This is one of those movies where, as in the phrase of William Friedkin, the movie gods were fully present; maybe much more than just the movie gods! Anyway, we have here a brilliant idea from Paul Aiello on how to approach the events of Easter, a brilliant production designer, a brilliant cast (Fiennes was a real find as was Felton as was Firth as was.....), beautiful cinematography, excellent direction, wonderful music and on and on. All these pieces - and all the rest that are required to pull off excellence - came together to make an exciting movie that is out of the ordinary for its genre. This will become a classic period. Nothing's perfect but the minor flaws are totally overwhelmed by the sheer power of the production. Fortunately, as is the case with many a movie, the critics were far off base with basically cynical, ho hum views while the audience ratings showed true appreciation for its achievement. P.S. It wears very, very well after multiple viewings.
Review of Risen
