APT PUPIL (1998)

Directed by: Bryan Singer
Written by: Brandon Boyce
Studio: Tristar Pictures
Starring: Ian McKellan, Brad Renfro, Bruce Davison
Rated: R

About the film:
A teenage boy suspects his neighbor of being a Nazi war criminal. He confronts him and promises to keep his identity a secret if the old man would tell him stories of the atrocities that took place in the concentration camps. The more he hears, the more his behavior changes.

Movie Quote:
“Like Icarus, we too have been given gifts: knowledge, education, experience. And with these gifts comes the responsibility of choice. We alone decide how our talents are bestowed upon the world.”
Todd Bowden (Brad Renfro) in Apt Pupil (1998)

Bible Quote:
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach.”
Romans 12:6-7 (NIV)


Commentary:
Young Todd Bowden’s comment is a small premonition that hints of the tragedy that awaits him. Each of us has certain “gifts” or “long suits.” We also have the free will to use them, abuse them, or totally ignore them. Todd chooses poorly and his life suffers as a result.

Just because someone gives someone else a gift does not guarantee that it will be used or used well. That is an option left entirely to the receiver. The giver of the gift may have all the best intentions and expectations, but it is the receiver who has the choice whether or not to put the gift to use and in what fashion.

Spiritually, God has given us the best gift of all. We have received His gift of holy spirit. This one gift has the power to impact and affect every single thing we do or say in this world… if we but choose to use it in accordance with our faith or believing.

As the giver, God’s job in this particular transaction is done. We already have his gift. It is a gift that is unique and specifically designed for us in mind. All that remains is for us to make the decision – what are we going to do with it?

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Consider the film in light of 1 Corinthians 15:33. How does this scripture apply to the film’s story?
2. What are some of the exhortations that God gives us through His Word that instructs us how to utilize what He has given us?