Risen stars Joseph Fiennes and Cliff Curtis in a story about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. What sets this film apart from being yet another bland retelling of the Easter story is the fact that it takes place entirely from the perspective of a non-believer.
Parts of the modestly-budgeted production design look and feel like an after-school special, but Risen is worth recommending for its unique approach to the story and for assured performances, especially from Fiennes as Clavius, the Roman tribune whom Pontius Pilate (Peter Firth) tasks with securing the tomb. The events that ensue prompt a manhunt in the hope of preventing a revolution in Jerusalem.
The film actually has palpable stakes and a decent amount of action for viewers hoping for the excitement of traditional "sword-and-sandal" epics. There's some edge-of-your-seat material here, but those hoping for non-stop intensity may be disappointed. That said, the story really isn't about the manhunt. It's about the spiritual conflict of a doubter as he reconciles events beyond his comprehension.
If for nothing else, the film earns major points for actually casting a POC as Jesus and for using his given Hebrew name 'Yeshua.' Never once is he called "Jesus." Curtis gives a terrific performance in the role. If not for Jim Caviezel's heart-wrenching turn in The Passion of the Christ, Curtis's version of Christ would be my favorite of any portrayals I've seen on film. It's easy to buy Curtis as an understated leader and a "fisher of men," as the apostles come to realize. Quite refreshing after the whitewashing of Son of God and just about every other faith-based film out there.
Most faith-based films are easy to write off for their blatant desire to hammer you over the head with Christian values and to showcase how "it's hard out here for a Christian." Not to mention the acting is usually terrible, and the logic questionable (see just about anything with Kirk Cameron sans "Growing Pains"). But Risen puts viewers in the shoes of a doubter, presents the story nearly word-for-word from the Gospel, and then is respectful enough of the audience to let them decide what to believe. Sure, it skews in one direction, but I walked out feeling moved rather than talked at. Perhaps that's the key to a successful Christian film.
As an aside, Harry Potter fans will find a small Easter egg with Tom Felton ('Draco Malfoy') as Clavius' aide, Lucius. I can only imagine the Lucius Malfoy jokes on set during filming.
B
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