Judas (Russian: Иуда, romanized: Iuda) is a 2013 Russian drama film directed by Andrey Bogatyrev. It is the director’s second feature-length film and was produced by the company ABS, with Tatyana Voronetskaya serving as producer.
The film was screened in the main competition at the 35th Moscow International Film Festival. Actor Aleksey Shevchenkov, who played the title role, won the Silver Saint George Award for Best Actor at the festival.
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Plot
The film is an adaptation of the novella Judas Iscariot by Russian writer Leonid Andreyev. It presents a dramatic interpretation of the relationship between Jesus Christ and his apostles, focusing on Judas Iscariot—a thief who becomes the most infamous traitor in history.
Cast
Aleksey Shevchenkov as Judas Iscariot
Sergey Frolov as Thomas
Andrey Barilo as Jesus Christ
Ivan Dobronravov as Matthew
Olga Stashkevich as Mary Magdalene
Aleksey Bochenin as John the Apostle
Konstantin Samoukov as Peter
Vadim Yakovlev as Annas
Olga Aksyonova as a courtesan
Maksim Dugishov as Bartholomew
Andrey Bogatyrev as a basket maker
Andrey Kopytov as Andrew
Sergey Fetisov as Pontius Pilate
Production
Filming took place on the island of Malta. The film’s visual style emphasizes austerity and psychological tension, reflecting the philosophical themes of Andreyev’s original work.
Music
The score was composed by Sergey Solovyov and contemporary composer Dmitry Kurlandsky.
Reception
Judas was selected for the main competition of the 35th Moscow International Film Festival, where it received critical attention primarily for its lead performance and its unconventional portrayal of biblical events.
Awards
Silver Saint George Award for Best Actor – Aleksey Shevchenkov (35th Moscow International Film Festival)