Expand

"For those of you who do not comprehend the movie?s real message, there is a reason for this. The natural man [mind] does not understand spiritual things, for they seem foolish to him (1Corinthians 2:14). The solution - Seek first the Kingdom of God, and all these things (including divine understanding) shall be added to you (Matthew 6:33)." Oh, great, now we have Brian R. AND Saint Mel telling us how we should relate to Jesus' death, the world! We don't get it, but YOU do because you've got a direct line to God! Gimme a break . . .… Expand

Those of you who question the accuracy of this movie clearly haven't read the Bible all that closely. And as far as a complaint that the movie ignores Jesus' message of love, well that doesn't really hold up either. The movie shows us the price Jesus paid for his love of humanity. It isn't necessary to show us his whole life, there have been other movies before that have done that, and we still have the Bible as a direct source now don't we. This movie was accurate down to the whips used and the number of strikes administered (these facts are included in the Bible). I am not a Christian but I do have a true love for anyone who teaches us about love, and I've noticed that we have a societal trend of killing these people. Ghandi, The Rev. King are two more examples. The beauty of this movie is that it shows us the sacrifice Jesus made. Although we are not all familiar enough with his teachings, we are aware of them, Gibson's film was made with this in mind. I am proud that this film was made. It is a true work of art. I am also proud that a film was finally made that shows us, with brutal honesty the price our very finest are willing to pay for us all.… Expand

Mel has created his masterpiece. This film will go down in history as the most powerful biblical epic ever witnessed on the big screen. Will be the box offices biggest moneymaker for a film based on religion and for a film in subtitles, and it could even challenge Titanic for the all-time box office champ. To not feel the emotions of this movie is to not have a soul, which is why so many people will see this movie multiple times and keep it rising up the all time charts.… Expand

The main message of this story is... when u got home u will feel emotionally wrecked!! it keeps my faith in God.

Mel Gibson is the greatest man alive.... this movie was very very very good... its what us christians believe in and that is why it is so good... if you think that this movie is wrong or bad then maybe you should watch it again and don't think of your own religon.. watch it as you would any other movie and realize that Jesus died for all of us... he could have fled but he didn't because he loved us all too much... i would give this movie a 1,000,000,000 out of 10 if i could... and once again you go mel!… Expand

I would like to say this is the best Jesus movie ever. Secondly to comments made by the person named CG, the purpose of Jesus life was to die for our sins so the death, burial and resurrection of Christ is Christianity. All must believe in Jesus to have a relationship with God, even Jews, or they will die and go to Hell like all other unbelievers.

Powerful

So Mel was there to see Jesus crucified? And Mel knows exactly who to blame? The movie is violent to let us know that Jesus suffered extreme cruelty at the hands of his murderers. We learned this in Bible Study. But for Mel to place the blame equally on the Romans and the Jews is totally unfair. The Vatican exonerated the Jewish nation many years ago. Now Mel has decided that HE does not. This movie will only inflame the ignorant and divide religious fanatics even further. Way too violent and made in poor taste.… Expand

Sensatonalizing the violence, brutality and gore seems to be the theme.

"Blood and Gore" and "Place The Blame" is the message sent by Gibson. Jesus knowingly suffered for the sins of mankind. Gibson takes this to a new low as he sensationalizes the torture as HE thought it to be? All of us who believe in the Son of God are devoted and did not need scapegoats to confirm our faith? Once you get by the hoopla that this film has created, it is quite apparent that it is antisemtic. Others have also suffered great acts of inhumanity, The Holocaust being just one example. This point has been completely lost on Mr. Gibson. … Expand

Well i thought this was gonna be a musical...so you can imagine my shock. ....... i really don't get the uproar from any side.actually i get it,i'm just shocked every time this kind of thing happens. obviously we all have different insecurities that lead to different ways of seeing,translating or transmitting things in our brain or heart. i could go into my beliefs and try to explain what i mean a lot further but from the reaction and the offence felt by so many i feel it would be pointless.there is such black and white reactionnary outbursts about this film that i can't help but compare it to the mob mentality portrayed in this film.there is no place for dialogue,"i am right so that means you are wrong"............... after all we've seen and experienced we have learnt nothing as a race and that is the true crime and blasphemy. i'm not a fan of gore but there is a crucifixion in the story!i want to feel sick to my stomach.i want to be reminded of how cruel and inhuman it is to kill someone,anyone!then,now and in the future.i want to be shaken at my core at the sight of torture and death.look around you.how can the world still be this messed up.people are still dying from hunger and desease and the world as a whole has "washed it's hands".yes we all "feel bad" and "empathize" but it's obviously not enough.... it doesn't directly affect us.we are desensitized.and if you believe in Jesus or not matters not.this is a horendous thing that happened to an innocent person.it does not diminish the impact or message.violence and death are what i consider a great sin to the spirit of life and love,no matter your beliefs. i will NOT start hating people because of this film.i will not hate people cause they are or believe different things than me.i will never be insecure enough to jump down people throats that believe in a different form of god and love.that's what i got from the movie.that's what i felt.my belief system does not depend on what i consider unauthorized biographies of Jesus.and i believe. i would have given this movie a 10 if the last scene was cut out.if you are not a believer i feel the message(i got) loses it's purity and impact.the rest of the movie should serve as a reminder or wake up call....… Expand

