The King of Kings Movie Review
Heather Bailie got early access to the new ‘king of kings’ movie released, and has given it a review from a faith based perspective
The King of Kings movie was recently released on 11th April. After having access to an early screening, I thought I would share my thoughts!
Like most depictions of Scripture, there is a degree of artistic license, however, the movie succeeds in presenting a sweet overview of the life of Jesus from His birth to the moment He walks out of the tomb. The ‘modern’ story of Charles Dickens narrating Jesus’ story is beautifully interwoven with the Scripture story, conveying how even a young child can be captured by the person and wonder of Jesus. The character of Charles Dickens strives to ensure that his son values the type of king Jesus was, ensuing in some beautiful teaching points, such as ‘the King of Kings doesn’t need a sword’ and ‘even a King can serve His subjects’.
The King of Kings takes us through a handful of the miracles of Jesus, including healing a blind man and a paralysed man, feeding the 5000, Jesus and Peter walking on water, and the raising of Lazarus. These lead into Palm Sunday with Jesus’ victorious entry into Jerusalem and overturning the tables in the Temple. The Last Supper and Crucifixion are handled sensitively, although the movie doesn’t shy away from the brutality of the cross. It excitedly shoaws the supernatural power of the moment of Jesus’ death, with the day turning to night, the earthquake, and the veil in the Temple being torn. Then finishes with Jesus’ resurrection.
Unlike the book on which this movie is based (‘The Life of our Lord’ by Charles Dickens), the movie doesn’t portray the aftermath of Jesus’ resurrection i.e. the Great Commission, His Ascension, or the Acts of the Apostles. For me personally, therefore, it feels a little unfinished. The Great Commission is Jesus’ final command to His followers, highlighting not only that God’s mission is not finished, but the importance of us joining in with this mission.
Looking at reviews online and having watched the movie myself, PG feels like a correct rating, however, with some stipulations. The movie deals with the storylines/themes of the demon-possessed man and the pigs, sin, the beating of Jesus and His crucifixion. Whilst all these stories and themes are directly from Scripture, they may be upsetting for younger or more sensitive children. It is worth watching the movie with your children (or if they are young, before your children), and possibly talking to your children in advance to warn them that some scenes may be upsetting, whilst reminding them that this story ultimately has a happy ending, and Jesus is victorious because He really is the King of Kings!
Overall, I enjoyed the movie and believe it is a good overview and introduction to the person and life of Jesus. I’d rate it a 7/10!
- Heather Bailie
Poster for the new ‘King of Kings’ movie