by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
What a film to talk about in such a climate we have today. People’s political beliefs have certainly become even more impassioned and fiery than ever before. There are even plenty of things that have become staunchly political, even though they should not be. Sexuality has become such a heated topic in American culture, and that is mostly because of religion. The perspective that America is a country based and rooted in Christian values is itself a hot button topic. One film, Wonderfully Made – LGBTQ+R(eligion),bravely looks at this great divide in our country.
What is the focus for director Yuval David? This film takes the time to show the other side of Christianity (focusing on Catholicism) that shows acceptance. But to portray this accepting perspective, you must build up the negativity that exists. David understands this well and focuses on some impactful pieces that shape the foundation of the film. The darkest is certainly the societal landscape that allowed the Pulse Massacre to happen. We hear plenty of personal stories about families shunning their children and religious organizations turning their back on the faithful just because of their sexuality. Admittedly, there are no interviews with the opposing views in the film, but the materials that David does offer give enough contrast to reinforce his thesis.
But how does David differentiate his film from other documentaries? There are certainly expected beats for documentaries, including sit-down interviews, news reels, and archival footage. But there are other elements that help elevate this effort to a truly moving and dynamic experience. The framed mechanism of casting inclusive Jesus and presenting a bold artistic photoshoot offers something fresh and interesting to the proceedings. Through the cast process, David offers the opportunity for these potential candidates to present why this shoot means something to them. That is where the heart of the film lies. There are plenty of moving and impactful experiences brought to light, and I challenge you to not be moved by them.
Where does David show off his skills as a director? There is some impressive storytelling that stands out in this film. This photoshoot becomes the climax through some surprising building of suspense. We are invested in the product of this experience, and David teases us to the end. The religious figures are first shown the shoot (obscured from the audience), and we experience their moving reactions. But finally, the photos are revealed to the audience, and it is quite the poignant experience seeing such bold religious art that is truly unique. David’s approach to the film is not perfect, but it is quite admirable. The film (for the most part) does not transcend your standard documentary approach, and at times it feels like it might be spinning its wheels. There are some awkward moments as well because two-thirds of the way through, it feels like we have felt our emotional crescendo. David succeeds in building the connection back up again, but it is a bit clunky.
What is most impactful about this film? The core of the film is one priest, who is Black and gay. This openly gay priest gives such a unique perspective on his faithful versus the establishment of the church. There is a staunch difference between having faith and practicing religion. David bridges that gap and shines a light on the unfortunate ostracizing of truly religious people (which is hard to find in 2022) just because they are gay. As a confirmed but non-practicing Roman Catholic, this film spoke directly to me in so many ways. I believe, but do not condone the hatred expressed by so many in the name of God and Jesus. As someone who lives their life with the perspective that we are all people and should be kind to one another (life is hard enough without the hate), this film reinforces so many thoughts that have run through my mind. David creates a work of love and acceptance, and we certainly need more of that today than ever before.
Score: 8/10
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