With so many horrible faith-based features littering the multiplex ranging from the ho-hum (Heaven Is for Real), to the inept (God's Not Dead) to the perfectly dreadful (War Room), it's nice to have one that treats its audience with respect.

Risen isn't a film that will convert nonbelievers, but it's more ambitious than the standard faith-based genre fare.

It's solidly middling fare, soft of heart and script, and given to moments of foolishly miraculous folly.

It is an imperfect but interesting historical drama with decent performances, some great moments and a nice visual aesthetic.