Challenging theology

Rating: 10/10 (24 December 2011)

Martin Scorsese does 2 important things in this movie. First, he moves the use of 3D forward by integrating it more fully into the film than any previous film I have seen. He does not use it for cheap theatrics, he merely renders in 3D scenes that would be perceived as 3D in real life. We will see more filmmakers following his lead, and movies will be forever changed by it (like the shift from black-and-white to color).
Second, he gives voice to an important point of theology. Theology addresses a few core issues: Who am I? Why am I here? How shall I live? The character Hugo expresses a clear understanding that all of us are here for a purpose -- that every one of us has a reason for living. He develops this from his understanding that every machine has a purpose -- something it was intended to do -- and he extends it to humans. This is an important insight worth our being reminded of.
The film then takes it a step further, arguing that just as a machine can be broken and become unable to fulfill its purpose, we humans too can become broken and unable to fulfill our purpose. Some of us, like Hugo, have as OUR purpose to be fixers -- to help others to be mended so that they can again fulfill their purpose in life. Again, this is deep theology and well worth pondering. It challenges us to be fixers and/or to be willing to be fixed so that we and the people we go through life with can fulfill our God-given purpose. Yet the message is delivered very subtly -- you are not clubbed over the head with it.
Having said all that, the film is also entertaining (at least for adults), has excellent production values, etc., etc. All in all, a great film.