Martin Luther Protestant Reformer 2004
Distributed by Chip Taylor Communications, 2 East View Drive, Derry, NH 03038-4812; 800-876-CHIP (2447)
Produced by Robin Crichton
Directed by Robin Crichton
DVD, color, 30 min., German with English subtitles and narration
Jr. High - Adult
Religious Studies, History, European Studies
Date Entered: 08/09/2005
Reviewed by Paul Moeller, University of Colorado at BoulderMartin Luther: Protestant Reformer, part of Chip Taylor Communications’ Biographies Series, presents a brief account of how Martin Luther came to devote himself to the Catholic Church and how he later came to be seen as a threat by the Church. Luther, in response to the selling of indulgences guaranteeing access to heaven by Church officials, posted his Ninety-Five Theses upon the door of the Wittenberg Church inviting discussion. Luther could find no theological explanation in the scriptures for the Pope to forgive sins in this way and felt obligated to oppose this practice. Luther, a provincial friar, took on the Pope and entered into a concerted attempt to reform the Church. Luther’s writings were translated from Latin to German and were widely distributed. His attempt to reform the Church soon took on a life of its own. Luther’s legacy was the Protestant Reformation, and a common German language which formed the basis of all written German.
Robin Crichton’s film, Martin Luther Protestant Reformer, has much to recommend it. This reenactment of Luther’s life is nicely narrated by Andrew Faulds. The photography and acting are well done and the presentation of the important aspects of Luther’s life is concise and clear. This film should be of value to those with and interest in European history and the Protestant Reformation who are looking for an introduction to the life and times of Martin Luther. It is appropriate for viewers from Jr. High through adult and is recommended to the libraries who serve them.