The Fourth Wise Man (TV 1985)

The story of Artaban, the fourth Magi, who spends his life looking for Jesus his King.

Director:

Michael Ray Rhodes

Writers:

Tom Fontana, Henry van Dyke (short story)

Stars:

Martin Sheen, Alan Arkin, Eileen Brennan

Cast

Credited cast:
Martin Sheen	...	Artaban
Alan Arkin	...	Orontes
Eileen Brennan	...	Judith
Ralph Bellamy	...	Abgarus
Richard Libertini
Lance Kerwin	...	Passhur
Harold Gould	...	Rabbi
Jerry Houser	...	Peter
Rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Adam Arkin	...	Joseph
Wesley Bishop	...	Roman Soldier (as Wesley Grant)
Barbara Dana	...	Maacah
Duffy Epstein	...	Leper
Joe Estevez	...	Townsperson (as Joe Phelan)
Ramon Estevez	...	Ekron
James Farentino	...	Jesus (voice)

Storyline

Artaban is a young Magus (Wise Man) who desires to follow the star to the birthplace of the coming King, against the counsel of his friends and family. Carrying three precious jewels to give to the baby Messiah, Artaban and his reluctant servant Orontes set off to join the caravan of the three other wise men. They miss the caravan, but Artaban continues the search for his King, always one step behind. Artaban spends much of his remaining wealth and all of his energy helping the poor and unfortunate people he meets, until at the end of his life he finally finds Jesus--at His trial! Has Artaban wasted his life in a foolish quest? Will he ever get the chance to present his gifts to the King?

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Plot Keywords:

servant | search | quest | magi | jewel | 

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Genres:

Adventure | Drama

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Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

30 March 1985 (USA)

Also Known As:

El cuarto Rey Mago

Filming Locations:

Death Valley National Park, California, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

Paulist Productions

Technical Specs

Runtime:

72 min

Sound Mix:

Mono

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

Did You Know?

Connections

Version of G.E. True Theater: The Other Wise Man (1960)

User Reviews

spiritual and thought provoking

While certain elements of the storyline are not compatible with the Biblical time-line (harvesttime just before Passover in the spring, Peter's denials in the courtyard of the High Priest, etc.) the overall story is one of true spiritual devotion and compassion, as Arteban tirelessly ministers to those less fortunate. Arkin's character of Orontes as the whining, pessimistic servant provides the best contrast to Sheen's patience and benevolence. I have always admired Sheen, and he plays his role magnificently. The ending scene sweeps in and delivers a punch that still makes me tingle every time I watch it, at least once a year! Don't pass up a chance to view this if you can!