Review of Of Gods and Men

I was surprised to see that some of the reviewers bring their politics to criticize this film. One claims it is really left wing. Interesting, since the right seems to be the one with the most fanatical base. I am not a particularly religious person, but I have no trouble showing respect for those whose religion is based on service and compassion. These Trappist monks have a choice. To follow the teachings of their God or leave behind those who they have served and who depended on them. There is little discussion, despite terrorists sweeping through Algeria. There is great tension when the traditionally powerless are faced with the (and I use this term for effect) godlessness of the terrorists. These are good people who never expect anything from their neighbors, who are predominately Muslim. The down side of this movie is that we all know exactly how it is going to end. It is also rather dramatic in its portrayal. Closeup are a significant part of filmmaking but the contrived scene of "the last supper" (lower case for me) is a bit over the top. It was hard to put aside my own prejudices as I watched this.