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OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 944

From the Manger to the Cross

Video edition
Wikimedia Commons
Original language
No spoken dialogue. Intertitles: English.
This copy runs
70:35
Subtitles
No subtitle track in this language

Languages and subtitles

No subtitle track in this language

Wikimedia Commons · Sidney Olcott (1872–1949), Gene Gauntier (1885–1966) · Public domain

Synopsis

The life of Jesus is presented through a succession of episodes, from his birth and teaching to the events leading to the Crucifixion. Biblical passages connect the scenes and provide the framework through which they are understood. The film stages familiar religious images in landscapes associated with the story, making location a central part of its presentation.

Cast

DirectorsSidney Olcott

Behind the scenes

Sidney Olcott's company filmed in the Middle East, including Jerusalem. Gene Gauntier wrote the scenario and played Mary, while the composition of several scenes drew on James Tissot's illustrated treatment of the life of Jesus.

Sources and availability

General references identify the work and its copy. A reference beside an editorial section is linked to the claims checked in that section.

Work catalogued as public domain in the United States.

The public-domain references concern the original films in the United States. Rights can differ for other countries, editions, restorations, music or translations. Sources are listed on each film page.

Availability checked on September 12, 2026.

Photograph credit

Photographs cropped, resized and optimized as WebP, displayed in monochrome.

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