As Holy Week approaches, many people look for ways to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Cinema has long been a powerful medium for exploring these themes, offering various perspectives on the figure of Christ. This year, several notable films are being highlighted, showcasing both classic and contemporary interpretations of Jesus's life, passion, and resurrection.
One of the standout films is The Passion of the Christ, directed by Mel Gibson and released in 2004. This film is renowned for its visceral portrayal of the last days of Jesus, with a focus on the intense suffering he endured leading up to his crucifixion. Shot in Aramaic, Latin, and Hebrew, the film has sparked discussions about its graphic content, earning it a rating for viewers aged 15 and older. Despite the controversy, it has been praised for its artistic direction and emotional impact, grossing over $570 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing religious films ever. It is available for streaming on Netflix and Prime Video.
Another classic, King of Kings, was released in 1961 and directed by Nicholas Ray. This film presents the life of Jesus from his birth to his crucifixion, set against the backdrop of Roman rule. With a powerful narrative and a more traditional storytelling style, it has been well-received by audiences and is available on Apple TV.
For those interested in animation, The Man Who Does Miracles (2000) offers a unique perspective through the eyes of a young girl. This stop-motion film tells the story of Jesus's miracles and is available on Prime Video. Additionally, a new animated version of King of Kings, featuring the voices of Oscar Isaac as Jesus and Pierce Brosnan as Pontius Pilate, is set to reach theaters, adding a fresh take on the classic narrative.
Another notable film is Ben-Hur, directed by William Wyler in 1959. While Jesus is a secondary character in this epic tale, the film explores themes of redemption and justice, with the story of Judah Ben-Hur intersecting with that of Christ. It remains a classic and is available for streaming on Paramount+.
Franco Zeffirelli's Jesus of Nazareth, released in 1977, is often regarded as one of the most comprehensive portrayals of Christ's life. With a runtime of over six hours, the miniseries offers a detailed account of Jesus's journey from birth to resurrection, making it a favorite among viewers and critics alike. This film can be watched on Claro.
In the realm of more modern interpretations, The Chosen has gained significant popularity, reaching 280 million viewers and approaching a billion hours of content viewed. This series, which focuses on the life of Jesus and his disciples, has been praised for its innovative approach to storytelling, appealing even to those who may not identify as religious. The series has evolved from crowdfunding to a substantial budget of $9 to $10 million per episode.
In addition to these films, the industry has seen a surge in religious-themed content across various platforms. The release of The King of Kings (2025), which has already grossed $19 million in its opening weekend, reflects a growing trend of exploring spiritual narratives in new formats. This animated film, based on Charles Dickens's work, aims to reach family audiences during Holy Week.
Moreover, the focus on Jesus's disciples is becoming more prominent in contemporary storytelling. In The Chosen, the twelve apostles are given significant attention, showcasing their human experiences and struggles. This shift is also evident in the recent novel Los Doce by José María Zavala, which delves into the lives of the apostles, portraying them as real individuals with virtues and flaws.
The resurgence of interest in religious films coincides with a notable increase in the consumption of Christian music, which has grown by 50% in the United States and 60% globally over the past five years. This genre's expansion is largely attributed to its acceptance among younger audiences and its presence on streaming platforms.
As families gather during Holy Week, these films and series provide an opportunity not only to reflect on the teachings of Jesus but also to engage in meaningful discussions about faith, love, and forgiveness. Whether through the intense drama of The Passion of the Christ or the more lighthearted approach of animated films, there’s something for everyone to explore in the rich tapestry of stories surrounding Jesus Christ.
In a world where narratives around faith are evolving, the cinematic portrayal of Jesus continues to inspire and provoke thought, inviting viewers to reflect on their beliefs and the messages of love and redemption that resonate through these timeless tales.
