15 All-Time Best Easter Movies to Watch With Your Family

1. The Passion of the Christ

Arguably the most famous Christian movie in existence, The Passion of the Christ captures every moment of fear, pain, and resolve surround the crucifixion of Jesus. Though controversy still dogs this violent film, Jim Caviezel delivers a stunning performance that’s still acknowledged to this day. Filled with raw emotion and gruesome brutality, The Passion of the Christ is not for the faint of heart. However, those viewers who can endure its onslaught will step away with a new understanding, and a new hope, in the resurrection of Christ.

*Image Credit: Icon Productions

2. Risen

A recent addition to the list, Risen takes a rather creative approach to the events surrounding Easter. Instead of retelling the story of Christ and his disciples, Risen follows a Roman Centurion who is charged by Pontius Pilate to investigate the disappearance of Jesus’ body and quell a Jewish uprising. As the search leads him across Jerusalem and into the path of Christ’s disciples, the truth behind the mystery proves even more fantastic than he imagined. By viewing the resurrection through the eyes of an outside, Risen brings new life to a familiar narrative.

*Image Credit: LD Entertainment

3. VeggieTales: An Easter Carol

Who can resist the hijinks of Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber, especially when Rebecca St. James joins the fun as an angel named Hope? Based on the work of Charles Dickens, An Easter Carol follows everyone’s favorite vegetables as they attempt to persuade the cranky Mr. Nezzer from destroying St. Bart’s church to make way for his new amusement park. Safe for children, and fun for adults of all ages, An Easter Carol teaches the viewers the true meaning of Easter with plenty of laughs and silly songs to boot. Christian parents couldn’t ask for a better movie.

*Image Credit: Big Idea Entertainment

4. Son of God

Created by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey, Son of God is an adaption of their record-breaking miniseries The Bible. The feature film expands upon the ministry of Jesus, chronicling his life from birth to resurrection. What makes this movie so unique is that it gives audiences a panoramic view of Christ’s intentions. Easter is no longer simply an “event” which concluded Christ’s time on Earth, it was the moment his entire life had been building toward. With fantastic acting and beautiful scenery, Son of God is truly a miracle to behold.

*Image Credit: 20th Century Fox

5. The Greatest Story Ever Told

The name pretty much says it all. The Greatest Story Ever Told lived up to its reputation by being a project of truly biblical proportions. The cast includes veteran actors like Charlton Heston, Angela Lansbury, and Max von Sydow, who for years after was the face of Jesus. Standing at nearly 4 hours long, this movie is a serious undertaking. Still, if viewers are searching for a deep and comprehensive look into the life of Jesus, they won’t find a better story.

*Image Credit: United Artists

6. Ben-Hur

Whether it’s the classic 1959 version or its recent remake, Ben-Hur mixes the best of Biblical history with Christian storytelling. After the Jewish prince Judah Ben-Hur is betrayed by a close friend and sold into slavery, his thirst for vengeance leads him into the deadly sport of Roman chariot racing. However, behind the scenes, events are taking place which Ben-Hur doesn’t truly understand. Who is this mysterious prophet with whom he keeps crossing paths? What plan has God laid out for him and his family? A great film in every aspect, Ben-Hur should not be overlooked.

*Image Credit: Paramount Pictures

7. It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown

Sometimes you just need a movie to help you smile, and who better to do that than Snoopy and the Peanuts gang? In its 12^th prime-time television outing, Linus tries to convince his friends that the Easter Beagle will make a holiday appearance when he arrives on Sunday morning. Given his previous tale about the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and company are more than a little skeptical. Thankfully, everyone’s favorite puppy decides to step in and save the day!

*Image Credit: 20th Century Fox

8. The Gospel of John

Though not the most compelling Christian film in the genre, The Gospel of John nonetheless earns a place on this list for its unwavering commitment to scripture. The movie is a word-for-word reenactment of Jesus’ ministry with no additions or subtractions. This attention to detail is truly striking, and it’s impressive the cast were able to pull off such a difficult feat and deliver solid performances at the same time. Plus, former Lost fans will get a kick out of watching Henry Ian Cusick (AKA: Desmond) portray the Son of God.

