Luther Review
Luther is a flawed but still very powerful adaptation of John_Osborne's meditation on the 16th century religious leader whose condemnation of certain Catholic Church practices precipitated a revolution both religious and secular. The flaws are those common to many other entries in the American Film Theatre's productions -- mainly, it's an uneasy blend of cinema and stagecraft that falls between the two poles. It's not really satisfying as a straight-ahead filming of a stage play, nor does it satisfy as a cinematic adaptation. The stage-bound nature is perhaps more pronounced in Luther because it deals with a subject that had a profound effect upon the entire world; excluding that outside world from the film negates Luther's impact somewhat and makes him seem a bit smaller than the character warrants. If one can accept this flaw, however, Luther is a richly rewarding experience. Osborne's words have been diluted in a few cases by adapter Edward_Anhalt, but they still maintain astonishing power. His portrait of Martin Luther is compelling yet disturbing, a finely detailed portrait that shows a man constantly in conflict with himself, with God, and with the actions he initiates in the name of faith. Stacy_Keach's performance in the title role is nothing short of marvelous; he conveys the intense power of this darkly conflicted man yet doesn't resort to showboating. He underplays, he understates, and the character comes across as more powerful as a result. Yet he also lets the depths of his passions surface when necessary, to startling effect. Keach dominates the film, and the character he creates is overflowing with life -- and with bile. He is well supported by an excellent cast, with special mention for a superb Patrick_Magee, an excellent Hugh_Griffith, and an impressive Leonard_Rossiter. Craig Butler, Rovi
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