Approved for 12+

The Gospel According to St. Matthew

Pier Paolo Pasolini's masterpiece comes to life in color for the first time in this beautiful film about the life of Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew. The story begins with His birth and illustrates how His teachings attracted not only His disciples, but crowds of believers. When the Pharisees, chief priests and elders learn of Jesus, they conspire to have Him arrested, beaten, tried and crucified on the cross. This classic film is a beautiful interpretation of the greatest story ever told.
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Negative Rating
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SexLanguageViolenceDrugsNudityOther
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Positive Rating
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FaithIntegrity

Dove Review

“The Gospel According to St. Matthew” does a good job presenting the teachings of Christ. There are many scenes in which Jesus teaches the people, as well as the Pharisees and religious leaders of the day. Featured in the film are his Sermon on the Mount and The Lord’s Prayer, as well as several of his miracles including walking on water and feeding the multitude with five loaves and two small fish.

The actor portraying Christ, Enrique Irazoqui, is a bit stoic and looks slightly young for the role, but he is very good at recreating the teachings of Christ. It should be noted that there is a scene featuring Judas Iscariot hanging himself that lasts about six seconds. We are awarding our “Faith-Friendly” 12+ Seal to “The Gospel According to St. Matthew.” This film could be a good educational tool regarding the teachings of Christ.

Dove Rating Details

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Faith

None

0
Integrity

Herod has children ages two and under killed and a few scenes show children being grabbed and thrown to the ground; scene of a child who looks older than two on the ground; man is about to have his head severed from his body; man hangs himself and it is seen for a few seconds; Jesus has a crown of thorns placed on his head and he is crucified; we see just a bit of blood.

0
Sex

None

1
Language

A few references to "H" as a biblical place; Jesus calls the religious leaders "vipers," "hypocrites" and "blind guides."

2
Violence

Herod has children ages two and under killed and a few scenes show children being grabbed and thrown to the ground; scene of a child who looks older than two on the ground; man is about to have his head severed from his body; man hangs himself and it is seen for a few seconds; Jesus has a crown of thorns placed on his head and he is crucified; we see just a bit of blood.

1
Drugs

Some wine is consumed and seen.

2
Nudity

Several men and boys are seen shirtless; men in loin cloths; woman wears a bathing robe before she gets dressed but it is not graphic in any way.

1
Other

Betrayal, tension between characters and jealousy by religious leaders regarding Jesus.

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