email:  whitpresby@mindspring.com

Session V, April 16, 2003

 Opening Prayer

Scripture for Easter Sunday             Mark 16:1-8

Discussion

 Film Discussion

 1.  Here is a list of characters in the movie.  How have they been transformed by the end of the movie?

Caroline

Vianne

Anouk

Josephine

Mayor

Priest

What other character changes are you aware of?

2.  What religious values do you see in this film?

3.  What experiences of transformation have you had in your life?

4.  Here are two statements from reviews of this film by Christians.  What is your response to them?

 Although the filmmakers make a valid point about religious doctrines often replacing Christian charity within Christian gatherings, unfortunately, they do so in a rather bitter way. The film and its director seem bent on challenging not just the foibles of Christians, but Christianity itself.”  Phil Boatwright, “Movie Reporter” web site.

 Movieguide website wasn't happy with the "politically correct and anti-Christian elements," but called it "an interesting, richly made parable" that contains "a strong Christian sense of the proper roles of Law and Grace." Movieguide notes that "the movie clearly shows that a pagan, sometimes occult, lifestyle has not been able to fully satisfy either Vianne or her young daughter.”

 Closing prayer.