Risen

The Story of the Resurrection as You’ve Never Seen It Before

Epic in scope, yet deeply personal, this novelization offers a unique perspective on the story of the resurrection. Roman Tribune Clavius is assigned by Pilate to keep the radical followers of the recently executed Yeshua from stealing the body and inciting revolution. When the body goes missing despite his precautions, Clavius must hunt it down.

His investigation leads him from the halls of Herod Antipas to the Garden of Gethsemane and brings him in touch with believer and doubter alike. But as the body still remains missing, Clavius commits to a quest for the truth–and answers that will not only shake his life but echo throughout all of history.

I have been waiting for this movie since watching War Room last year. I saw the movie clip during the previews and I knew then that I would review it. This movie promises to be the best Christian film of the year. I was beyond excited when Bethany House offered me the opportunity to read the novelization of the film written by the amazing Angela Hunt.

After finishing the book in two days, I wanted to sit down and write about how AWESOME the book is but I knew I had to let my thoughts simmer for a few days. My intent with this blog to give you a both sides of a review, completely honest, and open.

This movie is going to be thoroughly entertaining. I can’t wait to see Clavius on the big screen because based on his book character he promises to be the kind of hero both men and women will enjoy. He’s strong and committed to his beliefs, his first devotion is to Rome. “Rome is never wrong.” He is unapologetically loyal. As the book progresses he comes to realize that Jesus wasn’t a regular prophet and the transformation in his heart is painful, but very beautiful. Choices have to be made and he isn’t able to hide behind his duty.

“Against my will, at close range I beheld the thorn-pierced forehead, the swollen nose, and the eyes! They opened, stared into me, looked through me to the basest part of my soul. He saw, he knew everything I had ever said, done, or thought.” -Clavius

While this book is not 100% biblically accurate, the liberties taken are very minor. Angela Hunt added a few characters in order to make the movie flow. At the end of the novel she gives a list of the changes made and explains why she did it. She gives scripture references, which I found to be very through.

I felt the biblical tie-ins were well chosen. The characters used and stories given were well known and helped the reader to understand how it tied in biblically.

I’m counting the days until February 19th! Go see this movie opening weekend, let’s send Hollywood a message. We want more Christian films.