What has been called “The Greatest Story Ever Told,” the depiction of the resurrection of Jesus, has been produced often on TV and in film. The most recent adaptation is the film “Risen.”
In this rendering, nonbeliever Clavius (Joseph Fiennes), a Roman Centurion, investigates the reports that “Yeshua” (Cliff Curtis), as Jesus is referred to, has indeed risen from the dead as his believers claim. Clavius watched the crucifixion, so he knows Yeshua is dead, And the only logical explanation for the fact that his body is missing is that his followers have stolen it. As Clavius pursues that theory, he reasons that if he locates the followers, he’ll locate the body. But when he finds them, instead of finding a dead body, he witnesses the miracle of Jesus Christ.
“Risen” is a subtly powerful film, and of course, there is no doubt as to how this story turns out. “Risen” works because it takes a different angle in telling this oft-told story, and it succeeds in that effort. The impact and originality of this movie comes through in its methodical recounting of the powerful effect this event has on one man. However, for those filmgoers who have become accustomed to fast-paced, action-packed movies, this slow, deliberate production may drag a bit too much.
As to the film’s diversity, it was not a diverse cast. Most of the characters are a variation of Caucasian, blond and blue-eyed, to swarthy. However, Jesus is played by a person of color, Cliff Curtis, who is Maori, an indigenous Polynesian person from New Zealand. Based upon that fact, I give Risen a “B” for cast diversity.
“Risen” gets a mixed review. For those who are spiritual in their outlook, they should See It. But those who are not, wait and Rent It.
“Risen,” 107 minutes in length, is rated PG-13 for biblical violence, including some disturbing images.