Tag: Movies

Christmas is widely known as a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. But for many viewers, the most meaningful films are not only those that focus on the manger in Bethlehem, but those that explore the full life and purpose of Jesus on earth; His teachings, miracles, compassion, and sacrifice.

Over the years, many movies have attempted to tell this story. Some focus only on the Nativity. Others concentrate entirely on the final days leading to the crucifixion. Very few manage to present a balanced and complete picture of Jesus’ earthly ministry in a way that feels respectful, engaging, and accessible to modern audiences.

This article brings together the best and most definitive movies and series about Jesus, selected for their accuracy, storytelling strength, and ability to show why His life still matters today. These are the films that go beyond Christmas tradition and help viewers understand the full story behind the season.

Why It’s Difficult to Tell the Full Story of Jesus on Screen

Telling the story of Jesus in a single film is not easy.

His life includes major events; His birth, baptism, teachings, miracles, conflicts with religious leaders, crucifixion, and resurrection. Compressing all of this into two or three hours often leads filmmakers to skip important moments or focus heavily on one part of the story at the expense of others.

This is why many Jesus films lean toward either:

• The Nativity, because of its strong Christmas appeal, or
• The crucifixion, because of its emotional weight

Only a few productions take the time needed to show the full journey. These are usually longer films or multi-part series, and they tend to leave a deeper impact on viewers.

The list below focuses on those rare projects that succeed in telling the whole story, making them especially meaningful to watch during Christmas.

1. Jesus of Nazareth (1977)

Jesus of Nazareth is widely regarded as the most complete and respected screen portrayal of Jesus Christ.

Directed by Franco Zeffirelli, this epic production follows Jesus from His birth in Bethlehem through His teachings, miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection. Its extended runtime allows the story to unfold carefully, without rushing key moments from the Gospels.

Robert Powell’s portrayal of Jesus is calm, restrained, and deeply reflective. Rather than relying on dramatic excess, the performance emphasizes compassion, authority, and quiet strength, qualities many viewers associate with Jesus.

What truly sets this film apart is its balance. It gives equal weight to:

• The Nativity
• Jesus’ public ministry
• His relationships with disciples
• His final sacrifice

The story begins with the events surrounding Jesus’ birth, making it a natural choice for Christmas viewing. From there, it guides viewers through the full meaning of why that birth mattered.

2. The Chosen (2019 – Still running)

The Chosen has reshaped how modern audiences engage with the story of Jesus.

Instead of focusing only on Jesus Himself, the series places strong attention on the people around Him; His disciples, followers, and those whose lives were changed by His presence. This approach makes His ministry feel personal and relatable, without losing its spiritual depth.

The series explores Jesus’ teachings and miracles gradually, allowing characters to grow and struggle in realistic ways. This slower pace gives viewers time to reflect on each moment rather than rushing through the story.

Production quality, performances, and writing have all contributed to its global popularity. It has become one of the most watched faith-based series in recent history.

The Chosen includes dedicated Christmas episodes that focus on Jesus’ birth, making it easy for viewers to start the story during the season and continue through His ministry afterward.

3. The Miracle Maker (1999)

The Miracle Maker offers one of the most emotionally engaging portrayals of Jesus’ ministry, presented through animation.

The film combines stop motion and traditional animation to tell the story of Jesus from childhood through His public ministry. Much of the story is seen through the eyes of a young girl, which brings a sense of innocence and curiosity to the narrative.

Despite its animation style, the film does not avoid serious themes. It handles Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and eventual death with sensitivity and depth, making it suitable for both children and adults.

The film connects the humility of Jesus’ birth with the compassion and sacrifice that defined His ministry, helping viewers understand the meaning behind the celebration.

4. The Visual Bible: Matthew (1993)

For viewers who value strict biblical accuracy, The Visual Bible: Matthew stands out.

This film presents the Gospel of Matthew word for word, with every line of dialogue taken directly from Scripture. There are no added scenes, no creative dialogue, and no reinterpretations.

Because of this approach, the film feels less like a traditional drama and more like a visual reading of the Gospel. It covers Jesus’ birth, teachings, miracles, and final days with clarity and faithfulness.

It allows viewers to experience the story of Jesus exactly as written in the Bible, starting from the events surrounding His birth.

5. Son of God (2014)

Son of God is a modern cinematic retelling of Jesus’ life, adapted from the television series The Bible.

