Risen
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to Risen
Risen (2016) is a biblical drama that offers a unique perspective on the events immediately following the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, referred to as Yeshua. The film follows Clavius, a skeptical Roman military tribune, tasked by Pontius Pilate to investigate the disappearance of Yeshua's body from its guarded tomb and quell rumors of a risen Messiah. As Clavius, played by Joseph Fiennes, embarks on a 'whodunit' style investigation, questioning followers and encountering miraculous occurrences, his pagan worldview is profoundly challenged, leading him on a journey of discovery and faith. The movie blends historical drama with spiritual themes, aiming to provide a compelling narrative for both believers and skeptics. While presenting a faith-bolstering message, the film includes intense content, particularly concerning violence and disturbing imagery, making it generally suitable for mature teenagers and adults.
Things to Consider
Violence
The film contains strong biblical violence, including intense battle scenes with bloodshed, graphic depictions of crucifixion agony, and disturbing images of dead and decaying bodies. The violence is realistically portrayed and can be intense.
1. An intense battle sequence early in the film shows Roman troops clashing with Jewish zealots, where combatants are 'skewered with spears, or hacked and stabbed with swords and daggers,' with some blood visible. Roman Tribune Clavius executes a kneeling Jew by sword. 2. The crucifixion scenes depict Jesus and two others in agony on crosses. Soldiers break the legs of two victims to hasten death, and Jesus' side is pierced with a spear. Later, soldiers are shown pulling nails from bodies and dragging them to a pit of rotting corpses.
Scary & Intense Content
The film features highly intense and potentially disturbing content, primarily stemming from its graphic depictions of biblical violence, including realistic battle sequences, the suffering during crucifixion, and disturbing visuals of human remains.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
13+ (Teenagers and Adults) due to significant biblical violence, including graphic depictions of crucifixion, battle scenes with bloodshed, and disturbing images of dead and decaying bodies. While the film carries a strong Christian message, its intensity warrants parental guidance for younger viewers.
Good to Know
The film is designed to be accessible to both believers and non-believers, presenting the resurrection story from a unique, skeptical perspective that may resonate with those exploring faith. While the violence is significant, it serves the historical context of the narrative and is not presented gratuitously. Parents should be prepared to discuss themes of death, suffering, and faith with younger, sensitive viewers.
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