Quentin Tarantino Calls ‘Passion of the Christ’ Funny, Puzzles Mel Gibson
Quentin Tarantino recently shared his thoughts on Mel Gibson’s controversial film, *The Passion of the Christ*, during an appearance on the Bret Easton Ellis podcast. This film, known for its intense violence and serious subject matter, holds a spot on Tarantino’s list of the 20 best films of the 21st century, ranking at number 15.
Tarantino’s Perspective on *The Passion of the Christ*
While discussing the film, Tarantino praised Gibson’s direction, noting how the movie immerses viewers in the historical context of Jesus’ trial and execution. He remarked on the film’s varied tones, stating, “There are scenes where you feel like you’re watching the most realistic Biblical movie you’ve ever seen.” He appreciates how the film juxtaposes realism with avant-garde art and horror imagery, presenting a multifaceted narrative.
Humor in Extreme Violence
Interestingly, Tarantino admitted to finding humor in the film’s extreme violence. He explained, “Extreme violence is just funny to me,” suggesting that pushing cinematic boundaries leads to unexpected reactions. For him, the severity of the film’s violence turned into a source of dark amusement.
Personal Reflection on Sadomasochism
One particularly intense scene, where Jesus is whipped, invoked a deeper response from Tarantino. He reflected on his personal feelings during this scene, saying, “By the sixth blow, I traded places. And I started getting kind of turned on by the beating.” This revelation pointed to unexplored aspects of his own psyche, leading Tarantino to question his emotional responses.
- Film Title: *The Passion of the Christ*
- Director: Mel Gibson
- Ranked: 15th best film of the 21st century by Tarantino
- Notable Scene: Jesus’ whipping by Roman soldiers
Tarantino’s candid admission about his experience may not resonate with every viewer, and he acknowledged this uncertainty in his conversation with Gibson. Despite differing perspectives, Tarantino recognizes the film’s impactful storytelling as an accomplishment in cinematic art.
