The Count of Monte Cristo

A Tale to Tell

Well, I assume it is a good book. This is one novel I have not gotten to, but it is on the list.I promise. I only need to read a few other tomes before I get to it, but today I am talking about the movie from 2002, The Count of Monte Cristo. This is a classic tale of revenge, or so we are often told.

Jim Caivezel and Guy Pearce do a wonderful job showing the reality of human greed, selfishness, friendship, betrayal, self-destruction, and so on.

In most reviews of this movie, I have noticed a tendency to focus on the power of revenge within a person. Huzzah for innate strength and willpower and overcoming all odds to get your justice! When we are wronged, there is such a strong sense of justice within us we will overcome any obstacles that are in our way to get revenge, and anyone in our way will suffer.

Jim Caviezel, Edmond, is betrayed by Guy Pearce, Fernand, and then Edmond gets his revenge and Fernand gets his comeuppance, and everyone celebrates. Justice!

Or is it?

Throughout the film there is the running theme of God’s sovereign will and God’s vengeance, God bringing about justice in His own time. Here is where the movie shines, if you pay attention. It is well done.

So, pay attention. As you watch this film, it becomes clear that Edmond is not the hero that grows through his trials like Joseph, and Moses, and David, and Daniel, and Paul. Edmond is a man of vengeance who disregards God’s promises of justice and becomes the villain of the story in an attempt to bring about his own desires. Edmnond becomes Fernand. You can take this tale and fold it in half and one character becomes the other, even quoting one another throughout.

Where is the middle of the chiasm? When does Edmond become Fernand and discard the innocence and goodness he once had? Well, I’ll let you think about that after you see the movie.

There are swords, and chests of gold, and prisons with prison breaks. It is a tale worthy of telling and one to consider in our own lives. Watch it with your older kids and have a good conversation about the human condition. How can vengeance turn us into villains?

If you enjoy this movie, let me know, I would live to hear about it.