Not much of a movie goer here (I think the last one I saw was Nemo

) and not much of an appreciator of violence in the various mediums (TV, movies, games) available today (probably why I view so little of it). From what I have heard on the radio
(mostly talk show,WGN Radio, not too unlike the CB here), and read online, I won't be seeing this one.
I believe He died for us. I have learned the Bible stories (not a Bible reader, but product of 50-60's Catholic education and almost 60 years of being 'a Catholic'), have seen the 'cleaned up', prettified Hollywood versions of the Passion from years ago, know it was most likely a lot worse than what was depicted back then. But I do not have the need,
for me to see this extremely violent portrayal of the Passion and Death of Jesus to help me appreciate His sacrifice. Now, that is just me speaking here, no recommendations for others.
On WGN, they spoke of Ebert's review (I think he is pretty good) and here is what he thought..............
I said the film is the most violent I have ever seen. It will probably be the most violent you have ever seen. This is not a criticism but an observation; the film is unsuitable for younger viewers, but works powerfully for those who can endure it. The MPAA's R rating is definitive proof that the organization either will never give the NC-17 rating for violence alone, or was intimidated by the subject matter. If it had been anyone other than Jesus up on that cross, I have a feeling that NC-17 would have been automatic....
Ebert review
I'm just not one for gratuitous (IMO) violence, language and sex as so often portrayed in today's 'entertainment'.