Immaculate Conception School of Malolos – Senior High School

Poblacion, City of Malolos, Bulacan

Second Semester, S.Y. 2022-2023

Performance Task
In
Religion
“Reaction Paper”

Submitted by:
Amherstia Edge M. de Guzman
Grade and Section: 11 - Saint Leo the Great

Submitted to:
Mr. Ferdinand Caballero
Subject Teacher

June, 2023
 Immaculate Conception School of Malolos – Senior High School
Poblacion, City of Malolos, Bulacan
Second Semester, S.Y. 2022-2023

“Risen," directed by Kevin Reynolds, is a biblical drama film released in 2016. The
movie follows the journey of Clavius, a fictional Roman tribune tasked with investigating the
mysterious disappearance of Jesus' body after his crucifixion. Through a series of impactful
scenes, "Risen" explores the crucifixion, the discovery of the empty tomb, and Clavius' life-
changing encounter with the risen Jesus.
One of the most powerful and emotionally charged scenes in "Risen" is the depiction of
Jesus' crucifixion. This pivotal moment effectively captures the brutality and anguish of the
event, while emphasizing its profound significance in Christian theology. The cinematography
masterfully portrays the chaos and emotional intensity of the crucifixion, immersing viewers in
the grim reality of the scene. The use of dim lighting, muted colors, and a haunting musical score
creates a somber atmosphere, evoking a sense of despair and the weight of the moment. Joseph
Fiennes delivers a compelling performance as Clavius, his face revealing a mix of disbelief,
horror, and curiosity. Through his eyes, the audience experiences the sheer magnitude of the
crucifixion and its impact on the surrounding characters. What sets this crucifixion scene apart is
its focus on the reactions of those witnessing the event. It highlights the human response to an
extraordinary event, capturing both the unwavering faith of Jesus' followers and the skepticism
of the Roman soldiers. This juxtaposition of belief and doubt adds depth to the scene, making it
more relatable and thought-provoking.
Another pivotal scene in "Risen" is the moment when Clavius and his aide, Lucius,
discover the empty tomb of Jesus. This scene serves as a turning point in the narrative,
challenging Clavius' beliefs and setting him on a transformative journey. The filmmakers
skillfully create a sense of mystery and anticipation as Clavius and Lucius approach the tomb.
The cinematography employs low-angle shots, effectively emphasizing the magnitude and
significance of the moment. As the stone is rolled away, the camera captures Clavius' stunned
expression, reflecting his astonishment and growing realization that something extraordinary has
occurred. The scene's lighting, with rays of sunlight peeking through the tomb's entrance, adds a
touch of ethereality, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. Joseph Fiennes delivers a nuanced
performance, skillfully portraying Clavius' inner conflict. Through his eyes, we witness a
transformation from a hardened Roman soldier to a man grappling with profound questions of
faith and purpose. This scene successfully captures the internal struggle of Clavius, setting the
stage for the film's exploration of his spiritual journey.
The climactic scene of "Risen" occurs when Clavius encounters the risen Jesus. This
poignant moment serves as the culmination of Clavius' quest and presents a deeply personal
encounter with the divine. The filmmakers handle this scene with great care, emphasizing its
profound impact on Clavius' character. The setting is beautifully rendered, with serene and
natural surroundings, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the scene. The dialogue between
Clavius and Jesus is poignant and thought-provoking, exploring themes of redemption,
forgiveness, and the nature of faith. Joseph Fiennes and Cliff Curtis deliver captivating
 Immaculate Conception School of Malolos – Senior High School
Poblacion, City of Malolos, Bulacan
Second Semester, S.Y. 2022-2023

performances, with Curtis infusing the character of Jesus with a sense of gentle wisdom and
compassion. This scene's strength lies in its ability to evoke a sense of awe and introspection. It
encourages viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and consider the transformative power of faith.
The emotions conveyed by the actors and the cinematography create a palpable connection
between the characters and the audience, leaving a lasting impact.
In conclusion, "Risen" effectively captures the essence of the crucifixion, the discovery
of the empty tomb, and Clavius' life-changing encounter with the risen Jesus. Through powerful
performances, evocative cinematography, and thought-provoking dialogue, the film presents a
fresh perspective on the events surrounding Jesus' resurrection. "Risen" invites viewers to
contemplate profound themes of faith, doubt, redemption, and the transformative power of
encountering the divine. It serves as a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exploration
of these timeless narratives.