MOVIES: "For Greater Glory"

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fastenatingguy said:
This review is spot on!

In consideration of what is on TV and cable, this movie could have been rated PG-13, even though the themes are for mature audiences. I can see 11-15 year-olds finding this movie to be valuable.

I have seen it twice (a premier event by Relevant Radio two weeks ago, and in our local theater).
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I agree on this. True the movie is violent, but it’s no worse than a lot of things shown on TV. The previews shown before this in the movie theater were a lot worse than the movie was! The acting was very good, and I was really impressed by the boy who played Jose. He did a fantastic job and deserves an award for this. He probably won’t get it since he didn’t play the part of a vampire or a zombie which is what Hollywood really likes. People don’t get awards for acting like good Catholics!
 
I saw the movie last night. It may not be considered successful in the critical sense, but it told the story beautifully. I recommend everyone support this movie.

If you have not yet seen it, be sure to watch all of the credits at the end of the movie because it shows actual pictures taken during the war, including some of those martyred.
Don’t forget to bring tissue!
 
I intended to see this, but the following negative review by an orthodox Catholic causes me to hesitate.

Despite its agonizing length, and perhaps out of weakness of stomach or simple cinematographic incompetence, it neglected even to suggest the full range of horrors for which the Calles government was responsible, limiting itself to bodies hanging from telephone poles and the torture of a teenaged boy. (Check out this Audio Sancto sermon for a more complete depiction of the many unprovoked atrocities committed by the Mexican government in its mysterious hatred of God). The fact that Calles was a Freemason, atheist, and socialist is never really mentioned — in fact, very little of the background to the war is mentioned, leaving the ignorant to scratch their heads at what the hell this whole thing was supposed to be about.

Most perniciously . . .] the whole film makes the Cristeros out to be martyrs for the Enlightenment, rather than its victims. I mentioned a second ago that the ignorant were left initially unclear about who we were supposed to root for and why. Well, the movie quickly supplies the answers: the Cristeros. Why? Because they’re fighting for freedom! (By contrast, Calles’ primary evil is that he’s a tyrant, not that he’s, you know, basically a Satanist).

This may only bother those with a somewhat reactionary political philosophy similar to mine. Still, to those who have seen it, without settling the political dispute, how factually valid is this criticism?

When I saw EWTN’s preview of the film, I found Andy Garcia’s support for vague American notions of mere “freedom” mildly annoying, but I figured it was more a reflection of his personal values. I shouldn’t have overestimated Hollywood and forgotten that classical liberalism is the primary reason Catholics ought to defend themselves. Oh, yeah, and hey, by the way: the one True Faith survived persecution, too.

Hooray American values! Hooray pluralistic tolerance! Hooray freedom of worship! [If Catholic, one may feel free to help himself to a courtesy “hooray” by slight implication in the privacy of his own home or parish. If not Catholic, substitute religious preference accordingly, using imagination, and also enjoy one small “hooray”. (Please excuse my indulgent, perhaps excessive, thread-crashing cynicism. Unless you like that sort of thing. Thank you.)]
 
In_Spiration said:
I intended to see this, but the following negative review by an orthodox Catholic causes me to hesitate.

Despite its agonizing length, and perhaps out of weakness of stomach or simple cinematographic incompetence, it neglected even to suggest the full range of horrors for which the Calles government was responsible, limiting itself to bodies hanging from telephone poles and the torture of a teenaged boy. (Check out this Audio Sancto sermon for a more complete depiction of the many unprovoked atrocities committed by the Mexican government in its mysterious hatred of God). The fact that Calles was a Freemason, atheist, and socialist is never really mentioned — in fact, very little of the background to the war is mentioned, leaving the ignorant to scratch their heads at what the hell this whole thing was supposed to be about.

Most perniciously . . .] the whole film makes the Cristeros out to be martyrs for the Enlightenment, rather than its victims. I mentioned a second ago that the ignorant were left initially unclear about who we were supposed to root for and why. Well, the movie quickly supplies the answers: the Cristeros. Why? Because they’re fighting for freedom! (By contrast, Calles’ primary evil is that he’s a tyrant, not that he’s, you know, basically a Satanist).

This may only bother those with a somewhat reactionary political philosophy similar to mine. Still, to those who have seen it, without settling the political dispute, how factually valid is this criticism?

