Expected to be released in October, The Carpenter’s Son is already arousing discomfort from its prospective audience. The movie can be described as being somewhat of a biblical horror, with heavy inspiration coming from the apocraphyl Infancy Gospel of Thomas. It’s theatrical release is shaping up to be an extremely memorable event. With a cast comprised of the likes of Nicholas Cage, FKA Twiggs, and Noah Jupe at his disposal, director Lotfy Nathan, seeks to stretch the limits of this already niche genre.

The general discontent surrounding the film is due in large part to the long-standing belief that horror, in and of itself, is ungodly and dangerous, let alone a horror film depicting Biblical figures and events. It raises concerns about the potential to cause spiritual harm or to be interpreted as anti-Christian propoganda.

It is important to note though that this is not a belief held by all, or even most Christians. Many Christians are able to indulge in and engage thoughtfully with the medium, arguing that the Bible itself depicts violent and gruesome stories. Horror enthusiasts will have it known that when executed properly, horror films can prove a great vehicle for exploring the concept of good versus evil. It can provide a realistic depiction of sin and demonic forces at work.

The film itself operates as somewhat of a reimagining of Jesus’ childhood, and in the film Jesus and his family are in hiding in Roman Egypt. This is where the plot deviates from the Bible, as the danger presented does not come from a specific threat, such as a King Herod, but from Jesus himself. Reffered to in the film simply as “the boy”. After happening upon another child with inexplicable abilities much more apparent and even more sinister than his own, the boy becomes doubtful of himself. He begins experimenting with his own powers, and goes as far as to to rebel against his mother and father, the carpenter.

Unfortunately for his family there are repercussions for using his powers, and they find themselves the target of “horrors both natural and divine”.