Title: The 5 Most Remarkable Crucifixion Moments in Film History — Just in Time for Easter

Easter signifies a season of revival, soft hues, chocolate treats, and adorable bunnies. Yet, we must remember the true reason for this occasion: one of the most brutal and legendary deaths in humanity’s narrative. Indeed, it is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. While the holiday has been overshadowed by sweets and egg hunts, its origins are steeped in a grim story of sacrifice, redemption, and, yes, crucifixion.

At CGM, we enjoy celebrating holidays with a unique twist. So rather than showcasing Easter bunnies or films centered on chocolates, we’re delving into something a bit darker — and far more cinematic. This year, we’re ranking the five most remarkable crucifixion moments in film history. Whether they are direct or allegorical, these scenes are unforgettable, filled with emotion, and sometimes even amusing (yes, genuinely).

To ensure fairness, we’ll include only one crucifixion scene featuring Jesus on our list. After all, he has been depicted numerous times on screen, and we doubt he’d relish stealing the entire show. Moreover, we’ve steered clear of excessive metaphorical crucifixions — sorry, RoboCop and Spider-Man — to maintain focus and impact.

So take hold of your chocolate bunny, get comfortable, and savor this compilation of cinematic crucifixions that will undoubtedly make your Easter weekend a bit more… intense.

5) Carrie (1976)

Director: Brian De Palma

In Brian De Palma’s horror classic, Carrie White is a telekinetic teenager driven to her limits by cruel schoolmates and an excessively religious mother. The film’s climax unfolds as a blood-drenched revenge fantasy, but it is the ultimate standoff between Carrie and her mother that secures a place on this list.

After unleashing her wrath at prom, Carrie heads home to confront her mother, Margaret, who perceives her daughter as possessed by sin. In a moment of poetic justice, Carrie employs her powers to telekinetically crucify her mother in a posture hauntingly similar to the Jesus statue in their residence. It’s a chilling, symbolic moment that merges horror, religious symbolism, and tragic catharsis.

4) Spartacus (1960)

Director: Stanley Kubrick

Stanley Kubrick’s epic tale of swords and sandals is a masterwork of historical drama and political commentary. Based on the real-life saga of a gladiator who instigated a slave uprising against the Roman Empire, Spartacus culminates in a mass crucifixion — a chilling reminder of the cost of dissent.

The closing scene features Spartacus, played by Kirk Douglas, alongside his fellow rebels being crucified. It’s a stirring moment of martyrdom, made even more poignant by the film’s undertones regarding McCarthyism and the Hollywood blacklist. Kubrick’s direction guarantees the scene is both grand and intimate, marking it as one of the most iconic crucifixions in cinema.

3) Conan the Barbarian (1982)

Director: John Milius

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s breakout performance as Conan delivered one of the most extreme crucifixion scenes in film history. Left to perish on the Tree of Woe, Conan is nailed in the harsh desert, vultures circling above. But this is no ordinary man — this is Conan.

Instead of yielding to death, Conan attacks a vulture, survives the ordeal, and emerges stronger than ever. It’s a moment that blends the absurd with the thrilling, capturing the extravagant spirit of 1980s action films. If you’ve ever questioned Arnie’s toughness, this scene will clarify things.

2) Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979)

Director: Terry Jones

Only Monty Python could transform crucifixion into a musical comedy. Life of Brian, a satire of biblical films and religious doctrines, follows Brian Cohen — a man born on the same day as Jesus who is persistently mistaken for the Messiah.

The film concludes with Brian and a group of others facing crucifixion, yet instead of a somber ending, we are treated to a cheerful singalong: “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.” It’s irreverent, hilarious, and unexpectedly uplifting. Only Monty Python could create a mass execution that feels like an uplifting moment.

1) The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)

Director: Martin Scorsese

In the realm of cinematic crucifixions, nothing surpasses Martin Scorsese’s provocative masterpiece. The Last Temptation of Christ, adapted from Nikos Kazantzakis’s novel, delves into the humanity of Jesus and the temptations he confronted — including the longing for a regular life.

