MovieChat Forums > A Walk to Remember (2002) Discussion > The religion overdone?

The religion overdone?

posted 8 years ago by mikeyg24
4 replies | jump to latest

I loved the film and while I'm not religious myself I have the greatest admiration for those with faith (my dad is a minister and one of my best friends) but did they overdo Jaime's faith to the point of brainwashed rather than faithful? We know she's the reverend's daughter, she dresses morally, and carries a bible. Isn't that enough? I guess what I'm talking about is the scene where she gives Landon a ride and she even has a crucifix on her key ring! I mean someone in production had to think of that and I thought 'OK we get it, she's very devout'.

Hey! You're not old enough to drink! Now go and die for your country!!!

[–] nogalace 8 years ago

Actually, compared to the novel, I'd say Jamie's faith was downplayed. I mean, there were a few scenes where she mentioned (or we got the impression of) her beliefs, but other than the key ring scene you noted and the necklace she often wore - on her date night in particular, I don't think it was overly heavy-handed. Just my opinion.

[–] mikeyg24 8 years ago

Well there were also her ambitions, witness a miracle etc, even her favourite hobby seemed to be motivated by a greater understanding Gods greatness rather than just appreciate the beauty of the universe. Besides the tattoo she seemed very little inclined to anything of a secular nature. I guess it's just the impression I got. My dad was a minister like Robert De Niro's character was a Priest in 'Sleepers' except he like to preach over a pint of Guinness

Hey! You're not old enough to drink! Now go and die for your country!!!

[–] mjz688 8 years ago

I'm an atheist, and as I've said elsewhere on the AWTR boards, the religious overtones in this movie didn't bother me. I never felt like I was being preached to. They were just showing how a very religious young woman went about her daily life.

I also found it significant that Jaimie never tries to "convert" Landon. She loves him for who he is, not for who she might wish him to be.

[–] stephaniehoskins 8 years ago

She was just a devoted person to god. I see nothing out of the ordinary when religious people do things such as this. I compare it to someone who has a love/devotion to maybe a band or idol. They represent there love with posters,bracelets, things as such. Also i see it as reminders when in a rough spot. Of course we know she has leukemia and yes she is devoted to her faith I'd imagine just like any other human she has times she questions it or a momentairly lapse of faith and keeps these things close as reminders to stay strong.