Top 20 Ranked Christian Movies of All Time

When delving into the realm of Christian movies, one finds a vast spectrum ranging from adaptations of time-honored biblical stories to contemporary narratives that subtly integrate Christian themes and characters. The term “Christian movies”can be somewhat nebulous, especially considering the diversity encompassed within Christianity itself. As one of the three Abrahamic faiths—alongside Judaism and Islam—Christianity spans various denominations including Catholicism, Protestantism, and Mormonism. While these groups may share common ground, their differences have historically led to significant conflict.

The influence of the Bible is so pervasive that many films, even those not strictly categorized as Christian, can be linked to its themes; for example, works like The Lord of the Rings or A Serious Man. However, to maintain a focused discussion, a refined list of the best Christian films should strictly feature those that either adapt Christian texts, are produced by recognized Christian studios, or are intrinsically tied to Christian themes such that removing these elements would fundamentally alter their narratives. A hallmark of the finest Christian cinema is its ability to engage audiences while thoughtfully exploring religious themes.

20 Preacher’s Kid (2010)

A Young Woman Pursues Stardom Only to Find Her Way Back Home

Preacher’s Kid, a Christian drama from 2010 inspired by the Parable of the Prodigal Son, features LeToya Luckett as Angie, a preacher’s daughter from Augusta, Georgia, who embarks on a journey to fame as a singer. Her path is riddled with challenges that ultimately guide her back to her family. Despite adhering to several clichés of the genre, Preacher’s Kid sets itself apart with compelling performances and impactful sequences.

19 Home Run (2013)

A Baseball Pro Finds Redemption in His Hometown

Home Run portrays Cory Brand, a professional baseball player (played by Scot Elrod), who enters a rehabilitation program in his Oklahoma hometown. During his recovery, he seeks to mend relationships with his estranged girlfriend Emma (Dorian Brown), his older brother Clay (James Devoti), and their son Tyler (Charles Henry Wilson). The film’s authentic small-town backdrop along with thoughtful lighting choices contribute to its comforting nature. Home Run delicately weaves its religious undertones into the storyline without overwhelming the audience.

18 Joseph: King of Dreams (2000)

A Retelling of the Biblical Book of Joseph

Joseph looking pleased with his coat of many colors in Joseph King of Dreams.

Joseph: King of Dreams attempts to capture the same success as The Prince of Egypt, although it falls short in several areas. Despite this, it presents a visually compelling animated retelling of Joseph’s story from the Book of Genesis, showcasing his iconic coat and his journey from slavery to power in Egypt. The film appropriately depicts darker elements of the biblical narrative.

17 Jesus (1979)

A Recreation of Jesus’ Life

Throughout cinema history, numerous films have focused on the life of Jesus, yet not all of them approach the subject from a religious angle. Jesus, based primarily on the Gospel of Luke, chronicles the life of Christ (portrayed by Brian Deacon) from his Nativity to his crucifixion and resurrection. While it meticulously follows the scriptural account, the film can lose some dramatic pacing due to its strict adherence to biblical text.

16 If Footmen Tire You, What Will Horses Do? (1971)

A Movie that Shows How Christianity is Weaponized by Politics

As a notable example of a Christian exploitation film, If Footmen Tire You, What Will Horses Do? draws from a sermon delivered by Estus W. Pirkle in 1968. The narrative warns against perceived threats from Communist infiltration in the United States, depicting a dystopian future where Christians face persecution. The film serves as a culturally significant artifact, showcasing a rarely represented viewpoint within mainstream cinema.

15 I Can Only Imagine (2018)

A Raw Retelling of MercyMe’s Formation

A close-up of Arthur (Dennis Quaid) looking angry in I Can Only Imagine

Based on the experiences of the Christian band MercyMe, I Can Only Imagine chronicles the life of lead singer Bart Millard (portrayed by J. Michael Finley) from his turbulent childhood to the success of the band and the creation of their hit song, “I Can Only Imagine.”This biopic combines familiar music film conventions with a deeply personal story, featuring a remarkable performance by Dennis Quaid as Bart’s abusive father, Arthur, offering an unusually heartfelt narrative for a Christian film.

14 Dante’s Inferno (1911)

A Disturbing Retelling of Dante’s Divine Comedy

Salvatore Papa as Dante Alighieri surrounded by demons in Dante's Inferno.

The silent film Dante’s Inferno, created in 1911, represents an early adaptation of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. Directed by Francesco Bertolini, Adolfo Padovan, and Giuseppe De Liguoro, it uses striking visual artistry reminiscent of Gustave Doré’s engravings while brilliantly illustrating Dante’s harrowing journey through Hell. The film provides a gritty portrayal of Christian beliefs and the afterlife, contributing significantly to early cinematic history.

13 Amazing Grace (2006)

One Man’s Christianity-Inspired Fight Against the Slave Trade

William Pitt the Younger (Benedict Cumberbatch) looking concerned in Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace recounts the efforts of William Wilberforce (played by Ioan Gruffudd) as he campaigns against the British slave trade in the late 18th century, propelled by his newfound faith. With a stellar cast that features Benedict Cumberbatch and Romola Garai, this film captures the intersection of personal belief and social justice, underpinning Wilberforce’s abolitionist movement with a solid foundation of faith.

