Categories: cinema, other-churches
Date: 03 June 2007 13:50:24
The film (IMDb page; official site [Russian only -- or at least as far as I can see]) I saw at the Dinner / Film night at this beautiful parish [which, despite what the opulent interior may suggest, is in one of the poorer areas of Sydney: and the suburb is now more known for SE Asian migrants than Russians: suburbs are constantly changing: it is a good and exciting thing about Sydney] -- though, of course, the dinner [scrumptious...and glorious dessert] and film were held in the hall! It was great to catch up with some friends I haven't seen for a while also.
As well, just before I went to the parish, I dropped by my old, old Anglican parish (the one I went to before I discovered Anglo-Catholicism) on the other side of Cabramatta, to catch up with those there. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision: I called my friend L who had a baby two months ago to catch-up. She said she was in the church foyer with bub, so off I went. Church was half-way through, and I stayed and talked to her, and another friend who was also in the foyer with her. I caught up with them, chatting the time away, and then quickly said "Hello" to those who were there when I was there (1997-2001) after the service. It was a blessing to see them again and hear what is happening: God willing I may see them again soon. My friend's husband will preach in a few weeks (he is studying to work in youth ministry), so I may return then.
The Island, which is a fictional film, begins in the early 1940s with a young Russian man who, after the boat he is on is boarded by Germans, kills a fellow Russian in order to save his own life. After an explosion on the ship which was set by the Germans, he is rescued by several monks and becomes part of their monastery. The movie flashes forward a few decades, and we discover him continuing to live at the monastery. Through a series of interactions, we discover he has the gift of insight [not sure as to its proper name: being able to know and read people's thoughts and discern the future] and also the gift of healing. To keep himself humble, he plays the Holy Fool. This, as you may expect, causes a bit of discord and trouble with those around him.
I, and those I was with, found it a deeply moving, and deeply challenging film. It is not only beautifully shot, but wonderfully acted, and the key theme of repentance is displayed in the most marvellous way. There are also many, many laugh-out-loud moments. In addition, the prayers, personal and corporate, of the Orthodox Church feature throughout. Truly a wonderful film and I recommend it. I'm not sure how easy it is to rent / buy, but I am going to look tomorrow. I'd love to see it again already.
It's been quite a good week for me and movies.