Willem Dafoe’s depiction of Jesus is raw and poignant, and the crucifixion scene is both tormenting and transcendent. What distinguishes it is the film’s unexpected twist: as Jesus hangs on

Embark Studios Unveils ARC Raiders Tech Test 2: Expanded Playtest Arriving on Consoles and PC

Embark Studios, the creators of the well-known multiplayer shooter THE FINALS, have revealed that ARC Raiders is set to make its comeback with the second public playtest, designated as Tech Test 2. This event is slated to take place from April 30 to May 4, 2024, and will be accessible on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store, as well as debuting on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

What Is ARC Raiders?

ARC Raiders is an upcoming free-to-play cooperative third-person shooter set in a bleak future, where players assume the role of Raiders—survivors traversing the remnants of Earth while battling against colossal autonomous machines known as ARC. The game merges PvE and PvPvE elements, prompting players to scavenge for resources, fulfill quests, and survive clashes with both AI-controlled adversaries and competing Raiders.

Located in the barren Rust Belt area, players operate out of Speranza, an underground center where they can trade loot, enhance gear, and prepare for their next venture. Whether embarking solo or teaming up with up to two others, each excursion into the perilous world is a high-stakes pursuit for survival and valuable rewards.

What’s New in Tech Test 2?

Following the initial public playtest in October 2023, Embark Studios has implemented significant updates to ARC Raiders driven by community feedback. Executive Producer Aleksander Grøndal noted that the team has dedicated the last six months to elevating the core gameplay experience. “This is our opportunity to assess how those modifications perform at scale,” stated Grøndal. “We’re particularly keen to gather insights on progression, the combat experience, cross-platform performance, and how the overall experience feels now that it’s more intricate and layered.”

Tech Test 2 will introduce a range of new features and enhancements, including:

– Broadened Enemy Diversity: Players will encounter a larger assortment of ARC machines, each exhibiting distinct behaviors and challenges.
– New Weapons and Gear: A wider selection of weapons, gadgets, and equipment will be available for players to experiment with.
– Improved Progression and Crafting: The player progression framework has been enriched, and crafting mechanics have been fine-tuned to provide additional strategic choices.
– Battle Pass Preview: Players will get an early glimpse at the forthcoming Battle Pass system, featuring cosmetic rewards and progression motivations.

Cross-Platform Play and Performance

One of the most thrilling elements of Tech Test 2 is the addition of console platforms. For the first time, players on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S will have the opportunity to join their PC peers in exploring the realm of ARC Raiders. This cross-platform expansion marks a significant move towards the game’s full release and will enable Embark Studios to evaluate performance and matchmaking across various systems.

How to Join the Tech Test

Players wishing to partake in ARC Raiders Tech Test 2 can register through the official ARC Raiders website at arcraiders.com. The playtest will be available from April 30 to May 4, 2024, and is open to players on PC (Steam and Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Looking Ahead to Full Release

ARC Raiders is projected for a full release in 2025 and will be accessible on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and NVIDIA GeForce NOW. With its distinctive combination of cooperative and competitive gameplay, rich world-building, and dynamic combat, ARC Raiders is poised to be one of the most eagerly awaited multiplayer titles of the upcoming year.

For more details, updates, and to sign up for Tech Test 2, visit the official ARC Raiders website.

Stay tuned as Embark Studios continues to refine and expand the ARC Raiders experience driven by player feedback and testing.

Netflix to Release Coming-of-Age Horror Anime The Summer Hikaru Died in Summer 2025

Netflix is broadening its horror anime offerings with the eagerly awaited adaptation of The Summer Hikaru Died, scheduled to debut globally in the summer of 2025. Based on the acclaimed manga by Mokumokuren, this coming-of-age horror series merges psychological tension with rural mystique, promising a spine-chilling yet emotionally impactful experience for audiences around the world.

