Jeffery Hunter, “King of Kings” (1961)
Louisiana-born Jeffery Hunter is probably remembered best for his portrayal of John Wayne’s half-Native American nephew in “The Searchers” (or by Trekkers as the original Captain Pike), but his portrayal of Jesus in cult director Nicholas Ray’s “King of Kings” always seems to find its way to television during the holidays. Initially dismissed as an “illustrated lecture,” the film’s reputation has grown over time (partially due to the revival in interest in the careers of Ray and Orson Welles, who narrates the film). For those who want the traditional Jesus story with no post-modern revisionism, this is probably the safest bet.
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