KATE AND LEOPOLD (2001)

Directed by: James Mangold
Written by: James Mangold, Steven Rogers
Studio: Miramax Films
Starring: Meg Ryan, Hugh Jackman, Liev Shreiber, Brecklin Meyer
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
A 19th century man travels to 21st century New York through a time hole near the Brooklyn Bridge. His old-fashioned chivalry is a markedly refreshing change from the other men of this new time. It is a difference that is noticed by a film publicist who must keep an eye on him until he can be returned to his own time.

Movie Quote:
“It’s a great thing to get what you want. It’s a really good thing unless what you thought you wanted wasn’t really what you wanted… Because what you really wanted you couldn’t imagine or you didn’t think it was possible but what if someone came along who knew exactly what you wanted without asking… they just knew.”
Kate (Meg Ryan) in Kate and Leopold (2001)

Bible Quote:
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.”
Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)

Commentary:
The rambling statement that Kate makes is actually quite endearing. It expresses a desire that many of us have felt before. Who among us would not want to be loved by someone who would know, without us telling them, exactly what we needed?

Looking into our hearts, knowing what we desire and then abundantly exceeding our expectations is something God does all the time for the people who love Him. It’s a good thing too, because most of the time we may know what we want, but we are absolutely clueless as to what we really need.

We may think we know but so often, the things we think we want won’t bring us lasting happiness or joy. Indeed, they may not even be good for us. But even if they are, God is not satisfied with what is good for us. He wants what is best for us.

It is a great thing to have a heavenly father whose love for us surpasses our own understanding. Our God is a Father who will continue to give long after our initial want has been met.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What are the differences between Leopold and this average modern man of today? What could be learned from him?
2. Kate, when we meet her, is extremely cynical. What has made her this way? How can we protect ourselves from becoming cynical?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com