Watch Romero

The movie Romero from 1989 is a biographical drama film that tells the story of Salvadoran Archbishop Óscar Romero, who was assassinated in 1980 while celebrating mass. The film explores Romero's personal and spiritual journey from being a conservative priest to becoming a voice for the poor and oppressed in El Salvador. Raul Julia stars as Óscar Romero, and his performance is powerful and nuanced as he portrays the archbishop's transformation from serving the interests of the wealthy and powerful to fighting for justice and human rights. Richard Jordan plays Fr. Rutilio Grande, one of Romero's close friends, who was also assassinated by the government for his activism. Ana Alicia plays Lucia, who is portrayed as Romero's confidant and friend.

The film opens with Romero's appointment as Archbishop of San Salvador, a position that he initially accepts without much enthusiasm, hoping to continue being a quiet and unobtrusive priest far from the political turmoil happening in the country. However, he soon realizes that he cannot ignore the suffering of the poor and oppressed, who are living in extreme poverty and facing violence and repression at the hands of the government and military.

As Romero begins to speak out against the violence and injustice, he faces opposition from within the church hierarchy, who are afraid that his activism will lead to violence and undermine the church's relationship with the government. Romero also faces threats from the military and right-wing death squads, who see him as a threat to their power.

The film's depiction of the violence and brutality of the Salvadoran government is stark and unflinching, and it shows the impact of the violence on the people of El Salvador, especially the poor and vulnerable. The movie is not shy about the extreme violence that is depicted and the impact it has on the characters and the audience.

Romero's activism grows stronger as he witnesses the suffering of his people, and he becomes a voice for the poor and oppressed. He becomes an advocate for human rights, demanding that the government stop the violence and repression against its people. His sermons become increasingly political, and he uses his position as archbishop to make powerful statements about social justice and human rights.

The film is not only a biography but also a powerful commentary on the role of the church in society and the importance of speaking out against injustice. Romero's struggle to reconcile his faith with the reality of the suffering around him is a central theme of the film, and it shows how his activism was motivated by his deep faith and commitment to justice.

Overall, the movie Romero is a powerful and moving telling of the life and work of Óscar Romero, who became one of the most important figures in the fight for justice and human rights in El Salvador. The film's themes of social justice, faith, and activism are as relevant today as they were in the 1980s when the film was made, and the powerful performances of the lead actors make this a must-watch film for anyone interested in the intersection of faith and social justice.