The Passion Of The Christ is easily one of the best films I've seen in a couple of years. It was stirring emotional, yet also physically as I couldn't help but wince whenever Jesus was beaten. To say this movie is Anti-Semitic it to say any movie that has a protagonist is anti-whatever can be labelled upon that protagonist. Its like saying court movies or any movie that involves people wanting "justice" done anti-prosecution. It is ridiculous to use the word pornographic with this film. Pornographic material has only to do with things that are to make you think of sex. I'm not sure why somebody would use this word. There are far better ones to use for what they are trying to say. Any of which I would not agree, because none of the violence is gratuitous. Its not like Jesus or any other criminal in that era would've been given rights like they do today. This movie is, granted, hard to stomach, but it is something most people should see for the same reason they should see Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan.… Expand

I am a practicing Hindu. My exposure to Jesus Christ has been through the remarkable presence he had within the Hebrew community of the time - the radiance and charismatic nature of his preaching - the consummate rabbi. What nonsense to underscore his death when it was his life that attracted so many disciples. This film is rubbish.

This was a very difficult movie to see. If you are christian or catholic this movie puts all what you learned into visual aspects. It is very graphic and moving. People need to see this film. It has changed me for the better and I believe it will change many others. I will live for Jesus more now than I have previously in my life. The simple teachings of loving your neighbors is brought to the forefront in this movie. if people are walking away from this movie with negative feelings, like jews for example, then they must feel guilty for what has happened, otherwise they shouldnt be worrying at all about this film. Im a christian and I feel guilty for what happened. I will do my best to be kind to each person I meet in my life. Thats the message here people. The outward message is that Jesus died for us, but I think the real message Mel Gibson wanted people to find from this movie is to love one another no matter of color or creed. BRAVO Mr Gibson!!… Expand

It's surprising seeing so many people, including critics, that have seen this movie and completely missed the point. Too much violence they say. Too much anti-semitism. Too much violence? Do you know anything about the crucifixion? It was said that Jesus was beaten so badly that he became beyond recognition. What did you expect from a movie that was basically *about* his death? This movie is *about* his wounds; his violent torture. This isn't 'Bible Lessons' starring Jesus. Anti-semitism? The place where Jesus was crucified was *FULL OF JEWS*. If the crucifixion took place in Africa the same thing would happen. I'm not a Christian but you don't have to be to appreciate this work of art. Mel Gibson had a vision and he created it how he wanted to. You don't need to see this movie as a Christian. You don't need to come out of it as a Christian. You just need to see it for what it is: a work of art that should be appreciated because it stays true to a man's vision rather than his wallet. … Expand

This movie was very, very powerful and moving, so go in expecting tears on multiple scenes. It still amazes me when people talk about how anti-Semitic this film is. I can't help but think how foolish a thought that is considering ANYONE could have killed Jesus and the point would not change. Jesus died in fulfillment of the scriptures, NOT because anyone got the better of him. It was His choice to die, so how can the Jews be at fault? Sorry, but that's a very silly argument against this amazingly well-made movie...… Expand

Horribly bloody and not full of love but relentless hatred for the audience

It is more than a movie; it is a life-changing ecperience! It raises one's awareness of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for all mankind! God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son! Jesus gave His life for you and for me! The movie is an awesome display of the willingness of Christ to give His life for mankind!

Clearly, this is a propoganda film to haul in some new believers. "Look what JC had to endure.....and he did it for us!"

I say to the people who hated this film, because it was graphic or anti-semetic, let me tell you something. First of all, the violence is necessary for the film, because Christain Doctrine says that Jesus was brutally beaten and died for everyone's sins. Jesus came to earth to die for us and many critic's and people don't know this. Second, this movie is NOT ANTI-SEMETIC. Jesus was a Jew. Mary was a jew. The person who played Mary in the film was a jew and if this movie was anti-semetic why was she in the film? Jews aren't responsible for Jesus's death, we all are. this movie was very powerful and moving to me. I now have an even larger respect for Mel Gibson for making a wonderful film. I also have a greater respect for Rogar Ebert for being the only critic on the list to give the film 4 stars. I hope this movie becomes even more successful then it already is. **** out of ****… Expand

