With Christianity outlawed in Japan, its adherents are forced to worship in private while those who practice openly are arrested, tortured, and killed. Two Portuguese priests, Rodriguez (David Lampson) and Garupe (Don Kenny), arrive in Japan with the help of Kichijiro (Mako Iwamatsu), with the intention of ministering to those who hold to the Christian faith in secret. They are also looking for their senior, Padre Ferreira who was captured by the authorities some years before. As the persecution of Christians continues, the two foreigners are forced to confront their own faith and morality.
Based on the novel by Shusaku Endo and directed by Masahiro Shinoda, is a sombre look at the often troubled relationship between religion and society that resonates as keenly today as in the period-setting of the story. The plot confronts us with questions of whether it is better to cling to faith or to alleviate people’s earthly suffering; and details the conflict between religious authorities and secular powers. Rodriguez insists on remaining loyal to the church in the face while troubled back the lack of divine intervention; while the Japanese are attempting to unite the country around the pre-existing religious faiths of the land. The film is well-paced as we follow the Portuguese missionaries, and witness the repeated attacks on their congregation. There is tension throughout between the Christian and non-Christian factions that reflects the ongoing divides in society brought about by belief. David Lampson gives a fantastic performance as the protagonist Rodriguez, albeit struggling with the heavy Japanese dialogue occassionally, as the film becomes almost a trial or temptation narrative for him, with repeated opportunities for him to renounce his faith in order to save others.
Religion continues to play a major role in many peoples lives, no less divisive than it was in the 17th Century. “Silence” gives us a stark look at the lives of believers who remain commited to these ideologies, attempting to reassure themselves that their actions are meaningful and righteous in the face of the contrary evidence. We also see the torment that followers of faith endure when they believe they have betrayed their religion, most keenly in the character of Kichijiro, who believes he is an amoral individual for selling out his fellow Christians in order to save himself. The film’s shocking final moments confront us with troubling implications for both the characters and wider humanity. A superb film with a timeless moral conundrum at its heart; worth watching for the thrilling plot and performances.
