Caviezel, 'Passion' ignored

Margret Valladares of Grand Prairie, Texas, writes:

"Thank you so much for pointing out that Jim Caviezel did a wonderful job as Jesus in 'The Passion of The Christ.' It bothers me that he has not been nominated in any best actor category. I know this is a very controversial movie, but that should not take away from his outstanding acting performance."

Reply: The lack of recognition does not detract from Caviezel's achievement. But he lacks official acknowledgment.

Neither Caviezel's performance nor "Passion" nor any other component of it has been mentioned in any category, even as a runner-up or nominee, by any critics' group in the country.

Nor has anything involving "Passion" been nominated by any film industry group, such as the producers', directors' or actors' guilds.

The film made a mint because it tapped into a long-unaddressed issue of interest, especially to Middle Americans. Its achievements are considerable.

Beyond that, though, it's a movie that made many in the film industry and in the media exceptionally uncomfortable. I'll be surprised if on Jan. 25 it receives a single Oscar nomination.