“Netflix Film Showcasing the Life of the Virgin Mary: A Detailed Overview”
Bringing stories from the Gospel to life on screen is no easy feat. The canonical accounts provide the foundation, but they don’t translate into ready-made screenplays. Filmmakers have been adding their own twists and turns to these tales for over a century, aiming to create narratives that resonate with modern audiences.
Enter “Mary,” a new film streaming on Netflix starting December 6th, delving into the theological study of the Virgin Mary, or Mariology. Director D.J. Caruso and screenwriter Timothy Michael Hayes drew heavily from the “Protoevangelium of James,” a text exploring Mary’s life even before her miraculous conception. While not officially recognized by the church, this text offers rich details, like introducing Mary’s parents, Sts. Joachim and Anne.
In “Mary,” which stars Noa Cohen as the lead, the Archangel Gabriel plays a central role in Mary’s life. Departing from traditional portrayals, Gabriel appears in a blue robe without wings, a visual choice that director Caruso made, drawing from historical paintings. Another striking visual is Mary’s connection to butterflies, symbolizing new life through baptism.
The film takes creative liberties with the source material, presenting a youthful Mary finding her strength and purpose with support from figures like Anna and high priest Bava Ben Buta. Director Caruso emphasized the importance of Mary’s choices in the story, highlighting her agency and determination to fulfill her unique destiny.
Despite the film’s focus on Mary’s journey, controversies swirled online after filming wrapped in Morocco, particularly around the casting of Israeli actors in the lead roles. Critics argued that Joseph and Mary were historically Palestinians, sparking debate in social media circles. Director Caruso defended his casting choices, underscoring the universal themes of choice and destiny woven into Mary’s story. Like Mary, we all face pivotal choices in our lives, shaping our paths in unforeseen ways.
