"Woman Thou Art Loosed": Let the Movie Tell It
By Terri Simmons, 10.22.04
The movie was scheduled to begin at 2:50 p.m.. That gave me ten minutes to buy a ticket and make it to the show to find a seat. I was a bit restless as I walked though the theater not really sure what to expect from a movie aiming to change my life.
Before I took my seat, I noticed six other women; each was seated in individual seats and in separate rows. We seemed to connect as I made eye contact with each person. Apparently, we were all there to see what untold stories the “Woman Thou Art Loosed” movie would reveal in our lives.
Based on the best-selling novel and stage play by author and Bishop T. D. Jakes, the film deals with extreme subjects, including molestation, rape, murder and drug abuse. Immediately, the movie challenges viewers’ faith of reconciliation, love and forgiveness.
Kimberly Elise stars as Michelle Jordan, a young woman raped as a child by her mom’s live-in boyfriend Reggie (Clifton Powell). Loretta Divine plays Michelle’s mother whose fear of losing her boyfriend clouds and blinds her from the reality of physical and sexual abuse suffered by her daughter at the hands of Reggie. Throughout the movie, Michelle (also on death row) see-saws between past and present as the tragic tale of her childhood, innocence, prostitution and drug addiction is presented to the viewer.
The movie makes no excuse for her wrong doings or self-destructive nature. It offers no excuse for personal violations or lack of self-control. But, what the movie does offer is a sense of compassion and understanding to any woman who’s been a victim of brokenness, unfulfillment, rejection and pain. Ultimately, the movie suggests that we move past self-imposed imprisonment by letting go of anger, unforgiveness and the past.
It is obvious that movies nowadays are trying to tell us something. If it’s not telling us, it’s showing us.
It deals with “in your face reality,” which some might consider too real—about as “real” as “The Passion of Jesus Christ.” “Woman Thou Art Loosed” may not reach nearly as many people as Mel Gibson’s film, but if it stirs up conversation and brings awareness, then it will accomplish its purpose as a tool of ministry.
As I left the movie theater, I noticed the six women; each seated in individual seats and in separate rows as if they were suspended in time. As they sat in their seats after the movie, it was as if they were waiting for an altar call. The movie seats became their pews as one lady knelt to pray. Those women came expecting to hear or at least see these four words: Woman Thou Art Loosed.
It is obvious that many movies nowadays offer spiritual perspectives to ponder. If they’re not telling us, they’re showing us. Let’s visit a few, shall we?
* The Passion of The Christ
This movie reminds us that Christ brings light to the darkness of this world. It reminds us of how God works in our cultures, souls and lives to free us and make us whole. God is at work in our lives and Mel Gibson did an excellent job of bringing Jesus Christ to our front door.
* The Matrix 1
There's no denying that this movie gives us something to think about.
* Lord of the Rings: The Return of The King
It's simple. Sam and Frodo represented the bonded relationship of Jonathan and David in I Samuel 18-20 of the Bible. Smeagol’s constant battle with himself represents the battle between flesh and the things of the spirit. The battle scenes are extraordinary. Gandulf, known as the “White Wizard” battled as if he were a part of the Holy Trinity. And, what else but eagles would soar above to aid in the destruction of the enemy?
Need I say more?
