LogFAQs > #923823411

#62. The Last Temptation of Christ
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/bb/The_Last_Temptation_of_Christ_poster.png
Dir: Martin Scorsese
Genre: Drama
Year: 1988

SephG Superlative: The greatest Canadian film ever made*

I was never really that interested in the story of Jesus Christ. I have always been somewhat of an agnostic, so the whole Son of God thing didn't matter to me, and I had heard countless martyr stories before. It just didn't seem to be that unique, if I am being honest. But while I am by no means a believer, The Last Temptation of Christ changed my perspective on the story of Jesus and now I truly do think that this is one of the great stories ever told.

The Last Temptation of Christ follows Jesus's journey from rabbi to martyr. But where it really differs from your typical historical epic is that it's the only movie I've seen that actually meditates on the actual sacrifice of Jesus. There is an alternate history in the third act that is truly profound--depicting Satan's temptation of Jesus as he shows him what life could be like, the joy and the simplicity, if he allows him to end his sacrifice on the cross. It's a really fascinating, human way to look at the story, and I certainly recommend it to anyone, especially those who consider themselves Christians. I have no idea why the Church took issue with this.

Aside from the story itself, The Last Temptation of Christ is also created like an 80s art film. The anachronistic music (a synth-pop Peter Gabriel score), the weirdness of the characters (Willem Dafoe + David Bowie will do that), and the really incredible experimental art direction all create this very uncanny atmosphere that I can't get enough of. The style probably isn't for everybody, but it certainly differentiates itself from the traditional biblical takes out there.

*I had no idea this was a Canadian production until this very moment. Weird!
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