Christus (1916)

Cines superfeature of the life of Christ opens with the taking of the imperial census throughout Caesar's dominions. Joseph, the carpenter, goes with Mary from Galilee to Bethlehem to be enrolled. At Bethlehem, in a humble hut, the Christ-child comes to earth. The star of Bethlehem is interpreted in Persia by the Magi, who set out with their caravans to pay homage. Going first to Jerusalem, they tell King Herod of the star. Herod, to insure death of the promised "King of Judea," orders the slaughter of every male infant in Bethlehem. The measure takes place, but Joseph and Mary flee into Egypt with the child. They return after Herod's death, and the boy Jesus talks with the elders in the temple. Grown to manhood, Jesus prepares Himself for His mission by meditating in Egypt amidst the silences of the pyramids and ancient temples. Returning to Palestine, He heals the sick, is baptized by John, and tempted by the devil. Mary Magdalen seeks Him and anoints His feet. He forgives the woman taken in adultery, walks on the water, casts out demons, and raises Lazarus. Judas plots the betrayal, and Jesus eats the last supper with His disciples. Judas receives the thirty pieces of silver, and has a vision in which the devil clutches at him, and the money changes to blood in his hands. Jesus drinks the bitter cup in the garden of Gethsemane, is betrayed by Judas, and arrested. Pontius Pilate offers to free either Jesus or Barabbas, the robber. The mob accepts Barabbas, and bears him away in triumph. Jesus carries His cross to Calvary, followed by the Mother and Mary Magdalen, who weep at the foot of the cross. Judas hangs himself, while the devil rejoices beneath his lonely gibbet. Joseph of Arimathea has Jesus laid in his rock-hewn tomb. Then follow the Resurrection and Ascension.