Thus Judas (Joe Wredden), Caiaphas the high priest (Adrian Schiller) and Pontius Pilate (Greg Hicks) are all assigned believable motives, while Morgado succeeds in blending messianic vision with very human pain in a thoroughly compelling way – one that accords, moreover, with the scriptural account.

Catholic viewers will also appreciate the unqualified acknowledgement of St. Peter (Darwin Shaw) as the leader of the Apostles as well as scenes highlighting Mary’s (Roma Downey) closeness to her son. And, though the portrayal of the Last Supper seems somewhat noncommittal as to the meaning of the Eucharist, a rough-and-ready celebration of the sacrament is shown to be the chosen moment for the Lord’s first post-Resurrection appearance to the Twelve.

As for the ministry and preaching that precede the Passion – during which Jesus draws the disapproving attention of Simon the Pharisee (Paul Marc Davis) – there are moments that range from the moving to the awkward.

Morgado brings the requisite gravity to bear in announcing that the passage from the Prophet Isaiah he has just read aloud in Nazareth’s synagogue has now been fulfilled. But the story of Lazarus’ death and revivification is truncated – and drained of much of its impact – by the absence of any hint of Jesus’ previous friendship with him and with his mourning sisters.

Despite such shortcomings, as produced by Downey, Mark Burnett and Richard Bedser, Spencer’s picture offers some solid catechesis and an easy introduction to the Lord’s earthly biography. That’s all the more valuable given the erosion in religious literacy our society has experienced since the appearance of “Son of God’s” most recent – yet far distant – predecessor, George Stevens’ 1965 Gospel drama “The Greatest Story Ever Told.”

In that context, and despite its unflinching treatment of the Redeemer’s sufferings, “Son of God” is probably acceptable for older teens.

The film contains strong gory violence. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III – adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 – parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Mulderig is on the staff of Catholic News Service.