Among the numerous adaptations of the biblical Gospel accounts, Jesus of Nazareth is among the most superior.
The acting is exemplary, with an all star cast that bring urgency and reverence to their roles. Robert Powell's inspirational portrayal of Jesus acknowledges his restrained power, and leads the fine cast well. Every character is played with the right temperament and fervor to capture that individual's role in the unfolding political and spiritual events of the day. Perhaps best of all is Olivia Hussey as Mary, the mother of Jesus. The most emotional and memorable scene of the entire film is the image of Mary holding the broken and lifeless body of her son at the foot of the cross. It is a beautiful and moving enactment of the Pieta, and Mary's agonized cries are genuine and heart wrenching.
Because it takes on so much material, the story often condenses two or more events that occurred separately into the same scene. This is effectively composed to maintain the proper context and meaning of each of the events. However, the film still clocks in at just over four hours, so is best watched at more than one sitting (it was originally shown on TV over several nights).
The film takes some small poetic license in speculating on the interaction of some of the principals who may or may not have actually known each other; most notably, Jesus and Barabbas. These encounters are not represented as historic fact; instead, they serve as dramatic foundation to compare and contrast the different attitudes and belief systems of those involved.
A fine production, which offers a well-rounded vista of the material it's analyzing.
The acting is exemplary, with an all star cast that bring urgency and reverence to their roles. Robert Powell's inspirational portrayal of Jesus acknowledges his restrained power, and leads the fine cast well. Every character is played with the right temperament and fervor to capture that individual's role in the unfolding political and spiritual events of the day. Perhaps best of all is Olivia Hussey as Mary, the mother of Jesus. The most emotional and memorable scene of the entire film is the image of Mary holding the broken and lifeless body of her son at the foot of the cross. It is a beautiful and moving enactment of the Pieta, and Mary's agonized cries are genuine and heart wrenching.
Because it takes on so much material, the story often condenses two or more events that occurred separately into the same scene. This is effectively composed to maintain the proper context and meaning of each of the events. However, the film still clocks in at just over four hours, so is best watched at more than one sitting (it was originally shown on TV over several nights).
The film takes some small poetic license in speculating on the interaction of some of the principals who may or may not have actually known each other; most notably, Jesus and Barabbas. These encounters are not represented as historic fact; instead, they serve as dramatic foundation to compare and contrast the different attitudes and belief systems of those involved.
A fine production, which offers a well-rounded vista of the material it's analyzing.