Great Religion Films

Great Religion Films

In the spirit of Passover and Easter observances this week, let's take a look at the best movies featuring religious subjects and themes. Some are even recommended by the Vatican. Here's our list of the top 10.

'The Passion of the Christ'
This 2004 film was largely funded by its director and was nominated for three Academy Awards. It starred this actor in the title role and became the highest grossing non-English-language film

'Ben-Hur'
This 1959 film starred this actor. It won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was based on this 1880 novel.

'El Cid'
This 1961 movie starred Charlton Heston and this bombshell. It was shot entirely on location and went on to be nominated for three Academy Awards.

'The Greatest Story Ever Told'
This 1965 film starred Max von Sydow and marked the final performance of this film legend. It was nominated for five Academy Awards and was shot in the U.S.

'The Mission'
This 1986 film was nominated for seven Academy Awards. It features an atypical role for this actor and is on the Vatican's list of top religious films.

'Jesus of Nazareth'
This TV miniseries initially aired in 1977 and featured this actor in the title role. It was shot on location and helmed by a famous Italian director.

'The Ten Commandments'
Yet another religious film starring this actor (was there some kind of rule requiring his presence in religious epics?). The 1956 hit also featured this Russian-born actor. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards and was directed by this legend.

'The King of Kings'
This 1961 film was narrated by this larger-than-life figure and written by a well-known sci-fi author. Jeffrey Hunter played the title role.

'Jesus Christ Superstar'
The 1973 film adaptation of the musical created by these stage titans, the play continues to be produced today and has a popular soundtrack.