Watch The Gospel According to Saint Matthew

The Gospel According to Saint Matthew, released in 1964, is a powerful and moving retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, as depicted in the Gospel of Matthew. The film presents a stark, realistic portrayal of Jesus' journey, from his birth in Bethlehem to his betrayal and crucifixion in Jerusalem. Directed by the acclaimed Italian filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini, the film stars Enrique Irazoqui as Jesus, Margherita Caruso as Mary, and Susanna Pasolini as Mary Magdalene. Shot in black and white, the film has a raw, documentary-style feel, capturing the gritty reality of life in first-century Palestine.

The story of Jesus' life unfolds as a series of vignettes, with Pasolini staying true to the scriptural account of events. We see Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist, his ministry of healing and preaching, and his confrontations with the Pharisees and other religious authorities of the time. Through it all, Irazoqui's performance conveys a sense of quiet intensity and otherworldly wisdom that is both inspiring and humbling.

One of the film's most striking features is its use of non-professional actors. Pasolini cast ordinary people from the streets of Southern Italy in many of the roles, giving the film a sense of authenticity and a heightened sense of realism. The actors speak in their native dialects, adding to the sense of a world far removed from our own.

The film's depiction of Jesus is notable for its lack of sentimentality or religious trappings. Pasolini presents Jesus as a revolutionary figure, challenging the existing power structures of his day and preaching a message of love and justice. This Jesus is a man of the people, not some otherworldly God-figure removed from human concerns.

Another notable aspect of the film is its use of music. Rather than a traditional score, Pasolini included a selection of classical music pieces by composers such as Bach and Mozart, as well as modern folk songs from Southern Italy. This eclectic mix gives the film a unique character and adds to its sense of timelessness.

Despite its low-key style, The Gospel According to Saint Matthew is a powerful and emotionally affecting film. Its depiction of Jesus as a humble and revolutionary figure continues to resonate with viewers today, and its portrayal of his teachings and actions remains as challenging and relevant as ever. Whether you are a believer or not, this film is a must-see for anyone interested in the life and teachings of one of history's most influential figures.