Clash of the Titans

Clash of the Titans (2010) ran on TV recently. It’s a remake of the 1981 version. I’ve seen both, although the 1981 version didn’t leave much of a lasting impression.

The 2010 version has some fine actors, and the special effects are obviously far superior. However, it suffers from a weak plot. Basically, it’s a film for boys.

I also can’t say giant computer-generated scorpions are the least bit scary. Indeed, we’ve been subjected to jumbo mutant insects ever since atomic bomb themed B-flicks from the 50s.

The demigods of Greek mythology were among the first superheroes, although they were preceded by Gilgamesh. As a boy I read Greek mythology. Diomedes was my favorite Homeric hero. Comic book superheroes are lineal decedents of the Greek demigods.

The myth of Perseus also has some interesting connections with legend of St. George, as well as Revelation 12, 19-20.

In a sense, Samson is the Biblical counterpart, but that also illustrates the difference. He’s a tragic figure. His physical might can’t save him from his moral weakness. He must lose everything before he can win–achieving in death what he failed to achieve in life.

I think it’s only natural for young boys to identify with superheroes. At the same time, I’m struck by the radical contrast between Greek superheroes and Christian piety.

Christianity is a frank and even desperate admission of our ultimate weakness. Our profound limitations. The things we care most about are the things over which we have the least control. In our helplessness we turn to God in prayer. Even if we had superpowers, we’d be impotent to save ourselves or those we love from what matters most.

It’s fashionable in some fringe circles to claim that Jesus is based on “dying-and-rising savior gods.” And there’s a sense in which Jesus has superhero powers in excelsis.

Yet therein lies the contrast. At the cross, Jesus saves through weakness rather than strength. Surrender rather than combat. Redemption and sanctification can’t be wrought through brute force.