FROM MAD MAX TO THE PASSION

When Mad Max first flashed across the big screen, little did anyone realize that Mel Gibson would become a great actor and an exceptional director. This man stood up for what he believed, no matter what public opinion was about his movie “The Passion of the Christ”. Not only did he stand up to the hail of criticism but he put millions of his own money into the production of this film. It is not everyday that you come across a man (especially an actor) that truly “puts his money where his mouth is”. So why is Mel different? His latest venture shows much of the “true grit” that is Mel Gibson. He has defied the Hollywood lifestyle in many ways. He is still married to his wife of 24 years and has seven children. Success was not an easy road for Mel. During an interview with Diane Sawyer he told her how hard it is when you’re given so much money and attention. There was a time when the seduction of that life started to get to him and he considered suicide, but something brought him back from the brink. In recent years, he had the desire to show the world the true passion of Christ. In his endeavor he not only made a masterpiece of a film, but he brought the Bible to life, and places you in the midst of the story. The scenery, the costumes, the languages, sights and emotional interactions among the actors are so very real. It is a far cry from the Biblical films of the 1950s. You do not have to believe or be of a religious background to see this movie - it transcends all. When you sit down to view the film, you become transfixed and transported into another time. Every adult should see this movie. Is it too brutal? No it is not, it is just man’s inhumanity to man. It has been going on since the beginning of time. This film speaks to each and every one of us. It reaches into our souls. When the movie is finished, not a person in the theater stirs. The people just sit there for awhile because of the impact not only of the story but of their emotions. Mel Gibson, if you ever get your hands on this issue of 10-4 Magazine, I just want you to know you did a most excellent job of following your heart. You showed the world that no matter the outcries and accusations, you had to make this film. And in doing so, you proved that good does still exist - and triumphs! Thank you Mr. Gibson!