Its a freaking movie people

For the past month, among other things, I've listened to my coworkers debate the finer points of "The Passion of The Christ". For these people, it seems that viewing this HOLLYWOOD movie was a true religious experience. I'm not saying it isn't a powerful movie for Christians. I'd like to see it at some point. But just like reading The Davinci Code , it certainly won't change my faith one bit. I'm all for movies that showcase religion, and I'm glad that its found an outlet in mainstream Hollywood. However, it is a movie that was made FOR PROFIT. It would not have EVER been made, distributed, and marketed if someone somewhere didn't think it would make money. And bluntly put, its a work of historical fiction. Based on facts, yes. But an accurate representation of exactly what happend? I have to say maybe only because I don't know for a FACT that its not the way it happend. I think what really gets me is the fact that I've heard so many people comment on how this movie has fundamentally changed their faith. Well shame on you. We're all at different places in our journeys - but if a movie can change your belief system that much, then whats next? A new brand of Rice-A-Roni that replaces communion? In conclusion - religion is based on reasoning and thinking - sure its emotional and there IS an element of faith involved - but I've already thought through so many of the things that people seem to be thinking about for the first time. That doesn't make me better then them, but it certainly gives credence to the "Religion is the opiate of the masses" view that Karl Marx held. Tomorrow - a much less controversial entry, I promise.