by Victoria Jeffrey

Created on: March 16, 2008

Messianic symbolism is a universal storytelling device for countless stories in every form; book, TV show or film. It is very much related to western storytelling and has its roots in Judeo-Christian thought. After all, the ultimate Messiah in such cultures is Jesus Christ, hence, messianic symbolism.

However, timeless storytelling aside, there are a lot of awful examples in entertainment and culture when it comes to messiah figures. How can you separate the good from the bad? Keep in mind that this really is subjective and dependent upon personal opinion. However, I have formed a general guide that may be of some use to readers when examining symbolism in film to see if they measure up:

1. General coherence within the story; the story progresses logically. Each event and action set-piece is there for a good reason and is an important part of the plot.
2. The messianic character either already has or can develop a unique gift which can greatly affect the lives of others.
3. The character makes a decision to go outside the boundaries of his culture or world to go on the "Hero's Journey". Often he is encouraged on by a wise, sage character, (the prophet role or a John the Baptist figure)
4. The character goes through adversity. This adversity can be external, internal or both and is directly related to his future role as savior or leader.
5. He experiences growth as a character; spiritual, mental and emotional growth. He becomes wiser, bound by principles rather than mere societal rules, tradition or fear.
6. Usually he must sacrifice himself, lay down his life to achieve complete transformation into Savior; or he must become an outcast and hated by those who refuse to understand his transformation and his new message.
7. He leaves in his wake a deep imprint or great influence that causes others to act for his cause and follow him, even after he is gone.

If you've ever read Joseph Campbell's The Hero With A Thousand Faces, you'll understand this pattern that I've laid out. All the stories that stick with us, whether they are fictional, true, mythic or ironic, whether they are fairy tales or more serious stuff contain some element from this guide. Neo in The Matrix (the first film in the trilogy is the best example), Clark Kent in Superman, in Unbreakable Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, Constantine, Batman and Harry Potter in the Harry Potter series are all in my opinion, wonderful examples of the Messianic Figure. Each of the characters in these films has to come to the realization that he is the one who can make a great difference in the world, to fix and repair a broken society, to correct corruption and right the wrongs. Each goes through tremendous personal loss, grief and adversity to reach a sort or spiritual epiphany. Some of them, like Batman and Constantine are dark heroes or even anti-heroes, but the Messiah-like theme runs through these stories. Paul Atreides in the Dune Chronicles is a superlative example of the Jesus-like Messianic Figure.

There are many more examples I'm sure that I can't name here but let it suffice to say that the best stories of this kind can leave audiences feeling exhilarated and uplifted, rooting for the good guys and ultimately, for the Messiah.

But then there are terrible examples as well. Such as the film Willow - a story that was all over the place, used elements from the Bible haphazardly and generally lacking in coherence. It's hard for me to think of more bad examples because I don't have an extensive knowledge of film. What I can do is refer you to the 7 elements above that make for messianic symbolism that works well in a film the next time you go to the theater or put in a DVD.

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