Dramatization of the controversial best-seller that posits an alternate version of the birth of Christianity. In this version, Jesus planned for His crucifixion by taking a drug that would simulate death. After His unconscious body was placed in the tomb, a religious sect known as the Zealots would secretly steal Christ’s body from the tomb, then spread the rumor that He had risen, thus fulfilling Biblical prophecy.
Director: Michael Campus.
Stars: Daniel Ades, Harry Andrews, Michael Baseleon, William Paul Burns, Hugh Griffith, Dan Hedaya, Helena Kallianiotes, Zalman King, Kevin O’Connor, Robert Walker Jr., William Watson, Donald Pleasence.
1977 Academy Awards – Nominated for an Oscar for Best Costume Design (Mary Wills).
This link appears to have broken partway through. Although there are copies of the film available on Yoo Toobe of a similar quality as this one.