The Face of Jesus (2025) – Movie Review
Release Date: June 3, 2025
Genre: Documentary, Religious, Historical
Runtime: 2 hr 5 min
Language: Polish (English dub available)
Distributor: Fathom Events
Overview: The Face of Jesus
The Face of Jesus is a profound and spiritually moving documentary that explores one of the most timeless and sacred questions: What did Jesus really look like? Released for a limited theatrical showing on June 3, 2025, this Polish-produced film takes viewers on a global journey through centuries of relics, miracles, and deep religious devotion — offering insights into the Holy Face of Christ through the Shroud of Turin, the Veil of Manoppello, the Mandylion, and the Divine Mercy image.
Trailer: The Face of Jesus
Plot & Themes: The Face of Jesus
The film opens with Psalm 27’s powerful line: “Your face, O Lord, I will seek.” What follows is a compelling investigation that connects some of the most mysterious and revered images of Jesus Christ in Christian history. The journey begins in Krakow with the Shroud of Turin, moves through Constantinople and Rome, and continues to Manoppello, where the miraculous transparent veil—known as the Volto Santo—is kept. It ends with a visit to Vilnius, where the original Divine Mercy image was painted under St. Faustina’s guidance.
Through expert commentary, reenactments, archival footage, and miraculous testimonials, The Face of Jesus invites the viewer to reflect on their faith and relationship with Christ, offering both historical evidence and emotional testimony. It’s a powerful visual meditation on divine presence and the longing to see the face of God.
Historical & Spiritual Insights
One of the film’s strengths is how it carefully examines the origin, movement, and meaning of each sacred relic. From the Shroud of Turin — often described as a “mirror of the Gospel” — to the lesser-known but visually stunning Veil of Manoppello, every artifact is thoughtfully presented with scientific scrutiny and theological reflection. The film also touches on St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s devotion to the Holy Face and how Pope Leo XIII formally recognized it in the 1800s, laying the groundwork for modern spiritual practices.
Experts such as Father Carmine Cucinelli, Sister Blandina Paschalis Schloemer, Paul Badde, and others share their deep knowledge, offering historical facts alongside personal faith experiences that are both informative and inspirational. These insights help bring clarity and spiritual weight to each image’s significance.
Visual Style & Presentation
Visually, The Face of Jesus blends historical beauty with modern storytelling. The use of real locations, sacred sites, and centuries-old artwork gives the film a timeless and reverent feel. Occasional black-and-white animation sequences guide viewers through historical transitions and help explain how relics traveled across centuries and continents.
The English-dubbed narration is smooth and well-matched, preserving the film’s emotional and reverent tone. Combined with beautiful music and carefully selected liturgical imagery, the documentary offers a meditative viewing experience that transcends language barriers.
Bonus Content & Devotion to the Holy Face
Following the main documentary, the film includes powerful bonus content on the devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus. With commentary from priests like Father Lawrence Carney and Father Robert Altier, viewers learn how this devotion arose in the 19th century through visions to Carmelite Sister Mary of St. Peter and was later approved by Pope Leo XIII. Stories of miraculous healings, divine reparation, and modern-day conversions help underscore the relevance of this devotion even today.
Why This Film Matters Now
The film’s release is strikingly timely. With a newly elected Pope Leo XIV, many see echoes of Pope Leo XIII, who strongly supported Holy Face devotion. In a world searching for peace, healing, and clarity, The Face of Jesus offers more than just a visual history — it presents an invitation to encounter the living God through His divine image.
Final Verdict
The Face of Jesus is not just a documentary; it is a spiritual journey. Whether you are a devoted Catholic, a Christian exploring the roots of your faith, or someone drawn to sacred art and history, this film offers something truly meaningful. It encourages deeper reflection, reverence, and renewal through the powerful lens of Christ’s image — reminding us that Jesus’ gaze is one of mercy, presence, and hope.
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5
A moving, well-researched, and visually beautiful journey into the heart of Christian faith.
