Hollywood rarely produces sweeping religious epics anymore, making Nicholas Ray's 1961 masterpiece King of Kings a rare gem. That film, starring Jeffrey Hunter as Jesus, weaves together all four Gospels into a three-hour narrative that remains a benchmark for biblical cinema. But if you're craving more stories of faith, sacrifice, and miracles, we've curated a list of films that capture that same epic spirit.
Over the past century, biblical epics have evolved from silent black-and-white spectacles to modern digital marvels. Whether animated or live-action, these films transcend scripture to explore heroism, redemption, and the divine. Here are 10 faith-based movies that fans of King of Kings will love.
10. 'The Passion of the Christ' (2004)
Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ is the most talked-about modern Jesus film. Jim Caviezel delivers a powerful performance, balancing Christ's humanity and divinity during his final hours. The film's brutal, historically grounded crucifixion scenes earned an R rating, making it a challenging but profound watch. Gibson is currently working on a sequel, The Resurrection of the Christ, expected next Easter.
9. 'The Greatest Story Ever Told' (1965)
Released just four years after King of Kings, George Stevens' The Greatest Story Ever Told stars Max von Sydow as Jesus and features an all-star cast including John Wayne, Charlton Heston, and Sidney Poitier. This three-hour epic covers Christ's life from birth to the Great Commission, making it a worthy companion to Ray's film.
8. 'The King of Kings' (1927)
Did you know King of Kings shares its title with Cecil B. DeMille's silent classic? This two-and-a-half-hour epic uses direct scripture quotes as intertitles and stars H.B. Warner as Jesus. Though silent, its scale and ambition rival any modern biblical film. It's in the public domain, so it's easy to find online.
7. 'Barabbas' (1961)
This unique film tells the story of Christ through the eyes of Barabbas, the murderer whose life was spared. Anthony Quinn stars as Barabbas, who witnesses the crucifixion and later travels to Rome. Based on Pär Lagerkvist's novel, it offers a fresh perspective on early Christian persecution.
6. 'Jesus' (1979)
Allegedly the most-watched movie ever, Jesus (also called The Jesus Film) is a faithful adaptation of the Gospel of Luke. Shot on location in Israel, it holds a Guinness World Record for most translated film. Brian Deacon plays Jesus in this evangelistic tool that aims for scriptural accuracy.
5. 'Ben-Hur' (1959)
Charlton Heston's chariot-racing epic is more than just a spectacle—it's a story of redemption set against the life of Christ. Though Jesus appears only briefly, his influence drives the narrative. The film won 11 Oscars and remains a cornerstone of biblical cinema.
4. 'Risen' (2016)
This unique film follows a Roman soldier tasked with investigating the disappearance of Jesus' body after the crucifixion. Joseph Fiennes stars as Clavius, who witnesses the resurrection firsthand. It's a detective story wrapped in a faith-based epic.
3. 'The Ten Commandments' (1956)
DeMille's other biblical masterpiece, The Ten Commandments, stars Charlton Heston as Moses. While focused on the Old Testament, its epic scale and themes of faith and deliverance echo King of Kings. The parting of the Red Sea remains one of cinema's most iconic moments.
2. 'The Gospel of John' (2003)
This word-for-word adaptation of the Gospel of John stars Henry Ian Cusick as Jesus. Its three-hour runtime and reverent approach make it a favorite for those seeking a scripturally accurate portrayal. The film's narration and visuals bring the text to life.
1. 'Son of God' (2014)
Compiled from the TV miniseries The Bible, Son of God focuses on Jesus' life and ministry. Diogo Morgado plays Christ in a film that balances intimacy with epic scope. It's a modern entry that appeals to both believers and film lovers.
For more epic storytelling, check out The Greatest Narrated Movies of All Time, Ranked or The 8 Most Universally Beloved Western Movies of All Time, Ranked. And if you're planning a movie night, don't miss Weekend Watchlist: 3 Prime Video Movies to Stream This May 1.
