As you may know by now I am an avid moviegoer. I like to be entertained and I'm always looking for something to catch not only my eye, but to move my heart. This is not what we experience frequently nowadays. I have been wanting to catch "For Greater Glory" for a few weeks now and finally did so with some of our men in our seminary formation.
Even though I had heard in passing of the "Cristeros", those who fought for Catholic Freedom in Mexico during the early part of the Twentieth Century. I didn't know the intensity of it all. That is a sad reality of many of the world situations, past and present. They become a passing comment or a light chapter with no real weight in our lives, that is if no one takes a moment to bring new light upon it.
Again I went with no real expectations to see this film, but I must confess that I was a little apprehensive when I heard some of the cast involved. Just because when we get more well known actors involved, it can get a little Hollywoodesque. More colorful, but not more content. I was greatly surprised.
The story was violent and real, it reflected a piece of history that has been swept under a rug. Religious persecution is something that continues to happen this very day and age. Many times not making any news, because faith seems not to matter or sell. Here is a testimony of that faith.
I don't condone war, I always chose the pacifist route. I don't want more lives destroyed and people left scarred in any way. This movie reflects that. But I think the deeper meaning is to stand up in one way or another for what you believe in. We talk about freedom, but many times our freedom is suppressed. In the name of respecting others views and ideas, we forget that we have something to say or to offer. It is also important.
We stand up for many things, but our faith, that which truly makes us and moves, is something we frequently suppress.
This was a good cast, I was really touched in many instances by the simplicity and profoundness of many of the dialogues. But I would like to center on two characters especially Fr. Christopher (played by Peter O'Toole) and the young boy Jose (played by Mauricio Kuri). Both excellent in their roles. Fr. Christopher reflected that old school faith with a deep compassion for life, mercy and love. He really knew how turn around situations with great care for the people, especially God's children. Giving love until the end.
Jose, who becomes his young protege is compelling. This young boy tugs at your heart with his sincerity, courage and ultimately his faith. His ability to leave all that he knew and possessed, at such a young age, showed conviction. And even though we may think many times that a child has a lot to learn, here we have an example of how a child can lead and move others to greater places by his example.
I was moved to tears many times. I saw many scenes that reminded me of Christ's life. I saw people who were a faithful people, that truly believed and were willing to stand up for what was wrong. Many ultimately offering their lives for the great cause. We need people like that in this day and age. People who are beacons of light and not destruction or darkness. People of God who a truly convinced of the Greatness of God. People who are not afraid to say we have a treasure to offer. Viva Cristo Rey!
