2 of 2

In To End All Wars, by contrast, we see a believable story of living by Christ's teachings amid the worst deprivation. The heroes of this film are held captive by Japanese soldiers who live by Bushido, a brutal code that emphasizes face-saving and raw power. Yet through the example of prisoner Dusty Miller (Mark Strong), a self-sacrificing Christian, these soldiers find ways to show grace and forgiveness even to their tormentors.

To End All Wars is by no means a pacifist film, but it shows how a desire for justice must not be confused with mere vengeance.

Producer Jack Hafer plans to build an audience for his film through word of mouth and regional openings. His work will be made easier by a strong cast, including Kiefer Sutherland (most recently of Fox TV's 24), James Cosmo (Braveheart), and Japanese actors who have all appeared in the legendary films of Akira Kurosawa.

Those who believe that films about Christianity must be safe or tame should avoid To End All Wars. The story occurs during World War II, after all, so blood flows freely. Men struggle against starvation, and they are surrounded by daily reminders of impending death.

People who realize that Christianity is not a religion for the naïve or for cowards can see To End All Wars and celebrate its message. Prepare to grimace as you see men suffer, but also prepare to cry as you see the power of the gospel made manifest even in a World War II hellhole.

Douglas LeBlanc edits The CT Review.

Copyright © 2002 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

The official website for To End All Wars includes a synopsis, images, media coverage links, and video clips.

The Star Wars website has more information than you ever thought you'd want to know about Episode II: Attack of the Clones, including a series of behind-the-scenes videos.

For more CT movie reviews, see our Film archive and also our Film Forum area, a weekly roundup of what Christian critics are saying about new and noteworthy movies.

Film Forum discussions of Attack of the Clones included "A New Hope for Star Wars Fans" and "Bad Boys Trying to Be Good."

In the March/April issue of Christianity Today sister publication Books & Culture, professor and writer Telford Work examined the reactions of fans to Episode I: The Phantom Menace.

first page |  2 of 2

share this page

July 8 2002, Vol. 46, No. 8