Scorcese's Temptation

An incredibly stimulating and somewhat upsetting film was recently shown at Villa Grey. The Last Temptation of Christ is a 1988 film over which a great deal of ink has flowed.

Based on a novel by Greek writer Nikos Kazantzakis (of Zorba the Greek fame), this film explores the possibility that Christ had human doubts about his mission and his faith in God. 

There are so many amazing aspects to this film: the cinematography, costmes, original soundtrack (some of it by a budding Phil Collins) are all original and unusual; along with the staging of strange, pagan-like rituals and songs throughout, they lend the film a unique feel.

Another impressive feat is the (mostly) successful screenplay, which is in contemporary language, but set to represent ancient people talking. What a challenge for the screenwriter Paul Schrader: writing an 'authentic', convincing dialogue between Jesus and his disciples, Mary Magdalene or Judas in modern-day English! The characters themselves and the happenings as Kazantzakis envisions them, although they are based on very contested historical accounts, are fascinating and very believable, complete with human frailty and vulnerability.

The film does de-sanctify the image of Jesus Christ, and it’s understandable why it caused so much strife. This is one artist’s rendition of a famous historical figure, though sacred for some! Scorcese's rendition is a unique experience, not to be missed next time it comes around. Especially since, as some would have it, we would not have a chance to see this film at all. Here is one person’s account who actually witnessed the picketing of the film in 1988 (as quoted in the University of Nebraska at Omaha website):

“Evangelicals, Orthodox and conservative Roman Catholic Christians picketed the theater in Chicago where I saw The Last Temptation of Christ in 1988. Standing in the cold they pronounced the Martin Scorsese film, and the Kazantzakis novel on which it was based, blasphemy and told those of us waiting for tickets that attending might imperil our souls. It is temping to think that the controversies generated by this film were unique. In fact however, filming the life of Jesus has always been a problematic enterprise and has always met mixed reactions.”


N.B. Villa Grey is showing films every Wednesday night. Citizen Kane is up next Wednesday, July 2nd. For more on this venue see article in Egypt Today on Villa Grey, December 2007 Issue.