Watch Luther: The Life and Legacy of the German Reformer

Luther: The Life and Legacy of the German Reformer is a 2017 documentary film highlighting the life and impact of Martin Luther, a key figure in the Protestant Reformation. The documentary features interviews with scholars, theologians, and historians who offer insights into the significance of Luther's contributions to Christianity and the world.

The movie begins with an overview of Luther's life, starting with his birth in Eisleben, Germany, in 1483. It discusses his childhood, education, and his decision to become a priest. The film also explores Luther’s spiritual turmoil, including his struggles with confession and the sacraments, which led him to challenge the Catholic Church's teachings.

The documentary then delves into the events that launched Luther to become a leading figure in the Protestant Reformation, including his 95 Theses, which he nailed to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg in 1517. The film highlights the political and religious upheaval that followed this act, leading to the establishment of the Lutheran Church and the formation of Protestantism.

Throughout the movie, experts provide context and analysis of Luther's pivotal role in reshaping Christian theology and practice. They discuss how Luther's ideas about justification by faith alone challenged the Catholic Church's teachings on salvation and led to a renewed emphasis on the authority of scripture.

In addition to Luther's religious impact, the film also highlights his contributions to education, music, and language. Viewers learn about Luther's efforts to promote literacy by translating the Bible into the German language, as well as his role in influencing the development of hymnody and choral music.

The documentary also examines the controversies and criticisms that surrounded Luther during his lifetime and continue to be debated among scholars today. For instance, some scholars argue that Luther's writings on Jews contributed to the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe.

Overall, Luther: The Life and Legacy of the German Reformer offers a detailed and informative look at one of history's most influential figures. The film offers insights into the historical and religious context in which Luther lived and worked, as well as his ongoing impact on Christianity and the world.

Barry Cooper, Robert Godfrey, and Robert Kolb serve as the primary interviewees in the documentary. Cooper, a theologian, provides historical context for Luther's life and legacy, while Godfrey, a historian, comments on the broader social and cultural impact of the Reformation. Kolb, also a theologian, offers a deep understanding of Luther's theological ideas and their significance for Christianity.

Overall, Luther: The Life and Legacy of the German Reformer is an engaging and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a pivotal period in Christian history. With insightful commentary and analysis from leading scholars, the film provides a compelling portrait of Martin Luther's life and enduring legacy.

Luther: The Life and Legacy of the German Reformer is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2.