Film Review: Reverent, Joyful & Inspirational Jesus in ‘Risen’

Submitted by PatrickMcD on February 20, 2016 - 8:05am

CHICAGO – I am a recovering Catholic, which I’ll tell you a million times – or maybe shortly after I meet you – and I have to say I had a well of nostalgia while experiencing “Risen,” the story of Jesus’s Resurrection and aftermath. It is enjoyable, in a strange way, for Christians and film fans alike.

Rating: 4.0/5.0

There is a lightness to the story, with a little historical re-creation thrown in for good measure. The Jerusalem of Christ’s time is portrayed with the dirt and grit of the age, which also lent an air of authenticity. It reminded me of the 48 hours after the John F. Kennedy assassination, in which the shock of the event reverberates like a wave. The intrigue of whether Jesus – called by his Hebrew name Yeshua in the film – was the true Messiah played right into into the I-wash-my-hands of those who were charged with nipping it in the bud. Also, the actor they found to portray the Christ was a surprising choice. All in all, this ain’t my Daddy’s “Greatest Story Ever Told,” but a more expressive piece of re-telling.

The film’s opening is a battle outside Jerusalem. It is the Romans versus the Hebrews, and it’s bitter fighting. The Roman military leader, or Tribute, Clavius (Joseph Fiennes) is in the midst of the battle, and as he takes no prisoners. He gets back inside the city and it immediately called in by Pontius Pilate (Peter Firth). It seems that Pilate has just ordered the execution of Yeshua, the Nazarene (Cliff Curtis), and the body is still hanging on a crucifix.

Pilate orders Clavius to make sure the body is sealed away, for the rumor is Yeshua is the Messiah and will rise from the dead. The tomb has a two ton rock in front of it, yet in the morning of three days later, it is empty. Panic comes from Pilate, and Clavius is now charged with finding the disciples. He takes his right hand solider Lucius (Tom Felton) under his wing for the investigation and search. What they find will have profound implications for Clavius, and humanity.

“Risen” opens everywhere on February 19th. Featuring Joseph Fiennes, Peter Firth, Tom Felton, Maria Botto, Stewart Scudamore, Stephen Hagan and Cliff Curtis. Screenplay by Kevin Reynolds and Paul Aiello. Directed by Paul Aiello. Rated “PG-13”