Martin Scorsese’s upcoming ‘Jesus film’ aims to shift focus away from organized religion’s negative aspects
Academy Award-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese believes his upcoming “Jesus” film will revolutionize public perception of organized religion.
Scorsese’s highly anticipated movie, based on the novel “A Life of Jesus” by Japanese author Shūsaku Endō, was announced last year and is set to begin filming in 2024. With a screenplay already completed, the film is expected to run for approximately 80 minutes.
In a recent profile by the Los Angeles Times, Scorsese shared his aspirations for the project. He expressed his desire to make the film more accessible and remove the negative stigma associated with organized religion. “Right now, ‘religion’ is a contentious word due to its numerous failures,” explained the 81-year-old filmmaker. “You may reject it, but it could still impact how you live your life. Don’t dismiss it outright.”
The inspiration for the film came after Scorsese met with Pope Francis in May 2023. “I responded to the Pope’s call to artists by envisioning and writing a screenplay about Jesus,” Scorsese revealed at the time.
It’s worth noting that Scorsese has previously tackled the subject of Jesus in his controversial 1988 film, “The Last Temptation of Christ.”
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Mother Angelica, founder of the Eternal World Television Network, criticized Scorsese’s previous Jesus film, calling it “sacrilegious.” The movie depicted Jesus as a mortal sinner, including a controversial scene where he fantasizes about a sexual relationship with Mary Magdalene.
While the film carried a Disclaimer stating it was not based on the Gospels but rather a fictional exploration of spiritual conflict, it faced significant backlash from Christian audiences.
Endō’s book, which serves as Scorsese’s inspiration, also takes an unconventional approach to the topic of Jesus. The author wrote the book specifically for Japanese readers, emphasizing the “motherly side of Jesus” to counter the stern and harsh image of fathers in Japanese culture.
What inspired Martin Scorsese to create a film that challenges the public’s perception of organized religion?
Oscar-winning director Martin Scorsese is confident that his upcoming film, titled “Jesus,” will challenge and transform the public’s perception of organized religion. Known for his exceptional storytelling and thought-provoking movies, Scorsese has created significant buzz around this highly-anticipated project. Adapted from the renowned novel “A Life of Jesus” by esteemed Japanese author Shūsaku Endō, the film’s announcement in 2023 has already sparked great excitement among fans and critics alike. With the scheduled commencement of filming in 2024, Scorsese’s “Jesus” promises to be a groundbreaking cinematic experience.
Scorsese, recognized for his ability to tackle complex themes and portray controversial subject matters, anticipates that “Jesus” will offer a fresh perspective on religion to a wide range of audiences. Understanding that organized religion often finds itself in the midst of public scrutiny, Scorsese aims to challenge prevalent stereotypes and offer a more nuanced understanding of faith and spirituality through his film. This is not the first time the acclaimed director has delved into the realm of religious topics, as demonstrated by his critically acclaimed films such as “The Last Temptation of Christ” and “Silence,” which explored religious figures and the notion of faith.
As Scorsese’s new project draws inspiration from Endō’s “A Life of Jesus,” audiences can expect a profound exploration of the faith’s complex meaning and the challenges faced by its adherents. Endō’s novel, acclaimed as a seminal piece of literature, offers a powerful portrayal of Jesus Christ’s life while delving into themes of doubt, suffering, and redemption. Scorsese’s choice to adapt this influential work into film reflects his commitment to presenting subjects of immense cultural and spiritual significance with authenticity and reverence.
Scorsese’s depiction of organized religion in “Jesus” will likely provoke conversations and debates surrounding contemporary beliefs and their manifestations. By examining the life and teachings of Jesus Christ through a lens of skepticism, doubt, and human vulnerability, the film will challenge conventional narratives and prompt viewers to question their own understanding of faith. This courageous approach intends to break free from the confines of traditional religious portrayals, aiming to resonate with a diverse audience, regardless of their personal beliefs.
With a screenplay already finalized, Scorsese’s “Jesus” promises a thought-provoking, visually stunning cinematic experience. Scorsese’s meticulous attention to detail and his mastery of storytelling techniques will undoubtedly contribute to a film that will not only captivate audiences but also leave a lasting impact on their perceptions of religion. The director’s commitment to authenticity and accuracy, combined with his unique artistic vision, will likely set “Jesus” apart from other interpretations of the life of Christ, making it a significant cinematic contribution.
As production for “Jesus” inches closer, Martin Scorsese’s belief that his film will revolutionize public perception of organized religion becomes increasingly palpable. With his exceptional track record in delivering unparalleled cinematic experiences, Scorsese’s vision and dedication to challenging societal norms and beliefs are expected to culminate in a movie that will transcend boundaries and touch the hearts and minds of audiences around the world. As the filming process unfolds, the anticipation and excitement surrounding “Jesus” will undoubtedly continue to grow, setting the stage for a landmark release that will undoubtedly leave a mark on the cinematic landscape.
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