Luther (2003)

Immersed in the whirlwind of the 16th-century ecclesiastical world, "Luther" (2003) traces the tumultuous journey of Martin Luther (Joseph Fiennes), a man destined to ignite the flames of the Christian Reformation. The film opens dramatically as Martin, caught in the throes of a savage storm, pledges his life to monkhood if he survives. Fate listens, and Martin's life takes a spiritual turn. In Rome, Martin channels his dedication into becoming a monk, but soon finds himself disillusioned by the Church's corruption. He buys an indulgence for his grandfather's salvation, a transaction that sows seeds of rebellion in him. Shaken by the Church's moral decay, he returns to Germany to challenge the status quo, armed with a burning desire to change minds and open eyes. Martin's spiritual unrest leads him to Wittenberg, where he dives into theology, aiming to dissect and challenge the Church's practices. From questioning the burial of a suicidal child outside sacred grounds to openly criticizing the indulgences collected by Prince Frederick (Sir Peter Ustinov), Martin's radical stance draws both admiration and ire. His audacity to challenge the Church's authority is perceived as a threat, and he is warned to tread carefully. Undeterred, Martin pens the 95 Theses, a bold declaration against the Church's practices, and nails them onto the church door. His words, replicated and disseminated through the power of the printing press, ignite a theological revolution. Pope Leo X (Uwe Ochsenknecht) dismisses Martin's dissent as drunken ramblings, but the impact of his words is far-reaching and irreversible. Martin's refusal to recant his views at the summons of Rome leads to his excommunication and the burning of his books. In defiance, he translates the New Testament into German, a radical act to make scriptures accessible to the ordinary believer. A hearing in Worms sees Martin standing firm in his beliefs, refusing to recant. His audacity enrages the Cardinal, who demands his extradition to Rome. But destiny has different plans. Martin is secretly whisked away to Wartburg Castle by Prince Frederick, triggering a wave of chaos and destruction in his absence. Upon his return, disguised as a knight, Martin prevents the destruction of the church, finishes his translation, and dedicates the German New Testament to Prince Frederick. His personal life takes a turn when he marries a nun, Katharina von Bora (Claire Cox). As Pope Leo X's reign ends in debt and disgrace, Emperor Charles V (Torben Liebrecht) attempts to quell the unrest. But the revolution has taken root. Luther's courageous stand inspires the Princes to rise against Charles, marking a significant victory for Martin. "Luther" is a riveting exploration of faith, rebellion, and the power of truth, showcasing the extraordinary life of a man who dared to challenge the Church and alter the course of history.

Luther is a drama movie featuring Joseph Fiennes and directed by Eric Till.

It is possible to buy Luther on Amazon Video.