The Last Temptation of Christ

Set in ancient Judea, a modest carpenter named Jesus begins to sense a larger calling beyond his workshop. Drawn into the turmoil around him by Judas, he confronts visions, temptations, and questions that test his resolve to obey a higher purpose. He speaks of mercy and love as the road to salvation, even as the world presses him toward dramatic acts and public leadership. The burden of being the promised savior weighs on his day to day choices, shaping his relationships with family, friends, and followers. As time moves on, he weighs the cost of faith against the lure of power and the expectations of a society hungry for meaning. The struggle remains personal, moral, and transformative, reshaping his worldview.

Directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 1988, the film adapts Nikos Kazantzakis's novel with screenplay by Paul Schrader and Jay Cocks, presenting a bold interpretation that foregrounds inner conflict over outward miracles and invites audiences to question sacred assumptions.

The film grossed $33,773,585 worldwide against a $7,000,000 budget, reflecting strong interest despite controversy and confirming Scorsese's willingness to push boundaries in mainstream cinema.

The film provoked protests from some religious groups and sparked debates about artistic freedom and sacred imagery. It circulated in public discourse as a touchstone for how cinema handles faith, blurring lines between blasphemy and bold storytelling. Dafoe's performance fueled conversations about doubt and humanity in sacred figures for viewers.

Critics divided over its bold approach, praising Dafoe's commitment and Scorsese's unflinching gaze while some found the narrative too provocative. The film centers on questions of free will, sacrifice, and the tension between spiritual duty and personal conscience, offering a stark portrait of faith under pressure that lingers after credits.