Watch Jesus: Countdown to Calvary

Jesus: Countdown to Calvary is a 2018 documentary about the final week of Jesus Christ's life leading up to his crucifixion, told by prominent biblical scholars and historians. The film is directed by Gerry Hoban and presented as a hybrid of expert interviews and dramatic reenactments. The film is hosted by Helen K. Bond, a professor of Christian origins and the director of the Centre for the Study of Christian Origins at the University of Edinburgh. Bond guides the audience through the historical and theological implications of Jesus' last days, exploring the politics and social conditions that led to his betrayal and execution.

The expert contributors to the film include renowned New Testament scholar Paula Fredriksen, who provides insight into the role of Roman and Jewish authorities in Jesus' trial and sentencing. Also featured is Hugh Bonneville, best known for his role in Downton Abbey, who narrates the story from the Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

The reenactments of key moments from the last week of Jesus' life are shot in a stylized, theatrical manner, with striking visuals and minimalist sets. The actors, many of whom are local extras from Jerusalem and surrounding areas, give nuanced and emotive performances that bring the story to life.

The film examines the intricate political and social tensions of Jerusalem in the first century, as Jesus' movement gains momentum and challenges the established religious authorities. It also delves into the increasingly bleak and treacherous situation faced by Jesus' disciples, particularly Judas Iscariot, who ultimately betrays his teacher and friend.

One of the main themes of the film is the contrast between Jesus' message of love, compassion, and nonviolence, and the brutal torture and execution he suffered at the hands of the Roman authorities. The experts interviewed in the film provide context for this paradox, discussing the historical significance of crucifixion as a form of punishment and the complex theological implications of Jesus' sacrifice.

Throughout the film, the audience is taken on a journey through the narrow streets of Jerusalem, weaving together biblical accounts with historical research, and providing a vivid and multifaceted portrait of Jesus' final days. Along the way, the film sheds light on the broader cultural and religious context of first-century Judea, exploring the diverse groups of Jews and Gentiles who inhabited the region and the ways in which they interacted with each other.

Overall, Jesus: Countdown to Calvary is a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of one of the most significant events in human history. The combination of expert perspectives and dramatic reenactments creates a powerful and engaging viewing experience, inviting the audience to consider the timeless questions of faith, justice, and sacrifice at the heart of the story of Jesus Christ.

Jesus: Countdown to Calvary is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 53 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.