In the new film “Snow White and the Huntsman,” we are introduced to the teenage version of the classic heroine locked inside a prison praying “The Lord’s Prayer.” Most Christians will recognize the prayer. At one point, it was estimated that more than two billion people recited “The Lord’s Prayer,” known as “The Our Father” in many faiths.
So, the first question that popped up in my mind watching the movie, which came out June 1, was: what in the heck is “The Lord’s Prayer” doing in this “Snow White” movie? During a wedding scene, it appears as if there are a series of bishops ready to witness a sacrament.
The Grimm Brothers’ fairy tale is German. Every character, for no reason other than it makes the movie seem more regal, speaks with a British accent. Nothing really resembles Europe, though. In fact, several of the scenes seem like the characters stumbled into The Lord of the Rings’ Middle Earth.
The kingdom we see is a magical one, not an earth-bound one, filled with Snow White hallmarks, such as the magic mirror, poison apples and spells. There is no other mention of Jesus, although Snow White (played by Kristen Stewart) has many Christ-like traits. She is “the one” who will end darkness, cures people of their illnesses and weaknesses and is willing to sacrifice herself to end the evil queen’s (Ravenna, played by Oscar-winner Charlize Theron) rule.
A white stag, standing in for God, even blesses Snow White after she is called to him by angel-like fairies. Her purity makes her stand out amongst all others.
What I find so interesting in this mythological, fairy tale is that the screenwriters felt it necessary to bring religion into the fray. In this magical world, Jesus is real to Snow White. It’s remarkable that “Snow White and the Huntsman,” with its reported $170 million budget and summer blockbuster status, took 10 seconds to say that Snow White’s Christian faith sustained her as she spent years locked away in a tower and that purity can give you strength to overcome anything.
“Snow White and the Huntsman” is almost the ultimate feminist tale, although some women are already saying otherwise. At the end of the movie, it’s clear that Prince Charming won’t choose her. She’ll choose him. She finds that by sticking to her values and inspiring others, she can change a kingdom. All of that strength was God-given and Snow White knows it.
Read more on my takes on pop culture and religion:
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Bully movie can make a difference
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