This is the flip-side to the Cecil B. DeMille style of Biblical "epics." It's a worthy attempt to present the story of Jesus as told in the New Testament without the usual Hollywood digressions and additions. As such, one can usually forgive its sometimes flat, even ponderous style. The crucifixion is an especially good sequence since obvious attempts have been made toward historical accuracy. The nails, for example, aren't driven through the palms (a common misconception) but rather through the wrists. However, the movie makes a deference toward modern standards of modesty by allowing Jesus and the two thieves to wear surprisingly-clean loincloths while hanging on their crosses. Since crucifixion was meant to be not only a physically agonizing form of torture but also one which deliberately shamed and humiliated its victims, it's likely that the Romans would strip their victims of every trace of dignity by stripping them of every scrap of clothing. Imagine having all one's parts completely exposed to the jeers and taunts of the crowds! Imagine having these parts laid bare to to swarms of crawling, stinging insects! Brian Gibson represents a more virile Jesus than is often the case. He has a certain "aesthetic" look but he also has hair on his chest and in his armpits.
Review of The Jesus Film