The film focuses strongly on Jesus’ public ministry; His miracles, parables, and relationship with His disciples; while maintaining a clear and accessible narrative structure. This makes it a good option for viewers who may be new to biblical films.

Its pacing and visuals help connect Jesus’ teachings to modern audiences without going too far from the source material.

The film links Jesus’ birth to the purpose of His ministry, helping viewers reflect on why His arrival is still celebrated today.

6. The Nativity Story (2006)

Although The Nativity Story does not cover Jesus’ entire ministry, it remains one of the most important films to watch during Christmas.

Unlike many Nativity films, it gives proper attention to Mary and Joseph; their fears, faith, and obedience. The story is grounded and human, focusing on the reality of the journey that led to Jesus’ birth.

Understanding Jesus’ ministry begins with understanding His birth. This film provides the foundation upon which the rest of His life is built.

Which Jesus Movie Should You Start With?

Choosing the right film depends on what you’re looking for:

• For a complete life story: Jesus of Nazareth
• For a modern, relatable series: The Chosen
• For families and younger viewers: The Miracle Maker
• For strict biblical accuracy: The Visual Bible: Matthew
• For a focused Christmas watch: The Nativity Story

Each offers a different entry point into the story of Jesus.

The Passion of the Christ (2004)

This movie was not included in the list because even as a very powerful depiction of Jesus, it focuses almost entirely on the final hours of Jesus’ life. It does not explore His birth, teachings, or public ministry.

For viewers seeking a full picture of Jesus’ earthly journey, it does not provide the balance needed for Christmas viewing.

Christmas is not only about remembering where Jesus was born, but understanding why He came.

These films help tell that full story; from the quiet moment in Bethlehem to the ministry that shaped history. Whether watched alone or with family, they offer a deeper way to reflect on the season and its meaning.

For anyone looking to go beyond tradition and truly engage with the story of Jesus, these are the best movies about Jesus and His earthly ministry to watch this Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

Nollywood fans have a reason to mark their calendars this festive season as Over Sabi Aunty gears up for its nationwide cinema release on December 19, 2025. The upcoming film, led by actress Toyin Abraham, promises to deliver a blend of laughter, drama, and heartwarming family moments, something needed in the holiday season.

A Story Rooted in Every Nigerian Family

I’d like to assume the story line follows its title “Over Sabi Aunt” which says it all. Drawing from the everyday Nigerian experience of that one relative who always claims to “know it all,” the film could be built around themes of love, chaos, community, and the humorous realities of family life.

Cast

The movie features an impressive lineup of Nollywood’s finest:

• Toyin Abraham (Lead)
• Shaffy Bello
• Odunlade Adekola
• Adedimeji Lateef
• Bisola Aiyeola

Together, this cast blends comedy and drama, setting the stage for what could become one of the standout Nigerian releases of the year.

Dropping just a week before Christmas, the release date is no coincidence. December is peak season for cinema visits in Nigeria, with families and friends looking for quality entertainment to enjoy together. By positioning Over Sabi Aunty as a family-friendly blockbuster, the producers are tapping into the festive spirit, when audiences are eager for both laughter and bonding.

Over Sabi Aunty looks set to be more than just another Nollywood comedy. It is a cultural mirror, celebrating the quirks and humor of Nigerian family life, while offering audiences a chance to laugh, reflect, and reconnect during the holiday season.

Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, has grown from grassroots video productions into one of the world’s largest film powerhouses. With thousands of releases every year, Nollywood tells stories that blend culture, history, comedy, and drama. But a few films stand out as milestones; either for their artistry, commercial impact, or influence on the industry.
Below is a ranking of the 10 greatest Nollywood movies of all time, alongside an explanation of how the ranking was determined.

The Ranking

1. Living in Bondage (1992)

Widely regarded as the film that launched Nollywood’s video boom, it tells the story of a man who joins a secret cult in search of wealth, only to suffer tragic consequences. Its success marked a turning point for Nigerian cinema.

Summary: The film tells the story of Andy Okeke, who is lured into a money ritual cult. Though he becomes wealthy, the spiritual consequences destroy his life, leaving a cautionary legacy. It was a cultural reset that birthed Nollywood.

2. Osuofia in London (2003)

This comedy starring Nkem Owoh remains one of Nollywood’s most iconic films. It follows a naive villager who travels to London to claim an inheritance, blending Nigerian humor with cross-cultural themes.

