The Greatest Story Ever Told is a 1965 American epic film that was directed by George Stevens and produced by Dino De Laurentiis. The movie stars Max von Sydow as Jesus Christ, along with an ensemble cast of notable actors including Charlton Heston, Telly Savalas, Angela Lansbury, Martin Landau, and many more.
The film begins with the Nativity, depicting the birth of Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem, witnessed by the three wise men and shepherds. It then follows his life as he becomes a preacher and performs miracles, such as healing the sick and raising Lazarus from the dead. We also see his relationship with his disciples, including Peter, James, and John.
As Jesus gains popularity, he runs afoul of the authorities, such as the Pharisees and the Romans, who see him as a threat to their power. His triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday is followed by his arrest, trial, and crucifixion. The film also includes the resurrection of Christ, which leads to the spread of Christianity.
The movie was filmed in Technicolor and featured sweeping panoramic shots of the desert landscape. It was also notable for its use of an ensemble cast, with many famous actors appearing in small roles, such as John Wayne as a Roman centurion and Sidney Poitier as Simon of Cyrene.
Although the film received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since become a classic portrayal of the life of Jesus Christ, and is remembered for its grand scale and epic cinematography.