The film features characters like Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene, who were historically Jewish (Middle Eastern/Semitic). These roles are portrayed by Black and mixed-race actors, respectively, which constitutes a change in race from their historical and canonical origins.

The film portrays Jesus as a deeply sympathetic and tragic figure, emphasizing his humanity, suffering, and the profound impact of his teachings. While Judas questions Jesus's divinity, the narrative frames Jesus's sacrifice with respect and pathos, aligning with the dignity of the faith's central figure.

The film depicts the Jewish religious authorities (Sanhedrin) as the primary antagonists, driven by fear and political expediency to orchestrate Jesus's arrest and crucifixion. This portrayal reinforces a problematic historical narrative, showing the institution as rigid, hypocritical, and oppressive in its actions against Jesus.