Reflections on *The Scarlet and the Black*

Warning: this post may contain movie spoilers.

We just finished watching The Scarlet and the Black. All I can say is wow. Even though I’ve seen this movie many times (I grew up watching films such as this), it never ceases to amaze me; the acting, setting, music—everything—all contribute to an utterly and completely spellbinding film (which is also an Emmy award winner, may I add). In addition to providing an amazing cinemagraphic experience (with the Gregory Peck vs. Christopher Plummer face-off moments undoubtedly among the finest in the movie), this film also brings a several interesting topics to light…  [Image Source]

First of all, this made-for-TV movie gives an interesting account of what the Catholic Church did do to help out refugees (both Jewish and otherwise) during the Second World War. Recently it has been rather popular to criticize Pius XII for not more openly denouncing the Nazis. Now I’m not suggesting that we should take our historical irrefutability from Hollywood, but when watching a TRUE story like this how can one deny the good the Church did during these perilous times? The film also makes it clear that the situation the Vatican was in was not a black and white one. I’m not an expert on the matter, but it is my understanding that the Holy Father did what he did to save and protect lives, not because he was a wimp or on-the-fence about Hitler and his motives (if you click on some of the links in this paragraph there is more information about this).

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Another interesting thing about this film is how beautifully—and for the most part, accurately—it portrays Catholicism. This is surprising for a mainstream movie of any era, but the fact that it was made in 1983 only makes it all the more amazing. I honestly thought that it was produced much earlier—like in the ‘60s, nearer the “golden-age” of Hollywood back when films portraying the Catholic faith in a positive light were much more common. Watching this movie made me proud to be Catholic; I love how the faith angle was depicted. It is obvious that the main character, Msgr. Hugh O’Flaherty, despite his brisk Irish ways (I love how he boxes; totally cool—a very balance man), was a deeply spiritual and passionate man who had a profound sense of love and conviction for Jesus Christ. How often do you see that in a secular film? So refreshing!! This is evidenced perhaps none better than at the end when he is calmly kneeling in adoration in front of the Blessed Sacrament (after having just been personally honored and thanked by the Holy Father for his witness and efforts). It sent chills down my spine!

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The best part of this movie, however, has to be the postscript that is read just before the credits. That made me cry. SO beautiful. See how love can change the world. Oh wow, I’m starting to tear up just remembering it. God is always stronger than war, than hate, than evil. His love can conquer anything—even the hardest of souls…

By all means, if you haven’t already (or even if you have and it’s just been a while) SEE THIS MOVIE. That’s an order! : )

In the News

It seems like forever since I’ve last written, even though in actuality it’s only been about a week. My brain has just been overflowing with blog post topics and I can’t wait to share them all in the near future. It’s practically overwhelming. SO. Much. To. Write. About. Solittletime!

I’ve come across several interesting news items lately…

 A German women’s magazine called Brigitte has decided to stop using professional models in it’s issues. [Image Source]

Instead, the Hamburg-based title published by Gruner+Jahr plans to choose from readers who register online and staff members based on their meaningful qualities other than their dress size.

“Attractiveness has many faces,” editor of the bi-monthly Brigitte Huber said in a statement. “Whether they are actresses, musicians, first ladies or women on the streets of big cities – they all affect fashion and beauty styles.”

You can read the full article here.

Heidi Klum and Seal welcomed their fourth child this past Friday. I was surprised at how beautifully (and pro-life!!) the couple’s comments were:

"It's difficult to imagine loving another child as much as you love your existing children," Seal wrote in a statement to Us [the magazine]. "Anyone who has a family will tell you this. Where will one find that extra love? If you love your existing children with all of your heart, how then can one possibly find more heart with which to love another?"
He continued, "the answer to this question came in the form of our fourth child and second daughter... From the moment she looked into both of our eyes it was endless love at first sight. She is beautiful beyond words and we are happy that she chose us to watch her grow over the coming years."

Read more here. [Image source]

Jenni Schaefer’s new book is out!  
My therapist recommended her first book to  me a few years ago, and I loved it! Jenni is so clever and funny in her writing. Even with my (ED-related) concentration trouble, I still was able to devour the book because of her witty, readable style and the short chapters. It’s a must-read for anyone suffering any kind of eating disorder or body image issues. I can’t wait to read this latest book. You can purchase it here. I also encourage you to check out Jenni’s blog.  [Image Source]