*Image Credit: Visual Bible International

9. Easter Parade

Though it certainly falls outside the traditionally faith-filled conversation surrounding Easter, this upbeat musical is still worth a view thanks to good, old-fashioned nostalgia. Fred Astaire stars a dancer suddenly deprived of his partner when a former colleague sweeps her away for a solo career. Luckily, he finds a replacement in a lovely chorus dancer played by Judy Garland. Overflowing with color and classic songs, Easter Parade is for everyone looking to get dressed up and dance on a wonderful Easter morning.

*Image Credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

10. The Robe

One of the oldest movies on this list, The Robe has still retained its luster over time. Richard Burton portrays a military tribune named Marcellus Gallio who wins the robe of Jesus in a dice game. Haunted by his role in the crucifixion, Gallio slowly comes to understand what Jesus was trying to accomplish with his death. After converting to Christianity, Gallio must face the scorn of his peers and the madness of his emperor, leading to a climactic ending viewers won’t soon forget. Brimming with the message of God’s grace and eternal love, The Robe is an Easter movie guaranteed to touch your heart.

*Image Credit: 20th Century Fox

11. The Prince of Egypt

'The Prince of Egypt' seamlessly picks up the biblical narrative where 'Joseph: King of Dreams' concludes, transitioning from the story of Joseph to that of Moses. This film begins its tale with the events of Exodus 2, tracing Moses' journey from his humble beginnings in a basket along the Nile to his pivotal role as the leader who would guide the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. Like its predecessor, 'The Prince of Egypt' is crafted as a musical adaptation, weaving its story through powerful and emotionally resonant songs that capture the epic scale and personal drama of Moses' life.

One of the standout features of 'The Prince of Egypt' is its voice cast, comprising Hollywood A-listers who bring depth and vibrancy to their roles. This star-studded lineup helps to elevate the film, making the ancient story accessible and engaging for a contemporary audience. Additionally, the movie is celebrated for its musical contributions, most notably the original song, “When You Believe.” Performed by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey, this powerful ballad has left a lasting impact, earning a place in the hearts of audiences and in the annals of film history.

However, it's worth noting that 'The Prince of Egypt' does not shy away from the more serious and dramatic aspects of Moses' story, including moments of violence reflective of the biblical account. For this reason, while the film is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful retelling of a key biblical story, its suitability for children is best considered with these moments in mind. I’d recommend this movie for children in Kindergarten or older, as its depiction of certain events might be intense for very young viewers. Despite this, 'The Prince of Egypt' remains a profound and inspiring film that captures the essence of faith, freedom, and the power of belief, making it a memorable watch for audiences of all ages."

12. Miracles from Heaven

This movie is also based on the book of the same name that is written by Christy Beam. Another true story, this movie follows the journey of a young girl who is diagnosed with an incurable disease and her mother’s quest for answers, hope, and healing. In the midst of this health battle, the daughter has a near-death experience that is unrelated to her disease and yet, ends up being an incident that miraculously cures her. 

This cinematic journey is not just a recounting of events; it's an exploration of the depth of a parent's love, the strength found in hope, and the resilience required to face the unthinkable. For any parent, or indeed anyone who has faced the anguish of watching a loved one suffer, this movie resonates on a deeply personal level. It's a narrative that celebrates the human spirit's capacity to persevere through adversity, underscored by the theme of tenacious faith that refuses to give up, even when faced with the impossible.

his movie will tug at your heartstrings, especially if you are a parent! It is a tale of tenacious faith and perseverance regardless of adversity (Kleenexes advised ☺ ).

Photo Credit: © Sony Entertainment

13. The Young Messiah

"The Young Messiah" is a captivating live-action film that offers a unique and imaginative exploration of Jesus Christ's early years. Directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh, known for his work on "Infidel" and "The Stoning of Soraya M.," this movie ventures into the largely untold story of Jesus as a young boy. Though the narrative is a work of historical fiction, it meticulously respects the foundational aspects of Christ's character, portraying his divinity, innocence, and profound wisdom even in his youth.

