Backdrop preview The Garden of Eden backdrop
The Garden of Eden

The Garden of Eden (1998)

Sep 25, 1998 1h 35m Drama

Alessandro D'Alatri directed this Italian drama about Jesus Christ, covering his childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood, an 18-year span not chronicled in the Bible. The film uses names of the period instead of names given in the Bible. The adult Jeoshua (Kim Rossi Stuart) reflects on past events -- his journey into the desert, baptism, acceptance into the Essenes' community, Jewish life in Galilee, his yeshiva studies, education from his father Josef (Omar Chenbod), and his spiritual growth. After seeing slavery, crucifixions, the stoning of an adulteress, and brutal Roman soldiers, Jeoshua turns to God for answers, leaves the village, and is betrayed by his friend Aziz (Said Taghmaoui), who leaves him to die in the desert. Issues such as carnality bring Jeoshua in conflict with the Essenes, yet he speaks out on behalf of the Essene David (popular Italian singer Lorenzo Cherubini).

Directed by Alessandro D'Alatri

Cast

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Kim Rossi Stuart
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Kim Rossi Stuart

as Jesus

Boris Terral
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Boris Terral

as Johannes

Kassandra Voyagis
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Kassandra Voyagis

as

Saïd Taghmaoui
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Saïd Taghmaoui

as Aziz

Jovanotti
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Jovanotti

as

Massimo Ghini
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Massimo Ghini

as

Renzo Stacchi
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Renzo Stacchi

as

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Asher Coher

as

Naima Lamcharki
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Naima Lamcharki

as

Crew

Director
  • Alessandro D'Alatri
Writer
  • Miro Silvera

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Garden of Eden examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Alessandro D'Alatri brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1998, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Garden of Eden took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 39 unique compositions.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1998, when this film was released:
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: September 25, 1998
  • Runtime: 1h 35m

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