Jesus

The film traces roughly three and a half years in the life of Jesus, drawn from Luke's gospel rather than a modern biopic. It opens with the beginnings of his ministry and follows his preaching in Galilee, the gathering of followers, and the widening circle of confidants who witness his acts and words. Scenes emphasize parables told to everyday people, healing crowds, and the steady pull of faith, doubt, and judgment that accompany his mission. The portrayal stresses humanity and compassion, the challenges of leadership, and the moral questions that followers wrestle with as the story unfolds. The tone stays faithful to the era and its theology, offering a straightforward, respectful depiction rather than spectacle. The narrative unfolds in episodic scenes anchored by parables and miracles, with careful attention to atmosphere and period detail.

Directed by Peter Sykes and John Krish, the 1979 drama Jesus adapts Luke's gospel for the screen. Brian Deacon stars as Jesus, supported by Rivka Neuman as Mary and Yosef Shiloach as Joseph, with Niko Nitai as Simon Peter and Alexander Scourby providing Luke's voice; Barnet Fishbein is credited as creator.

Reception notes a restrained, earnest approach to Luke's portrait, prioritizing Jesus' teachings, parables, and relationships with Mary, Joseph, and Peter. The film explores themes of faith, mercy, and community, treating belief as practical and moral rather than purely doctrinal. Performances ground the narrative in human emotion, making the events feel intimate rather than sweeping.

While not a blockbuster, it sits in the late 1970s tradition of biblical cinema and is noted in discussions of screen portrayals of Jesus. Brian Deacon's performance is frequently referenced in scholarly and fan discussions of film Jesus.

Box office data for this title are not widely documented, and it remains a niche biblical drama rather than a mainstream hit. Its distribution was modest and it circulates mainly among collectors of biblical cinema.