'Genius' Movie Includes Look at Spiritual Journey of Beatles' John Lennon [Excerpts]
Evangelist and film producer Ray Comfort's newly released documentary film "Genius" () takes a look at the spiritual aspects of John Lennon at the beginning and end of his half-hour movie. It also features video footage of Comfort approaching people with his unique street evangelism style. On Wednesday, the movie was available free online, just ahead of the 32-year anniversary on Saturday (Dec. 8) of the day the Beatles' singer was shot outside his apartment.
"I produced the movie as a companion to a new book called, The Beatles, God, and the Bible," said Comfort. "I have some strong convictions when it comes to issues the movie covers.
"Firstly, in 1965, Paul McCartney when asked if the Beatles believed in God (in a Playboy magazine interview) said, 'We probably seem anti-religious because of the fact that none of us believe in God.' But as they matured in life, Paul said, 'I'm very spiritual.' John said, 'I'm a most religious fellow.' Ringo said, 'God is in my life,' and George said, 'I want to find God.'"
"Genius" has been called a "chilling" movie on not only the life and tragic murder of John Lennon, but people resistant to faith in God, say those who previewed the movie, according to its filmmakers.
Referring to the hypothetical questions he asks people on the streets of Huntington Beach, Calif., and other cities, Comfort adds, "It's chilling because it reveals what people will do for money. There are ordinary people out there who would kill you. All they need is the right money and the belief that they won't get caught."
In 1965, as the Beatles were peaking, all four members professed to be atheists.
However, 15 years later, John, who had previously stated that they were more popular than Jesus, said, "I'm a most religious fellow ... I was brought up a Christian, and I only now understand some of the things that Christ was saying in those parables."