Movies About Jesus Birth

Updated May 1, 2024

For Movies About Jesus Birth, there is no limit to the creators who explored this feeling. Here are 13 of our favorites.

Ben-Hur (1959)

★★★★

3.2 out of 4 stars

From William Wyler, starring Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Stephen Boyd, Haya Harareet
Rated G

Ben-Hur is a classic 1959 epic drama directed by William Wyler, and is based on the novel by Lew Wallace. Set in 1st-century Judea, the film tells the story of a Jewish prince, Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), who is forced into slavery by a Roman tribune, Messala (Stephen Boyd). Judah eventually escapes and comes back to avenge his family, taking part in a thrilling chariot race against his rival Messala. Along the way, he meets Jesus of Nazareth who has a profound effect on him. The film is renowned for its sweeping visuals and iconic chariot race scene, and won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor for Heston, and Best Supporting Actor for Hugh Griffith.

Life of Brian (1979)

★★★★

3.2 out of 4 stars

From Terry Jones, starring Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Gilliam
Rated R

Life of Brian is a British satirical comedy film directed by Terry Jones and written by Jones, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, and Terry Gilliam. The film follows the life of Brian Cohen (played by Graham Chapman), a young Jewish man who is born on the same day as—and next door to—Jesus Christ, and is subsequently mistaken for the Messiah. Brian's life is quickly overshadowed by a series of tragicomic events, including his disastrous attempts to join an anti-Roman political group led by the charismatic Judas Iscariot (John Cleese). As Brian's life begins to unravel due to his increasing involvement in the group, he must contend with his growing fame as the "Messiah”, and a comical misunderstanding by the Roman authorities. Along the way, he encounters a series of memorable characters and humorous situations, ultimately leading to an uproarious climax.

The Gospel of John (2003)

★★★★

3.1 out of 4 stars

From Philip Saville, starring Henry Ian Cusick, Daniel Kash, Christopher Plummer, Stuart Bunce
Rated PG-13

The Gospel of John is a 2003 Canadian/British/American television film directed by Philip Saville and starring Henry Ian Cusick, Stuart Bunce and Selva Rasalingam. It is a dramatization of the life of Jesus Christ based on the Gospel of John. The film covers the entire Gospel, from the baptism of Jesus to his death, resurrection, and subsequent appearances to his disciples. It faithfully follows the text, but includes additional scenes to better explain the narrative. The film also includes a voiceover narration by Christopher Plummer and on-screen intertitles, which explain the story and provide context. This film is unique because it is the first major feature film to be shot entirely in Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus. The film was released on DVD in 2004 and has been broadcast in many countries.

The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

★★★★

3 out of 4 stars

From Martin Scorsese, starring Willem Dafoe, Harvey Keitel, Barbara Hershey, Paul Greco
Rated R

The Last Temptation of Christ is a 1988 American drama film directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the novel by Nikos Kazantzakis. The movie stars Willem Dafoe as Jesus of Nazareth, and it follows his life from the Annunciation to the Crucifixion, exploring his inner turmoil and spiritual struggle. During the film, Jesus is tempted by Satan, who offers him a chance to lead a normal life filled with love and material comforts, instead of his destiny as the Savior of humanity. Ultimately, Jesus rejects the temptation and accepts his role as the Messiah. The movie also features Harvey Keitel as Judas Iscariot, Barbara Hershey as Mary Magdalene, and David Bowie as Pontius Pilate.