By Toni Jane Pallatto - St. Theresa School (Little Flower)
Photographer: COURTESY PHOTO
Charlie Cox plays Josemar�a Escriv� in "There Be Dragons."
�There Be Dragons,� a new film by Roland Joffe which opens this weekend, is based on the fictionalized life of this 20th century saint. With themes of love, war and forgiveness, the film tells a poignant story of overcoming fear and focusing on everyday acts of faith.
Florida Catholic freelancer Toni Pallatto recently spoke by telephone to Charlie Cox, who plays St. Josemar�a in the movie. He spoke about the growth that he experienced through the filming of �There Be Dragons.� Following is an edited version of the interview:
How did you prepare for the role of St. Josemaria Escriva?
I spent a great deal of time researching Opus Dei (God�s Works) and talking to people about my upcoming role. I was amazed at how many people had contempt for Opus Dei without investigation. I was warned to be careful. But none of these people could back up their concerns. I guess they got this nonsense from the books of Dan Brown. I traveled to Italy, Spain and the United States and met many Opus Dei priests. I was overwhelmingly impressed with the decisions they make and the way they live their lives. They are incredibly generous and kind.
I understand that Father John Wauk, an Opus Dei priest, served as an official consultant to the film?
Yes, and I spent a great deal of time traveling with him. He taught me a great deal about Escriv�, Opus Dei and what it takes to be a priest. He is the most open-minded man I have ever met and he will be my friend for life.
What did you learn about the life and times of St. Josemar�a Escriv�?
It was a very difficult time during the Spanish Civil War. The backdrop was total confusion. That is why it is so remarkable what St. Escriv� accomplished given the adversity he faced. His faith and love were tested at every turn. There were times when he was frustrated; (for example) just as Opus Dei was beginning to get off the ground, he had to flee due to the persecution and killing of priests. Because of this, he lost time in his mission. This was a very low point for him, as he was leaving behind people for whom he cared, feeling he was fleeing his responsibilities. Yet, I believe this strengthened his conviction and instilled in him that God had a message for him to share with the world. He was thus able to continually act from faith and love.
What growth did you experience personally?
I had a real responsibility here. In 30 to 40 years, looking back on my career, I hope there will be some big Hollywood blockbusters. In this movie, however, there is something more important going on. I was playing a man who was canonized in 2002, where at least 400,000 to 500,000 (people) traveled to Rome to participate and millions more watched. Here, I am a part of telling a story, but there is a more important relationship attached to it. This is a man who changed the course of history, despite his own dragons, with everyday acts of faith and love. We can all aspire to that if we stay focused and true to our faith.
For a review of �There Be Dragons� by Catholic News Service, click here. The film was screened in March at the Vatican for cardinals, ambassadors and the leadership of Opus Dei.
