Luther (1974)

Summary Intro
"Luther" is a 1974 movie adaptation of a historical play written by John Osborne, which is based on the life of Martin Luther, a prominent and questionable figure in the protestant reformation throughout the 16th century. The British film, directed by Guy Green and starring Stacy Keach in the title role, is an expedition of Luther's inner turmoil, his spiritual journey, and his revolutionary maneuverings in challenging papal authority.

The Early Life of Luther
The film follows Martin Luther, a Catholic monk, whose beliefs and practices are deeply embedded in Catholic ideologies. Born to a deeply spiritual mother and a hardworking dad, Luther is encouraged to study law however eventually picks life in the monastery, inspired by a life-altering brush with death throughout a violent thunderstorm. His fixation with personal sin and spiritual salvation, however, leaves him in a continuous state of mental suffering.

The Road to Reformation
Luther's disillusionment starts when he is sent out to Rome on an expedition and is appalled by the corruption and decadence he witnesses within the Church hierarchy. His disillusionment heightens upon his return, when Johann Tetzel starts selling 'extravagances' as a means to absolve one's sins, causing an expected guarantee of salvation. Luther views this as a grotesque perversion of faith.

The Ninety-Five Theses and Its Implications
Driven by a potent mix of outrage and faith, Luther pens down his Ninety-Five Theses, a blazing critique of the Catholic Church's hypocrisy and corruption. His extreme attempt to democratize religious beliefs threatens the Church hierarchy, and he is implicated of heresy. In spite of risks from the church and the empire, Luther refuses to disavow his views, causing his excommunication.

The Excommunication and Aftermath
The film effectively portrays the intensity of the ensuing religious debate, along with the political and social ramifications brought by Luther's excommunication. He proceeds to translate the Latin Bible (restricted to the clergy) into the German vernacular, making it accessible to the commoner and more threatening Church dominance. These actions, combined with his impassioned preaching, sow the seeds for the Protestant Reformation, setting off a profound change in the spiritual and political landscapes of Europe.

Depiction of Luther's Personality
Stacy Keach's powerful efficiency as Martin Luther highlights the emotional and psychological battles that Luther experiences while facing the Church's systemic corruption. The film likewise emphasizes the complexity of Luther's personality, combining deep vulnerability with unbending conviction, devout faith with extreme hesitation, and extensive humility with unyielding nerve.

Conclusion
"Luther" is an engaging representation of Martin Luther's life and the extensive impact he had on history. The film carefully discloses Luther's belief, his struggle with the Catholic Church, and his main function in the Reformation. By concentrating on Luther's turbulent court trials, his excommunication, the general public outrage, and the transformative impact of his radical actions, the film offers an intimate, intense expedition of a memorable figure and his enduring tradition.

Top Cast