I had the opportunity to screen this compelling movie about a month ago. I had an idea that these types of conflicts were happening in the Middle East but this movie really educated and gave me a clear picture of how bad it actually is.  Despite my watching it through tear-filled eyes at points, I do highly recommend this movie.  The world needs to be made aware of this injustice and all who have died because of it. 

(Note: the film is rated R for a reason.  If you are faint of heart and can’t stomach the sight of blood, this isn’t the movie for you. Think “The Passion”. Personally I think what makes it hardest to watch is knowing that its a true story.)

In reflection, the pro-life message the movie gives is that all people were created in the image and likeness of God and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.  Born and unborn, man or woman, Christian or Muslim.  After all, “Let he who has no sin cast the first stone”.

Kara - I am so happy that you were able to comment, since you have seen the film.  I think I’m going to go by myself to see it, taking a box of tissue with me…Would love perspectives from anyone else who attended an advance screening.

One of my brothers also had the opportunity to see a screening of this movie & he echoed Kara’s response above about the power of this movie.  He said there were many symbolic elements to the story that likened it to The Passion of the Christ.  I hope The Stoning of Soraya M. raises the awareness of terrible crimes against human life like this.  As uncomfortable as it might make us, it is something that needs to be seen.

I went to a Boston pre-screening for this powerful film.  I was deeply moved and affected by this film, just as I was by The Passion of the Christ. People openly wept in the theatre.

Put it on your must-see list when it opens June 26th.

A few caveats:

1) This is R-rated, and not a film for children or for impressionable younger teens IMHO. This is one of those that if you think you want your teens to view it, go view it first yourself as a parent, then decide.

2) While being promoted to many Christian markets, this is not about Christianity. In fact, the main characters are Muslims. Yet it is more than a film about them.  It’s about humanity. And our inhumanity to one another because of sin. Therefore, there are many universal themes and moral lessons applicable to people of all faiths and ethnicities and cultures.

3) You will want to make sure this one innocent woman, Soraya, did not die in vain.

4) You will want to pray deeply over this passage from John 8:7…
And [Jesus]... stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.”

You migth think I’m old fashion, but whatever happen to the Legion of Decency? Why have R-rated movies been so acceptable for Catholic’s to view. Are the Ten Commandments just for children? As far as I am concern there are NO movies out there that are good clean entertaining and have any redeeming value, because of the sex, vilence and language..even childrens movies throw in bathroom humore. Aren’t we all just a little weak when it comes to near occasions of sin? Our shepards are not leading the flock on the road to heaven. Infact, they put their own souls in jeopardy whenthey view them and ratethem. really, now would Jesus Chrsit watch r-rated movies??? And if He did, it would be to tell us NOT to go to them, but to PRAY for strength to avoid them, but of course pray for the movies industry.  I think Catholic’s thave taken on the attitude…if you can’t beat them, join them. Well, you’re NOT going to change anything with that frame of mind. It starts with ourselves, we have to not go to Movies, or any entertainment that will not lead us to Christ. Period! Then, see what the movie industry will do? We live in a society, that doesn’t see sacrifice as any merit. How sad we will be when we meet Our Lord and He asked us to show us our wounds…the wounds that were inflicted upon us when we stood up for HIS TRUTH! As for me, May Our Lord give me the grace to continue to NEVER go to MOVIES, until they clean up their act!

Joyce - I definitely don’t think you’re old fashioned…values and morals are never old fashioned.  While I don’t really know what the Legion of Decency is, I do typically look to the Bishops and their guidelines for movies.  I don’t typically see R rated movies, but in this case I will likely make an exception to that rule as so many noted Catholic leaders have recommended it.  I admire your strong stance and will join my prayers with yours for more wholesome family entertainment options.