Russell Crowe’s new film, Noah, has attracted controversy over its depiction of the Biblical figure ahead of its release in the US later this month.
Paramount Pictures has added an explanatory message to advertising for the Darren Aronofsky-directed film which explain that artistic licence has been taken in the production after an appeal by National Religious Broadcasters CEO Dr Jerry A Johnson.
In a joint statement released with the NRB last week, the company said marketing materials would contain the statement: “The film is inspired by the story of Noah. While artistic license has been taken, we believe that this film is true to the essence, values, and integrity of a story that is a cornerstone of faith for millions of people worldwide. The biblical story of Noah can be found in the book of Genesis.”
Dr Johnson – whose appeal followed a panel discussion about the film at the recent NRB International Christian Media Convention – said his intention in “reaching out to Paramount” was “to make sure everyone who sees this impactful film knows this is an imaginative interpretation of Scripture, and not literal”.
He added that Christians should be prepared to engage with people who see the film about the Biblical themes portrayed within it, including sin, judgement and salvation.
The message will be carried on an online trailer, the film’s official website and print and radio advertising as well as some online and broadcast advertising in the US. It was unclear whether the message would be carried on advertising in other countries such as Australia.
The film will be released in Australia on 27th March, on the 28th March in the US and 4th April in the UK.
Meanwhile, a second Noah movie – Noah – And the Last Days – is being released on the same day in the US. Attracting support from the likes of Ken Ham, president of Answers in Genesis, the movie is directed by Ray Comfort, co-host (along with Kirk Cameron) of the TV show, The Way of the Master.
Comfort was highly critical of the Aronofsky film in an interview with ASSIST News Service last month in which he said it painted Noah as an evil character.
~ For the film Noah, see www.noahmovie.com.au
~ For the film, Noah – And the Last Days, see www.NoahTheMovie.com