12 Noah (2014)

A Frightening Visual Feast about Noah’s Ark

Darren Aronofsky’s Noah presents a dark, visually striking interpretation of the biblical account. Starring Russell Crowe as Noah, this adaptation delves into the chaotic destruction of early civilizations and presents a psyche challenged by the brutal realities of faith and duty. This film employs a highly stylized narrative that engages viewers with its imaginative and often uncomfortable themes.

11 The Two Popes (2019)

Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce Spar about Catholicism

The Two Popes dramatizes the pivotal discussions between Pope Benedict XVI (Anthony Hopkins) and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Jonathan Pryce), who would later become Pope Francis. Their conversations, which revolve around the complexities of modern organized religion, transform what initially reads as a political dialogue into a captivating exploration of faith and change.

10 The Bishop’s Wife (1947)

A Bishop Learns What It Really Takes to be a Religious Leader

The Bishop’s Wife intertwines charm, romance, and spirituality as it follows Dudley, an angel (Cary Grant), who helps a preoccupied bishop (David Niven) rediscover his calling beyond just funding his cathedral. With five Academy Award nominations to its credit, this Christmas classic effectively balances humor and a heartfelt Christian message.

9 Breakthrough (2019)

A True Story about Survival and Love

Based on the book The Impossible by Joyce Smith, Breakthrough narrates the true story of John Smith (Marcel Ruiz), a teenager who survives an accident on a frozen lake. After being declared clinically dead and revived, he emerges with a renewed connection to faith and family. The film combines emotional depth with powerful performances, creating a moving narrative about redemption and love.

8 The Prince of Egypt (1998)

DreamWorks’ Adaptation of Moses’ Story

DreamWorks’ The Prince of Egypt offers an animated musical interpretation of the story of Moses, crafted with a sense of gravity more typical of adult storytelling. It delves into the harrowing realities faced by the Hebrews under Pharaoh’s rule, successfully intertwining compelling music with powerful, sometimes frightening visuals. The film stands out in animated cinema for its bold treatment of serious themes.

7 The Passion of the Christ (2004)

A Brutal and Unrelentingly Real Depiction of Jesus Christ’s Death

Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ remains one of the most talked-about films in the Christian genre, capturing visceral depictions of Jesus’ suffering. Grossing over $612 million, it set records as one of the highest-grossing independent films. While controversial in nature, its unflinching portrayal of Christ’s final hours has left an undeniable impact on audiences.

6 Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

One Man’s Christianity Drives His Bravery and Selflessness

Hacksaw Ridge recounts the inspiring true story of Desmond Doss (Andrew Garfield), a conscientious objector who served as a combat medic during World War II. Despite skepticism from his peers, Doss’s faith and unwavering dedication result in a remarkable display of bravery. By integrating emotionally charged moments with the visceral reality of war, the film presents an enduring message of faith and conviction.

5 The Blood of Jesus (1941)

An African-American Christian Folk Film

Set in a predominantly African American community, The Blood of Jesus captures the spiritual journey of Martha (Cathryn Caviness), who encounters life-altering choices upon being accidentally shot by her husband. Directed by Spencer Williams, one of the few African American filmmakers at the time, this film serves as an enduring representation of African American culture and faith, emphasizing the community’s values and beliefs.

4 Calvary (2014)

A Priest is Given a Few Days to Live by a Vengeful Man

In Calvary, Father James (Brendan Gleeson) confronts his mortality following a dark confessional encounter, leading him on a profound journey of self-reflection. As he navigates the complexities of faith and community attitudes, the film presents a rich commentary on forgiveness and the human condition, highlighted by Gleeson’s captivating performance.

3 Ben-Hur (1959)

An Epic Happening Contemporaneously with the Gospel

Ben-Hur stands as a hallmark of biblical cinema, chronicling the odyssey of Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), a Jewish prince in first-century Jerusalem. Accused of treason, he embarks on a quest for revenge that intertwines with the life of Christ. The film showcases a rich tapestry of epic storytelling that enhances the narrative’s depth by placing Christianity at its periphery.

2 The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)

A Bleakly Modern Film about the Legendary French Heroine

The Passion of Joan of Arc is a silent film that powerfully portrays the trial of Joan of Arc. Renée Jeanne Falconetti’s performance embodies both vulnerability and strength within a uniquely modern visual context. The film’s innovative camera work and austere presentation lend it an urgent, gritty quality that profoundly resonates with viewers.

1 The Ten Commandments (1956)

Charlton Heston Leads the Massive Big Screen Epic

The Ten Commandments is a monumental biblical epic that chronicles the life of Moses (Charlton Heston), from his early years through the issuance of the Ten Commandments. This lavish production was revolutionary for its time, receiving seven Academy Award nominations while standing as one of the highest-grossing films in history when adjusted for inflation. Spanning an expansive narrative, the film’s grandeur and ambition remain unmatched.

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