Rating of
1.5/4
Another Easter Story
Unknown - wrote on 05/03/16
Just one more 'T.V. movie' special about Jesus on the big screen, please? One more won't hurt. Well, at least 'Risen' is slightly less boring than this year's other similar offering, 'The Young Messiah'. To be fair, 'Risen' is a bit different than that film. It's basically a (hundredth) retelling of the resurrection of Christ, but done so through the perspective of a Roman Centurion (Fiennes). The dramatic ark of the movie concerns his reevaluation of life after witnessing Jesus's rebirth (sort of) firsthand. The first half concentrates on his participation in the crucifixion and burial, as well as his investigation into the disappearance of the body. It plays out like a twist-less episode of 'Law & Order'. This made the movie feel less conventional when compared to the typical plain and standard biblical fare. It's easy to follow along and has some kind of vague intrigue, despite the fact that we already know the big revelation before even watching the film. Fiennes' Centurion character has a significant change halfway through when he finally realizes the truth of the situation. His performance manages some conviction. After this point, the remaining minutes consist of a slow, drawn out cross-desert trek involving the Roman following the Disciples to meet the newly resurrected Jesus again. It drags on from this point, with nothing of any importance happening along the way. What's the reward for such a long arduous walk? Just a "thank you" from the man himself before he literally shoots up to heaven in a blast of light. Wasn't worth the dull experience.
