The King of Kings (1927)

The King of Kings (1927) marks the inception of Cecil B. DeMille's enduring fascination with biblical narratives, a theme he would revisit throughout his illustrious career. This silent film masterfully blends DeMille's signature visual grandeur and historical accuracy with a dramatic flair. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Mary Magdalene (Dorothy Cumming), a former courtesan in the opulent Roman empire, who finds redemption through her encounter with Jesus (H.B. Warner). The film draws directly from biblical texts, chronicling Jesus' journey from humble beginnings to a figure of immense devotion, performing miracles and gathering thousands of followers. Jesus' introduction is particularly poignant, depicted through the restored vision of a blind child, symbolizing the radiant power of faith. DeMille seamlessly integrates early Hollywood glamour with profound religious devotion, culminating in a vibrant Technicolor sequence portraying the Resurrection. The film was later remade by Nicholas Ray in 1961, starring Jeffrey Hunter.