Epic account of the thief Barabbas, who was spared crucifixion when the Jews chose Christ in his place. Struggling with his spirituality, Barabbas goes through many ordeals leading him to the gladiator arena, where he tries to win his freedom and confront his inner demons.1961 religious epic film directed by Richard Fleischer (Fantastic Voyage) and starring Anthony Quinn as Barabbas, Silvana Mangano, Jack Palance & Ernest Borgnine.