John Wayne appeared as a Roman centurion in which Biblical film?

"The Greatest Story Ever Told" is a 1965 American epic film produced and directed by George Stevens. It is a retelling of the Biblical account of Jesus of Nazareth, from the Nativity through to the Ascension. Along with a very large ensemble cast, it is Claude Rains' final film role, and it has John Wayne appearing as a Roman centurion. Wayne in his role comments on the Crucifixion of Jesus. He says: "Truly this man was the Son of God."

In addition to producing and directing, Stevens also wrote the screenplay with James Lee Barrett. They based their work on the Bible and the 1949 novel "The Greatest Story Ever Told" by Fulton Oursler. Released in February 1965 by George Stevens Productions and United Artists, cinematography was by Loyal Griggs and William C. Mellor, editing by Harold F. Kress, Argyle Nelson Jr., and Frank O'Neil, and music by Alfred Newman. Many financial excesses were associated with the film's pre-production and production. Stevens, for example, commissioned French artist André Girard to prepare 352 oil paintings of Biblical scenes to use as storyboards. He also traveled to the Vatican to see Pope John XXIII for advice.

The critical reaction was very mixed. Some called the movie powerful and moving. Others said, "It turns out to be a bore." Commercially, it was not successful. It grossed about $20 million at the box office against a budget of $15.5 million.

Though it truly didn't connect with audiences, it was still nominated for 5 Academy Awards.