Noah
There have been many different reactions to Paramount's recent Bible epic feature film, "Noah", but many film goers, both Christians and non-believers, are visiting theaters to give it a try. Many churches are hosting Bible studies and small group gatherings that will be focusing their attention on the film, as well as the original account from the book of Genesis. However, there are some facts that Christian leaders should consider before taking their youth group to the cinema for the day.
The name Noah, in Hebrew means "comfort" or "peace". The book of Genesis describes the world and humanity during this time in history as corrupt and rebellious against God. However, Noah and his family were the only ones who were righteous and had God's favor. The motion picture does not seem to take this description into account. In fact, "Noah" does not seem to represent the themes of the story of Noah's Ark and the biblical lessons.
For instance, the Noah in the film does not seem to live up to his Hebrew name. He is depicted as rather inhumane and brutal. He is rather different from the biblical Noah who is obedient and forever seeking the will of God. The Noah played by Russell Crowe on the other hand simply seems to be rather obsessed with the eradication of corrupt and fallen humanity.
Another problem is that we do not get to hear the voice of God anywhere in the film. Even when Noah finds out that God is about to destroy the world through water, the protagonist finds out through some kind of dream or revelation. Even in this vision, supposedly from God, the command to build the Ark and to bring in two of each animal is not expressed.
"Noah" is certainly not an atheist movie, for all the other people in the movie other than Noah's family all realize that Noah's prediction had come true. However, there are hints that the film may be anti-God to an extent. For instance, the story puts heavier emphasis on the chaos and turmoil of the flood than the corruption and sin of mankind. In addition, all of humanity appears to blame God for the disaster, almost as if they are asking what they have done to deserve such a fate.
The concern among some Christians is that the film may give non-believers a very misleading impression of God, and even put believers in a state of confusion.
