Films for quiet reflection: What to watch this Holy Week
Daily Tribune
This Lenten season, beyond prayer and fasting, take time to reflect more deeply on your faith and the life of Jesus. One meaningful way to do this is by watching films that chronicle Christ’s journey — His teachings, sacrifices, and the impact He left on the world.
Here are some remarkable films that can guide your reflection:
Directed by Mel Gibson, this film offers a visceral depiction of the final 12 hours of Jesus’ life. Judas’ betrayal leads to Jesus (Jim Caviezel) being handed over to Roman authorities. He is tortured, humiliated, and ultimately crucified on Calvary, enduring immense suffering, yet offering a final act of grace before His death. The film is known for its raw, emotional portrayal of Christ's sacrifice.
A classic retelling of the life of Jesus (Jeffrey Hunter), this film begins with the threat of infanticide under King Herod and follows Jesus from childhood through His ministry and miracles. Ultimately betrayed by Judas (Rip Torn), Jesus accepts His fate and walks knowingly toward the crucifixion. This epic captures both the political and spiritual turmoil of the time.
Set in the 17th century, this Martin Scorsese film follows two Portuguese missionaries (Andrew Garfield and Adam Driver) who journey to Japan in search of their missing mentor (Liam Neeson). Amid the brutal persecution of Christians, they must choose between renouncing their faith or facing agonizing death. Silence explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and God's perceived absence in suffering.
Starring Max von Sydow as Jesus, this sweeping biblical epic traces his life from birth in Bethlehem to his resurrection. With iconic scenes such as the baptism by John the Baptist (Charlton Heston), the miracles, and the Last Supper, this film captures major milestones in Jesus' life with reverence and grandeur.
Told through claymation and traditional animation, The Miracle Maker brings the story of Jesus (voiced by Ralph Fiennes) to life for all ages. It highlights key moments such as His baptism, miracles, and teachings, culminating in His betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection. This is a family-friendly option that still delivers depth and reflection.
Set during the final days of the Apostle Paul (James Faulkner), the story follows Luke (Jim Caviezel) as he visits the imprisoned Paul to document the rise of the early church. Paul, haunted by his past, reflects on his faith as he awaits execution under Nero’s reign. The film focuses on perseverance, forgiveness, and the legacy of faith.
This multi-season drama series offers a fresh and intimate portrayal of Jesus' life, focusing on the calling of His first disciples and their journeys alongside Him. Each episode includes reflections and conversations that deepen understanding and connection to the Gospel stories.
In these stories, whether told through animation, drama, or epic cinema, we are reminded of Christ’s enduring message of love, sacrifice, and redemption. Watching them this Holy Week can serve as both inspiration and invitation: to know more, to reflect deeper, and to walk with Christ.