Let me start by saying, this film is DIVINE! Cecil B. DeMille's 1927 silent epic about Jesus Christ might just be the best biblical film ever made. I was completely mesmerized from start to finish.

The restoration by Criterion Collection is outstanding. Watching the full 155-minute roadshow version (highly recommended over the shorter cut) feels like discovering a lost treasure. The picture quality is remarkably clear for a nearly century-old film, with only minor color fading in one sequence.

What struck me most was H.B. Warner's performance as Jesus - it's PERFECTION. After just five minutes, I completely believed he WAS Jesus. His quiet strength and warmth (especially in scenes like repairing a child's doll) create an incredibly moving portrayal that stays with you.

The visual storytelling is brilliant - from Mary Magdalene's dramatic demon exorcism (represented by the seven deadly sins) to powerful symbolic moments like when a simple beam Jesus leans on suddenly reveals itself as a cross. DeMille's crowd scenes are alive with movement, making Christ's stillness even more striking.

While not historically accurate (Palm Sunday after Temple cleansing? Really?), the film captures spiritual truths beautifully. The crucifixion scene, though less graphic than modern versions, carries incredible emotional weight - especially the moment when Simon struggles to lift the cross until Jesus gives him strength.

The extras are fantastic for a silent film: behind-the-scenes footage showing DeMille at work, two trailers, galleries and an informative booklet. Seeing children fight over the doll Jesus repairs in the BTS footage was a delightful human touch.

Whether you're religious or not, this cinematic masterpiece offers universal messages about choice, compassion and human nature that resonate deeply even today.