The Fourth Wise Man

The Fourth Wise Man, released in 1985, unfolds a heart-touching story of faith, humanity, and love in a riveting narrative. Directed by Michael Ray Rhodes, it features eminent actors such as Martin Sheen portraying the lead role, with Alan Arkin, Eileen Brennan, and others offering sterling performances.

The plot is an engaging journey inspired by Henry van Dyke's short novel, "The Story of the Other Wise Man." The narrative revolves around Artaban (Martin Sheen), who is presented as the "fourth" Wise Man, apart from the traditional three from the Biblical story. The classic narrative celebrates the traditional three wise men or Magi who travel afar, following a celestial prophecy and bearing unique gifts for the newly born Messiah. The Fourth Wise Man, however, introduces us to a different character who misses his tryst with his peers and the star due to untimely circumstances.

Artaban, a Persian Magus, plans to journey with his counterparts—Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar—to meet the prophesied King. Artaban has spent years studying ancient prophecies and the celestial bodies, and like his peers, he identifies the signs indicating the birth of this King, who would bring a new era of wisdom and peace. He prepares three precious gifts, a sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl, and sets off to join his fellow Magi.

Unfortunately, he encounters a critically ill man on his way and tends to him, unable to leave him without aid. This act of kindness makes him late to join his companions. As he misses their caravan, Artaban embarks on an independent journey. The journey is filled with trials and tribulations, taking Artaban from the depths of despair to the heights of courage and self-discovery.

He travels through an extensive range of landscapes, towns, and cities, across deserts and rivers, under the prophecy's guidance. He remains hopeful of meeting the King while constantly being led by the course of humanity that instills in him vast love and compassion. It is a journey of delayed plans and unforeseen detours that lead him towards unexpected fulfillments and revelations.

Throughout his expeditions, he aids the needy, the downtrodden, and the oppressed, often risking his life and shedding his possessions, including the precious gifts he had prepared for the King. However, every rescue operation and encounter delays his journey further.

This film is also a commentary on the sociopolitical environment, its oppression, and the timeless values of truth, justice, and love for humanity, reflecting the central teachings of Christianity. The performance of Martin Sheen is poignant and riveting as he encapsulates the moral conflict, the struggle of faith, and altruistic embodiment in Artaban. His characterization of Artaban's steadfast belief, courage, and selflessness is nothing short of extraordinary.

Eileen Brennan, portraying the character of Judith, cultivates a sense of camaraderie and adds a domestic aspect to the story. Their encounters form an essential part of Artaban's journey, highlighting the humility and warmth of his character. Alan Arkin, as Orontes, Artaban's loyal friend and servant, brings in another layer of friendship and adds to the emotional weight of the narrative.

The director, Michael Ray Rhodes, did an incredible job weaving the novel's short story into a captivating film. The cinematography captures the evocative settings and dramatic landscapes that form the backdrop of Artaban's epic journey.

The Fourth Wise Man encourages us to reflect on the true essence of faith, depicting the spiritual journey not only in terms of the destination but also in recognizing and responding to divine encounters along our way. It resonates with the biblical teaching that whatsoever one does to the least of one's brothers; one does it unto the Lord.

Intriguing, emotional, and reflective, this film is not simply a Christian tale but also a human story that would appeal to anyone appreciative of a dramatic narrative exploring morality, faith, and above all, the spirit of humanity. It's a beautifully poignant journey that might leave you questioning - "Who truly was wise among them all?"