So Who Is This Jesus?

So Who Is This Jesus? is a 1999 documentary-style film that delves into the life, character, and teachings of Jesus Christ, one of history's most influential figures. Directed by Crawford Telfer, the film stars Russell Boulter as the Narrator, who embarks on a journey through biblical history to unravel the mysterious identity of Jesus.

Produced by the Christian Broadcasting Company, So Who Is This Jesus? opens the lines of discussion, asking pertinent questions about Jesus Christ, the man whose life and teachings have profoundly influenced human history. Channeling the journalistic style of documentary narratives, the film seeks to offer an unbiased and comprehensive look at the person of Jesus Christ.

Russell Boulter is compelling as the Narrator. He masters the fact-driven, inquisitive tone of a contemporary journalist delving into a vast historical mystery. His meticulous quest is neither influenced by dogma nor coloured by personal opinion; he objectively relates the questions that orthodox and skeptical scholars alike have posed about Jesus, engaging the audience to wrestle with these grand existential issues themselves.

The film also features Ben Castle as Jesus. Castle's portrayal of Jesus is well-researched and nuanced. He effortlessly embodies the figure as portrayed in scriptures and manages to give voice and character to the enigmatic historical figure. Respectful in his portrayal, he draws the viewers closer to the man behind two millennia of religious and philosophical discourse.

On the other hand, Jennifer Lord plays the character of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Her representation of Mary offers a refreshingly human take on the iconic figure. She brings an emotional depth to her character, inviting the audience to view Mary not just as a symbol, but as a woman in her own right.

So Who Is This Jesus? has set itself the tasks of both questioning and enlightening, providing a platform for the audience to gain a deeper understanding of Jesus as a historical figure and religious icon. The documentary provides a perspective that many traditional representations of Jesus lack - a look at the man himself. It reaches beyond religious texts and myths surrounding Jesus, seeking a factual basis for his existence, his actions, and his remarkable influence.

The overall presentation is simple yet captivating. Telfer's direction and the screenplay by Richard Everett embrace the complexity of the subject matter at hand and manage to present it in a way that captures the interest of believers and non-believers alike. Bound by neither religious nor secular bias, the creators allow the facts to guide the conversation, prompting viewers to draw their own conclusions about the central figure of Christianity: Jesus.

Historical accuracy and detail are evident in the film's reconstruction of the period. To give viewers an immersive experience, production designer Melanie Allen and costume designer Ian MacNeil were meticulous about capturing the detail of life in the first-century Middle East. The recreated scenes from Biblical times, the depictions of historical Jerusalem, and the portrayal of everyday life all add additional layers to this historical profile of Jesus.

The film uses innovative techniques to make the life of Jesus accessible to the modern audience. This includes powerful visual storytelling, interviews with Jesus' family and followers, and commentary from historians and biblical experts. The result is an engaging discourse that delves into the depths of a subject matter as complex as it is significant.

So Who Is This Jesus? caters to a wide variety of audiences. For devoted Christians, it provides a deeper insight into the life of the man they revere and follow. For skeptics or non-believers, it provides a factual, unbiased, and enlightened look at a figure who has had a profound influence on human history. For anyone merely interested in understanding history, religion, or philosophy, the film offers a plethora of information and perspectives to reflect upon.

In conclusion, So Who Is This Jesus? is more than just a documentary film. It serves as a window to one of the most influential figures of all time, addressing an essential question that has intrigued historians, theologians, and philosophers for centuries. As viewers watch Russell Boulter journey through ancient times, they too embark on their own journey of understanding, exploration, and introspection. Whether you are a believer, a skeptic, or simply curious, this film is undoubtedly a thought-provoking and enlightening viewing experience.