Risen 2016
Directed by
Kevin Reynolds
Made by
Columbia Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Risen (2016). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Set during the time of Jesus’ crucifixion, Clavius (Joseph Fiennes), a weary Roman Tribune, finds himself wandering through the Judean Desert in a state of disarray. After being welcomed by an innkeeper, he begins to recount the harrowing recent events he has witnessed.
Clavius recalls an intense battle alongside his comrades against a rival army, after which he is summoned by Pontius Pilate (Peter Firth). During their meeting, Pilate shares his grim reasoning behind the crucifixion of Yeshua (Cliff Curtis). The scene shifts to the crucifixion itself, depicting Yeshua on the cross, adorned with a crown of thorns, flanked by two thieves. The atmosphere is heavy with sorrow as soldiers and Nazarenes alike gather to witness this dreadful moment. Clavius, in a moment of authority, instructs a soldier to put an end to the thieves’ suffering, leading to a horrifying act that results in Yeshua’s body being pierced. A sudden and powerful tremor shakes the ground, leaving Clavius transfixed by the sight of Yeshua’s bloodied face and the tear that trails down.
After Yeshua is laid to rest in a stone tomb, confusion arises as news spreads that the stone seal has been removed and the body is missing. Pilate calls upon Clavius to lead an investigation into this disturbing event, urging him to track down Yeshua’s Disciples. Clavius teams up with Lucius (Tom Felton) in an effort to uncover the truth. As they begin their search, Clavius interviews various witnesses, including a blind woman and a devoted follower of Yeshua. He is later advised to find Mary Magdalene (María Botto), a woman of questionable repute, who proves elusive.
Clavius seeks answers from Apostle Bartholomew, who fervently professes his loyalty to Yeshua. The investigation leads him to the guards tasked with protecting the tomb; one admits to being inebriated but claims to have seen a blinding light and a figure emerge from within. Dismissing this as the ramblings of a drunken man, Clavius continues to search for the truth, even bringing a corpse back to Pilate that he claims could be Yeshua.
As the journey unfolds, Clavius stumbles upon a house where he encounters Bartholomew, Mary Magdalene, and the Disciples, and to his utter shock, he finds Yeshua alive, bearing the marks of his crucifixion. Yeshua’s sudden disappearance leads the others to remember his instruction to find him in Galilee. As they prepare to depart, Clavius confronts Lucius, disarming him and demanding he return to Rome.
Embarking on the journey to Galilee, Clavius joins the Disciples in their endeavors, including fishing at Yeshua’s guidance. Upon their reunion, they celebrate a bountiful catch, only to witness Yeshua’s miraculous healing of a disfigured man using a fish he provides. In quiet moments with Yeshua, Clavius expresses his burgeoning faith and belief.
Eventually, Yeshua ascends to Heaven with a magnificent display of light, promising a home for his followers. After parting ways with the Disciples, Clavius returns to Rome, where Pilate resigns to the notion that they will never see the Disciples again. Back at the innkeeper’s home, the innkeeper listens in awe to Clavius’ extraordinary tale and questions his belief. Clavius affirms his faith, revealing a profound change within himself, before continuing his journey through the expansive desert.
Timeline
Track the key events of Risen (2016) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Clavius Wanders the Judean Desert
Amidst the turmoil following the crucifixion of Jesus, Clavius, a weary Roman Tribune, finds himself desolate in the Judean Desert. He reflects on the recent events that have shook his faith and sense of purpose.
The Intense Battle
Clavius recalls a fierce battle against a rival army with his fellow soldiers, showcasing his life as a warrior. This moment serves as the backdrop for his subsequent summons by Pontius Pilate, revealing the turmoil within him.
Meeting with Pontius Pilate
During a pivotal meeting, Pontius Pilate elaborates on his grim rationale behind the decision to crucify Yeshua. Clavius listens intently, grappling with the implications of his orders and the moral conflict arising from them.
The Crucifixion
The scene shifts to the haunting moment of Yeshua's crucifixion. As Clavius stands by, he witnesses the agony of Yeshua on the cross, surrounded by mournful onlookers and the chilling atmosphere of despair.
A Horrifying Act
In a moment of grim authority, Clavius commands a soldier to hasten the thieves' deaths, resulting in a gruesome act of violence. Witnessing Yeshua’s suffering leaves a lasting impression, especially when a tremor shakes the ground.
Aftermath of the Crucifixion
Following Yeshua's burial in a stone tomb, a wave of confusion ensues as rumors spread about the stone seal being broken and the body missing. Clavius is tasked by Pilate to investigate this alarming incident.
Clavius Teams Up with Lucius
Clavius begins his investigation into Yeshua's disappearance alongside Lucius, determined to uncover the truth. They start interviewing witnesses to gather insights about the events surrounding the tomb.
