Martin Scorsese's Journey Into Silence (2017)

Martin Scorsese's Journey Into Silence Poster

A behind-the-scenes documentary on the making of Martin Scorsese's "Silence"

Film Overview
"Martin Scorsese's Journey into Silence" is a thought-provoking movie influenced by Shūsaku Endō's 1966 unique, 'Silence'. Directed by legendary filmmaker, Martin Scorsese in 2017, the film explores the long-lasting styles of faith, doubt, and sacrifice. It stars Andrew Garfield, Adam Driver, and Liam Neeson who embark on a perilous journey to propagate Christianity in Japan, a nation closed off to all foreign and Christian influences during the 17th century.

Plot Synopsis
The plot revolves around two young Portuguese Jesuit priests, Rodrigues (Andrew Garfield) and Garupe (Adam Driver), who take a trip to Japan following their coach Ferreira's (Liam Neeson) disturbing reports of apostasy. Their mission is twofold: they want to know the fact about Ferreira and to carry on their mentor's work of spreading Christianity, regardless of the unsafe religious persecution in Japan. The priests withstand extreme challenges, face persecution, and their faith is checked to its extremely core.

Faith and Doubt
"Martin Scorsese's Journey into Silence" navigates deeply into the worlds of faith and doubt. The film's protagonists, Rodrigues and Garupe search vehemently for Ferreira, fighting against the preconception related to Christianity in Japan and facing their darkest fears about faith, God, and self-respect. Even dealing with the harshest of conditions and brutal persecution, they continue, fuelled by their faith. This stark portrayal of devotion and determination raises fundamental questions about belief and uncertainty.

Portrayal of Christianity in Japan
The movie paints a raw portrayal of 17th-century Japan and the hostile environment towards Christians. The government's severe constraints, increased persecution, and the stunning acts of barbarity caused upon the priests and their fans are stressful yet insightful. The harsh response to Christianity is depicted through excruciating acts, pressing Rodrigues and Garupe to the verge of renouncing their faith.

Scorsese's Direction and Aesthetics
Keeping with his particular cinematic design, Scorsese records the extreme spiritual and physical journey of the Jesuit priests in a deeply moving and reasonable manner. The film strikes a balance in between ruthlessness and appeal. Scorsese's precise representation of the richness and brutality of 17th-century Japan takes the audience on a journey of contrasting feelings. The movie's aesthetics boasts sensational landscapes, finely crafted set designs, and subtly engaging costume designs to bring life to its historical context.

Performances and Appraisals
Andrew Garfield and Adam Driver provide stirring performances, exploring the psychological depth of their characters, grappling with faith under the direst of circumstances. Liam Neeson's representation of Father Ferreira is both complex and grasping. Although his screen time is restricted, his influence pervades throughout the movie. The movie amassed crucial honor for its storytelling, efficiencies, and climactic thriller. Nevertheless, it likewise stirred debate due to its depiction of Christian persecution.

Conclusion
"Martin Scorsese's Journey into Silence" is a remarkable expedition of faith and spirituality in the middle of severe difficulty. Its moving performances and vibrant depiction of religious persecution produce an extensive, often unpleasant, psychological action. It is a reflective tale of commitment and doubt, raising classic questions of belief, martyrdom, and the silence of God. Scorsese's movie is a must-watch for lovers of thought-provoking movie theater.

Top Cast

  • Martin Scorsese (small)
    Martin Scorsese
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  • Andrew Garfield (small)
    Andrew Garfield
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  • Adam Driver (small)
    Adam Driver
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  • Jay Cocks (small)
    Jay Cocks
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  • Liam Neeson (small)
    Liam Neeson
    Self
  • Issey Ogata (small)
    Issey Ogata
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  • Thelma Schoonmaker (small)
    Thelma Schoonmaker
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  • Father James Martin, S.J.
    Self
  • Katsuya Hirano
    Self
  • Gastón Pavlovich
    Self
  • Emma Tillinger Koskoff (small)
    Emma Tillinger Koskoff
    Self