Watch Jesus Town
- 2018
- 1 hr 18 min
Jesus Town is a documentary film that explores the intersection of faith and entertainment in the small town of Lawton, Oklahoma. The movie follows a cast of local volunteers as they prepare for the annual reenactment of the life and death of Jesus Christ, an event that draws thousands of visitors each year. The primary focus of the movie is the efforts of the cast and crew to create an authentic and compelling portrayal of the life of Jesus, from his birth in a manger to his crucifixion and resurrection. This involves a great deal of preparation, including rehearsals, costume and set design, and even physical training for those playing key roles.
The film offers a fascinating inside look at the process of putting on such a large-scale, religious production, and the various challenges that arise along the way. For example, we see how the cast and crew must deal with unexpected rain during a crucial outdoor scene, and how they have to improvise and make last-minute changes in order to keep the show running smoothly.
At the same time, the film also explores the deeper issues of faith and identity that are bound up with the performance of such a religious spectacle. We see how many of the volunteers involved in the production have struggled with addiction, homelessness, and other personal challenges, and how the opportunity to participate in the pageant has given them a sense of purpose and community.
We also see how the event has become a symbol of Lawton's unique cultural identity, drawing visitors from across the country and helping to put the town on the map. At the same time, however, the movie also raises questions about the potential dangers of using religion as a form of entertainment, and the blurred lines between spectacle and spirituality.
Overall, Jesus Town is a thought-provoking and engaging documentary that offers a window into a little-known corner of American culture, and the people who participate in it. Whether you're a devout Christian or simply curious about the interplay between faith and entertainment, this is a movie that's well worth checking out.