No matter how much care and effort you put into research and production, doing a film or TV series based on the bible will always be controversial. People take their faith very seriously, and there’s a feeling that Hollywood doesn’t often view it with the same level of respect. However, there have been some projects that have handled bible stories extremely well. As we wait to see where the upcoming film, “The Book of Clarence” falls on the list, we’re taking a look at the best and worst biblical movies and TV series.
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Best: The Prince of Egypt
The fact that “The Prince of Egypt” is animated actually makes its story richer. The film is able to present the visuals of the bible in a colorful, creative way that most movies can’t. And it doesn’t hurt to have a duet with Whitney and Mariah on the soundtrack.
Best: The Book of Clarence
We don’t know what to expect from “The Book of Clarence,” but if Jeymes Samuel takes the same fresh approach he did with westerns, it will be unique and interesting.
Worst: The Passion of the Christ
There’s a lot to unpack about this controversial film, including its director, Mel Gibson. However, what we need to discuss right now is the gratuitous nature of the violence. Surely, there was a more impactful, thought-provoking way to show the crucifixion that didn’t feel like a gory horror movie.
Best: The Ten Commandments
The 1956 epic is not just considered a great bible movie, is widely considered one of the most influential films ever made. Its production design, makeup, hair, costume and effects are ahead of their time and set a new standard in Hollywood.
Best: Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert
In 2018, NBC did its annual live musical special in April and chose “Jesus Christ Superstar.” John Legend led the superb cast as Jesus Christ, but it was Brandon Victor Dixon as Judas Iscariot who stole the show with his powerful vocals. Sara Bareilles was also lovely as Mary Magdalene.
Best: Dogma
Kevin Smith took his signature style of ridiculous comedy, added religious characters and stories to it, and it led to a brilliant, thought-provoking film.
Worst: Noah
As groundbreaking as “The Ten Commandments” was, it was also made in 1956, so there were no people of color in the cast. “Noah” was made in 2014, so it has no excuse for why this cast is not more diverse.
Best: King of Kings
Opinions are mixed on “King of Kings,” but many fans of the film feel that it offers one of the most complete portrayals of Jesus’ life. It’s from 1961, so there have definitely been better, and shorter, biblical epics made since then.
Best: Jesus of Nazareth
What makes “Jesus of Nazereth” memorable is that it’s so beautifully made, it feels different from the other films in this category.
Worst: Risen
The thing about “Risen” is that it relies heavily on the emotional depth of its lead, Joseph Fiennes. In this role, he doesn’t deliver the full range of character development that the story requires. It makes it difficult to fully invest in the story.
Best: The Shack
While it’s not technically a bible movie, “The Shack” is such a heart-breaking journey to forgiveness, it’s a tale straight from the bible. And we applaud any movie that has Octavia Spencer as God.
Best: The Nativity Story
At Christmastime, there are endless stories of Jesus’ birth to be found. Where “The Nativity Story” excels is in its portrayal of Mary and Joseph as parents just trying to do the best for their child. It’s about their family and how they will survive the struggles that await them.
Worst: Messiah
The Netflix drama “Messiah” started with the fascinating premise of how would the world react if Jesus returned in our modern world. Unfortunately, as the series evolved, it got more wrapped up in the mystery of its mythology than just telling an interesting story.
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