Movie Background:"The Fourth Wise Man", launched in 1985, is a movie adjustment of the 1895 unique "The Other Wise Male" by Henry Van Dyke. Directed by Michael Ray Rhodes, the moving film communicates a touching narrative about the tale of a 'fourth' Wise Male, Artaban, and his transformative lifelong journey of selfless love and spiritual development. Lead roles are excellently represented with Martin Sheen acting as Artaban and Alan Arkin in a supporting role.
Plot Summary:The movie revolves around the Magi, Artaban (Martin Sheen), a meditative Persian who is determined to follow the prediction he studied about a king's birth marked by a star. While he is preparing to satisfy the other 3 Magi, he offers all his possessions to purchase 3 precious gems as gifts for the newborn king: a sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl.
In a time of alarming need, he invests the sapphire to save the lives of a household whose child was about to be eliminated by soldiers. As a result, he misses out on the caravan of the three Wise Men and as a result, the very first sighting of baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Although beat at first, he decides to carry on in his quest for the newborn king.
Artaban's Journey:Artaban's journey is unlike any other, he keeps missing out on Christ at every interaction however indirectly participates in the substantial minutes of Jesus's life. Throughout the film, Artaban utilizes his other gifts, the ruby and the sapphire, to help those in need. He saves a lady called Esther from slavery, cures a leper, and continually aids the less lucky. These deeds cost him his valuable gifts, yet he continues to persevere in his look for Jesus.
Climax:Eventually, Artaban's trips take him to Jerusalem throughout the crucifixion of Jesus. Here, he satisfies a Roman soldier who seeks a kickback to spare Artaban's newly found buddy from crucifixion. Simply as he is about to give his last pearl to conserve his pal, he learns that the male sentenced to crucifixion is indeed Jesus. Overwhelmed with sorrow and despair, Artaban lastly utilizes his last pearl to free his friend rather of using it to Jesus as he at first planned.
Conclusion:In the end, a passing away Artaban is sorry for that he could never provide his gifts to Jesus. He is comforted by a discovery that his acts of kindness and love were, in fact, his true gifts to Jesus. As he breathes his last, he lastly understands the core essence of Christ's mentors-- that serving the clingy and loving others unconditionally is the greatest act of dedication to God.
Last Thoughts:"The Fourth Wise Man" is a deeply moving movie that highlights the significance of love, kindness, and selflessness. Artaban's story, while imaginary, fittingly captures the essence of the teachings of Christ, leaving audiences with a profound understanding of the depth of true commitment and service to mankind.
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