The Greatest Story Ever Told1965The Greatest Story Ever Told
1965
George Stevens's epic of the life of Jesus, from the Nativity to the Resurrection, with Max von Sydow as Christ. It was filmed against the canyons and deserts of the American Southwest.
For children old enough to talk it through: sustained intensity, or language or sexual content that Common Sense Media rates 7–9.
Why it’s here
A reverent, majestic Gospel film for the whole household to watch together.
Context notes
For parents, before you press play.
Herod's massacre of the infants, beatings, the off-screen execution of John the Baptist, and the crucifixion (nails, some blood) need preparation for younger children. The film takes some liberties with the Gospel accounts and runs over three hours.
The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965)
Discussion questions
When the credits end, go around the room. Each person gives the film a score out of ten and says why.
- Which part of Jesus' life did the film show best?
- How did different people respond to Jesus?
- How were Peter's denial and restoration shown?
- What did the film change or leave out from Scripture?
Content advisory
IMDb parents guide, BBFC, and ParentPreviews (via WebSearch): Herod's massacre of infants; beatings; John the Baptist's execution off-screen; the crucifixion with nails and some blood.
Trailer
Best edition
The disc comes first.
The Greatest Story Ever Told Blu-ray
Blu-ray · March 17, 2015
Coming later
Where to stream
Streaming services are not listed yet. When they are, this note stays secondary to the disc.