Review: Silence (2016)

Directed by Martin Scorsese

Starring: Andrew Garfield, Adam Driver, Liam Neeson

The plot follows two 17th-century Jesuit priests (Garfield and Driver) who travel from Portugal to Edo-era Japan via Macau to locate their missing mentor (Neeson) and spread Catholic Christianity.

Scorsese is a fascinating director. He's known more for his gangster films such as Goodfellas, Casino, and The Wolf of Wall Street. Something you might have not known about him, was how religion had an immense impact on his film-making. He directed the religious epic, The Last Temptation of Christ back in 1988. His obsession with religion did not stop there, as he went straight into another religious passion project, later known to be 'Silence'. After seeing it, I have to say that the film was excellent.

The plot was simple, yet engaging and very well-written. The story focuses on voice overs from the characters as they experience and observe the punishing life of living as a Christian in 17th century Japan. The film raises intelligent questions about faith, religion, and morality. The characters are very well-written, and the performances were nothing short of excellent, with Andrew Garfield being in the limelight.

The cinematography was fantastic, and brilliantly showcased a eerie, yet beautiful foggy Japan. The music was nothing special, but the sound editing was great portraying the theme of 'silence'. With a title called 'Silence', it was filled with the sounds of agony and pain. The film follows the obvious theme of faith, but more on if he is willing to renounce the faith that is so important to him, so that he and others can't stop the suffering and punishment. Christianity is seen as a cancer, needing to be cut out. The theme of Jesus, also is conveyed through Garfield, who was put through a similar physical test, and he sees the similarities in their situations. The theme of silence, is portrayed through two ways, that I can analyze. One, through the silence of the lord, as he tries to consult and seek advice, on the betterment and solution of the suffering of himself and the other Japanese Christians. Two, the silent prayers that they and the other Christians have to perform, in order to avoid conflict with the Japanese authorities.

In conclusion, this film was masterfully created, and I for one enjoyed it, especially coming from an experienced and fascinating director that is Martin Scorsese. A powerfully acted, well-written, and brilliantly directed film from Martin Scorsese, that will not be forgotten anytime soon.

My rating: 9.0/10

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