Screenshot from Nóz w wodzie/Knife in the Water (dir. Roman Polanski/1962)
Screenshot from Cool Hand Luke (dir. Stuart Rosenberg/1967)
„One of the most durable of mythic structures is the story of Christ; it
has been a part of our world for almost 2,000 years, and there is no
question that its most fundamental premise-a "good" outsider interceding
in the wayward affairs of others-has found its way into cinema. In
addition to forming the backbone of films based specifically on the life
of Christ, both traditional (King of Kings, The Greatest Story Ever Told) and updated (Jesus Christ Superstar, Godspell), this basic premise has also helped structure films that have seemingly little to do with the Christ story: a western (Shane), a domestic psychodrama (Knife in the Water), and science fiction (The Day the Earth Stood Still, Superman) to name a few.” (Richard L. Stromgren & Martin F. Norden - Movies: A Language in Light, Prentice Hall, 1984)
Atenţie, însă: Christ-figure nu e totuna cu Jesus-figure! Există diferenţe ontologice esenţiale:
„«Jesus-figure» refers to any representation of Jesus himself. «Christ-figure» describes any figure in the arts who resembles Jesus.
The personal name of Jesus (in line with contemporary spirituality,
thought and practice) is used for the Jesus-figure. The title «Christ« -
the «Messiah» or the «Anointed One» - is used for those who are seen
to reflect his mission. In cinema, writers and directors present both
Jesus-figures and Christ-figures.“ (Peter Malone - Movie Christs and antichrists, Parish Ministry Publications, 1988)