A Child Called Jesus Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for A Child Called Jesus.
A Child Called Jesus Ending Explained: The film attempts to fill in the "missing years" of Jesus, from ages 3 through 12. Directed by Franco Rossi, this 1987 drama film stars Matteo Bellina (Jesus), alongside Bekim Fehmiu as Joseph, María del Carmen San Martín as Maria, Irene Papas as Old Maria. With a 6.8/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of A Child Called Jesus?
The film attempts to fill in the "missing years" of Jesus, from ages 3 through 12. When King Herod fearing that the Messiah has indeed been born, orders that all Hebrew male children under the age of three be slain, Joseph moves his family near Egypt. Here, Jesus, sensing His divinity, expresses a desire to return to Nazareth. Travelling homeward with His mother Mary, Jesus flashes forward to events that will unfold in his adult life.
Franco Rossi's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Matteo Bellina (Jesus)'s journey. When King Herod fearing that the Messiah has indeed been born, orders that all Hebrew male children under the age of three be slain, Joseph moves his family near Egypt.
How Does Matteo Bellina (Jesus)'s Story End?
- Matteo Bellina: Matteo Bellina's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Bekim Fehmiu (Joseph): Bekim Fehmiu's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- María del Carmen San Martín (Maria): María del Carmen San Martín's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
Is A Child Called Jesus Based on a True Story?
Yes — A Child Called Jesus draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Franco Rossi has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.
What Does the Ending of A Child Called Jesus Mean?
A Child Called Jesus's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Matteo Bellina may feel rushed. Franco Rossi's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.