SUBMITTED BY Timbo

February 11, 2004 — Forget allegations of anti-Semitism. Can movie-goers stomach the relentless violence in "The Passion of the Christ"? One movie reviewer at Britain's The Daily Telegraph wonders.

Telegraph critic John Hiscock, providing the first UK review, said there is "little respite" from violence in the film.

Mr Hiscock believes the anti-violence lobby could soon take an interest in the film.

He wrote: "For, worthy and serious as Gibson's treatment may be, his blood-drenched depiction of the final hours of Jesus' life is harsh and brutal, dwelling almost entirely on pain, suffering and torment."

He said whippings and beatings are shown in graphic close-up as Jesus' flesh is "torn and battered".

Although not marketed for children, "adults are likely to have problems with the vivid depictions of pain and violence", he added.

Gibson has already reportedly cut some of the most brutal scenes.

Read the rest at the link below.