I graduated from BYU almost two years ago. One of the daily rituals I miss most while in college is reading the opinion page of the paper. I love this page, and sometimes find myself reading it although it has little impact on my life now. I love to read the various views on policy, student body problems and lately movies.
Although I don't condemn anyone who sees a R-rated movie, 'The Passion of the Christ' has greatly challenged my general rule. I haven't seen 'Schindler's List' or 'Saving Private Ryan' although I know they must be realistic. Indeed, as a history major, I would actually thoroughly enjoy them I am sure. I simply have never been able to see an R-rated movie. In fact, I believe I see a PG-13 movie perhaps every few years. Movies such as 'Austin Powers' and 'Waterboy' just don't intrigue my mind due to the crude comments and behavior.
Robert Millet, one of our BYU ancient scripture professors, was recently quoted in the Salt Lake Tribune (immediately after viewing 'The Passion of the Christ'), 'I don't generally go to R-rated movies, but this is another experience where the rating system has betrayed us, . . .' (Salt Lake Tribune, Wed. Feb 24, 2004). This rattled my long-standing rule to avoid rated-R movies (not to mention that he stated 'another' experience). Do I go with his view? He was my stake president while at BYU and a very worthy and wonderful man (a man I admire greatly). Or do I go with the pamphlet For the Strength of the Youth when it states, 'Do not attend, view, or participate in entertainment that is vulgar, immoral, violent, or pornographic in anyway'? (emphasis added)
Ultimately, to gain a testimony of the Savior, Joseph Smith, Moses, Abraham, Enoch and other prophets did not have to see the pain and suffering of Christ (although they may have seen it). I figure I'll just strengthen my testimony the old-fashioned way, through prayer, fasting, studying my scriptures and something more effective then any movie, no matter how realistic, the Holy Ghost. I have no need for this movie, nor is it the most effective use of my time.
Golden Thomas
Salt Lake City