10 The Christian Reader November 2006
IS AMERICA READY FOR A
BLACK JESUS MOVIE?
“Color of the Cross,” an independent, politically charged religious biopic, based on the
last 48 hours of Christ’s life, stands to be the
most controversial depiction of Jesus to date.
The film is unique in two distinct ways: The
first dramatic film in Hollywood history ever
to depict Christ as a black man. Secondly, it
is the first Christian based film to inject race
as a possible factor in the Crucifixion of
Christ. This racial perspective to the conventional biblical story is sure to challenge
Conservative Christian beliefs.
With Hollywood leading the way in 2006,
with such films as Ron Howard’s the “Da
Vinci Code”, “The End Of The Spear”, “The
Celestine Prophesies”, Abel Ferrara’s “Mary”
and New Line’s recent acquisition of “The
Nativity””, there appears to be a religious
movement sweeping the nation. While these
films seem to challenge conventional religious beliefs, “Color Of The Cross” places
Race front and center in this growing religious discourse that is sure to become a hot
political debate. According to Producer
Kenneth Halsband, “When you see the black
man on the cross, you are immediately reminiscent of the 1960’s… Our film hopes to
heal those wounds.”
Jean-Claude LaMarre said the film’s portrayal of a black Jesus may bring controversy,
but its intention is to stimulate audiences.
“Our movie is not about dividing Christians, but
broadening their perspective,” said LaMarre. “For
centuries, Leonardo da Vinci’s portrayal of Jesus has
been widely accepted. We are offering an alternative
image. There’s room for all. We will be seeking the
Pope’s blessing on this one.”
By portraying Jesus as a black Jew, this movie may
appear controversial to some. However, it stands to
be the single most positive image of a black lead
character in a film to date. This film will undeniably
resonate in the hearts and minds of the black commusee BLACK JESUS on Page 11