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Description
This epic network television mini-series brings to life the precarious existence of early Christianity. The new movement is beset by violent opposition from without and constant turmoil from within. Two key leaders emerge–Peter and Paul–who struggle to keep the faith alive. This dramatic presentation follows the pair, together and separately, through three epochal decades. Included are the stoning of Stephen, the road to Damascus, their encounter in Jerusalem, their c… More >>
March 1, 2010 at 9:46 PM
I think that Anthony Hopkins gives a terrific portrayal of Paul (not that I’ve ever met Paul….:)
He brings a lot to the character that I have never really considered in reading the Bible. He does a great job at “humanizing” Paul. Paul was such a tremendous apostle at the start of the Christian church. I think Hopkins has given to us, in this film, a look at Paul that truly shows his human side. I tried to understand what might have been Paul’s “thorn in the flesh.” Maybe it was his arrogance (as he stated himself). I’ve always thought it was possibly some physical impairment but after seeing this movie, maybe it has more to do with pride, etc. An interesting perspective.
Anyway, I highly recommend the movie. It shows some of what the Bible describes of the relationship between Peter and Paul. The film stays pretty close to what the Bible describes (certainly taking a little artistic license) in filling in some places. Even that though is done very well.
Rating: 5 / 5
March 2, 2010 at 12:43 AM
First, I agree with other reviewers here that the portrayal of Paul the Apostle by Anthony Hopkins is a standout performance worthy of an emmy nomination. Robert Foxworth’s Peter is also interestingly done but our information is lacking about his ministry when he disappears after Chapter 7 in the book of Acts. Therefore the movie focuses on Paul’s attempt to unite Jew,Greek and Roman in a trinity of new Christian faith and this film delivers on that concept, even though it is somewhat romanticized. Some very effective scenes remind you of “Jesus of Nazareth”. One suprise is when Paul is being confronted by his “thorn in the flesh” while consulting with Barnabas and Mark, you hear a mysterious sound that is tough to catch but Mark inquires what it is to which Paul replies “just an animal”. (Actually it is a devil). Also there is a great confrontation with the woman who throws her voice into statues and animals to ridicule Paul’s ministry. When Paul tells her that she won’t have the power to do that again it is effective enough to put a fear of the Lord into you! We get to see the journeys of Paul and Barnabas (you will notice a gradual decline in the richness of Barnabas shown in his clothing) , we meet Luke, Timothy, Silas, Mark and get a basic grip on what the spread of Christianity was all about in the ancient world. Nero’s fay behavior will get on your nerves especially when he is engaged in conversations about Paul with his jailer. Paul’s triumphant entry as a prisoner into Rome will remind you of Jesus and his entry into Jerusalem so much so that it can bring a tear to your eye. The original scene of Paul forgiving the Axeman when he is beheaded has been removed for some reason on this DVD. Well recommended to anyone who wants some insight into the early development of the Church and to understand persecution of the apostles!
Rating: 4 / 5
March 2, 2010 at 3:29 AM
Fabulous! Absolutely worth your time. Every christian should have this in their video collection. Anythony Hopkins and Robert Foxworth do a phenominal job of portraying Peter and Paul. Though not perfect, a highly reliable, detailed and very accurate portrayal of those incredible days. Do yourself a favor, make church history real to your kids and new converts to the faith.
Rating: 5 / 5
March 2, 2010 at 5:30 AM
First the Bad – The portrayal of Peter is extremely wimpy. A far better portrayal can be found in A.D. played by Denis Quilley.
Now the Good – The portrayal of Paul by Anthony Hopkins was fantastic. The emotion and passion he put into his preaching before the Greeks was excellent. He also portrayed well the human side of Paul. The character of Nero, expertly portrayed by Julian Fellowes, was alone worth the purchase of the DVD. I can only describe it as total creepiness under control.
Rating: 3 / 5
March 2, 2010 at 6:03 AM
My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the movie it was great to have two videos to watch which made it spread out just right. One video would have made the events go too fast. Biblically it is pretty accurate the events happened in the order that they appeared on video. Anthony Hopkins Plays a great Saul Paulus of Tarsus. The only thing I would have liked to see different is that, for the sake of keeping it a two video series, they jumped ahead more than a few times by saying “four years later” another “four years later”, and then “eight years later” etc. I would have liked to see what was going on during those times as well. Other than that I would highly recommend this video.
Rating: 5 / 5