Nicolas Cage leads the cast of an upcoming biblical horror thriller titled The Carpenter’s Son, which reinterprets the story of Jesus and his family through a dark, supernatural lens. Set to be released in theaters this fall by Magnolia Pictures, the film promises to challenge traditional narratives inspired by the apocryphal Infancy Gospel of Thomas.
A New Horror Take on the Childhood of Jesus
The film casts Cage as The Carpenter, with FKA Twigs portraying The Mother and Noah Jupe as the Boy, a character who represents Jesus during his youth. Unlike conventional retellings, The Carpenter’s Son explores the boy’s discovery of mysterious powers amid threats both earthly and otherworldly. The story unfolds in Roman Egypt, where the family hides from unknown dangers and supernatural forces.
Magnolia Pictures has released a first teaser trailer, revealing an eerie atmosphere that hints at the unsettling nature of the film. The story’s dark tone is built around the Boy’s growing skepticism, fueled by encounters with another enigmatic child, leading to rebellion against his guardian, The Carpenter. As the Boy’s abilities manifest, the family faces escalating terror, blending elements of horror with biblical themes.
Plot Rooted in Apocryphal Texts and Supernatural Conflict
The inspiration for this unusual adaptation is drawn from the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, a lesser-known text that presents an alternative perspective on Jesus’ childhood. The film explores how the Boy’s powers set him apart and the consequences for his family as they confront both natural disasters and divine retribution. This narrative approach introduces a psychological and supernatural thriller angle that diverges sharply from traditional biblical stories.
“The Carpenter’s Son tells the dark story of a family hiding out in Roman Egypt. The son, known only as ‘the Boy,’ is driven to doubt by another mysterious child and rebels against his guardian, the Carpenter, revealing inherent powers and a fate beyond his comprehension. As he exercises his own power, the Boy and his family become the target of horrors, natural and divine.”
— Official Synopsis
Film’s Anticipated Release and Behind-the-Scenes Notes
While no exact release date has been announced yet, Magnolia Pictures confirms the movie will arrive in theaters this fall. Early information suggests a compelling blend of historical context and speculative horror that could ignite strong discussion within religious communities and fans of the horror genre alike.
Additional details about filming include some unusual incidents on set, such as one involving bees and Nicolas Cage, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the production. Despite limited plot information, viewers can expect a performance-driven film with an intense, serious atmosphere and a fresh, reflective take on a well-known biblical story.
The Carpenter’s Son has the potential to redefine how audiences engage with biblical narratives by merging faith, doubt, and horror, possibly heralding a new subgenre where spiritual history meets supernatural suspense.
