I think Steven Greydanus’ review of the film Thérèse was off the mark. Movies are a powerful medium that affects us and the culture at large in a very profound way, so for Catholics, isn't it important that films not only be analyzed technically but that their spiritual value be looked at as well?

As both a father and someone who loves going to the movies, I was very excited about bringing my 10-year-old son to see this film on opening weekend. We had his three same-age cousins with us, and the event was one I won't soon forget. As every parent knows, children will tell you the truth, and although I was hopeful that the kids would enjoy a film about a saint, I had my doubts. What a joy it was to see my doubts disappear as it became apparent that they were enjoying this beautiful film as much as the parents. The little girls were fascinated by the beautiful clothes and mannerisms of the Martin sisters and their life in late 19th-century France. My all-boy son agreed, saying he really liked the movie, and to top it off, the kids asked in all sincerity if any more movies about saints were going to be made. All four of the children, along with the adults, had a lively discussion about the film during the drive home, rich in talk about God, family, saints and heaven. When was the last time any of us has had that experience?

We Catholics are called to change the culture and much depends on our success. Like it or not, movies play a big part in forming our culture, and they are an important part of the modern mass media that our Holy Father is urging us to embrace and utilize for the sake of the Gospel. Rather than lamenting the possible lack of Thérèse's general market appeal, Mr. Greydanus would have served the Church better by saluting Catholic filmmaker Leonardo Defilippis's extraordinary accomplishment and encouraging all to support it. In bringing the life of Thérèse to the big screen, Mr. Defilippis has created something that will no doubt bring a great deal of grace into many lives. Far more than the next “appealing” Hollywood blockbuster.

ALAN NAPLETON

President, Catholic Marketing Network

Irving, Texas

Editor's Note: In his review, Steven Greydanus’ major regret about the movie wasn't technical. It was that it didn't delve deeply enough into the spiritual dimmension.