Review of The Last Temptation of Christ (1988) by Conor M — 14 Dec 2008

Scorsese's take on the last days of Jesus Christ is a very interesting look at Jesus as a man. He is a man with flaws; pride, reluctance, and sometimes fear of what is to come. While Willem Dafoe isn't who I pictured donning the thorny crown, he is excellent nonetheless in what is undoubtedly a very challenging role.

Harvey Keitel plays a very good Judas, although we don't get to see much of him after the whole betrayal thing (which presents an interesting possibility that I won't go into). I was surprised to see David Bowie in a small but pivotal role as Pontius Pilate, but was ultimately very pleased with his sole scene alongside Dafoe.

I found this to be a more enjoyable experience than Mel Gibson's take, as I felt less gut punched and more compelled by Jesus' plight.