Risen Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A Roman soldier investigates a missing body, accidentally joins a hippie commune, and then witnesses a magic trick that makes him question his life choices.

🍿 Risen: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Investigation Begins

In 33 AD Jerusalem, Roman Tribune Clavius is tasked by Pontius Pilate to maintain order amidst rising tensions with the Jewish population. After the crucifixion of Jesus, Pilate orders Clavius to investigate the disappearance of Jesus’s body from the tomb to dispel rumors of a risen Messiah.

Searching for the Truth

Clavius, along with his aide Lucius, launches a meticulous investigation, interrogating disciples and witnesses. He seeks evidence to debunk the claims of resurrection and prevent an uprising. Their search leads them to Mary Magdalene and other followers of Jesus, but they find no concrete proof to explain the missing body.

The Unexplainable Encounter

The investigation takes an unexpected turn when Clavius and Lucius encounter the resurrected Jesus with his disciples. Witnessing this miraculous event shakes Clavius’s rational Roman worldview, forcing him to confront the possibility of the divine. This encounter marks a turning point in Clavius’s life.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Clavius (Joseph Fiennes): A Roman Tribune tasked with investigating the disappearance of Jesus’ body, leading him to question his beliefs.
• Yeshua (Cliff Curtis): The resurrected Jesus, whose missing body sparks an investigation and transforms lives.
• Pilate (Peter Firth): The Roman governor of Judea who orders Clavius to find Jesus’ body to prevent unrest.
• Lucius (Tom Felton): Clavius’s aide, who assists in the investigation but ultimately remains loyal to Rome.
• Mary Magdalene (María Botto): A follower of Yeshua who is sought out by Clavius during his investigation.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Clavius: “I have seen two things which cannot reconcile: A man dead without question, and that same man alive again.” – Clavius expresses his inner turmoil as he grapples with the inexplicable events surrounding Jesus’s resurrection.
• Clavius: “I pursue Him, the Nazarene, to ferret the truth.” – Clavius states his mission to uncover the reality behind the disappearance of Jesus’ body.
• Bartholomew: “He’s everywhere!” – Bartholomew teasingly responds to Clavius’s interrogation about the whereabouts of Jesus.
• Clavius: “What are you afraid of? Being wrong. And wagering eternity on it.” – Clavius confesses to Jesus what haunts him most.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $20,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $36,880,033
• Worldwide Gross: $46,771,565

💥 Risen Reviews

Personal Review

I was genuinely surprised by Risen. I went in expecting another typical bible movie, but this one felt different. Seeing the story through the eyes of a Roman soldier made it so much more engaging. When Clavius saw Jesus alive, I actually felt his shock and confusion. The scene where he’s trying to figure out what happened to the body, interviewing people, that whole detective vibe really hooked me. It’s not perfect, but it’s a fresh take on a story I thought I knew.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Viewers interested in biblical dramas with a unique perspective.”
  • “Fans of historical fiction and detective stories.”
  • “Those seeking a thought-provoking exploration of faith and doubt.”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Depictions of crucifixion and violence may be disturbing for some viewers.”
  • “Religious themes may not appeal to all audiences.”

Professional Reviews

• The Historical Film Review: “Risen offers a unique perspective by focusing on the Roman investigation, providing a fresh take on a well-known story. Joseph Fiennes delivers a compelling performance as a man grappling with inexplicable events. It sacrifices historical accuracy for dramatic license.
• Faith-Based Films Quarterly: “Risen handles the biblical narrative with respect and offers a thought-provoking exploration of faith and doubt. It’s a refreshing departure from traditional biblical epics, focusing on the internal struggles of a non-believer confronted with the inexplicable.
• IndieWire: “While the concept of a Roman Tribune investigating the Resurrection is intriguing, Risen ultimately falls flat. Joseph Fiennes’ performance is solid, but the film suffers from uneven pacing and a lack of genuine suspense. A missed opportunity.

Audience Reactions

The perspective of a non-believer made the story feel fresh and engaging.: Many viewers appreciated the unique narrative approach, telling the story of the Resurrection through the eyes of a Roman Tribune.

Joseph Fiennes delivered an outstanding performance.: Viewers consistently praised Fiennes’ portrayal of Clavius, highlighting his ability to convey doubt, curiosity, and eventual transformation.

Overall Consensus: Risen offers a unique and engaging perspective on the Resurrection story through the eyes of a Roman Tribune, though it may not appeal to all viewers.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was shot on location in Malta and Spain to recreate the ancient landscapes of Judea.”
• “Cliff Curtis, who played Jesus, is of Māori descent and brought a unique interpretation to the role.”
• “Director Kevin Reynolds aimed for historical accuracy in depicting Roman military practices and the political climate of the time.”

🖥️ How to Watch Risen?

Risen is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it on Prime Video through rental or purchase, Apple TV for purchase, and other streaming services. Check your local listings for availability on platforms like Google Play Movies or Vudu. Physical copies are available for purchase on Blu-ray and DVD through retailers like Amazon and major stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Risen, you might like these similar films:

• The Robe (1953): A Roman soldier’s life is transformed after witnessing the crucifixion, thematically parallel to Clavius’s journey.
• Ben-Hur (1959): An epic set in the same historical period, exploring themes of faith, redemption, and the impact of Jesus’s life on individuals.
• The Passion of the Christ (2004): Depicts the crucifixion of Jesus in graphic detail, sharing a similar religious and historical context.
• Pontius Pilate (1962): Another movie focused on events surrounding the trial, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Pontius Pilate.

🛒 Risen Related Products

• The Case for Christ: A Journalist’s Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus: Lee Strobel’s compelling account of his journey from atheism to faith, offering historical evidence for Jesus’s existence and the Resurrection, a relevant companion for viewers exploring similar questions in ‘Risen’.
• Roman Soldier Figurine: A detailed figurine of a Roman soldier, perfect for collectors and fans of historical films. Can be displayed as a memorabilia.
• Jerusalem: A Cookbook: Explore the rich culinary traditions of Jerusalem with this cookbook, featuring recipes inspired by the diverse cultures that have shaped the city’s food scene.
• LEGO Roman Colosseum 10276 Building Kit: Bring Roman history to life with this incredibly detailed LEGO model of the Colosseum. It includes authentic building techniques and architectural features.

🎧 Soundtrack

Risen features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Theme” – performed by Roque Baños
• “The Tomb Is Empty” – performed by Roque Baños
• “Ascension” – performed by Roque Baños

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Risen: What Made You Follow Him?

Ever wondered what drove people to become followers of Jesus? This clip from ‘Risen’ dives into the motivations of his disciples. It’s interesting to see their different perspectives!

✨ Rate