Films

JESUS FILMS - REVIEWS

NOTES ON THE FILM: THE KING OF KINGS (1927)
DeMille claimed this silent film to be one of his greatest masterpieces. He preferred three of the gospels: Matthew, Luke, and John. Jesus is a portrayed as divine (Johannine) and also as a miracle worker in this film, healing the sick and blind and casting out demons which parallels many of the Gospels' verses. In the Jewish and Roman trial scenes, DeMille prefers the verses of Luke and John. Therefore there is some anti-Semitism bias to the Jews being responsible for Jesus death. The crowds are bribed to confuse Pilate (Roman procurator of Judea) in his decision regarding Jesus guilt. After Jesus crucifixion, the high priest back at the temple is tormented by pangs of guilt.

Episodes with no Biblical Basis.
The episode about healing of little Mark has no basis in the Gospels. Mary was cast as a harlot in this silent film-although there his no reference to such in any of the Gospels. In this film, Mary Magdelene and Judas are acquaintances, as depicted in the first scenes of the movie.
Evaluation of Jesus Portrayal
Cecille B. DeMille portrayed Jesus as a heavenly being, particularly in the episode where he cast out the seven demons from Mary Magdelene and came into "focus" for the first time for the audience. Until this episode, his face was not shown. Jesus resurrection, during the color portion of the film, was interesting in that it emphasized the importance of this event to the filmmaker.
Evaluation of Film Artistic Quality
The film was a landmark in its time. I enjoyed the use of exact verse passages from the Bible which made the movie seem authentic from the Gospel's perspectives. Some fictionalization of accounts of the movie as noted above did occur, but they seemed to fit within the story well.

NOTES ON THE FILM: THE KING OF KINGS (1961)
This film was a "remake" of Cecille B. Demilles' original classic in 1927 film King of Kings. The remake was in title only as episodes and the depiction of Jesus were different. This film starts in 63 BC with the invasion of Jerusalem by the Romans. By Jesus birth, all were to be taxed, so Joseph and Mary go to Bethlehem to be taxed. For 12 years Joseph and Mary go to Egypt (Matthewian) and return to Israel. Barrabas is a key figure in the film, constantly fighting and scheming against the establishment- portrayed as a murderer and robber. Salome, Herod Antipas brother's wife's daughter has key influence on Herod and the beheading of john the Baptist. In the crucifixion all of Jesus sayings on the cross are expressed by Jesus. Finally a long shadow of Jesus across the "net" of the disciples is shown forming a cross. The film portrays the Romans as being the prime influence on sentencing Jesus death.

Episodes with no Biblical Basis.
John the Baptist visits Mary after Jesus goes into the Wilderness, and obviously after Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist. A fictional character, Lucias is present throughout the movie. He first appears with Herod the Great, is in Egypt during the census, and becomes a believer in Jesus eventually. In essence he is a continuous witness to most accounts of Jesus miracles and the actions of the government.
Evaluation of Jesus Portrayal
Jesus birth scene is from Matthew and Luke. Jesus is portrayed as being divine according to John's Gospel and as a peacemaker, in contrast with Barrabas. The film concentrates on depicting the times of Israel with a constant presence of Roman soldiers and influence.
Evaluation of Film Artistic Quality
The film the first full color epic of Jesus life since the 1927 film. The character of Jesus portrayed by Jeff Hunter was good, although he was dubbed the teen-age idol of Jesus by critics during showing in the early '60s. The presence and influence of Rome was depicted magnificently and reminded of many of the other "Gladiator" films in the U.S. during this period.

NOTES ON THE FILM: THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST. MATTHEW(1964)
The opening scene of the movie started with a perplexed Joseph looking at his pregnant wife. An angel talked to Joseph to guide him, in his travels to Egypt, and answer's his questions as to "what was happening" with Mary and Jesus. Roman soldiers have several confrontations with groups of Israel - Soldiers are not well dressed as in other films. Judas is portrayed as an unbeliever/schemer who betrays Jesus to the Sadducees, for money. Caiphas, high priest pronounces Jesus death sentence. Jesus is crucified, says seven sayings, and is taken down from the cross by children. Jesus resurrection is witnessed by Mary Magdelene and other women.

Episodes with no Biblical Basis.
Herod sends the three wise men to find Jesus during his birth.
Evaluation of Jesus Portrayal
The film was a very close depiction of the life of Jesus according to the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus was mainly portrayed a being a Sage (i.e.. a teacher of Wisdom) and a spiritual leader with divine powers - walks on water (levitation). Jesus is aware of his imminent death before his entrance into Jerusalem.
Evaluation of Film Artistic Quality
The film was produced by a Italian Catholic communist. The filmmaker obviously had a low budget for this film as depicted in the clothing of the Roman soldiers. However the account of Jesus according to the Book of Matthew was close to the mark.