This movie was okay. I think if you are Catholic you will like it more than protestant, but I think that anyone who believes in Jesus Christ will take something from the movie. What is surprising is the people who are "Jesus Bashing." Well, I guess this shouldn't surprise me. Basically Jesus Christ's blood was shed for US. We all deserve the most severe punishment from God for the Sin's (going against the will of God) we commit. Yet, Jesus (the Son of God) accepted that punishment on our behalf, if we accept, and follow him, God will spare us the punishment we deserve if we do not we WILL suffer for those sins. This is the basic Christian philosophy.… Expand

Well done, if a bit on the gory side. I would have liked to have seen more and longer flashbacks and a bit less gore. I think the message of the story could have been a little better that way. (I don't think I've ever seen this many reviews that were so polarized or this many reviews for any movie). As far as the truth goes - the viewer will have to decide. But I believe it was Mel Gibson's truth - and that he showed what he believed and felt. I'm glad I didn't live in that part of the world at that time. Or in some parts of this world now. Hopefully those who see it will see the right message.… Expand

The film is timely and timeless regardless of its religious moorings. Its central theme illustrates the essential element in the human/faith interface-stoic resolve in the face of mortal passion(s). Were Christ only a man, wouldn't the sacrifice be even more precious (if foolish)? Clearly, Christianity (at least protestant Christianity) is a religion of "the common man", allowing no "deocracy" between man and his God. The Gibson film accurately depicts the tendency in all human deocracies (perhaps all species) to PASSIONATELY respond to the "New Kid in Town". I buy the story.… Expand

To call this a "movie" is almost insulting; it was more of an experience. Jesus' love and forgiveness are seen in the one act that demonstrated them both better than any other; His substitutionary death for the sins of mankind.

Jesus died for us. We killed him. Not just the Jews, not just the Romans. Everyone killed him. I believe that is what Mel Gibson is trying to convey in this film. Those that see hate need to find Jesus.

I only gave this movie a 10 because there is nothing higher. I myself am a Catholic and to see this movie put my faith and religion into perspective. It was an amazing movie and should be hailed as the best movie ever.

It is an amazing portrayal of part of the Bible. I am baffled how anyone could call it anti-Semitic.

You know, for a movie that's supposedly incredibly accurate, I find it a bit odd that Jesus is clearly a white European looking fellow, whereas the real Jesus would have considerably darker skin with a slightly more Middle Eastern look. I'm not a Christian, and as a result I didn't get as much out of it as a Christian would. I liked the quality of the scenery and music, and the fact that nothing was sugarcoated (though the slow motion was thoroughly unecessary), but it simply came off to me as more of a tool for propoganda and punishment rather than a movie that could stand alone as something entertaining and worthwhile to watch without the need to be a Christian. To those who knock the critics for having a problem with scripture or Christianity, remember that not everyone shares your views, and its highly ignorant to judge others for such a thing.… Expand

Parts of the movie were rather violent, I had to avert my eyes during parts of the whipping scene. Ancient historians eg Josephus confirm the whole thing actually happened, the only part that is debatable is if he really rose from the dead or not, in the last minute or so of the film; belieiving he did is one of the main things that separate christians from non- christians. It was very powerful, i cried twice, something i haven't done since Bambi's mother died. I liked how the film showed the human side of Jesus. If you're into studying the Bible but find it hard to visualize what you're reading about, the movie really helps, giving the whole book a kind gothic, fantasy feel, that makes it that much more interesting, and also makes it easier to visualize. Suddenly we can picture what the Pharisees looked like, or the landscapes, Roman's etc. I wonder if there will be a sequel, focusing on the adventures of the apostles.… Expand

The Passion is a deeply saddening, but moreover vile experience. For those of you that want to reaffirm and confirm your faith please stay home and study your bible again, and again, and again. For those of you who do not know much of the Judean - Christian belief, and are yearning for supplementary clarification of the Christian faith, DO NOT see this motion picture. The Passion is inappropriately frail on the foremost purpose of Jesus? existence, his exalted wisdom. The film demonstrates what Gibson knows best from his numerous years in the film industry, that being blood, guts, action, and nudity, and a minority of years studying his new found Christian faith. Gibson?s past intense films Brave Heart, and The Patriot display the brutality of the human psyche, and in this sense The Passion does the same. However, as religious experiences, these movies are not. The Passion IS AN INADEQUATE 2hr lesson on the importance of Jesus? being and morality, The Passion IS NOT ENTAINMENT, The Passion DOES NOT TEACH OR SHOW Anti Semitism. Mournfully, The Passion is definitively what drives US culture and the US film industry, which is unequivocally unbridled debauchery. Retrospectively, those of us residing with in the US have the privilege to adore the God of our choice without harassment, have the right to question, the right to like or dislike, and the right to follow our own passions, and for that, I applaud Gibson for following his, however misguided it may be. … Expand

Brutalality in its most ugly form. The purpose of this film is simply propoganda to blame others for Jesus suffering. Mel read the bible. Jesus knew that this was his fate. What would happen to anyone who preached against the majority as it is the same today as it was then?

