Epic faith flicks

In the past month, two famous actors passed away who were known for certain classic films with religious significance. They were actors, not saints, and their movies were not perfect in all respects, neither as films nor as catechesis, but they had great impact on people’s concepts and images of faith.

Of the religious films in which these two actors starred, the most perfect was A Man for All Seasons in which Saint Thomas More was played by Paul Scofield (who passed away last month).

However, Charlton Heston (who passed away last night) starred in religious-themed films that were far grander in spectacle and popular impact.

In The Ten Commandments, he portrayed Moses.

As Ben Hur, he portrayed a man who has life-changing encounters with Christ.

In The Agony and the Ecstasy, he portrayed Michelangelo, who created great art in the employ of a pope.

Requiescant in pace.