Product: Luther [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.2 Import - Germany ]
Rating: 5.0
An Important Piece of History
Throughout the history of Christianity and before, the religious Establishment has often been at odds with the faithful who take their religion personally. That syndrome continues in many forms today, with for example, a "building program" that becomes an end in itself rather than a channel for the worship of God.With superb acting all around, "Luther" clearly defines the reasons and results of the Protestant Reformation in a way that will be understood and appreciated by modern Protestants and Catholics alike. In this case, Pope Leo's "building program" was St. Peter's Basilica. Martin Luther is presented as a sincere and dedicated young priest who is shocked and heartsick over the Pope's selling of indulgences (forgiveness of sin) in exchange for building fund contributions.Martin Luther maintains his sincerity and humility throughout the movie, as the corruption of the Establishment becomes more and more apparent. He is awed by the realization of the power that his movement has unleashed. His many contributions to Christianity are brought out, including his hymns and his translation of the Holy Bible into German, "the language of the people."