Hi, Bill:

I think it's fascinating that the movie I think best captures the power of Christ's life is The Gospel According To St. Mathhew, which was directed by Paolo Paolini who was not only an Atheist, but a Communist. Admittedly, Christ came off with an attitude more like Marlon Brando than Mother Theresa, but there were no Hollywood trappings or prettiness to the story. I spent years trying to get a video of the movie before I finally got a copy (at a rather hefty price.) One of these nights I'll put it on and see how graphic and realistic the crucifixion is. From what I remember, it was just graphic enough to realize the suffering involved. That movie and Jesus of Montreal are two of my favorite, most challenging and unconventional movies.

And Bill.. I don't think of you as an Atheist. I think of you as Bill.

Jerry