NOTES ON THE FILM: THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD (1965)
The movies starts with a manger scene. Herod Antipas sends out a decree to find Jesus in order for Herod to "worship Jesus". Herod fears "child of imagination". Soldiers kill newborn in Bethlehem while Jesus is in Egypt. A battle started by Herod in Jerusalem occurs which "desecrates" the people. Joseph, Mary, and Jesus return to Jerusalem on road lined with crucifixes. Jesus is baptized, and goes into wilderness for the temptation with the devil. The devil appears later in several scenes which influence Judas betrayal of Jesus. John the Baptist is sentenced by the Sanhedrin for treason. Pilate orders his (JTB) arrest. Herod receives word through discourse with JTB that Jesus is building an army. Jesus preaches in Nazareth and is rejected. "No prophet is recognized in his own land". Jesus raises Lazarus (Johannine). Jesus goes to Jerusalem. Pilate is concerned about loss of control because of deeds and actions of Jesus in Jerusalem. Judas is portrayed as one who is a friend of Jesus (he is purest, kindest man I have ever known) and betrays Jesus to the high priest, Caiphas, afraid that Jesus is heading for bigger trouble unless he acts. Judas rejects payment by Caiphas. Jesus trial is before the Sanhedrin with a witness of the blind man who got his sight in Nazareth by Jesus. Nicodemus (Johannine) is on the high court and questions why he was not informed earlier of the proceedings. Jesus is convicted by Pontius Pilate. Jesus is crucified and taken to temple. Pilate sends guard to look after the tomb - to insure prophecy will not be fulfilled. Woman and disciples witness the empty tomb. Jesus is resurrected.

Episodes with no Biblical Basis.
Judas kills himself at Jewish temple altar by throwing himself into fire.
Evaluation of Jesus Portrayal
Jesus is portrayed in the Johannine tradition as being divine and spiritual. Throughout the film, the Gospel according to John is favored, with some passages according to Luke, and less according to Matthew. The manger scene supports Matthew because of the visitation of the three magi. The film was heavily steeped in the religious qualities of Jesus. I felt the historical Jesus could not be found in this film, if one were to look for him.
Evaluation of Film Artistic Quality
The film illustrated the Christian faith view of Jesus - the divine Christ. The final scene in which Jesus say I will be with you until the end of the world. The film used colorful scenes that were beautifully choreographed.

NOTES ON THE FILM: JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (1973)
This film was a radical departure from previous films viewed in this course. The film was made on location (Israel) with a very memorable musical score. The story begins with a black man, portraying Judas, singing about Jesus - "they'll hurt you if they think you've lied, they'll crush us if we go too far". Mary Magdelene is depicted as giving Jesus solace in times of trouble and discouragement. Next, in a cave, a woman is washes Jesus feet - Judas asks why Jesus associates with those who will get him in trouble. Caiphas is concerned about how the Romans will view Jesus.- he is dangerous Jesus talks with disciples, who are slow learners. " If you knew what I knew you'd see the truth". Jesus is portrayed as one who has performed his ministry for 3 years (Johannine). Mary Magdelene is puzzled by how to love Jesus, like other men she has loved. Anti-war flavor is depicted in scenes with jets, tanks, and helmets - reflecting the anti-Vietnam war sentiment during the time of this film. Judas is depicted as a disciple very confused over Jesus teachings and deeds - he does not understand. Jesus is brought to Herod in a humorous scene. Caiphas condemns Jesus. Pilate washes his hands of Jesus demolition Judas-"I don't know how to love him. Jesus ascends to heaven before the crucifixion - maybe in a vision. Jesus is then crucified

Episodes with no Biblical Basis
Most of the episodes were fictionalized but were based on many verses in the gospels
Evaluation of Jesus Portrayal
No one in this film knows Jesus - he is a mystic! I personally found the film to cut straight to the heart of the historical Jesus - one who was misunderstood in his time and even today. The historical Jesus, as divinely gifted, must have seemed very intelligent and mystical in his deeds. His followers, not fully understanding his message, could not comprehend his message in the context of their time and certainly for the future of man.
Evaluation of Film Artistic Quality
The music in this film was very moving and creative because of its interpretation of the characters view of Jesus and themselves in relation to the events of their time. In many of the scenes and songs, Jesus seems remote and untouchable. Jesus seems to be struggling as a man with his mission on earth and his relationship with God. In my opinion this was the most creative and sophisticated portrayal of Jesus. The message of Jesus life and purpose on earth was straightforward, without the glitz and romanticism of previous films.

