BAD SAMARITAN (2018) Movie Review
PERSPECTIVE LEADS TO REDEMPTION
Joshua 1:9 - "This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN ( Luke 10:30-37
) is the story of a man who makes a simple decision to show mercy to a stranger. At the time Christ tells this story, Jews and Samaritans are bitter enemies. The mere act of kindness between them would be unprecedented. Thus, Christ teaches a clear and concise lesson. Our choices define us far more than our personal and cultural background.
How would Christ tell such a story in modern culture?
The Bad Samaritan , though not written by Christ, exceeds expectations. Irish immigrant and petty thief Sean Falco discovers injustice in the home of a rich and entitled target, Cale Erendreich. Yet, he does not understand the depths of this man’s depravity until he finds Katie, severely beaten and chained and to a chair in this fancy home.
Unfortunately, Sean is not as fearless as the Good Samaritan. He is a bad Samaritan, because he allows his fear to overcome him. He flees the house without saving her believing he has too much to lose if he exposes himself as a thief. He could lose his job, his friends, his visa, and his freedom.
Acts 3:19 - "Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away."
Ridden with guilt from abandoning the helpless lady, he tries to atone for his cowardice. He alerts the police, tries to break back into Cale's house, and eventually appeals to the FBI. Sean becomes relentless. He risks imprisonment after all. He risks everything for a perfect stranger.
In his pursuit, he incurs the wrath of his evil target, a man so wealthy and powerful that authorities cannot touch him. Sean becomes the target, nothing more than an animal to be broken. He and his family lose their jobs. His best friend is beaten to death. His girlfriend loses her trust for him.
He learns just how much he has to lose in life. Yet, Cale does not break him. Sean remains strong even in the face of death to help a stranger.
How far would you go to help a stranger? Would you lay down your life? What do your actions say about you?
