New Netflix Film Aims to Make Mary Accessible to All

A new Netflix film is on the horizon, aiming to bring the story of Mary to modern audiences in a fresh and relatable way. Directed by D.J. Caruso, known for projects like “Disturbia,” this film puts Mary front and center, telling her tale through her perspective. Set to debut on Netflix on December 6, the movie challenges viewers to see Mary in a different light.

From Mary’s birth to Jesus’ arrival at the holy temple in Jerusalem, the film explores familiar moments like the annunciation and the visit of the wise men but also delves into the intense dangers Mary and Joseph faced as King Herod’s soldiers sought to harm baby Jesus. Caruso’s goal is to make Mary and Joseph, portrayed by rising talents, more relatable to audiences of all ages.

In an effort to gain a broader perspective for the film, Caruso sought a blessing from Pope Francis in Rome, presenting the pontiff with a special scarf featured in the movie. While the film is crafted from a Catholic viewpoint, Caruso hopes it can resonate with individuals of all faiths or those without faith altogether.

Despite some critics calling for a boycott due to the casting of Israeli actors in major roles, the director remains focused on portraying Mary’s universal qualities of love and sacrifice. By focusing on these shared ideals rather than divisive elements, Caruso aims to honor and celebrate the legacy of Mary in a way that speaks to a broad audience.

Lead actress Noa Cohen infuses the character of Mary with grace and approachability, making her someone viewers can empathize with and connect to on a personal level. Similarly, Ido Tako’s portrayal of Joseph brings a new perspective to this biblical figure, inspired by a conversation Caruso had with the late Bishop David O’Connell.

Overall, the film seeks to tell a timeless story with fresh eyes, featuring stellar performances from established actors like Anthony Hopkins as King Herod, whose portrayal of the tyrannical ruler adds depth to the narrative. With a focus on honoring the essence of Mary’s character and presenting her in a relatable light, this film invites audiences to explore her story in a new way.