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‘The Carpenter’s Son’ Nears U.S. Release With Mostly Negative Early Reviews

Early reviews portray a dour apocryphal vision that leaves Isla Johnston as the standout.

Overview

  • Lotfy Nathan’s low‑budget biblical horror, inspired by the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, opens in U.S. theaters on November 14 via Magnolia Pictures.
  • Critics largely describe the film as dreary or aimless, noting a solemn mood that blends religious drama with horror without much suspense.
  • Isla Johnston’s portrayal of the mysterious tempter draws consistent praise, even from otherwise negative reviews.
  • Nicolas Cage’s turn as Joseph divides critics, with assessments ranging from heartfelt to miscast against the film’s severe tone.
  • The R‑rated, roughly 94‑minute feature was shot primarily in Greece to stand in for Roman‑era Egypt and has stirred debate over its noncanonical source material.