The Four Feathers

2002

Director: Shekhar Kapur

Distributor: Paramount Pictures / Miramax Films

Key Elements: Visuals – Message

My Review:

I was journaling a lot about the virtue of selflessness when I saw this movie. I found essentially an extended illustration of selfishness.

Harry leaves the army and his friends immediately abandon him. But when he realizes the danger his friends are going into, he decides to follow and help them. Though the explicitly stated reason for his doing so is that he wants to redeem himself, everything he does reads more like a desire to protect those he loves.

This is an illustration of the gospel. Jesus was betrayed by everyone - all of us. Yet he gave up everything he had and sacrificed Himself - even taking our place - to save us. That's what Harry does for his friends.

The most moving scene for me is when, even after going into battle to save a friend, Harry goes into prison to save another who has been captured. The scene when he walks alone toward the prison and surrenders himself to the guards who ride out to him is especially powerful.

Note: I love heath ledger’s hair at the end of this movie.

Trailer:



Quotes:

• Don't worry, Vicar. They're only women. They won't bite.
• I've left the army.
• Feathers of cowardice.
• When something like this happens you are lost. You don't know who you are anymore and what you're capable of. Unless I do something, this is always how people will remember me. A feather. And that is how I will always see myself: a coward. All I know is that I can't live with myself like this.
• How differently I’d do things given a second chance.
• Why is it so important to follow them… your friends?
  - To help them. If I can.
• God put you in my way.
• I found you half dead crossing the desert alone and you say you are afraid?
• I was a fool to think that I could ever go home. I can’t.
• The shame is no longer yours. You’re responsible to yourself and to God. Not to them.
  - I am responsible to my friend! I will find him.
• You have learned nothing. You have done enough.
  - It’s never enough Abu.
• I will not be responsible for your death!
  - How could you be responsible for my death? ..I would die if it is God’s will, yes?
• You Englishmen walk too proudly on the earth! …You are a fool. …my friend.
• I have nothing left to lose. Nothing left to live for. Still, I’m afraid.
  - Fear always remains.
• Pray for me Abu. Take as long as you like. …I don’t walk to proudly now.
• How many bullets?
  - One
  Better make it count.
• What will you do now?
  - Whatever God has chosen for me

Stills: