The Gospel According to St. Matthew (1964) Review in 2025
A biblical drama film that tells the story of Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection, directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and graphic content.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is a must-see for fans of biblical dramas and those interested in exploring the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. However, viewers may find some scenes and themes to be disturbing or off-putting.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows Jesus Christ's journey, from his baptism to his crucifixion, and explores themes of faith, redemption, and social justice. It features stunning cinematography and powerful performances from the cast.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is well-structured and faithful to the biblical account, exploring themes of faith, redemption, and social justice. However, some scenes feel slow-paced and lacking in tension.
acting8.50/10
The acting is generally strong, with Enrico Maria Salerno delivering a standout performance as Jesus Christ. However, some supporting actors feel miscast and lack chemistry with the lead.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and nuanced, with Jesus Christ being portrayed as a complex and multifaceted figure. However, some supporting characters feel underdeveloped and lack depth.
direction9.50/10
Pier Paolo Pasolini's direction is masterful, bringing a unique and poetic vision to the biblical account. His use of cinematography and music is stunning, creating a immersive and emotional experience for the viewer.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning landscapes and beautiful use of light and shadow. The camerawork is often innovative and experimental, adding to the film's overall sense of wonder and awe.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and a unique and poetic vision from Pier Paolo Pasolini.
Cons
Some scenes feel slow-paced and lacking in tension, and some supporting characters feel underdeveloped.
Notable Quotes
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
"I am the way, the truth, and the life."
"Love your neighbor as yourself."
