In essence, and sort like the people out there that read a novel and then complain about the film adaptation, Biblical events …show more content…
Some of them – for better or worse – simply set out to entertain those willing to partake in the viewing experience. To that end, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that a production can be enlightening, yet true to source material. And, that’s where Risen fits into the mold…
In Risen, directed by Kevin Reynolds (Waterworld, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves), Joseph Fiennes stars as Clavius – a prominent Roman Tribute under the direct command of Pontius Pilate (Peter Firth). Clavius has just been returned from battle and ordered to oversee the conclusion of several crucified executions – one of which happens to be the Jewish messiah, Yeshua aka Jesus Christ (Cliff Curtis).
With Yeshua dead on the cross, Clavius allows his followers to entomb the body. Yet, prior to his death, Yeshua had declared he would rise from the dead three days later. Fearful of such an event (and that Yeshua’s followers would steal the body and spread rumors that he’d risen from the dead), Pilate orders Clavius to post guards at the entrance of the …show more content…
If you’re read The Bible or even seen a film or TV series depicting Pilate, you’re aware he’s the (reluctant) figure tasked with condemning Christ to death. But, this film is well past that moment, leaving Firth’s character little more to do than repetitively command that Jesus’ body be found.
Regardless, the true highlight of the film is not acting related, despite solid performances – from Fiennes, Firth, Tom Felton, and to an extent, even Cliff Curtis (of Fear the Walking Dead fame) as Jesus. Instead, this story opts to depict a story about the birth of faith for one specific man, instead. Said moment takes place when Fiennes’ character discovers Jesus alive and well in the company of his devoted followers – an event chronicled in the pages of Luke.
The major discrepancy here is not of the film’s inaccuracies when compared to scripture. Instead, it’s the completely fictional idea that a Roman soldier encounters these extremely pivotal moments at all – begging the question, why wasn’t Risen simply shot through the eyes of Luke, Matthew, or even Mary Magdalene? In turn, Risen is merely first person account from no one in