Reflecting on Faith: Must-Watch Movies and Series for Holy Week Viewing
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As Holy Week approaches, many individuals seek meaningful ways to reflect on the central themes of their faith, particularly the life, teachings, and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. One powerful medium for such contemplation is film and television. Through carefully crafted narratives and evocative visuals, movies and series can offer Christians and all types of viewers a profound opportunity to engage with the spiritual significance of this sacred time. Here, we present a selection of films and series that focus on the life of Jesus Christ, providing viewers with a rich tapestry of stories and perspectives to explore during Holy Week.
Here are the shows you can watch that feature Jesus Christ:
- The Chosen
Dallas Jenkins, a filmmaker, has shattered records and pushed boundaries with “The Chosen,” marking the first multi-season television series centered on Jesus’ life. This groundbreaking series, financed entirely through crowdfunding, aims to create seven seasons that vividly portray the biblical narratives surrounding Jesus’ public ministry.
- The Bible Collection
This impressive compilation of meticulously crafted Bible films encompasses the grand narratives of Genesis, David, Solomon, Jeremiah, and Jesus. Collectively, they depict the resilience, valor, and frailty of humanity, as well as the enduring faith that has guided generations from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Through these films, viewers witness how the tales and prophecies of the Old Testament foreshadow and pave the path for the arrival, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus, illustrating the seamless continuity between the two testaments.
- The Temptation of Christ
Jesus Christ, the divine Son of God, undertakes a 40-day self-imposed retreat to ready Himself for His earthly mission of redeeming humanity through His sacrificial death on the cross, serving as atonement for the sins of all mankind. This monumental film narrates the journey of Jesus, offering insights into the significance of Lent, its historical roots, and the purpose behind our own call to make sacrifices in anticipation of the sacred and miraculous Easter celebration.
- Parable of Jesus
Experience the vibrant retelling of Jesus’ parables through seven dramatized renditions, immersing yourself in the profound impact of His teachings. This collection of Jesus films offers inspiration by delving into the depths of Christ’s own words. This one-hour narrative of Jesus traces His teachings, providing a visual insight into the profound lessons conveyed through the cherished parables found in the Bible.
- The Blood of Jesus
This film on the life of Jesus provides perspective on how Christ’s sacrifice offers a fresh beginning to all who seek it. Produced by the Reverend Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, this documentary offers a faith-affirming journey through the story of Jesus. Find renewal as you witness Jesus’ epic journey to Gethsemane in this compelling movie.
- The Gospel of John
The life story of Jesus as recounted by the apostle John, with narration by Christopher Plummer.
- The Gospel of Luke
This highly praised, monumental production, crafted over five years, stands as the inaugural word-for-word retelling of Jesus’ life as chronicled in the biblical Gospel of Luke.
- The Gospel of Mark
The initial word-for-word interpretation of the Gospel of Mark.
- The Gospel of Matthew
This highly acclaimed, monumental production, painstakingly crafted over a span of five years, marks the inaugural word-for-word depiction of Jesus’ life as documented in the biblical Gospel of Matthew.
- Jesus of Nazareth
This epic miniseries, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, presents a comprehensive portrayal of the life of Jesus Christ, from his birth in Bethlehem to his crucifixion and resurrection. With an all-star cast and sweeping cinematography, “Jesus of Nazareth” offers a richly textured exploration of the religious and political landscape of first-century Judea, as well as the spiritual significance of Christ’s ministry and message.
- The Passion of the Christ
Directed by Mel Gibson, “The Passion of the Christ” offers a visceral and unflinching portrayal of the final hours of Jesus Christ’s life, from his agony in the Garden of Gethsemane to his crucifixion and resurrection. Through its raw emotional intensity and attention to historical detail, the film invites viewers to meditate on the profound love and sacrifice embodied in Christ’s suffering.
- The Young Messiah
Based on the novel “Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt” by Anne Rice, “The Young Messiah” imagines the childhood of Jesus Christ, exploring his growing awareness of his divine identity and mission. Set in the first century, the film follows a seven-year-old Jesus as he and his family return to Nazareth from Egypt, grappling with the implications of his miraculous birth and the expectations placed upon him.
- Risen
In “Risen,” audiences are presented with a unique perspective on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Set in the aftermath of the crucifixion, the film follows a Roman tribune tasked with investigating the disappearance of Jesus’ body from the tomb. As he delves deeper into the mystery, the tribune confronts his own doubts and skepticism, ultimately grappling with the profound implications of Jesus’ resurrection for both his own life and the course of history.
Meanwhile, here are some shows suitable for children:
- The Passion: A Brickfilm
“The Passion: A Brickfilm” faithfully depicts the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, as seen through the perspective of LEGO characters.
- Jesus Wonder
Engaging tales detailing the life, teachings, and miraculous deeds of Jesus, sure to captivate and uplift children of every age.
Photo courtesy: Great American Pure Flix Insider
- The Messiah: A Brickfilm
“The Messiah” vividly depicts the concluding moments of Jesus’ life using LEGO characters, capturing the emotional depth from the poignant Last Supper to the triumphant resurrection, offering a message of redemption and hope.
- The Lion Of Judah
Witness the remarkable tale of the Lamb who rescued the world, as told from the perspective of farm animals in this enchanting narrative.
- Superbook
Superbook is an animated television series that follows the adventures of Chris Quantum, his friend Joy, and their robot companion named Gizmo. The series is produced by the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) and depicts the characters traveling back in time through a magical book called the “Superbook,” which transports them to various biblical events. Throughout their journeys, Chris, Joy, and Gizmo interact with key figures from the Bible and learn valuable lessons about faith, courage, and compassion. Superbook aims to introduce children to important stories and teachings from the Bible in an engaging and entertaining way.
We trust that this compilation of Jesus-themed movies, documentaries, and TV shows encourages you to delve deeper into the life and narrative of Christ. #
*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo: Icon Entertainment International/Icon Productions