"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
Every year our family reads through the Bible together. And every year it is my prayer that the scripture will be real to them. That it will touch their hearts and they will "see" clearly through the words of the writers of each individual book.
But let's face it, that is easier for some than for others. Many people, in order to really understand what they read, need visuals - pictures of some sorts. And unless you are using a child's illustrated Bible, that often does not happen. And often with many those, you lose much of the original text. Unfortunately, when you turn to movies of the Bible you often end up with over dramatized scenes, loosely translated or followed scripture, or poorly done animation. It can get annoying.
They have taken the four gospels from the New Testament and made them into full length films using scripture and scripture only. I have had the privilege of watching the Gospel of John and I must say I was enthralled.
Where do I even start?
While a narrator reads the book of John, beautiful scenes are shown in the background. While it is being loosely acted out, it is not a word for word dramatization. Imagine a general overview with some scenes being more specific. You can see characters interacting with each other and talking, but you really do not hear the words being spoken. All you hear are subtle background noises and the narrator reading.
The few times you do to hear a few words spoken, you realize they are not being spoken in English! Authenticity at its best. To add to that authenticity, the film was shot in Morocco and features rural countryside and authentic villages that make you feel like you are standing in the middle of first century Palestine. Characters are not blond-haired, blued-eyed Americans dressed up for the parts.
For families watching this movie, be aware that blood and some violence is depicted. I would personally advise you review it before showing it to your elementary age children as it could upset sensitive children.
The cinematography is simply stunning in this movie. There were a few times I realized I was paying more attention to what was being acted versus what was being said. That's a visual learner for you! ;)
The Gospel of John is available on Netflix to view and is 2 1/2 hours long. Grab a cup of tea and your favorite snack and settle in for while. You will not be sorry!
The Gospel of John can be found on social media!
https://twitter.com/TheLumoProject
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Great, we love this movie and want to see the other three. We to were enthralled and impressed.I must tell small groups.
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