Set in Romania during World War II, “Tortured for Christ” provides a small glimpse into the horrors of the Communist persecution of Christians through the eyes of Richard Wurmbrand. As a pastor, Wurmbrand leads a small but close-knit section of the underground church. When he is captured by Soviet forces, he must discover if his faith is strong enough to endure.

“Tortured for Christ” is an interesting documentary-indie hybrid that doesn’t pull any punches. Wurmbrand’s beatings and the torture machines used on him are depicted in a reasonably realistic fashion, showing the terrible ordeals that the persecuted Christians had to endure. The film is intended to be thought-provoking, and it raises the question, ‘What would I do in a similar position?’ Despite everything, Wurmbrand loves the Russian people before, during and after his imprisonment. Scripture says in Romans 12:14, “Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them.” Persecution of this level is hard for many of us to understand fully. However, I believe that this lesson should be taken to heart by every person, whether they are a believer or not.

Peer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Rating: It is unrated, although it likely would have received a PG-13 based solely on the violent images.