This was the best movie that I ever saw. All the people that saw the movie and didn't like it are all wrong. The only reason they didn't like is because there was too much truth to it, and it was about something that they are all scared of. They had no right to say that about a movie that is just portraying the life and the death of the Son of God. Like I said, the only reason they made a big deal about it was the fact the fact it was about Christ. They said it was all too bloody. Oh well. If you ask me, it was not gruesome enough. They could of went into even more detail about the things that he went through. They never made a big deal about movies like "American History X." … Expand

This is the best movie since Braveheart and shows very well the life of christ.

Being a christian myself I think mel gibson has made an amazing movie showing the love that God had for us, that he sent his only son to die on the cross for our sins. this movie is truely powerful.

Man, I didn't get it. I mean it was aight, Jesus got killed and stuff but that doesn't mean anything about 3000 miles to Graceland. Everybody says its so brutal but man did you see Final Destination 2, where was the controversy during this one.

Can't wait for the action fgures!

As you will see if you watch The Passion, the usual rating schemes don't seem to apply. Somone compared it to the problems you would have it you were to apply to an opera the same critical standards you apply to a play--yes, they are both performed live on a stage, but the critical standards you judge them by are markedly different. The Passion, like all other movies, is projected on a screen, has dialog, soundtack, etc, but it is very different in intention and purpose from any movie you've ever seen. It is not there to entertain you--in a sense, you're ignored--nor is it a "teaching moment" or a sermon or a play for your emotions. It exists to show you something. To make you a witness to something. In this it succeeds powerfully. Forget the churls who give it a 0, and you can ignore the 9s and 10s even, because the standared system doesn't apply to this new concept in art. But if art and filmmaking interest you, you should definitely see it. Or if you are a Christian or interested in history, whether of Christianity, or ancient languages and culture, you will be greatly engaged and moved.… Expand

Nothing worse than those reviewers that either haven't seen the movie or the reviewer who submitted a bunch of one liner reviews rated 0 or 1 to falsely lower the overall rating (brianna funicella, shlomo y. murray the l. etc - read them together, starting at John S., it reads like one review!). Obviously one person wrote them all. Metacritic should delete those silly fake reviews. As an Agnostic who used to be a Catholic I was moved to tears throughout. I want to read more about Jesus now. The Passion Of The Christ should eventually go down as a classic film once all the negative publicity has died down. Yes there is a lot of blood shed in this film but in today's world would we still be affected by the near bloodless version of Jesus' death that is presented in older movies? I don't believe so. This is a movie for today, not the 1950s or 1960s.… Expand

Mel ought to be ashamed of himself. This film uses hot-button subject matter as an excuse for blah cinematography, clichéd overacting, and "how-far-can-we-push-it" special effects. The only memorable character in the film is Simon of Cyrene, who fails brilliantly to be caught up in the furor of "spozed-to-be" hysteria and offers a singularly genuine performance. A bad, bad movie wearing holy sheep's clothing.… Expand

First, let me say that I am in no way religious, though I am spiritual. I am not Christian, yet I am absolutely abhored that so many people can misinterpret a movie such as this. I saw NO anti-semitism in this movie whatsoever, save for the conflict between the romans and the jews themselves. The movie is NOT about BLAMING anyone for the death of Jesus. I personally think Gibson did a nice job presenting the duality present in both the Jews and the Romans. There WERE compassionate Romans in the film and there WERE compassionate Jews as well. To claim that this film is anti-semitic is to be ignorant to half of what it is showing. I also did not find it to be even all that violent, at least not in comparison to what others make it out to be. Yes, it is gory, but there is far much WORSE out there in Hollywood. After reading many of these reviews, I saw many people complaining that the movie was all about violence and not about Jesus's teachings. These people must have fallen asleep at every single flashback in the movie, which were completely focused on Jesus's teachings. Other people claim this film promotes hate. HOW can you be SO blind as to think that!? In the film Jesus says "Do not hate your enemy"! When he is being crucified he screams to God, "Please forgive them, they do not know...". HOW IS THAT PROMOTING HATE!? The sheer IGNORANCE and STUPIDITY with which the public has interpreted this film makes me downright SICK. You are completely off base with what the film is promoting. BUT... to talk about the film itself... If you do not know the background, you may be a little lost (but then again, you must be completely shut off from the western world if you DON'T know the background). I also felt that the film was more of a documentary than anything else. It was simply showing things as Gibson (and MANY OTHER christians) interpreted them from the Bible. The film doesn't seem to have a very strong resolution (though one is certainly there), and not much build up to the actual punishment of Jesus (but, if Gibson had included much more of this, the film would have been much longer). I personally would have liked to see a little bit more of the betrayal of Jesus by Judus, but that was not the focus of the film. Overall a good film, very informative if you have an open, unbiased mind. Certainly worth seeing, but definitely not the greatest film ever...… Expand

