Movie review: The Last Supper

The Last Supper is hitting theaters on March 14th, just in time for Lent. Catholic director Mauro Borelli joins forces with award-winning Christian artist Chris Tomlin as producer. This film aims to invite viewers into deeper reflection on the days leading up to Christ’s death on Calvary.

The film stays true to Scripture, avoiding any shocking creative liberties. It presents a series of well-known Gospel moments—feeding the 5,000, Jesus overturning the money changers’ tables, and the disciples’ encounter with the Risen Christ. Given its two-hour runtime, the movie prioritizes covering many key events rather than diving deeply into each one. What it lacks in depth, it makes up for in scope. 

The film’s fast-paced storytelling ensures fidelity to the Gospels but leaves little room for detailed character development. Unlike “The Chosen,” which is known for its rich backstories and deeply human portrayals, The Last Supper takes a more neutral, yet still cinematic, approach to the Gospel narrative.

A central theme of The Last Supper is the contrast between Peter and Judas and the unique challenges each faces. From the beginning, Judas is plagued by spiritual warfare and temptation. His relationship with Jesus is not explored; instead, the film presents him as already being lured away from his friendship with Christ. The temptation scenes, though tastefully done, are unsettling. The devil appears multiple times—both as a serpent and in a semi-human form—growing progressively more menacing in voice and intensity. 

Peter, on the other hand, is portrayed as clinging too tightly to Jesus, consumed with anxiety over His well-being and safety. His fears and apprehension are powerfully depicted, offering deeper insight into his eventual denial of Christ. However, this focus comes at the expense of highlighting Peter’s close bond with Jesus and his examples of faith, even in the face of adversity.

At the film’s climax, we witness the Passover meal. Jesus’ supper with His disciples unfolds alongside a traditional Jewish Passover meal taking place in another part of the home. The interplay between the two tables highlights both Jesus’ fidelity to tradition and His transformation of this deeply symbolic ritual. 

However, Catholic viewers may find the apostles’ reaction to the establishment of the New Covenant in Christ’s literal flesh somewhat understated. Rather than emphasizing the profound shock of this revelation, the film takes an ecumenical approach—acknowledging that something significant is happening, though not to the extent that believers in the True Presence might hope.

The Last Supper offers a fresh alternative to The Passion of the Christ for those looking to reflect on the Triduum and its surrounding events without the intense emotional weight or time commitment of a graphic Crucifixion portrayal. Families should be aware of a few intense scenes (the temptation by the Devil and Judas’ hanging), but may find it suitable for children 11+.

The film brings the Gospel stories to the big screen in a conservative, scripture-faithful way, avoiding excessive creative liberties. Its interdenominational appeal makes it accessible to a broad audience, offering a renewed perspective on the familiar Gospel narratives.