When I saw EWTN’s preview of the film, I found Andy Garcia’s support for vague American notions of mere “freedom” mildly annoying, but I figured it was more a reflection of his personal values. I shouldn’t have overestimated Hollywood and forgotten that classical liberalism is the primary reason Catholics ought to defend themselves. Oh, yeah, and hey, by the way: the one True Faith survived persecution, too.

Hooray American values! Hooray pluralistic tolerance! Hooray freedom of worship! [If Catholic, one may feel free to help himself to a courtesy “hooray” by slight implication in the privacy of his own home or parish. If not Catholic, substitute religious preference accordingly, using imagination, and also enjoy one small “hooray”. (Please excuse my indulgent, perhaps excessive, thread-crashing cynicism. Unless you like that sort of thing. Thank you.)]
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Please consider that this topic of the Cristeros is NOT well known. Therfore, there is bound to be critical analysis of what they failed to show, how they treated war, etc. Contrast this with typical Hollywood fare (Read LEFT of center, whether “somewhat” or “far”) and then decide if it is worth seeing something that treats religion in a serious (though flawed) light.

I am just another guy, but I recommend you invest the $ and the time, then offer your own critique.
 
In_Spiration said:
I intended to see this, but the following negative review by an orthodox Catholic causes me to hesitate.

Despite its agonizing length, and perhaps out of weakness of stomach or simple cinematographic incompetence, it neglected even to suggest the full range of horrors for which the Calles government was responsible, limiting itself to bodies hanging from telephone poles and the torture of a teenaged boy. (Check out this Audio Sancto sermon for a more complete depiction of the many unprovoked atrocities committed by the Mexican government in its mysterious hatred of God). The fact that Calles was a Freemason, atheist, and socialist is never really mentioned — in fact, very little of the background to the war is mentioned, leaving the ignorant to scratch their heads at what the hell this whole thing was supposed to be about.

Most perniciously . . .] the whole film makes the Cristeros out to be martyrs for the Enlightenment, rather than its victims. I mentioned a second ago that the ignorant were left initially unclear about who we were supposed to root for and why. Well, the movie quickly supplies the answers: the Cristeros. Why? Because they’re fighting for freedom! (By contrast, Calles’ primary evil is that he’s a tyrant, not that he’s, you know, basically a Satanist).

This may only bother those with a somewhat reactionary political philosophy similar to mine. Still, to those who have seen it, without settling the political dispute, how factually valid is this criticism?

When I saw EWTN’s preview of the film, I found Andy Garcia’s support for vague American notions of mere “freedom” mildly annoying, but I figured it was more a reflection of his personal values. I shouldn’t have overestimated Hollywood and forgotten that classical liberalism is the primary reason Catholics ought to defend themselves. Oh, yeah, and hey, by the way: the one True Faith survived persecution, too.

Hooray American values! Hooray pluralistic tolerance! Hooray freedom of worship! [If Catholic, one may feel free to help himself to a courtesy “hooray” by slight implication in the privacy of his own home or parish. If not Catholic, substitute religious preference accordingly, using imagination, and also enjoy one small “hooray”. (Please excuse my indulgent, perhaps excessive, thread-crashing cynicism. Unless you like that sort of thing. Thank you.)]
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I actually agree with most of what this reviewer said, however, this film is very much worth seeing, especially by those who value religious freedom, or freedom in general. The Knights of Columbus contributed financing to this movie, in case that makes a difference to you
 
Despite a limited release, “For Greater Glory” was in the top 10% of ticket sales nationwide in its opening weekend, beating sales on “The Hunger Games” (released earlier).
It took in the tenth highest weekend gross despite showing in only a little over half the number of theaters of any other film in the top 10. It was the only movie in the top 10 that was not shown in at least 1,000 theaters nationally (757, compared to the next-lowest theater count of 1,294 and the 2,500-4,300 enjoyed by other top-grossers).
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cnsnews.com/blog/craig-bannister/movie-hollywood-wouldnt-make-tops-hunger-games-opening-weekend
 
hmmm… I don’t think 757 theaters is considered a limited release. The industry sites I have seen are calling it a wide release.

The gross take per theater, $2,491 on opening weekend, is respectable. But it isn’t remarkable either, and perhaps a bit disappointing.

Still, there is a chance that the film can sprout wings and fly. The 1998 movie Elizabeth wide release opened in 624 theaters, with a weekend gross $1,760 per theater. But the film went on to gross $30 million and pick up seven Oscar nominations.
 