NOTES ON THE FILM: JESUS OF NAZARETH (1977)
This film was the condensed 6.5 hour version of the original made for TV 10 hour version. Jewish engagement customs are emphasized between Joseph and Mary before Jesus birth. The relationship between Mary and Elizabeth, John the Baptist's mother is developed. Joseph goes to a Rabbi to discuss what is to be done about Mary and the child, during his engagement. Joseph and Mary are wed - Mary appears confused. Shepherds show up at the birth of Jesus. 12 year old Jesus reads Torah in synagogue. Jesus teaches in temple in Jerusalem. Jesus is baptized. No temptation in the wilderness. Jesus heals a demoniac. Matthew and Peter are rivals. Jesus goes to Matthew's home, in bad neighborhood and notorious crowd. Jesus revives a dead girl. Mary Magdelene is a hooker. Judas introduces himself to Jesus and presents his credentials as a scholar and translator of Hebrew and Greek. Jesus confronts the High Priests. Zealots attack Herod and are killed by spear squad. Peter says that Jesus should not go to Jerusalem. Jesus replies, "The devil is speaking through you". Judas acts as Jesus agent to the Sanhedrin - Judas says let Jesus prove himself to the Sanhedrin. Jesus arrives in Jerusalem . Jesus teaches in the temple. Jesus cures a blind man in the temple-disturbs the high priests. Confronts the High Priests - "My father and I are one and the same". At the meeting of the Sanhedrin, Nicodemus defends Jesus. Nicodemus says that "Jesus may indeed be the Messiah". At trial, Caiphas says this is not a trial. Jesus says he is Son of God. Zera, counsels Pilate on Sanhedrin decisions on Jesus. Pilate is disinterested - what's the big problem, another Messiah. Pilate asks crowds to make decision - favors Barrabas. Jesus is crucified. "It is accomplished!" Jesus taken down from cross in rain. Zera suggests guards be posted. Mary, Joanna, and Elizabeth take spices and ointments to the tomb on Sunday - see, but don't recognize Jesus gardening. Mary goes to disciples to tell them she has seen him. Jesus appears to disciples - go to the end of the earth preaching the Gospel. don't be afraid _ I am with you everyday until the end of time.

Episodes with no Biblical Basis.
Anna, the Innkeepers wife, shows Joseph and Mary to the manger. Wise men are counseled in a field house on Joseph's and Mary's, with Jesus, on the way back to Nazareth. Joseph dies. Judas as a scholar and translator. Disciples want to overthrow King Herod. Barabas conspires with Jesus on overthrowing the Romans. Jesus heals Roman soldiers servant. Character Zera.
Evaluation of Jesus Portrayal
The filmmaker favors Luke and John in his account of Jesus. He favors John heavily at the end of the film. I enjoyed this film as a story -- it spent a large portion of the film, in the beginning on the Jewish courtship and engagement customs that lead to Mary and Joseph marriage. This account was based on Jewish tradition and not Biblical verses. I think this film best portrayed the historical setting in the life of Jesus, but missed essence of the historical life of Jesus.
Evaluation of Film Artistic Quality
The film was well cast with characters - well known during the film making. I find that knowing the actors' roles in other films sometimes detracts my attention to the story.

NOTES ON THE FILM: THE LAST TEMPTATION OF CHRIST (1988)
This film is a radical depiction of Christ, stated in the beginning as being based on a book by Nikos Kazatzakis and not on the Gospels. However the film could not be entirely removed from the Gospels because certain events were depicted in the movie the same as what's in the Bible. Jesus is depicted initially as a cross maker and a friend of Judas in the business. Jesus is tormented by voices in his head. He is and has been friends with Mary Magdelene, a well renowned prostitute - they're standing in line for her. Jesus counsels her and she invites him to stay overnight - Jesus turns her down. Judas agrees to follow Jesus as long as he stay "in line". Jesus saves the Harlot from being stoned - he wonders what to say next - he hopes it's right. Jesus gets disciples. Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist. John says to know God he must go into the desert. Jesus has temptation scenes with devil in various forms - including a tornado of fire. Jesus comes out of the desert to meet Mary and Martha at their home. Disciples wait for Jesus to return from desert. Jesus returns to say that he is different than John the Baptist - he will baptize with fire. Jesus begins to perform miracles - water into wine at a wedding. He meets his mother and disclaims her to be his mother. He preaches in Nazareth - and is despised. Jesus raises Lazarus. Jesus enters Jerusalem and backs down from inciting a riot - he is afraid. Confides in Judas who is much stronger. Lazarus is killed by Barabbas - Jesus greatest miracle. Jesus goes on trial (very short in film) and is crucified. During his death, he is tempted by the devil (disguised as an angel)--in a 30 minute episode of becoming a man, having sex with Mary Magdelene, living with Mary and Martha, seeing Paul and the disciples during the 70 A. D siege of Jerusalem. Jesus is on his death bed when some of his disciples (Peter, et al) arrive and ask why he didn't die on the cross. Jesus prays to God to forgive him and is returned to cross. Jesus says "It is accomplished".

Episodes with no Biblical Basis.
Practically all episodes have no parallels in Gospels. Some Gospel events are pieced together very differently.
Evaluation of Jesus Portrayal
Interesting fiction -- an unlikely account of the historical Jesus. Jesus was first portrayed as a madman, then as a Zealot. No Gospel was favored. The filmmaker was intent on creating his own version of the tormented and testing of Jesus.
Evaluation of Film Artistic Quality
I thought the story was creative but incredible.