This essay is about Mel Gibson's Passion of the Christ. I review the movie and see if Mel Gibson's directing efforts paid off like he wanted it to.

This is both more and less than a movie. In one sense, it is less a movie than the heartfelt prayer of a gifted film-maker. In another it is a narrow and harrowing perspective on a story that, no matter what your faith, is bigger than any attempt to portray on film. Mel Gibson has made this movie to convey his view of the last hours of the life of Jesus. It is not history …

…of the same locations as "The Passion of the Christ." These may be more appropriate for children and others sensitive to violence than this film or for those looking for a fuller depiction of Jesus' life and teachings. They might also like to watch movies that depict the impact of Jesus on people of the time, like Ben Hur and The Robe. Another very controversial depiction of the crucifixion is The Last Temptation of Christ.