Summary: Osuofia, a villager, travels to London to inherit his late brother’s property. His naive outlook collides with Western culture, creating comedic situations and showing the humor in cultural clashes.

3. The Figurine (2009)

Directed by Kunle Afolayan, this psychological thriller won multiple African Movie Academy Awards. It is praised for its strong storytelling, cinematography, and for raising Nollywood’s technical standards.

Summary: Friends discover a mystical statue said to bring seven years of fortune, followed by seven years of doom. Their lives spiral as destiny, superstition, and human choices collide in this thriller.

4. Half of a Yellow Sun (2013)

Based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s acclaimed novel, this historical drama explores love and loss during the Nigerian Civil War. With international stars like Chiwetel Ejiofor and Thandie Newton, it brought global attention to Nollywood storytelling.

Summary: Set during the Nigerian Civil War, the story follows twin sisters Olanna and Kainene as they navigate love, betrayal, and survival. It brings the human side of war to the big screen.

5. October 1 (2014)

Set just before Nigeria’s independence, Kunle Afolayan’s thriller follows a detective solving murders in a small town. It is both a gripping crime story and a reflection on colonial legacies.

Summary: A police detective from Lagos is sent to a rural town to solve a series of murders just before independence. As he uncovers the truth, the film explores themes of trauma, colonialism, and national identity.

6. The Wedding Party (2016)

A romantic comedy that became Nigeria’s highest-grossing film at the time, grossing over ₦452 million. It captured the glamour, chaos, and humor of Nigerian weddings with mass audience appeal.

Summary: On the day of a high-society Nigerian wedding, chaos ensues as families clash, secrets spill, and love is tested. It’s a glamorous rom-com filled with laughter and cultural celebration.

7. The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai (2017)

The sequel continued the success, this time set in Dubai. It reinforced Nollywood’s ability to deliver commercially successful, star-studded productions.

Summary: Picking up from the first film, this sequel follows a lavish wedding in Dubai. With drama, comedy, and exotic settings, it continues the spectacle that made the first movie a hit.

8. Chief Daddy (2018)

A family comedy about the chaos that follows a wealthy man’s death. With a star-studded cast, it was another major box office hit, earning about ₦387 million.

Summary: When a wealthy patriarch dies, his dysfunctional family scrambles to secure their inheritance. The film is a blend of humor and family drama, showing the chaos money leaves behind.

9. King of Boys (2018)

Directed by Kemi Adetiba, this political thriller follows a powerful woman navigating corruption and ambition. It received widespread acclaim for its storytelling and powerhouse performance by Sola Sobowale.

Summary: Eniola Salami, a powerful businesswoman with political ambitions, struggles to hold onto power. Betrayals, rivalries, and her own ruthlessness drive this intense political thriller.

10. Eyimofe (2020)

An internationally acclaimed drama that portrays everyday Lagosians striving for better lives. It premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival and became the first Nigerian film added to The Criterion Collection.

Summary: Split into two chapters ‘This is My Desire’ and ‘This is My Story’ the film follows Mofe, an engineer, and Rosa, a hairdresser. Both dream of leaving Nigeria for a better life, but face harsh realities of class and survival.

How This Ranking Was Done

This ranking was not based solely on box office numbers or popularity. Instead, it considered four main factors:

1. Historical Significance: Films that shaped Nollywood’s identity or marked a turning point in the industry.
2. Critical Acclaim & Awards: Recognition from film critics, African Movie Academy Awards, and international festivals.
3. Box Office Success & Popularity: Movies that broke records or captured mass audiences.
4. Cultural Impact & Longevity: Titles that influenced pop culture, inspired conversations, or remain classics.

By balancing these factors, this list highlights films that not only entertained but also elevated Nollywood’s reputation globally.

Nollywood continues to evolve, moving from grassroots productions to globally recognized cinema. The films on this list represent milestones in that journey whether through breaking box office records, winning international acclaim, or shaping cultural conversations. As Nollywood grows, future films may join or even surpass these greats, but their legacy will always remain part of Nigeria’s cinematic history.

Horror films have always tapped into humanity’s deepest fears, whether through supernatural forces, psychological tension, or relentless killers. The genre has produced some of the most iconic and influential works in cinema history. Below is a ranking of the greatest horror movies of all time, complete with summaries, about-sections, and their lasting impact on the genre.

Psycho (1960, Alfred Hitchcock)

Summary: Marion Crane, on the run after stealing money, checks into the Bates Motel, where she meets Norman Bates, a seemingly shy innkeeper with a disturbing secret.

