Synopsis
"The Greatest Story Ever Told" (1965) is a biblical epic directed by George Stevens that you can watch online on iFILM. Swedish actor Max von Sydow takes on the role of Jesus Christ in this three-hour account of his life from birth in Bethlehem through to the Resurrection.
Stevens assembled one of Hollywood's most sprawling all-star casts: Charlton Heston as John the Baptist, Angela Lansbury, Sal Mineo, José Ferrer, Dorothy McGuire, and Donald Pleasence as Satan. The film was shot across Utah and Arizona — American wilderness standing in for the Holy Land, a choice that gives the landscapes an almost mythic scale. Cinematographer William C. Mellor worked on the production until his death during filming; the result earned five Academy Award nominations, including one for its photography.
Von Sydow plays Christ with a stillness that sets this production apart from the more theatrical biblical epics of the era. It moves slowly and deliberately — that's either its flaw or its strength depending on your patience. For those drawn to classic Hollywood scale and a restrained central performance, stream "The Greatest Story Ever Told" (1965) on iFILM.
Starring
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