Son of Man


I have just watched the film Son Of Man for the second time, something that I don’t do very often. The film is a modern take on the most famous story of all and is set in a southern African state called Judea.


Violence, poverty and sectarianism are endemic. The neighbouring Alliance has invaded to restore ‘peace’ at gunpoint. Promises of a transition to open democratic rule are accompanied by summary executions and brutal massacres.


As the civil war reaches a new level, a divine child is born to a lowly couple. The child is named Jesus. As he grows and sees the inhumanity of the world he lives in, his angelic guardians offer him an escape to the heavens. He refuses: this is his world, and he must try to save it from the work of evil men and the darkness working within them.


As an adult, he travels to the capital, gathering followers from the armed factions of rebels that crisscross the land. He demands that his followers give up their guns and confront their corrupt rulers with a vision of non- violent protest and solidarity.


Inevitably, he attracts the attention of the Judean tribal leaders who have struck a power-sharing deal with the aloof Governor Pilate. The Son of Man must be brought down and destroyed.


It should be just another simple ‘disappearance’ like any other...


This is a very thought provoking film in which we are continually reminded of the life journey that our Lord Jesus made, and we recognise many of his experiences along the way.


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We meet other characters with familiar names, Herod, Peter, James, Bartholomew, Judas and Mary Magdalene to name just a few. The portrayal of angels by small African children adorned with pure white feathers is quite endearing, in stark contrast to the facially tattooed Devil.


The setting of the film in Southern Africa with its wild landscape, desert, and shanty towns is stunning, but more so, the music is amazing, especially as the film reaches its dramatic climax.


The fact that the dialogue is African, with subtitles, is not distracting and after a few minutes, you don’t even notice… it’s that good.


Please be aware that the film is only suitable for persons of 12 years or over.


TWICKENHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL (IAPS co-educational day school: Girls 4 – 11, Boys 4 – 13)


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Caring family environment with Christian ethos Excellent Academic Results


Exceptional pastoral care with small class sizes


Exciting international thinking-skills programme for all pupils Extensive before and after school activities, including Breakfast Club


Main entry in Reception, occasional places in other year groups, and Scholarships available for Year 7 entry


Prospective parents are welcome to join the School for Assembly followed by a personal tour with the Headmaster


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