Disappointingly, the film is not in my little town’s single-screen theater and is not advertised to be coming later, nor is it in either of the two larger theaters nearby.

I do know some of the reviews by secular critics were not very positive, though some of the criticism may have been ideologically driven.
 
Aelred_Minor said:
I do know some of the reviews by secular critics were not very positive, though some of the criticism may have been ideologically driven.
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I agree that some of the reviews made by professional movie critics (RottenTomatoes.com has many links to them) suggest a bias against the Catholic Church. Reading those reviews was a disheartening experience. But even in the biased reviews, there are common criticisms made which are shared by the non-biased reviews.

The movie is important. But it tries to cover too much ground, and suffers for it.
 
Dale_M said:
I agree that some of the reviews made by professional movie critics (RottenTomatoes.com has many links to them) suggest an ideological bias. It was disheartening to read them. But even in the biased reviews, there are common criticisms made which are shared by the non-biased reviews.

The movie is important. But it tries to cover too much ground and suffers for it.
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Dale - have you actually seent he movie? I ask because you parrot one review verbatum … I saw the movie and and wonder exactly what is meant by saying the movie “ties to cover too much ground” and “suffers for it” …

I certainly could follow the story line … I certainly felt the conflicts between those who wanted to continue the pacifist economic sanctions and the conflict between the Christian view of “turning the other cheek” and Christ’s recognizing the great sacrifice of self for another [no greater gift is there then to lay down one’s life for a friend] … or perhaps the children one wants to hand our faith on to - rather then have the parishes demolished and her priests murdered…

Ebert rightlyfully discussed the histiry of the conflict in his review and then panned the movie for being told through a Catholic lens and since the conflict was about religious freedom not including other faiths in the movie … I thought … What :confused: … essentially he was saying that the events involved catholics and the mexican government but the screen writers should have written in jewish rabbis and baptist ministers in an ecumenical rewrite of history … :rolleyes:
 
In_Spiration said:
I intended to see this, but the following negative review by an orthodox Catholic causes me to hesitate.

Despite its agonizing length, and perhaps out of weakness of stomach or simple cinematographic incompetence, it neglected even to suggest the full range of horrors for which the Calles government was responsible, limiting itself to bodies hanging from telephone poles and the torture of a teenaged boy. (Check out this Audio Sancto sermon for a more complete depiction of the many unprovoked atrocities committed by the Mexican government in its mysterious hatred of God). The fact that Calles was a Freemason, atheist, and socialist is never really mentioned — in fact, very little of the background to the war is mentioned, leaving the ignorant to scratch their heads at what the hell this whole thing was supposed to be about.

Most perniciously . . .] the whole film makes the Cristeros out to be martyrs for the Enlightenment, rather than its victims. I mentioned a second ago that the ignorant were left initially unclear about who we were supposed to root for and why. Well, the movie quickly supplies the answers: the Cristeros. Why? Because they’re fighting for freedom! (By contrast, Calles’ primary evil is that he’s a tyrant, not that he’s, you know, basically a Satanist).

This may only bother those with a somewhat reactionary political philosophy similar to mine. Still, to those who have seen it, without settling the political dispute, how factually valid is this criticism?

When I saw EWTN’s preview of the film, I found Andy Garcia’s support for vague American notions of mere “freedom” mildly annoying, but I figured it was more a reflection of his personal values. I shouldn’t have overestimated Hollywood and forgotten that classical liberalism is the primary reason Catholics ought to defend themselves. Oh, yeah, and hey, by the way: the one True Faith survived persecution, too.

Hooray American values! Hooray pluralistic tolerance! Hooray freedom of worship! [If Catholic, one may feel free to help himself to a courtesy “hooray” by slight implication in the privacy of his own home or parish. If not Catholic, substitute religious preference accordingly, using imagination, and also enjoy one small “hooray”. (Please excuse my indulgent, perhaps excessive, thread-crashing cynicism. Unless you like that sort of thing. Thank you.)]
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There is a twofold theme in the movie. First, the fight for religious freedom. Second, the conversion of the General, who struggles with his faith and is inspired by the faith and martyrdom of (Blessed) Jose. I don’t see how Catholics could find the film disappointing when it comes to those themes.