About the film: Hitchcock’s masterpiece shocked audiences with its bold violence and psychological depth. The infamous shower scene and Norman Bates’ dual personality redefined horror. Psycho is widely credited with creating the foundation for modern slasher films while elevating horror into serious cinema.

The Exorcist (1973, William Friedkin)

Summary: A young girl named Regan becomes possessed by a demonic entity, and two priests attempt a dangerous exorcism to save her.

About the film: The Exorcist was a cultural phenomenon, terrifying audiences with groundbreaking effects and disturbing imagery. Its exploration of faith, good versus evil, and human fragility gave it depth beyond its shocking visuals, making it one of the most influential horror films ever made.

Halloween (1978, John Carpenter)

Summary: On Halloween night, masked killer Michael Myers escapes from an asylum and stalks babysitters in his hometown, targeting teenager Laurie Strode.

About the film: With a shoestring budget, Carpenter created a horror juggernaut. Its haunting score, minimalist approach, and suburban setting proved horror didn’t need gore to be terrifying. Halloween became the model for countless slashers and made Michael Myers an enduring horror icon.

The Shining (1980, Stanley Kubrick)

Summary: Jack Torrance takes a caretaker job at the remote Overlook Hotel, where isolation and supernatural forces drive him into madness, threatening his family.

About the film: Kubrick’s meticulous direction and Jack Nicholson’s unforgettable performance turned The Shining into a chilling exploration of madness. Its use of symmetry, atmosphere, and ambiguity unsettles viewers decades later, cementing it as both a horror masterpiece and an art-house triumph.

Jaws (1975, Steven Spielberg)

Summary: A small beach town is terrorized by a massive great white shark, forcing the police chief, a fisherman, and a scientist to hunt it down.

About the film: Though often classified as a thriller, Jaws is horror at its core, striking primal fear of the unknown. Spielberg’s suspenseful pacing and John Williams’ two-note score created one of cinema’s most terrifying experiences. The film also birthed the modern summer blockbuster.

Rosemary’s Baby (1968, Roman Polanski)

Summary: Rosemary, a young woman, becomes suspicious that her pregnancy is part of a sinister plot involving her neighbors and a Satanic cult.

About the film: A slow-burn masterpiece, Rosemary’s Baby thrives on paranoia and suggestion rather than spectacle. Mia Farrow’s haunting performance and the film’s shocking conclusion left audiences unsettled. Its success proved that horror could thrive on psychological manipulation rather than gore.

Hereditary (2018, Ari Aster)

Summary: After her mother’s death, Annie and her family uncover horrifying secrets that tie their grief to a dark supernatural curse.

About the film: A modern classic, Hereditary blends family trauma with supernatural terror. Toni Collette’s emotionally raw performance elevated the film, while Ari Aster’s direction created some of the most shocking moments in recent horror. It has been hailed as redefining what 21st-century horror can achieve.

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974, Tobe Hooper)

Summary: A group of friends stumble upon a farmhouse inhabited by a family of cannibals, including the chainsaw-wielding Leatherface.

About the film: With its documentary-like realism, gritty sound design, and oppressive atmosphere, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre remains one of the most disturbing films ever. Surprisingly low on gore, its horror lies in its relentless dread. Leatherface became a cultural icon of terror.

Get Out (2017, Jordan Peele)

Summary: Chris, a young Black man, visits his white girlfriend’s family estate, where he discovers a sinister plot beneath their welcoming façade.

About the film: Jordan Peele’s debut combined horror thrills with sharp social commentary, addressing racial dynamics in a way never before seen in the genre. Acclaimed for its symbolism, tension, and originality, Get Out redefined horror for modern audiences and won Peele an Academy Award.

Alien (1979, Ridley Scott)

Summary: The crew of the Nostromo spaceship encounter a deadly alien creature that stalks them one by one in deep space.

About the film: By blending science fiction and horror, Alien created one of the most terrifying monsters in cinema. The claustrophobic setting and the shocking chestburster scene cemented its legacy. Sigourney Weaver’s Ripley became an iconic heroine, changing the “final girl” archetype forever.

From Hitchcock’s Psycho to Peele’s Get Out, these films represent the pinnacle of horror storytelling. Each redefined fear for its time, shaping both the genre and popular culture. Horror is not just about scares—it’s about reflection, tension, and innovation. That’s why these ten movies remain the greatest horror films of all time.