Simply deplorable in every sense of the word. I guess that Jesus was THE ONLY ONE ever crucified? Simply ridiculous as no matter who was staked to that CROSS all humans would be aghast at the torture he suffered. What is so terrible is that Jesus was not a mortal and knew full well what was about to happen to him? This is as true today as it was then. If you preach against the RULING POWERS who dictate today's society, what do you think your fate would be? Ask those who lived under the rule of Sadam? Jesus was about love not hate. And Mel's powerful portrayal of the ugly Roman's and Jew's plays the blame game instead of explaining why Jesus died for all of mankind. Sad, very very sad. We should all know that there are GOOD and BAD human beings in this world. It has nothing to do with race, color, creed or religious beliefs. Sorry Mel, but your not number one. Religion is always entwined with politics. If anyone should be aware of that it is Me. Everyone is entitled to have faith in what ever religion you believe in. But, this movie is propaganda vis-a-vis Hollywood style. It is exploitation at its lowest common denominator. See Private Ryan and The Pianist making us hate German's. See Pearl Harbor teaching us to hate the sneaky Japanese. And Mel did the same thing with Braveheart and the American Revolution. Perhaps we should now hate our closest allie and friend in Great Britain. People and times change. Jeus orchestrated his own death for the birth of Christianity. And dare I say it, he was born and died a Jew.… Expand

A shocking and moving movie!!!!!! Also very intense with the violence but it demonstrates what Jesus went through in the last 12 hours of his life!!! He stood up for what he believed in even when they were beating him to death!!!! Any body who believes in JESUS and his ways should see this movie!!!! See what he endured just to save other people!!! No one should criticize this movie!!!

This is a film. Oh, in case you didn?t get it?a film. One more time: a film. It happens to be Mel Gibson?s film. If it re-wrote the Christ narrative in its entirety it would change nothing fundamental about the status of the film because it would remain a film. 2. How can the movie be anti-semitic? The Jews put Christ to death? Jews are portrayed unsympathetically? Pilate was in charge, and the idea that Pilate is portrayed sympathetically is absurd. The high priests have reason for their actions (maintenance of spiritual ascendency), as does Pilate for his inaction (maintenance of authority), but the high priests also believe in the dangerousness of Christ. They have commitment. Pilate simply sits on the fence. And if sitting on the fence at a time of immense moral and ethical conflict is seen as somehow a positive thing, well, no amount of argumentation is likely to sway the critic. Everyone in the film was culpable. The fact it?s set in Jewish lands might help some of us to account for why there were so many Jews in the film. Just a thought. And where is this backlash against Jews and Italians? Where are these ?flames of hatred?? I have not heard of anything at all. This might happen, that might happen. Baloney. What is actually happening? This whole issue is puerile. 3. And then there?s Mel Gibson?s filmography of violence. I agree: many of his star vehicles have been violent. And?? The point is?? 4. It is a film. It is well-made, powerful (if overblown at times), and, like all good cinema it stays with you long after you?ve left the theatre. Giving the film a ?0? rating is ludicrous. ?0? is something like Plan 9 From Outer Space. Dislike it, sure, but the film deserves a higher rating than ?0? even for the cinematography. … Expand

Exploitation at its lowest common denominator. No matter who was tortured, let alone Jesus, the audience reaction would have been the same. Why not show someone from Iraq who lost his life at the hands of the Butcher Of Baghdad? As a matter of fact Sadam tortured his people as badly as a crucification. Passion rips at our emotions but teaches us nothing about the man? Blame and Hate only. Awful.

Mel Gibson loses as his attempt at revisionist history is appalling. Mel must think he is a regular CNN. Oh Jesus! At least now we know where the phrase came from? the movie teaches us nothing about the man or his beliefs but instead subjects the audience to over an hour of propaganda as we watch Jesus become a human punching bag. Of course the jokes on us because Jesus knew everything that was going to happen but of course that fact is totally omitted by Mel. Can't wait for Mel's version of The Crusades to be brought to the Silver Screen. Probably Mel would have us believe that the Christians asked "Pretty Please" for people to convert and if they didn't they walked away politely. Yeah, and I have a bridge I would like to sell you. The Crusades were probably one of the most violent periods in all of history but Mel I'm sure will have a different spin on what really happened. It is very sad to see Jesus portrayed as a cash cow for Mel to line his pockets with fools gold. Why not take the profits and tell the real story of his teachings and why he is so admired and revered? Mel?… Expand

