Easter is, for many, a time of peace and reflection. In various corners of the world it is synonymous with communion and in some cases, penance.
As well are days free, to enjoy with family and friends from a "traditional" list of movies to see at Easter.
Classic titles
As an art that seeks to reflect human traditions, cinema has always had Christianity among its subjects of interest. There are many tapes that have been nourished by sacred texts, sometimes offering historical interpretations that try to get as close to “the truth” as possible.
Ben-Hur, by William Wyler (1959)
Based on the novel by Lewis Wallace, one of the most influential books on Christianity in history. Fictional plot set in the time of Jesus Christ, all a manifesto on faith.
The Ten Commandments, by Cecil B. DeMille (1956)
Obligatory selection within the list of movies to see at Easter. The most expensive production ever filmed. Narrates the exodus of the Hebrew people to the promised land.
In 2014 Ridley Scott shot Exodus: Gods and Kings, another blockbuster around this book by Old Testament. It starred Christian Bale in the role of Moses, taking over from the mythical Charlton Heston.
Quo vadis, by Mervyn LeRoy (1951)
Based on the novel of the same name written by Henryk Siekiewicz, having as historical reference the extracanonical book the Acts of Peter. It narrates the romance between a Roman general and a Christian woman who, based on her beliefs, must remain hidden. All this in times when Nero ordered the burning of Rome.
Barabbas, by Richard Fleischer (1961)
It's about one of the most controversial characters around the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. It is an adaptation of the eponymous book written by Pär Lagerkvist. A story that speculates on what the life of Barabbas could have been, after his life was spared by the crowd and Pontius Pilate “washed his hands”.
Controversial Titles
The life and death of Jesus Christ, in addition to dividing the history of mankind in two, it is a very discussed chapter. For this reason, many of the titles that explore his journey on earth are highly controversial.
The Passion of the Christ, by Mel Gibson (2004)
It is the highest grossing religious-themed film in history. It was strongly criticized at the time of its premiere, for its high degree of violence. Nevertheless, many consider it as the most realistic film about the crucifixion process of Jesus of Nazareth.
The Last Temptation of Christ, by Martin Scorsese (1988)
Jesus comes down from the cross and survives, thanks to the intervention of a mysterious angel sent (supposedly) by God to save him. He marries María Magdalena and lives like a normal man. But he discovers that it was all due to a deception of Satan.
It is one of the most censored films in history. Tense episodes were also experienced during its exhibition in commercial theaters. Including fires to movie complexes, with serious injuries.
Jesus Christ Superstar, by Norman Jewinson (1973)
The life of Christ told in the form of a musical It is not the only novelty of this film. Also the fact that the main character is stripped of all divine character. It was not an economic success. However, it generated a wave of comments within religious epicenters that attracted a lot of attention.
Noé, by Darren Aronofsky (2014)
The New York filmmaker Darren Aronofsky has gradually earned the label of misunderstood director. Your version of the biblical story of Noah's Ark left many confused. Although it also has an important fan club that celebrates each of its risky visual and thematic bets.
A blockbuster with a budget of just over $ 120.000.000 and that thanks, among other things, to its imposing choral cast, it managed to recoup the investment. They star Russell Crowe, Emma Watson, Anthony Hopkins and Jennifer Connelly, among others.
Movies to watch at Easter together as a family
Within the filmography around episodes related to Christianity, also there are productions that have adopted a more familiar air. Movies to watch at Easter without worrying because there are children at home.
The Prince of Egypt, by Brenda Chapman (1998)
The Dreamworks Animation team attempted to turn the Old Testament Book of Exodus. For this, the relationship between Moses and Ramses is presented in a more fraternal way. Although in several of the darker passages there is not much that can be done.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, by Steven Spielberg (1989)
Although in some markets it was listed as suitable for ages 12 and older, it is perhaps the least violent delivery of the entire Indiana Jones franchise. The archaeologist adventurer played by Harrinson Ford, is involved with his father (Sean Connery) in the search for the holy grail. But to be successful, they will have to face a horde of Nazis in pursuit of eternal youth.
Marcelino, bread and wine. By Ladislao Vajda (1954)
It is one of the most successful films nationally and internationally, within all Spanish cinematography. It can be considered as a classic inside the movies to see at Easter. Winner of the Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival.
Bruce Almighty by Tom Shadyack (2003)
Jim Carrey is Bruce Nolan, an average citizen who feels trapped within a standard life. Unlike his girlfriend Grace Connelly (Jennifer Aniston), Bruce is skeptical of the existence of God. Until the almighty himself (a laid-back Morgan Freeman) appears to him to grant him control over the world. The only conditions: he cannot reveal to anyone who he is God, nor alter free will.
Evan Almighty by Tom Shadyack (2007)
Sequel to Bruce Almighty. Evan Baxter (Steve Carrell), a former enemy of Bruce Nolan, ditches the news to become a congressman. until an even more relaxed Morgan Freeman playing God, gives him the mission to build an ark, as Noah did at the time.
Image sources: Diocese of Tenancingo / Globedia.com