Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I read all the negative reviews about this movie, and as a religious person myself, chose not to view it in theaters since I don't like people pandering the bible simply because they don't have faith. It was not until a friend rented it and encouraged me to watch it did I relent, and I figured only because it was free as I didn't want to contribute to artistic nonsense. I knew in advance this was not going to follow the bible to the letter and that was never the issue I thought I was going to have. The issue was I felt it was going to defame and belittle the story. What surprised me was the artistic license was not tasteless or atheistic at all. There are a few scenes that may push your moral outrage to the extreme but in retrospect I believe these scenes were meant to illustrate the moral dilemma, not for spectacle. I felt that this was a fair and creative way to express the story and true meaning of Noah. I thought the acting was controlled and well done, not goofy melodrama like so many movies. The direction and cinematography really shined. Take away the religion and cast, and story and you must acknowledge it is a beautiful film to watch. However the story ultimately is in line with the original and is not a rewrite or detour, but a modern interpretation. I have come to realize through this film that people who believe their interpretation and historic portrayals of the bible are the only possible interpretation do their religion a disservice and don't trust in it's ability to illuminate in unique ways. I didn't think Noah was simply an enraged misanthrope as has been accused in this film, but genuinely was vexed about how and why he should carry out Gods will. After all why would God destroy almost ALL of mankind, you don't think even a messiah would question that? The moral dilemmas are realistic and compelling. I felt a greater appreciation both for my own free will and the ultimate power of God after this movie.