Some people just don't get it... Most movies about Jesus or religion are about His love and teachings. Including the Passion--the brutal way HE died is because HE loved inspite of mankind's sins. That was the purpose. Just like one comment made out there, when a movie like the Passion makes people uncomfortable, they trash it....Get real...not all things in life are comfortable. Stop making excuses for what you are or not.....No movie maker has as much guts as Mel Gibson. That I commend...HIGHLY!… Expand

First bloody blunder.... perhaps Gibson needs to return to history lesson. During Jesus era, the common lanuage was Greek, not Hebrew.

I found the casting to be superb and the cinematography to be creative and gripping. I do not give it a 10 because, although in general the pace was very well crafted, I think there was an overuse of slow motion.

This movie is a masterpiece. Anti-Semitism? Well, why don´t you people stop whining and accept with humility that you have shamed us all in the past. Don´t rate this movie badly just because you can´t handle the truth... And those of you who thought this movie was too violent, please grow up someday and get out of that fairy tale world of yours.

Mel's next project will be the Crusades. Let's see how he portrays that? I never knew that Mel was a regular CNN reporter?

This movie claims to represent the actual facts of what happened to christ. Well, hmmm, first of the latin spoken in this movie is hilarious for anyone who knows a bit of latin. I can't understand how this should evoke anny religious feelings to annyone. Do we live in the middle ages? I mean I always thought the core of christianity was love and not the dead of the Christ. But anyway it fits in this era of terror i guess, a sign of the times that says more about the twisted way religion is used today then annything else. Ok, off to see breaking the waves to remind me what love is about. Greetings from Belgium ;-)… Expand

I think that this movie is great. This movie shows everything that Jesus did for us and that was only the last 12 hours. Jesus loved us so much that he went through that much longer than shown in the movie. This movie showed be how grateful I should be for all he has done for me and you. If people don't like this movie, you don't believe in Jesus. You must not be saved.

This movie is weeeirrd. talk about lame. i want it to go away and for all the god loving freaks to stop buying out cinemas to keep it at the top of the movie lists. i also hate mel gibson. if he really was so god-loving he wouldn't make a movie about it to show everybody. and he has never been in a good movie. go see harry potter instead... p.s god doesn't exist.

Anyone who gives this movie a low rating or criticises it is either an atheist or someone who just doesn't have enough faith in God to understand. This film showed what really happened at the time of Christ's crucifixtion and Gibson rightfully had no intention on holding back anything from the audience. For us to visually see the pain Jesus had to endure to save us from our sins is what had the most powerful effect on most people. To see how much Christ had to suffer in order to save us deepened my faith and I thank fellow Catholic Mel Gibson for bravely making this movie. To all the atheists in the world, this night and every night that follows I will pray for your safe deliverance from hell and your entrance into heaven.… Expand

He stepped out on a limb, and wasn't afraid of what the critics may say. first biblical movie that was correct. thanks mel for stepping out. it has controversery but, it made you want to see it, just to judge it. and i say if you don't want it out, don't see it. i don't see movies i disagree with. and passion wasn't gory, many movies are much more sick and perverted, this showed truth. believe it, or not.… Expand

I only give it a 1 for the elaborate production. The concept is to separate Christians from their money. Rather than see this movie I think people should look at the teachings of Jesus. That is the basis of Christianity, not gory suffering. Mel Gibson should be ashamed.

... And before you see this movie, remember that God is only an idea.

Great movie, Wish non-believers would understand it more and not put it down.

I believe the movie showed just how much God loves us. Why is so hard for some too believe? We all know about hatred, but when it comes to love we try to explain it away. God loves us and sent his son to die for us. This movie captures the last hours of our Lord Jesus life and why we should worship him.

As a power considerably higher than the rest of us is said to have commented: "It is as it was." What it was I cannot say, but what it is is a magnificent achievement."

It's sad that after all this time, we are still focusing on Jesus's death and not all the good things he did while he was alive. I'm not a Christian, but it seems a little sacreligous to make such a violent and distrubing movie about someone who's basic philosophy was "Love thy neightbor, love thy friend, and love thy enemy."

Your life depends on how you treat this truth.

What most people seem to miss is that the crucifixion of Jesus was not a tragedy. It was an accomplishment! He could have stopped it at any time. The torture He endured, he endured willingly, because of His great love for us. Without it, we would all be lost. His torture and death allowed for us to be reunited with a Holy God, that cannot look upon sin, but loved us enough to provide a way to be with Him.… Expand

Perhaps the most violent -- and gratuitously violent -- movie ever made. So what's the point? Faith in Christ because he suffered? So have many others.

It escapes me how stupid people can be. This movie is not anti-Semitic, it's the history found in the Bible. If this movie is anti-Semitic, I guess Schindler's List is totally anti-German, yet I didn't hear people complain about that movie.

Nothing is wrong with this movie, you have to respect how well it was made, and how well of a movie it was.

All the bad critics i read have nothing to do with the movie. I'm pretty sure those people haven't seen the film. With those kind of people, i'm pretty sure that Jesus suffered this way now. So it's not so violent, "it is as it was" ;) The movie is brilliant!

This was a great movie, It showed the last 12 hrs of Christ's life. Everyone should see this movie. This is definately not an AntiSematic movie, the is the story as told in the Bible, the true story, so for people to call this movie antiSematic would be terrible. The Movie is too bloody at times, which is why it lost 2 points, I think that Mel Gilson could have let Christ show more of his soul to the camera, relative to the gore that was displayed. people saying that this is an AntiSemetic movie is absurd, after all Christ was a Jew himself.… Expand

The reason why the suffering of Jesus is more significant than "others" who suffer is because he is GOD, he committed no wrong, no sin, was completely blameless in everyway, yet he was savaged by man - his own creation. This incredible film gives life to that.

This is a dangerous mix of film technique and one man's interpretaion of the Gospel. He assumes one knows Jesus' message of forgivness and love before entering the theater. What is portrayed is his torture and the destructin of the Jewish Temple as an immediate divine result of his death. Troubling

Doesn't matter if yer a Jesus Freak or an everyday plain Joe, dude said it best with "More spirit and grace and less blood and guts may be what Passion needs..." Absolutely!

Exploitation cinema at its lamest. Not nearly as powerfully gutwrenching as critics are proclaiming, nor as offensive either. The film, alas, is nothing more than an over the top shock fest designed to titialte the emotional spectrum of Christian across the country (not to mention open their wallets.) What were left with is a cheap, cable ready porno depicting the final hours of Jesus as a lame, drawn out event. Don't waste your money, the hype wasn't worth it. If your looking for a spiritual event, read a Bible, if your looking for blood and guts, check out films like Texas Chainsaw Massacre or Showgirls, both of them strive for the same effet. … Expand

Great movie.

A sad epistle from a sick mind.

I thought this movie was about Jesus Alou, the late, great baseball player. Gosh, was I disappointed!!!

The Passion of the Christ was perhaps one of the most violent, brutal, and shocking movies I have ever seen, but on the other hand, is one of the greatest telling of the life of Jesus Christ. What many will find gross and disgusting, as well as overdone and excessive, Gibson's portrayal of Jesus's last hours are probably in all manners speaking what actually happened. Jesus was not spared a bit a sympathy b/c there were women and children around, he was not whipped, lashed, and beaten a few times, but numerous times times, in the hundreds. Gibson portrays his last few hours as they truly were, UNIMAGINABLY PAINFUL. This is not a movie about the message of Jesus, or about his life. This is a movie about his sacrifice, his willingness to leave this earth, and his willingness to bear the sin of man. This movie was not made to draw anti-semitism from those who see it, but to bring people together. The greatest sacrifice of all time, and what does it do, nothing but cause problems. This movie is a vivid and stunning portrayal of the world that was and the world that is, and all b/c of one man. Instead of disregarding this tale and telling of perhaps the greatest story of all time, we should embrace it, use it, learn from it. Do not find its faults, but learn from its message. Embrace it. This is as powerful as they come, no other telling has been so clear as to what happened. … Expand

Jesus was the greatest thing to ever happen and this movie shows why. He died for the Jews and Muslims and Buddists and even them people who does yoga. I like all the blood, it makes it real and it's all true just read the Bible.

Greatest film about Christ, I have ever seen. No words can describe my true feeling about this film. I never been speechless in how Christ (God) died for my sins. It's like I was actually there. In actuality, it reminds me how bad our sins really are. Every drop of blood from his body was for my every sin, such as lies, deciets, scolding, mocking, and malice. All our sins were exposed and were brought upon Jesus Christ (God). This film will be in my liberary (DVD) and might just be the greatest story on film ever told.… Expand

An outstanding movie about a narrowly defined historical event. It is about the 12 most painful hours in the life of Christ. To minimize the gore would have minimized the sacrifice. To have expanded the focus would have reduced the impact. Take it for what it is, not what others wish it was.

