One of the greatest challenges organized religion faces in modern society is the ability to attract newer generations who feel a growing disconnect between their daily lives and the struggles presented in stories found in religious texts.
When a film like Noah is announced, it is easy to dismiss the movie as either religious propaganda, or blasphemous on the grounds that it takes slight liberties with the source material. Nonetheless, whether you enter the movie theater a devout christian, or a skeptic atheist, I am pleased to say Noah is one the best films I have seen in a long time.
I recommend that everyone go see this movie, as Darren Aronofsky, the film’s director, has found a way to relate modern themes and struggles to a story which, previously, seemed alienating and featured characters which might seem impossible to relate to.
Noah tells the story of one of the most well known Biblical Narratives from the perspective of an atheist director. While this has caused a fair deal of controversy for many Christian organizations and leaders, it is this very void of faith that allows the director to craft a film anyone could enjoy and find a connection to.
There are strong themes of mercy, judgement, the sins of our fathers, the responsibilities we feel, and obedience. Noah and his family struggle with the roles they are given and, without this struggle, it would be difficult to sympathize at all with the characters.
The writing is also bolstered by Aronofsky’s use of special effects and repeated visuals which create add meaning rather than simply provide shallow eye candy. Exactly what Aronofsky was trying to convey is up for interpretation, but it is clear that if every shred of the Christian faith disappeared over night, this is still a film that could be viewed for years to come and enjoyed all the same.
Noah is a film I left with absolutely no complaints. If someone did not enjoy the movie, it is because of their own personal taste and nothing more. This is a rare film which, objectively, lacked any true flaws and I can not wait to see it again.
It is ambitious in scope, visually breathtaking, powerfully written, and strengthened by one of the best soundtracks in recent years, from composer Clint Mansell. Noah stands as one the best films of the year, no question.
Verdict: Two Thumbs UP!
