Cast
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Billy Zane
as Barabbas
Cristiana Capotondi
as Ester
Anna Valle
as Claudia
Filippo Nigro
as Pontius Pilate
Tommaso Ramenghi
as Dan
Hristo Shopov
as Kedar
Marco Foschi
as Jesus
Paolo Seganti
as Valerio Flacco
Giampiero Judica
as Iezer
Valentina Carnelutti
as Maria
Matteo Branciamore
as Giuda
Diego D'Elia
as Sahak
Lorenzo Balducci
as Lazzaro
Franco Castellano
as Pietro
Nejib Belhassen
as Soldier
Crew
Director
- Roger Young
Writer
- Nicola Lusuardi
- Francesco Scardamaglia
- Salvatore Basile
Producer
- Filippo Rizzello
- Federico Scardamaglia
- Paola Pannicelli
- Francesco Scardamaglia
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Barabbas examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Roger Young 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 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Barabbas took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $5.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 192 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 247 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1781 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 126 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Barabbas shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Japan: Memoirs of a Secret Empire, which focuses more on action than character development, Barabbas offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance and The Roman Empire in the First Century explore similar territory, Barabbas stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 28, 2012
- Runtime: 3h 12m
- Budget: $5,000,000