Set against the backdrop of ancient times, the film beautifully navigates the complexity of Jesus' understanding of his identity and mission. It depicts his encounters with both the ordinary and the supernatural, showcasing his dominion over evil in a manner that is both awe-inspiring and deeply humanizing. The portrayal of Jesus as a child who never sins, yet grows and learns in a world filled with challenges, adds a rich layer to the traditional understanding of his early life. It invites viewers to ponder the nature of divinity intertwined with the innocence and curiosity of childhood.

Rated PG-13, "The Young Messiah" addresses themes of faith, courage, and the fight between good and evil, incorporating scenes of violence and thematic elements that contribute to its emotional depth and narrative complexity. The film strikes a balance between the historical context of Jesus' time and a relatable story of a young boy coming to terms with his extraordinary destiny. As such, it serves as both a thoughtful reflection on the life of one of history's most revered figures and a compelling cinematic experience that resonates with audiences of all ages, particularly those interested in the spiritual and historical aspects of Jesus Christ's early years.

Photo credit: ©1492 Pictures

14. Joseph King of Dreams

"Joseph: King of Dreams," an animated biblical musical drama, brings to life the cherished story of Joseph, starting from Genesis 37. As the most favored among Jacob's twelve sons, Joseph's journey is one of dreams, betrayal, injustice, and ultimate redemption, beautifully rendered in this children's adaptation. The film skillfully blends the rich narrative of Genesis with engaging and harmonious songs, providing both an educational and entertaining experience for its audience.

This movie stands out for its ability to convey deep and complex biblical themes in a manner that is accessible to children. Through its vibrant animation and compelling musical numbers, it captures the essence of Joseph's story—from his being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers to his rise to power in Egypt, and finally, to his gracious reconciliation with his family. The storytelling is nuanced, ensuring that the fundamental lessons of forgiveness, perseverance, and faith shine through.

However, parents and guardians should be aware that "Joseph: King of Dreams," while masterfully done, navigates through moments that might be perceived as heavy or even "scary" for younger viewers. Scenes depicting Joseph's hardships, such as his betrayal by his brothers and subsequent suffering, are portrayed with a degree of intensity that aims to stay true to the source material's emotional depth. This approach adds to the film's impact, making the moments of triumph and reconciliation all the more powerful, but also suggests a level of maturity required to fully grasp and appreciate the narrative's complexities.

Given these considerations, the recommendation for this movie is for children who are Kindergarten-age or older. At this age, children begin to develop a better understanding of nuanced storytelling and can engage more deeply with the themes of adversity and redemption presented in the film. Moreover, watching "Joseph: King of Dreams" can serve as a valuable opportunity for parents to discuss these themes with their children, helping them to navigate the story's more intense moments and understand the underlying messages of faith, resilience, and forgiveness.

Photo credit: Dreamworks Animation

15. Heaven is for Real

"Heaven is for Real," adapted from the best-selling book by Pastor Todd Burpo and Lynn Vincent, unfolds a profound and touching narrative that transcends the ordinary experiences of life and delves into the mysteries of the afterlife. The story centers around the extraordinary experiences of Burpo's four-year-old son, Colton, during a critical emergency surgery—a moment that serves as a portal to an experience that challenges the boundaries of belief and understanding.

Colton's recounting of his experiences while ostensibly unconscious on the operating table captivates with its vividness and sincerity. He describes observing his parents from a removed perspective, indicating an out-of-body experience that is both intriguing and mystifying. Further deepening the mystery are his interactions with figures from his family's past, including a long-deceased relative whom he had never met in life, and even more compelling, the encounter with a sibling lost to miscarriage—a sibling Colton had never been told about.

Perhaps the most stirring aspect of Colton's account is his claim of meeting Jesus, an experience that imbues the story with a profound sense of wonder and divine touch. The narrative is not just a recounting of a near-death experience; it is a journey into the heart of faith, love, and the eternal connections that bind us beyond the veil of death.

Photo Credit: TriStar Pictures