You’ve probably seen the trailers for the upcoming “Hitman,” due for release in theatres on November 21. Timothy Olyphant stars as Agent 47, a genetically engineered assassin, direct from the successful “Hitman” video game series.
What caught my attention was the trailer’s primary themes of “sinner” and “saint.” The intent is to drive home the drama of the movie, as the main character undergoes a transformation of conscience from his “sinner” past of assassinations (and his clarity about his life’s purpose) to his “saint” tendencies of conscience amidst political change and his exposure to a girl whose life story gets his attention.
From the sinner/saint theme to the bar code tattooed into his head (a reference to the mark of the beast?), I find myself of mixed emotions regarding these biblical references.
If the movie is able to somehow attract attention to—and shed light on—the wonderful opportunity we all have to leave our natural sinful nature behind and experience the assurance and confidence of being part of the family of God, then how wonderful it will be that many young people (and the young at heart) will see this film.
In any case, the trailer certainly got my attention, which was, of course, the point! But if this is just another example of borrowing from biblical themes without taking their Source seriously, then I’ll continue to be miffed at how, in mainstream films, the themes of the Bible are treated universally, but its truth isn’t given enough attention.
posted November 7, 2007 at 1:53 pm
It can’t be any worse, or get any better than was “Shoot ‘Em Up” from earlier this year. In America we employ violence for redemption. It seems most European film makers use sex and relationships. as much as I enjoy (in a thrilling way) the American approach, I find much more (in a titillating way)in the European’s work. The Asians seem to combine the two (as in Manga or some of the Bollywood films)
posted November 8, 2007 at 10:43 pm
If Hollywood needs to use the symbols, themes, or anything from the Bible to sell their movies, then so be it. We as Christians understand that God is the author and finisher of our faith. We don’t need clues to find our salvation. We know that the only way to Salvation is through Jesus Christ. We all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. We are all sinners. By chosing to believe in Jesus Christ, we become Saints.
posted November 9, 2007 at 12:09 pm
It is interesting none the less… And we can use this as platforms to jump off. There are a ton of great illustrations in modern pop culture of man’s quest to find God and such. http://www.fromthefield.us
posted November 21, 2007 at 1:37 am
It’s rated R for sexuality/nudity, some anyone know to what extent and if it’s guys butt or peverse in nature.???????
posted November 24, 2007 at 9:50 pm
I think it is a sick movie and game, it poses a threat to our children’s well being, why do we buy these kind of games for our children and let them watch these type of movies that show killing’s and sex and bad language. It is a shame that we allow society to disgrace our Wonderful Creater Jehovah-Jireh and we all keep our mouth shut to this kind of mess, than we wonder why our children are the way that they are, society has tought our children that it is ok to sin, and yet we give our children the authority to choose whether they will attend church. Have mercy on us all Father…..
posted December 5, 2007 at 7:19 pm
Just saw the pic. Nudity refers to topless female main character. Otherwise, Oliphant has a shower scene behind marbled glass. Not good for kids in the female nudity and violence areas. Adults, however, should take heed to some minor references to the characters upbringing and beliefs, which are, oddly, faith based.
In one sequence, the drunken girl tries to seduce the hero(?), only to be rebuffed due to his religious beliefs.
I found the film sufficiently engaging for an adult only. NO ONE under 18 should be allowed to see this film.
My 2 cents (adjusted for inflation).
posted March 12, 2008 at 3:40 am
i think timothy olyphant is the hottest guy in cinema scenes.
he’s sharp eyes are just just too sexy!
go timothy!
you rock baby!