*Edit*
So I've been thinking about whether or not I want to watch "The Passion of the Christ." Part of me wants to, because I think it will really bring to life something that in many ways is really just a story to me. And, because I respect Mel Gibson's artistic vision and principcle in making the film he wanted to make. That said, I also don't want to watch this movie because I hear it's horribly violent, and I'm not a huge fan of watching violence, no matter what the context. I've been reading a lot of reviews and commentary (I figure, hey, I know the story-- how much can they really spoil?) and I'm still split. And here's another thing- I'm a little turned off by all the publicity, and the big spectacle this film has turned into. Church groups buying out theaters, "bring a friend" events, etc. It's almost as if watching this movie has become a measuring stick of how Christian you are-- if you're a Christian and you don't watch this movie, you're not a good Christian. If you don't like the movie, you're not a good Christian. And that bugs man. I think if I watch it, it'll be by myself, in the middle of the afternoon. If it's as powerful as people say, I think I'd prefer to experience that on a really personal level.
Here are some reviews/articles from my favorite new websites.
New York Times review
Chicago Tribune review
Chicago Tribune commentary
Newsweek review
Time Magazine review
Roger Ebert review
Washington Post review
Article on Truth and Fiction in The Passion

Why am I so interested in this? Because it's an intersection of the secular and non-secular world, it appeals to my faith and interest in Jesus but appalls my wimpy threshold for violence, it involves the Christian herd mentality that I hate but sometimes buy into, and because it's become not just a movie, but something that has brought up religious conflict and challenged societal beliefs. And that's interesting.
My take on the most controversial movie of the year.