We dive into Martin Scorsese's 2016 film Silence, an adaptation of the novel by Shusaku Endo. The story explores the story of Jesuit missionaries in Japan which resonates with the LDS mission experience. Joining us is special guest Van Gessel, a retired BYU professor who translated Endo's works into English and was a consultant on the film. We talk about his experience working on the film and the differences between the film and the book. Don't miss the debate on the morality of Father Rodrigues's final decision. Is this film about a failure of faith or the necessity of the atonement? Whichever you way you lean, it's certain that this film will make you think.
Our Ratings: Content: Celestial- Artistic Merit: 5 popcorn balls Gospel Connections: 4 apricots
Best Books:
Daniel - Shtisel (Netflix) and Srugim (Amazon Prime); The Farewell
Jeff - Artifact Space by Miles Cameron; Five Kingdoms series by Brandon Mull; Book of Enoch; The Lost Symbol (series on Peacock not recommended; book recommended)
Van - Crash Landing on You; Departures
Links:
Shinya Tsukamoto - Japanese filmmaker who was cast as Mokichi
Alma and Amulek watch their converts being martyred in Alma 14
"Do the thing that we would not do" - a paraphrase of Romans 7:15
"How often would I have gathered thee as a hen gathereth her chicks" - paraphrase of Matt 23:37 and 3 Nephi 10:4-6
"Sooner would a nursing mother forget her child" - paraphrase of Isaiah 49:15
Earlier Japanese film of Silence - Chinmoku
From the Juvenile Instructor: "Some Mormon Theology in Shusaku Endo’s Silence"
Two positive responses to the film from a faith-based perspective: Fr. James Martin answers 5 common questions about 'Silence,' ‘Silence’ Review: Martin Scorsese’s Jesuit Drama Is a Religious Experience
Negative response to the film from a faith-based perspective:
Films with similar themes:
Heartbreak Ridge (1986)
The Mission (1986)
A Hidden Life (2019)
Find Us:
Liz - lizbusby.com
Daniel - Nauvoo Neighbor
Jeff - Twitter: @JeffSBennion; Public Square Magazine
Video editing by Robert Hill
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