Product Description

This epic network television mini-series brings to life the precarious existence of early Christianity. The new movement is beset by violent opposition from without and constant turmoil from within. Two key leaders emerge--Peter and Paul--who struggle to keep the faith alive. This dramatic presentation follows the pair, together and separately, through three epochal decades. Included are the stoning of Stephen, the road to Damascus, their encounter in Jerusalem, their conflicts over how the word of Christ should be spread. Paul’s travels to Asia Minor and Greece, Peter and Paul’s clashes over Jewish law, and Peter’s decision to follow in Paul’s courageous footsteps. The drama concludes in Rome in approximately A.D. 64 with the beheading of Paul and the crucifixion of Peter under Emperor Nero.

SPECIAL FEATURES:
-Spanish Language track with or without English subtitles
-Closed captioning in English
-Biographical information on leading actors
-Chapter titles provided for easy scene access

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #7602 in DVD
• Released on: 2002-12-01
• Rating: NR (Not Rated)
• Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
• Formats: Closed-captioned, Color, DVD, Subtitled, NTSC
• Original language: English
• Dubbed in: Spanish
• Number of discs: 1
• Running time: 194 minutes

Customer Reviews

Anthony Hopkins gives a great potrayal of Paul
I think that Anthony Hopkins gives a terrific portrayal of Paul (not that I've ever met Paul....:)

He brings a lot to the character that I have never really considered in reading the Bible. He does a great job at "humanizing" Paul. Paul was such a tremendous apostle at the start of the Christian church. I think Hopkins has given to us, in this film, a look at Paul that truly shows his human side. I tried to understand what might have been Paul's "thorn in the flesh." Maybe it was his arrogance (as he stated himself). I've always thought it was possibly some physical impairment but after seeing this movie, maybe it has more to do with pride, etc. An interesting perspective.

Anyway, I highly recommend the movie. It shows some of what the Bible describes of the relationship between Peter and Paul. The film stays pretty close to what the Bible describes (certainly taking a little artistic license) in filling in some places. Even that though is done very well.

The Book of Acts made interesting and understandable!
First, I agree with other reviewers here that the portrayal of Paul the Apostle by Anthony Hopkins is a standout performance worthy of an emmy nomination. Robert Foxworth's Peter is also interestingly done but our information is lacking about his ministry when he disappears after Chapter 7 in the book of Acts. Therefore the movie focuses on Paul's attempt to unite Jew,Greek and Roman in a trinity of new Christian faith and this film delivers on that concept, even though it is somewhat romanticized. Some very effective scenes remind you of "Jesus of Nazareth". One suprise is when Paul is being confronted by his "thorn in the flesh" while consulting with Barnabas and Mark, you hear a mysterious sound that is tough to catch but Mark inquires what it is to which Paul replies "just an animal". (Actually it is a devil). Also there is a great confrontation with the woman who throws her voice into statues and animals to ridicule Paul's ministry. When Paul tells her that she won't have the power to do that again it is effective enough to put a fear of the Lord into you! We get to see the journeys of Paul and Barnabas (you will notice a gradual decline in the richness of Barnabas shown in his clothing) , we meet Luke, Timothy, Silas, Mark and get a basic grip on what the spread of Christianity was all about in the ancient world. Nero's fay behavior will get on your nerves especially when he is engaged in conversations about Paul with his jailer. Paul's triumphant entry as a prisoner into Rome will remind you of Jesus and his entry into Jerusalem so much so that it can bring a tear to your eye. The original scene of Paul forgiving the Axeman when he is beheaded has been removed for some reason on this DVD. Well recommended to anyone who wants some insight into the early development of the Church and to understand persecution of the apostles!

WOW
Fabulous! Absolutely worth your time. Every christian should have this in their video collection. Anythony Hopkins and Robert Foxworth do a phenominal job of portraying Peter and Paul. Though not perfect, a highly reliable, detailed and very accurate portrayal of those incredible days. Do yourself a favor, make church history real to your kids and new converts to the faith.