Cast
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Kevin Sorbo
as King Herod
James Russo
as Castor
Major Dodge
as Gabriel
Stelio Savante
as Tiran
Krista Bradley
as Joanna
Xiomara Bermudez
as Mary
Jay Giannone
as Dismas
Charles "Skeeta" Jenkins
as Melchior
Major Dodge Jr.
as Young Jotham
Randall Tyree Brooks II
as Thomas's Son
James Logan
as Thomas
Daniela Vidaurre
as Adinah
Carter Moore
as Young Yeshua
Nene Nwoko
as
Adele Marie Pomerenke
as
Crew
Director
- Lucas Miles
Writer
- Don E. Willis
Producer
- Jenifer Ellis
- Jay Giannone
- Stelio Savante
- Edgar Struble
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Penitent Thief 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 Lucas Miles 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 2021, 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 The Penitent Thief took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1681 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2021, when this film is released:
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Penitent Thief shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Bible: In the Beginning..., which focuses more on action than character development, The Penitent Thief offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Brother Sun, Sister Moon and Esther explore similar territory, The Penitent Thief stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 25, 2021
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Revenue: $23,800