It's remarkable how Scorsese's vision was off limits for criticism because it was paramount to protect his "artistic freedom." 15 years later, the same people who were ready to jump in front of a bus for Scorsese are throwing Gibson under the same bus. Obviously we now have certain "approved" classes of artistic freedom. In France, Jewish kids have to take their religious head covers off when they walk near Muslim neighboorhoods. In the Netherlands, senior Imams openly profess that as soon as immigration and birthrates make the population a Muslim majority, the Imams will be voted in to power and will impose Sharia law in Holland. And people are worried about antisemitism from Mel Gibson??? … Expand

I went to see this film with my friends - some who are Jewish, some who are not. I am indeed Jewish. I was so pained watching this film. It was an horrific experience in viewing. My parents were Holocaust survivors. So many of my aunts and uncles and cousins taken from them - I never had a chance to meet any of them. No loss of life taken by violence should ever be condoned. But one human is worth no more than the next, no matter who or what he purports to be. There was no lesson to be learned from this film. Only abject anguish. Mel Gibson - Grow up!… Expand

A movie, both disturbing but deeply stirring. Those that find it violent or anti-semetic are fooling themselves. This is a realistic and historically accurate portrayal of what Jesus had to go through during his final hours on Earth.

Oh my. this is the most powerful, profound, deep, amazing, wonderful, and stirring movie i have ever watched in my life. thats all there is too it. anti-semetic? too bloody? no. not at all. it was simply reality. simply what actually happened to Jesus. Mel Gibson has really made an amazing movie.

an intense film, with gorgeous cinematography and wonderful acting. it's such a shame that mel gibson had to add scenes to the (nearly perfect) story of the Passion. the scenes that are quoted in the bible are pieces of inspired, brilliant film-making. but the scenes gibson decided to add completely take away from the intensity of the film. as a result, we get a movie with scenes that range from excellent to sub-par. which ones were excellent? the entire stations of the cross were heart wrenching and powerful, particularly when jesus meets his mother. the actress who plays Mary is excellent, and the highlight of the film. crucifixion was staggering; gesthemane was subdued but beautiful. which ones were poor? scenes with claudia, pilate's wife- seemed to be quite contrived with the 'sympathy for the romans'. judas' death- those demon children were cheesy to the point of laughability. raven pecks out eyes of thief- to me, seemed pointless and was a blatant symbolic device of 'what goes around comes around'. another part that did not impress me was the score, especially the final scene; too choir-y, tried so hard to be "inspiring" that it failed. but the acting was superb, the filming inspired, the acting gut-wrenching. Mary was awesome, Satan was perfectly cast, Caiphas was believably evil. if the unnecessary scenes were cut out, we would have an ocar worthy film. (note: this film had no traces of anti-semitism in it. only the high priests, and not even all of them, were filmed with contempt along with some of the roman soldiers. simon was a jew. veronica was a jew. even jesus was a jew! those who feel the film was anti-semetic must have mistaken the actions of few for the actions of many. and that is exactly what you are trying to avoid. hypocritical.)… Expand

The movie in overall presentation is an accurate depiction of the "passion" or the "sufferings" of the Christ. This movie is NOT about the entire life of Jesus, but a 12 hour window. The criticisms of overdone violence by film critics only prove their personal ignorance of the event. a Jewish prophet over 2,000 years before the actual event predicted that Jesus would suffer more than any man saying, "Just as there were many who were appalled at him- his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man, and his form marred beyond human likeness." (Prophet Isaiah) How do get to that place without EXTREME BRUTALITY? There are some "Hollywood" moments in the movie not found in the Bible. But I don't believe they dilute the overall powerful production.… Expand

I'm disappointed that a movie that purports to be as true to the Gospels as possible ignores one significant detail: Jesus was not a white guy! He was a Jew living before the Diaspora. We don't know what exact shade of brown his skin colour was... but he was a Semite, and definitely not European. I'm not saying that someone like Oded Fehr would have been a better choice for the role, but it would have been nice for Gibson to point out that our image of a Nordic Jesus is purely a meme of European invention brought about by generation after generation of those preferring to follow in the footsteps of tradition rather than truth. Quite disappointed, am I.… Expand

Absolutely amazing how bigoted and single minded Mr. Gibson is. He made this violent sombering movie to demonstrate the suffering Jesus did for all of us which is true. What he failed to reveal is that Jesus, the son of God, was responsible for his own crucification as he knew the most minute detail of what was going to happen to him? If Jesus was alive today and preached against the teachings of Sadam in Iraq what do you think his fate would have been? It is the same no matter what the time period. When Jesus walked the Earth, any man who preached against the accepted norm was crucified - not just Jesus. It is unbelievable that instead of teaching us about the LOVE Jesus tried to instill in us by orchestrating his own crucification, Mr. Gibson wants to place the blame for this hideous crime. Well, all he has succeeded in is makng a violent bloody movie and presenting a blood wrenching period similar to what happened during the Holocaust. Mel, Jesus is about LOVE not HATE.… Expand

Although it is too violent for some viewers young or old, to tell the truth is to tell the truth, period.