A New Addition to Netflix’s Horror Anime Collection

Following the triumph of Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre in 2023, Netflix maintains its commitment to high-quality horror anime. The Summer Hikaru Died represents a significant advancement in this trajectory, with the streaming platform acquiring exclusive worldwide rights to the series.

This announcement was made during a special presentation at AnimeJapan 2025, led by Nippon TV announcer Rina Sato. The event showcased key cast members and crew, providing fans with an in-depth look at the production and themes of the forthcoming anime.

Story Synopsis: A Serene Village with a Sinister Secret

Set in the peaceful countryside of Kubitachi Village, The Summer Hikaru Died follows Yoshiki Tsujinaka, a regular high school student whose life takes a sinister twist after the death of his close friend, Hikaru Indo, who appears to come back as something other than human. The narrative delves into Yoshiki’s emotional struggle as he confronts the chilling truth that the entity claiming to be Hikaru is an impostor.

The manga, serialized on Young Ace UP and published by Kadokawa, has received accolades for its atmospheric narrative and intricate portrayal of grief, identity, and youth. Mokumokuren’s distinctive mix of slice-of-life elements and supernatural horror has fostered a devoted fanbase, making the anime adaptation one of the most awaited releases of 2025.

Cast and Crew: A Skilled Ensemble Behind the Horror

The anime features a robust creative team and voice cast. Ryohei Takeshita, recognized for his contributions to Jellyfish Can’t Swim in the Night and episodes of Jujutsu Kaisen, will direct the series. Animation production is entrusted to CygamesPictures, which guarantees stunning visuals that capture both the tranquil allure and growing apprehension of the original manga.

Chiaki Kobayashi voices the lead character Yoshiki Tsujinaka, while Shuichiro Umeda portrays the mysterious Hikaru. During the AnimeJapan event, both actors appeared in character costumes and provided insights into their roles. Kobayashi pointed out the symbolism in the main visual, where Hikaru is illuminated by sunlight while Yoshiki resides in shadow — serving as a visual metaphor for the story’s juxtaposition of warmth and horror.

Additional cast members include Yumiri Hanamori as Asako Yamagishi, Wakana Kowaka as Rie Kurebayashi, and Chikahiro Kobayashi as Tanaka — each character connected to the village’s occult mysteries.

Themes: A Fragile Harmony of Horror and Emotion

Characterized by the cast as a “coming-of-age horror,” The Summer Hikaru Died strives to maintain a balance between emotional richness and supernatural tension. Kobayashi reiterated that the series is approachable even for those who typically shy away from horror, owing to its strong character arcs and compelling narrative.

Umeda remarked that the terror in the series arises not from explicit shocks, but from the subtle abnormalities in everyday life — a trait of psychological horror that takes cues from masters like Junji Ito. The cast mentioned that the anime’s atmosphere is “somewhat laid-back,” yet permeated by a “subtle unease” that intensifies as the plot develops.

Music and Atmosphere

The closing theme, titled Anata wa Kaibutsu (“You Are My Monster”), is performed by Tooboe and is anticipated to enhance the show’s eerie yet poignant ambiance. The music, alongside the series’ pastoral backdrop and haunting imagery, will be essential in drawing viewers into the unsettling realm of Kubitachi Village.

What to Anticipate

Although the official release date remains unconfirmed, fans can expect a slow-burn, character-driven horror narrative that delves into themes of identity, grief, and the supernatural. The anime’s trailer suggests a visual style reminiscent of Junji Ito’s creations, featuring intricate character designs and an emphasis on atmospheric tension over jump scares.

The Summer Hikaru Died is poised to be a notable addition to the horror anime landscape, presenting a fresh interpretation of the classic “something’s not right in the village” trope. With its emotional depth, strong production quality, and distinctive storytelling, it is set to attract both horror fans and newcomers alike.

Stay Informed

Fans eager for more information can visit the official website at https://hikanatsu-anime.com/ for updates, trailers, and behind-the-scenes content as the summer 2025 release approaches.