Confronting Witnesses
As part of the investigation, Clavius meets various individuals, including a blind woman and a loyal follower of Yeshua. Their testimonies, filled with emotions, lead him to question his understanding of faith and loyalty.
Searching for Mary Magdalene
Clavius is advised to locate Mary Magdalene, a key figure who holds pivotal knowledge about Yeshua’s disciples. Her elusive nature poses a challenge for Clavius as the urgency of his mission grows.
Discovering Yeshua Alive
In a stunning turn of events, Clavius comes across Bartholomew, Mary Magdalene, and the Disciples, only to find Yeshua among them, alive and bearing the wounds of his crucifixion. This revelation shakes Clavius’s beliefs to their core.
Journey to Galilee
The Disciples, following Yeshua's instructions, prepare to journey to Galilee, where they are promised to find him again. Clavius, now intertwined with their mission, confronts Lucius over his loyalties.
Fishing with Yeshua
Clavius joins the Disciples in their fishing expedition at Yeshua's request. Their successful catch not only brings joy but also leads to a miraculous healing performed by Yeshua, showcasing his divine power.
Clavius's Transformation
Spending time with Yeshua, Clavius begins to experience a profound shift in his heart, struggling with his newfound faith and understanding of sacrifice. His interactions instill hope and a desire for redemption.
Yeshua Ascends to Heaven
In a breathtaking moment, Yeshua ascends to Heaven, enveloped in radiant light as he promises a home for his followers. Clavius witnesses this divine event that seals his transformation and faith.
Return to Rome
After parting ways with the Disciples, Clavius returns to Rome, where he finds Pilate accepting that the Disciples' influence may be irreplaceable. Back at the innkeeper's home, Clavius recounts his extraordinary tale.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Risen (2016) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Clavius
Clavius is a weary Roman Tribune burdened by the brutality of his past. As an officer tasked with maintaining order, he initially represents the oppressive Roman authority, yet his journey leads him toward self-discovery and a profound transformation. His character arc highlights the internal conflict between duty and belief, as well as the search for redemptive truth.
Yeshua
Yeshua is portrayed as a figure of profound compassion and wisdom, whose teachings and resurrection challenge Clavius' rigid perception of reality. Despite his suffering during crucifixion, his ultimate appearance to Clavius and the Disciples signifies hope and the promise of faith. Yeshua's character embodies themes of sacrifice, love, and the transformative power of belief.
Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is depicted as a key figure in Yeshua's life, whose loyalty and devotion exemplify the strength of faith amidst societal ridicule. Her role in the narrative highlights the importance of women in early Christianity and underscores the theme of resurrection through her witness to Yeshua's whereabouts. She represents both strength and compassion.
Lucius
Lucius is Clavius' ally, serving as a source of tension in the narrative as they navigate their differing beliefs. His character provides a contrast to Clavius, illustrating the spectrum of faith and doubt that existed during this time. He is a representation of loyalty but also of the challenges that arise when confronted with profound change.
Pontius Pilate
Pontius Pilate embodies the political machinations of the era, tasked with making difficult decisions that reflect the oppressive nature of Roman rule. His character is pivotal in the backdrop of Yeshua's crucifixion, showcasing the struggle between justice and authority. Pilate's implications in the events surrounding Yeshua's death highlight the moral conflicts faced by leaders.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Risen (2016), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1st Century AD
The movie is set during the tumultuous 1st Century AD, a pivotal period in history marked by the crucifixion of Jesus Christ which laid the foundation for Christianity. It was a time of political unrest and social upheaval, with the Roman Empire exerting control over the region and significant events unfolding that would alter the course of history.
Location
Judean Desert, Galilee, Rome
The Judean Desert serves as a haunting backdrop for Clavius' journey, characterized by its vast, arid landscape and historical significance as a site for many biblical events. Galilee plays a crucial role in the narrative as the place where Yeshua instructs his disciples and performs miracles. Rome represents the political and religious tension of the time, a powerful city where Clavius navigates his loyalties and beliefs.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Risen (2016). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Faith
The theme of faith permeates the narrative as Clavius, a Roman Tribune, grapples with his beliefs in the wake of witnessing Yeshua's death and resurrection. Through his investigation and interactions with Yeshua's followers, Clavius transitions from skepticism to conviction, ultimately embracing a new belief system. This transformation signifies the powerful impact of faith on personal identity and purpose.
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Truth
The quest for truth is central to Clavius' journey as he investigates the disappearance of Yeshua's body and seeks answers from various witnesses. This pursuit reveals deeper truths about belief, sacrifice, and the nature of reality. Clavius' search leads him to confront his assumptions and ultimately embrace a newfound understanding of his world and its complexities.
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