Product: Luther [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.2 Import - Germany ]
Rating: 5.0
Far from comprehensive, yet still strongly recommended!
This review is for the 2003 MGM DVD.The 113 minute presentation on this DVD covers a lot of ground, and to the best of my knowledge, the major thrust of the stories appear to be historically accurate. This really could have been made into a mini-series since there's a lot that wasn't covered - some of it his positive contributions such as his recognition that salvation is attained by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ and not by works. He also wrote some of Christianity's best hymns. But he also wasn't a person without faults and I'm glad the film didn't go deeply in that direction either.I've read a lot about Luther the past 30 years and this film is just wonderful in that shows the key events in these ancient German cathedrals with meticulous detail to costumes and props. Peter Ustinov gives a stirring performance as Frederick the Wise and likewise, Joseph Fiennes convincingly pulls of the challenging role of Martin Luther. Even if you have no interest in Christianity or the Protestant movement, there is no denying that Martin Luther was a man of deep convictions and courage - even in the face of death.The DVD is must-see for any Christian and can be used as springboard to open up discussion with non-Christians. I just watched it for the first time and lent it to my neighbors and I can't wait to watch it again!