Easter Must-Watch: ‘The Robe’ – Retro Review of the Classic Christian Film

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It’s quite astonishing to know that at one point in history, Hollywood was known for producing films based on Christian themes. Movies like “The Ten Commandments”, “Ben Hur”, “Barabbas”, “David and Bathseba”, “Samson and Delilah” and others were released over a span of twelve years and were not mere side projects but were given the same importance as other major Hollywood productions, featuring top-tier actors.

In that timeframe, the film titled “The Robe” was released, featuring Richard Burton, Jean Simmons, Victor Mature (whom I’d rather be named after than Victor Newman from Young and the Restless), and Jay Robinson, who delivered an exceptional portrayal of Caligula.

Once you’ve finished shedding tears after watching “The Passion of the Christ” this Easter, consider watching “The Robe” next, as it continues the tale of Marcellus Gallio – the Roman official who oversaw the crucifixion of the Son of Man, under Pilate’s orders.

Plot:

Gallio is a high-ranking official in the Roman military and, due to his wealth and position, he exhibits an arrogant and reckless demeanor. He’s often seen drunk and indifferent to others’ plight. At an auction, he supports a slave owner when a slave named Demetrius attempts to flee. However, when Caligula, the next ruler of Rome, arrives to purchase Demetrius as a gladiator, Gallio unexpectedly outbids him simply for the sake of it.

From a movie buff’s perspective, in retaliation, Caligula dispatches me to the tumultuous city of Jerusalem, infamous for its unending riots and rebellions stirred by its inhabitants. On the same day, I find myself in this chaotic metropolis, coincidentally witnessing the crowd’s jubilant acclamation as a man named Jesus rides into town on a donkey. Intrigued by the commotion, I seek clarification from a Roman centurion named Paulus. He shares that the Jews have long awaited a Messiah annually, and this Jesus is yet another claimed savior in their prophecies.

Demetrius spots Jesus walking by, and their gazes meet. From that instant, he finds himself drawn to him. Over the course of a rowdy party, he secretly learns from Paulus about Gallio’s plan to apprehend Jesus, prompting him to slip away and alert Jesus and his companions about the impending danger.

However, upon encountering a troubled individual, this person informs Demetrius that the opportunity has passed. It turns out that Jesus had already been apprehended and was standing before Pilate. Upon inquiry about his identity, the man discloses himself as Judas, before he staggers off.

The following day, Pilate assigns Gallio the grim duty of executing Jesus, looking troubled. Gallio carries out this task faithfully. Meanwhile, as Jesus bears his cross, Demetrius attempts an intervention, only to be rendered unconscious by the vigilant Roman soldiers.

At Golgotha, Gallio stands with his soldiers, distributing items among themselves, as Jesus and two criminals are crucified nearby. The atmosphere appears indifferent to the shifting skies above, as they take turns playing a game over Jesus’ blood-stained robe, with Gallio eventually claiming it.

With the tempest brewing on the peak, Gallio gazes towards Jesus, noticing his lifeless state. Upon touching the crucifix, the Savior’s blood trickles onto Gallio’s palm, prompting him to swiftly rub it off, as if it were a corrosive substance.

The storm becomes more fierce, and Gallio commands Demetrius to protect him from the rain using his cloak. At first, Demetrius resists, but eventually complies. However, when the cloak touches Gallio’s skin, he experiences severe guilt. Then, Demetrius takes back the cloak and accuses Gallio of murdering God’s Son, before fleeing away with the cloak.

Why You Should Watch:

This weekend, “The Robe” is a fantastic film worth watching. Created before CGI, its set pieces are impressive and comparable to timeless classics like “The Ten Commandments.” The acting is superb; Jay Robinson delivers a chilling portrayal of Caligula, as he truly was in reality, while Richard Burton brings intensity and anger to his role as Gallio, a man who refuses to accept the truth.

As Gallio spirals into madness due to his remorse over the crucifixion, he embarks on a pursuit of Demetrius to eliminate the robe. However, it’s not an immediate transformation for him. In the course of this quest, The Robe leads Gallio through encounters with Peter and other emerging believers who share their teachings during the time when Caligula oppresses those fanatics who remain loyal to a deceased leader.

Without revealing the climax, let me assure you it’s as uplifting as a Hollywood movie might be when it confidently celebrates divine values.

You can watch The Robe for free here or rent it on Amazon Prime here. He is risen!

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2025-04-20 23:00