Five Movies to watch (or rewatch) this Easter Weekend
James Brown
Easter is when people come together to celebrate the beginning of spring and new beginnings. It is a time of joy, hope, and renewal. Many people commemorate the occasion by watching Easter-themed movies with their friends and family. As such, many films have been made over the years to tell the story of Easter or to capture its essence. These movies range from heartwarming family comedies to epic religious dramas, and each one has its unique way of capturing the spirit of the holiday. Here are the five best Easter movies, from classic tales to modern interpretations.
Chocolat (2000)
Set in a small French village during Lent, this film tells the story of a woman who opens a chocolate shop and brings joy and happiness to the town. The film features a strong performance by Juliette Binoche and a charming story about the power of food and community.
Steel Magnolias (1989)
While not directly related to the Easter story, the holiday is featured prominently in this story about a group of women in a small Southern town who support each other through life’s ups and downs. The film features a talented cast, including Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine, Sally Field, and Olympia Dukakis.
Easter Parade (1948)
This Irving Berlin musical follows the story of a dancer who takes on a naïve chorus girl as his new partner to make his former partner jealous and prove he can make any partner a star. Judy Garland and Fred Astaire are both at the height of their careers here. With dazzling choreography and memorable tunes, Easter Parade has become a beloved classic that continues to delight viewers decades after its release.
The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
Willem Dafoe, Harvey Keitel, and Barbara Hershey star in this controversial film directed by Martin Scorsese that imagines a scenario in which Satan tempts Jesus to abandon his mission and live an ordinary life. The film caused a stir upon its release but has since become a cult classic.
Ben-Hur (1959)
This epic film tells the story of Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), a Jewish prince betrayed by his childhood friend and forced into slavery. The film climaxes with a dramatic chariot race and Ben-Hur’s encounter with Jesus.
Easter is a time for celebration, renewal, and hope, and these movies capture the essence of the holiday in different ways. From classic religious dramas to heartwarming family comedies and romantic dramas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the Easter season. Whether you’re looking for a traditional retelling of the Easter story or a fun and lighthearted movie to watch with your family, these five films will surely delight and inspire you.