Review of King of Kings (1961) by Owen P — 30 Mar 2010
A superior Biblical epic, filmed in style by director Nicholas Ray. Some scenes (the sermon on the mount) are huge in scope and grand in scale, while others (the crucifixion) are surprisingly stark and downplayed.
The script sets the life of Christ against the backdrop of the Roman occupation of Israel, fully exploring the socio-political climate during which its events take place. It shows not only the events of Jesus' life, but the greater impact on the world at that time.
The performances are all over the place, but Jeffery Hunter as Jesus is a commanding presence at the film's core. Also excellent is the voiceover narration (written by an uncredited Ray Bradbury and spoken by an uncredited Orson Welles) which pieces the episodic plot together.
This review of King of Kings (1961) was written by Owen P on 30 Mar 2010.
King of Kings has generally received positive reviews.
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