Product: Luther [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.2 Import - Germany ]
Rating: 4.0
Fiennes Shines in "Luther"
Martin Luther was one of those people who appear from time to time that change the course of history. Luther is almost literally the father of the modern Protestant Church as it exists today.The film "Luther" gives a riveting portrayal of just what it took from the man and the German people to shake the very foundations of a corrupt Catholic church in the 16th century. Joseph Fiennes gives a wide-ranging performance as the legendary German monk who had the audacity to force the Catholic hierarchy to face it's own monumental hypocrisy. I honestly believe Fienne's portrayal of Luther is Oscar worthy, but this is unlikely due to this film's almost total lack of noteriety.The irony of "Luther" is the fact that much of what one sees in this movie from religious authority figures is still present today. There are still far too many who will follow a demogogue if he spouts the right words, and who will all too willingly give up their financial and intellectual independence in search of "salvation".Martin Luther's travails helped enable each person to have a personal relationship with God, one not defined by some figure who claimed himself as the lone conduit to heaven. We would do well to remember his lessons 500 years after he nailed his message to the door of the church in Wittenburg. 4 very solid stars.