Netflix Film Casts Bible’s Mary in a Fresh Perspective
Vatican City • Director D.J. Caruso takes audiences on a new journey through the lens of Mary’s perspective in his latest film, “Mary,” now streaming on Netflix. The film presents Mary, portrayed by Noa Cohen, in a fresh light, showcasing her journey from birth to becoming the mother of Jesus.
Throughout the movie, viewers witness familiar scenes from the Christmas story, like the annunciation and the visit of the wise men, but with a deeper dive into the challenges and risks Mary and Joseph faced while protecting their son from King Herod’s soldiers. Caruso aimed to humanize Mary and Joseph, portrayed by relative newcomers Cohen and Ido Tako, making their struggles relatable to all viewers.
Caruso’s personal faith influenced the Catholic perspective of the film, which was blessed by Pope Francis himself after Caruso presented him with a symbolic yellow scarf featured in the movie. Despite some backlash on social media regarding casting choices and theological accuracy, Caruso’s goal was to make Mary “accessible to all beliefs, to all Christians, to Muslims, to everybody, and even to those who don’t have faith.”
The movie portrays Mary as graceful, beautiful, and accessible, qualities that Cohen embodied perfectly according to Caruso. Similarly, Tako’s portrayal of Joseph highlights his heroism in defending his wife and child, inspired by a conversation with Bishop David O’Connell.
Veteran actor Anthony Hopkins delivers a captivating performance as King Herod, adding layers of complexity to the tyrannical ruler. Despite a modest budget, the film impresses with its rich aesthetic, achieved in part by costume designer Tina Kalivas’ unique blend of biblical and ancient Japanese styles.
Caruso aimed to create a visually stunning tribute to Mary, emphasizing the message of surrendering to God’s will. The film is a heartfelt exploration of Mary’s journey that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds, offering a fresh perspective on this iconic biblical figure.