Regarding other criticism of the movie - poor editing, overbearing music, etc. - sadly, they are valid. This could have been a much better movie. I will still buy it when it comes out on DVD, but a better director and producers would have done wonders for this film. It is such a great story and piece of history, that it would have been nice if more people would see it.

Full disclosure: I didn’t see the ending. I got a text that my son was running a fever of 101 degrees, just as the martyrdom of Blessed Jose was on the screen, so I had to leave. 😦
 
In_Spiration said:
I intended to see this, but the following negative review by an orthodox Catholic causes me to hesitate.
Despite its agonizing length, and perhaps out of weakness of stomach or simple cinematographic incompetence, it neglected even to suggest the full range of horrors for which the Calles government was responsible,
​
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It is only a 2-1/2 hour movie. Hard to show every detail of a 3 year war in a few hours. I thought the movie was superb, as has almost everyone who has seen it. Head the reviews on Fandango from those who have seen the film. I have seen worse violence on TV

I give a 98/100 rating.​
 
Review of “For Greater Glory”

See the Bishop’s endorsement below

We saw the movie Friday night at the 6:45 showing, and the theater was full. We thought the movie was fabulous and very inspirational. The story of the struggle of the Cristeros of Mexico is most applicable to our time and place in history.

The film does a good job of contrasting the weakness and shortcomings of the human condition, with the more noble and exemplary conduct, and demonstration of heroic virtue that individuals are capable of rising to. The real life figure of José Sánchez del Río, a young boy portrayed in the film, is a great role model and inspiration for today’s young people. Make sure you stay for the credits, as they give a history of the important figures portrayed in the film, including those who were canonized by the Church. The audience, including several priests, gave a hardy round of applause at the end. Please encourage your pastors to see it.

The movie is rated R for violence, and there have been some concerns expressed in the press about that, but after seeing the film we do not think this is a serious issue. Yes, war is violent, and the film does not try to hide that. We felt, however, that the violence shown was not overdone, and was portrayed with restraint, being used only to the extent necessary to convey to the viewer the harshness of the Mexican government’s tyrannical suppression of the Church. We did not find it offensive, as is the case with so many other films today. I have seen far worse violence on TV.

Note however, this is not a movie for young children! High school students, depending on their maturity level, should be OK. As part of its review of the film, Catholic News Service put it this way: “For Greater Glory” is probably acceptable for mature adolescents – and may, indeed, do them a world of good! Please see the review at: catholicnews.com/data/movies/12mv060.htm

Our Catholic faith teaches that we are to teach by example and this film provides a number of “teaching moments” that are very inspirational, especially for younger generations. Young people (within the age restrictions listed above) need to see this film, both for its role model value, and to gain a better understanding of the seriousness of the current government attacks on the Church. If you know any teachers or youth group leaders, please tell them to encourage their students to see this movie. I rate it a 98/100

History has shown that the first step of an oppressive regime is to shut down the Church, and then will follow an attack on the civil liberties of all citizens. This is a fact that General Gorostieta knew well. I think it is very timely that this movie was released now, when our country is experiencing attacks on the Church, and on the Feast day of Saint Justin, Martyr.

Jim Baltrinic

PS, As usually, the main stream media are doing their best ridicule this excellent film. But then that is to be expected. They did the same thing with “October Baby”, which made fools out of the so-called “critics”. I have no doubt that “For Greater Glory” will do the same.

Endorsements from defendingthebride.com/ss/Glory/

His Eminence Seán O’Malley,
Cardinal, Archdiocese of Boston
“I wholeheartedly recommend it.”

Most Rev. José Horacio Gomez, Archbishop
DIOCESE OF LOS ANGELES
“For Greater Glory vividly depicts the difficult circumstances in which Catholics of that time lived – and died for – their faith. It is a top-flight production whose message of the importance of religious freedom has particular resonance for us today. It is my earnest hope that people of faith throughout our country will rally behind “For Greater Glory,” and in doing so, will highlight the importance of religious freedom in our society.”

Most Rev. William E. Lori
ARCHBISHOP OF BALTIMORE, MD
“For Greater Glory is an excellent film that has the courage to tell a story that has been all but forgotten. The sacrifices and hardships endured by those who would not renounce Christ helped preserve the religious liberty of millions … and it makes clear the truth that Christ taught us – that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for a friend.”

Carl Anderson,
Supreme Knight/CEO, Knights of Columbus
“For Greater Glory is ‘must-see’ viewing for all those who care about faith and liberty today.”

Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted,
Bishop, Diocese of Phoenix
“It is not often that a film opens a window into the past that casts so much light on the present. ‘For Greater Glory‘ depicts a courageous struggle for religious freedom that was inspired by love of Christ and love of country. The Cristeros of Mexico have much to teach us today.”
 
"For Greater Glory" - A fabulius piece of film-making.


As usually, the main stream media are doing their best ridicule this excellent film. But then that is to be expected by the secular godless media who do not want anything good, and try to discourage people from supporting a really great film. The media did the same thing with “October Baby”, which made fools out of the so-called “critics”. And now, “For Greater Glory”, will the leave those same critics with egg all over their faces once again. The film was # 10 in movie ratings for its opening weekend, and in only 750 theaters as compared to almost 4,000 theaters for Snow White. Read the reviews of others who have seen it, at: fandango.com/forgreaterglory_152952/moviereviews

My wife and I, have seen this film twice since its June 1st opening. We thought the movie was fabulous and very inspirational. The movie does a great job of contrasting the weakness and shortcomings of the human condition, with the more noble and exemplary conduct, and demonstration of heroic virtue that individuals are capable of rising to. Make sure you stay for the credits, as they give a history of the important figures portrayed in the film, including those who were canonized by the Church. This is a film that every Catholic should see! I also think this film would be very beneficial to all fallen away Catholics, especially those who have a desire in their heart to return to the faith. The audience, including several priests, gave a hardy round of applause at the end. Please encourage your pastors and friends to see it.

The movie is rated R for violence, and there have been some concerns expressed in the press about that, but after seeing the film we do not think this is a serious issue. Yes, war is violent, and the film does not try to hide that. We felt, however, that the violence shown was not overdone, and was portrayed with restraint, being used only to the extent necessary to convey to the viewer the harshness of the Mexican government’s tyrannical suppression of the Church. We did not find it offensive, as is the case with so many other films today. I have seen far worse violence on TV.

Note however, this is not a movie for young children! High school students, depending on their maturity level, should be OK. As part of its review of the film, Catholic News Service put it this way: “For Greater Glory” is probably acceptable for mature adolescents – and may, indeed, do them a world of good! Please see the review at: catholicnews.com/data/movies/12mv060.htm

Our Catholic faith teaches that we are to teach by example and this film provides a number of “teaching moments” that are very inspirational, especially for younger generations. Young people (within the age restrictions listed above) need to see this film, both for its role model value, and to gain a better understanding of the seriousness of the current government attacks on the Church. If you know any teachers or youth group leaders, please tell them to encourage their students to see this movie.

History has shown that the first step of an oppressive regime is to shut down the Church, and then will follow an attack on the civil liberties of all citizens. This is a fact that General Gorostieta knew well. I think it is very timely that this movie was released now, when our country is experiencing attacks on the Church, and on the Feast day of Saint Justin, Martyr.

Viva Cristo Rey!

Endorsements from defendingthebride.com/ss/Glory/

His Eminence Seán O’Malley,
Cardinal, Archdiocese of Boston
“I wholeheartedly recommend it.”

Most Rev. José Horacio Gomez, Archbishop
DIOCESE OF LOS ANGELES
“For Greater Glory vividly depicts the difficult circumstances in which Catholics of that time lived – and died for – their faith. It is a top-flight production whose message of the importance of religious freedom has particular resonance for us today. It is my earnest hope that people of faith throughout our country will rally behind “For Greater Glory,” and in doing so, will highlight the importance of religious freedom in our society.”

Most Rev. William E. Lori
ARCHBISHOP OF BALTIMORE, MD
“For Greater Glory is an excellent film that has the courage to tell a story that has been all but forgotten. The sacrifices and hardships endured by those who would not renounce Christ helped preserve the religious liberty of millions … and it makes clear the truth that Christ taught us – that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for a friend.”

Carl Anderson,
Supreme Knight/CEO, Knights of Columbus
“For Greater Glory is ‘must-see’ viewing for all those who care about faith and liberty today.”

Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted,
Bishop, Diocese of Phoenix
“It is not often that a film opens a window into the past that casts so much light on the present. ‘For Greater Glory‘ depicts a courageous struggle for religious freedom that was inspired by love of Christ and love of country. The Cristeros of Mexico have much to teach us today.”

For Theater locations, please see forgreaterglory.com/
 
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