Silence
5/5
Written and Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Rated: R
How deep the roots of someone's faith. It is firmly planted in good soil. In the spring it blooms with new life. In the winter it bolsters itself in the midst of challenges. How strong someone's faith. What happens, when one faith enters an unfamiliar environment? Will it grow, and take new roots? Will it be choked out by thorns and weeds? Will the faith never grow, because the new land is a swamp? Will the faith dwindle from the one who entered the swamp? How deep are the roots of someone's faith? These questions, and more, are asked through Martin Scorsese's latest film, Silence.
Silence tells the story of two Catholic Priests who arrive on the distant and unfamiliar shores of Japan. Their mission is to preach the Gospel in a country where to do so means death. The Priest's' main goal is to find Father Ferreira, who apostatized the Christian faith, for they do not believe such a sin from their mentor is possible. The screenplay focuses on Father Rodrigues (Andrew Garfield), and his inner spiritual turmoil. As a devout follower of Jesus, he is caught in a torturous series of attacks on his faith, his will, and his sense of truth and guidance.
This palpable story is headed by an incredible cast. Andrew Garfield gives a captivating performance, as the tormented and Christ filled Father Rodrigues. His spiritual struggle is visible, through his physiological actions, and his unforgettable delivery of lines. Accompanying Garfield is Adam Driver, as Father Garupe. Driver illustrates his characters' solace, and constitution, through his steady voice, and discerning gaze. Aside from these Catholic Priests, there are also standout performances amongst the people of Japan. Yôsuke Kubozuka is the sinful Kichijiro, continuously apostatizing and seeking absolution. Issei Ogata is the Old Samurai, who persistently questions Rodrigues' mission in Japan, and insidiously attempts to break down the Priest' will and Christian faith. Liam Neeson gives a haunting performance as the denounced Father Ferreira. Though he is in few scenes, his inclusion adds tension and an unsettling atmosphere to the film, and those experiencing it.
Silence's score is mesmerizing. Instruments are rarely heard, as much as Japan's natural ambiance; the rain, the wind, the waves. Often the only instrument is the incessant chirping of cicadas. They can be harmonious, or they can drive someone out of their senses. There are times when these insects are insufferable, and the insertion of drums foreboding death is perceived as merciful.
Silence is an epic, but it also belongs to an oft unseen genre. Silence goes beyond the constraints of a thriller, and becomes a spiritual thriller. It is not a struggle of the mind, but one of the soul. It asks impossible questions with the hope they linger forever in audiences' minds:Are there any unforgivable sins? Does apostasy separate a sinner from their Lord forever? How strongly can someone hold onto their faith and ideals? What is martyrdom, and is it martyrdom, if the martyr is not the one being killed? Amidst trials, how can someone hold fast to what they believe is righteous? According to an article by Peter Travers from the Rolling Stone, Scorsese says Silence is a story "about the necessity of belief fighting the voice of experience."
Verdict: Silence is an unforgettable experience best watched in a group setting, because it fills audiences with impossible questions, internal anguish, and an overwhelming appreciation for Scorsese's film.
