Five Christ-Figures in Film
1. The Iron Giant from Iron Giant
WHAT WORKS: The Iron Giant comes to Earth from the heavens. He says very little. He has an extraordinary amount of power. He looks out for the little guys, and the down-and-outs. Ultimately, he sacrifices himself for humanity (in this case Maine), and comes back to life.
WHAT DOESN’T WORK: He was created to destory things. He doesn’t know how to harness his power, almost killing the very one who is trying to help him. Oh yeah, and he’s a robot.
2. Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird
WHAT WORKS: He is a moral man from a small town. He cares for “the least of these.” He is wise beyond his years, and considered a great leader.
WHAT DOESN’T WORK: He is not Jewish. He has children. May be more of a God figure than Christ figure
3. Superman from Superman Returns
WHY IT DOESN’T WORK: He has a son of his own. He flies. He wears glasses.
4. Brubaker from Brubaker (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080474/)
WHAT WORKS: He comes into an area full of sinners, yet he did not sin himself. He comes to help, yet is mistreated. He is a man of power, yet keeps his power to himself.
WHAT DOESN’T WORK: He swears. He’s blond. No one’s ever seen this movie.
5. The Terminator in Terminator 2
WHAT WORKS: He comes to Earth in almost a magical way. He comes to Earth naked, having to learn the ways of the people. He has great power, coming to save humanity (by proxy). He gives his life to save us from the ultimate evil.
WHAT DOESN’T WORK: Just about everything else.
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My favorite Christ figure on film: Cool Hand Luke.