In the Footsteps of the Holy Family

Shot entirely on location in the Holy Land, In the Footsteps of the Holy Family features host Roger Moore and a slew of credentialed commentators retracing the steps of the holy family--Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus--all the while drawing from biblical and non-biblical sources to expound upon the miracles and mysteries of nascent Christianity. While the concept is promising, the execution is another matter entirely. In its efforts to explicate the virgin birth, star of Bethlehem, identity of the Magi, and so on, the program presents a series of embarrassing, ludicrous reenactments, together with explanations that are unconvincing at best and sensational at worst. Is a coin bearing the name King Caspar really proof of the Magi's identity? Is that miraculous white powder from the “milk grotto” really a cure for infertility? Such outlandish attempts to validate miraculous occurrences ultimately only debase the otherwise engaging explorations of topics such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Gnostic gospels. Not recommended. Aud: P. (J. Reed)