Ms. Elaine Kneeous

The Good Book on the Big Screen

Posted by Jennifer Fischer on Oct. 3, 2012

Generally speaking, I’m not a fan of anything Hollywood.  The “stars” of today couldn’t carry the lunches of true actors & actresses of the bygone Golden Age.  They’re a self-important bunch:  they use every awards ceremony to tout their political (liberal!) beliefs during acceptance speeches that should be recognizing their supporting crew and the “little people” who spend their hard-earned cash to continue to line their pockets.  If any one of the leading ladies or men knocked on my door today, I wouldn’t recognize them or care to.  As with every situation, however, there are redeeming exceptions.

I found it refreshing and inspiring to read that film makers are writing scripts and getting current “big names” to portray historical Big Names.  Russell Crowe as Noah, anyone?  That’s right…  Hollywood is once again realizing that bible stories can make great movies.  Sure, they’re still motivated by the bottom line.  No one is going to finance a film with the thought that it’s going to flop.  But reasons for turning to the Good Book for plots make sense.  “Characters are easily recognizable… the bible provides plenty of dramatic story lines…”  Also, “Several industry executives say that today's audiences may be open to the inspirational lessons of the Bible at a time when much of the world is facing economic turmoil and the Middle East is racked by political instability.”

Seems like the right stories at the right time.  I just might make an exception to my general rule about not seeing a movie on the Big Screen.  Watch more from WSJ here: