Because there are still 8 months, 2 weeks and one day until the third edition of the Quo Vadis Film Festival (not that anyone would be counting :) ), we recommend a list of films and series that you can watch until the marathon of films and events that we are preparing for this year’s edition.
- The series “The Chosen”
The main actor, Jonathan Roumie, once shared how he received from Dallas Jenkins the proposal to portray Jesus in a new series, however... they had one small problem, they had no money. Although the financial part was not yet secured, the actor accepted and they launched a fundraising campaign for the first 4 episodes. They succeeded, they filmed them, and after releasing the trailer for these 4 episodes, people liked what they saw very much and since then the production of this series has relied on the financial support of fans from all over the world. At present, the series has reached season 6, which is currently in production.
What makes this series different from other films portraying the life of Jesus? The action is presented from the perspective of the Apostles and of other people who meet Christ. Although it may seem like an insignificant detail, it offers a particular perspective. Also, for those who follow such rankings, it has a rating of 9.1 on IMDB, and the trailer can be seen here.
- The series “Saint Paisios – From Farasa to Heaven”
This series tries (and succeeds very well) to present to the public fragments from the life of the monk Paisios the Athonite, recently canonized in 2015. The “Saint Maximus the Greek” Institute of Vatopedi Monastery was also involved in the making of the film (at the first edition of the Quo Vadis Film Festival we had a screening organized by this institute, the film “Saint Joseph the Hesychast”, and the guests at this screening were Archim. Efrem of Vatopedi and the American actor Jonathan Jackson) and among the filming locations we can mention Corfu, Konitsa and Mount Athos, places where the Saint lived.
Although at first glance this series may seem boring, because it does not involve the action scenes that Hollywood films have accustomed us to, the production is very well made and the viewer ends up feeling part of this story. Everything is completed by a very well chosen musical line. IMDB rating: 8.9, trailer here.
- Hacksaw Ridge
The film follows the real story of Desmond Doss (played by Andrew Garfield), an American soldier who refused to carry a weapon during the Second World War (you can see the trailer here). With such a premise, the film should be short and without much action. However, it is exactly the opposite.
“I don’t know how I am going to live with myself if I don’t stay true to what I believe.” – this is what motivates Desmond.
Mel Gibson (the director and producer of the film) shows his talent once again in a film that will not leave you indifferent and will move you deeply. Gibson’s vision for the battle scenes was influenced by childhood nightmares connected to the stories told by his father, Hutton Gibson, about the horrors of the war in the Pacific.
- The Book of Eli
A traveler faces a devastated, starving and desolate America, protecting a sacred book that holds the secrets of humanity’s salvation. The cast includes several well-known names such as Denzel Washington (winner of two Academy Awards), Gary Oldman and Mila Kunis.
“People had more than they needed. We had no idea what was precious and what wasn’t.” a reflection that does not remain limited to the film, but also applies to real life.
Besides the action, the film explores themes such as faith, morality and the power of knowledge. Many critics have remarked that the ending can be interpreted as a commentary on the importance of literature and spirituality in the survival of humanity. Watch the trailer here.
- The Shawshank Redemption
Many film lovers have declared that this film is their favorite, and we agree with them. Although released in 1994 (you can also see a trailer here), The Shawshank Redemption still holds its place there, among the best films ever made. In the film we follow the story of a banker sentenced to prison for the murder of his wife, while Morgan Freeman, besides being the narrator, also plays Andy’s companion (the banker).
The film brings an encouragement to live, regardless of the circumstances, not just to wait to die: “Get busy living, or get busy dying.”
We admit, it is not an easy film, even difficult at times, but it offers important lessons about resilience, compassion and perseverance that inspire you and remain with you for a long time. It is up to each person how they will make use of them. We also mention the IMDB rating: 9.3.
This year, the theme of our festival is “My Neighbor” and all these recommendations that we have made approach this theme, even though not all of them are religious films. If you manage to watch at least one of the recommendations we made, we would be glad if you shared your impressions with us.
Enjoy the films!
