'Kingdom of Heaven'

Film Review # 109046

Film > Analysis, Criticism, Etc.
Religion and Theology

'Kingdom of Heaven'

This paper analyzes the film 'Kingdom of Heaven' directed by Ridley Scott.

1,722 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2008 Australia

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that 'Kingdom of Heaven' is set in Jerusalem in the late 12th century when there was a fragile peace between Muslims and Christians. The writer maintains that rather than portraying religion as infallible as people believed in the 12th century, Scott uses a humanist approach in this film, as an example of the way things should be done. The writer discusses that the film advocates tolerance between people of different race and religions. The writer concludes that 'Kingdom of Heaven' is an enjoyable, entertaining film but also contains a deeper meaning that was intentionally included by Scott. This meaning is that tolerance and understanding are a key in helping change the unstable environment in the Middle East. Scott also shows that radical religious behavior is only detrimental to peace and serves as a catalyst for wars and conflict.

From the Paper:

"In the film a bishop who is present for the speech yells that this is a blasphemous statement. In the 12th century this would certainly be considered blasphemy because it completely contradicts the entire principle of the crusades which was to recapture Jerusalem based on its holy value. Scott uses this humanist perspective to help highlight the problems religion can cause.
"Throughout Kingdom of Heaven, Scott's view of religion is apparent. Simply by showing the film with a humanist perspective, Scott is saying that religion can be problematic. Religion is one of the main themes of the film and the audience is presented with the characters of the film using religion as an excuse for anything. As with humanism, Scott's portrayal of religion being used as an excuse begins early in the film."

Sample of Sources Used:

Kingdom of Heaven. Dir. Ridley Scott. Perf. Orlando Bloom, Liam Neeson. DVD. 20th Century Fox, 2005.
"Ridley Scott's Kingdom of Heaven: Propaganda Film?." 8 May 2007 <http://www.zombietime.com/kingdom_of_heaven/>.