I want to set up some standards for discussing this film, which hardly any of us (including me) have seen.

It’s a work of art. It’s not the Gospels, and it was not made by St. Mel.

Therefore, it is perfectly acceptable not to like any of it, or parts of it. What is not acceptable is to demean the faith of others here who express reservations about the film. Who knows. It may be the greatest thing ever. I have no doubt that it will present us with a fantastic teachable moment. But it may also – gasp – not be perfect.

So, for example, if someone says, “Boy that was violent,” we do not respond by saying, “Yeah. I know all about you and your ilk, wanting to deny the reality and importance of Jesus’ sacrifice.”

In fact, the work “ilk” will be banned from all postings on the subject.

(What is an ilk, anyway?)