An educational and emotional film

Rating: 10/10 (8 September 2017)

Martin Scorcese has created a masterpiece here. Not only this, the messages put to the viewer about strength of faith and staying true to what a person believes in make this a fantastic piece of film.
The film stars Adam Driver and Andrew Garfield, two Jesuit priests that have received word of their mentor (Liam Neeson) surrendering the faith of Christianity. They make it their mission to travel to Japan to find him and discover the truth.
On arrival, their faith, along with the Japanese Christians they find in hiding, is tested to the highest of limits, as the Japanese government forbid any religion to be practiced other than their own.
First of all, the performances are fantastic. You are sent on a journey with Andrew's character and, whether you are religious or not, can feel the pain he suffers. I believe that even if you are not familiar with the full historical context, emotions can be felt here. Andrew Garfield especially in this moment in time is definitely one to watch right now.
Secondly, It looks absolutely gorgeous! Despite the fact that it was not filmed in Japan (it was filmed in Taiwan), doesn't detract from its natural beauty. I never once thought "Hey, they don't look like Japanese mountains!". The gorgeous landscape shots and close up shots result in beautiful cinematography from start to finish.
The audience is sent through emotional carnage. It never lets you off the hook for a second, and just as you think it couldn't get any worse for the protagonists, it does. It is a long film (some may say too long) and very emotionally draining, but connections can be made to the endurance both we go through as an audience and the characters in the film.
Even though this film is based heavily on religion, which could potentially steer away a lot of viewers, I believe any one can watch it. This is more of a film based on life itself, and staying true to what you a believe in no matter the costs or setbacks. That has potential to resonate with a very large audience.
I don't normally stay behind for credits, but for once I needed to just so i could process everything I had seen. There is a lot to take in here.
Its an incredibly complex film that will get you thinking, and with films like The Emoji Movie right now, whats the harm in a little thinking?