Zero A.D.: The Birth of Christ Release Date, Cast, Trailer and What the Film Is About

Zero A.D.: The Birth of Christ opens in theaters nationwide on December 11, 2026. Angel Studios has released the official trailer for the historical epic.

What is Zero A.D. about?

The film is set in a decaying empire ruled by a leader consumed by fear. When a star rises over Bethlehem and Christ is born, King Herod's terror leads to the slaughter of the innocents, and Mary must protect the child promised to save the world. It is based on the Gospel of Matthew and was originally titled Bethlehem.

Who is in the cast?

Deva Cassel plays Mary and Jamie Ward plays Joseph. Jim Caviezel plays Herod, Sam Worthington plays Antipater, Ben Mendelsohn plays Nahash, and Gael García Bernal plays Joachim. Alejandro Monteverde, who directed Sound of Freedom, directs the film. 

Is it family-friendly?

Movie Insider lists the film as PG-13 for strong violent content, bloody images and thematic elements. Parents of younger children may want to preview it first. 

Why it matters for Christmas viewers

The film arrives as one of the biggest faith-based releases of the season, retelling the Nativity through the eyes of those threatened by it. It centers on a question the story of Christ's birth has always raised: what does hope look like when the powerful fear it?

Related articles:

• Jim Caviezel Plays King Herod In New Christmas Film "Zero A.D." About Jesus' Birth
• 2026 Movies Recommended for Christians: 8 Inspiring Films, From Faith-Based to Family-Friendly