Netflix Releases Stunning Trailer For Christianity’s Origins
This Christmas season, Netflix will release a new film titled Mary, offering audiences around the globe a unique retelling of the Nativity story. Directed by D.J. Caruso, Mary will debut on December 6 and provides a fresh perspective on the life of the Virgin Mary, focusing on her courage and resilience as she accepts her role in bringing Jesus into the world. The story is presented from Mary’s viewpoint, as she navigates both personal trials and societal challenges, creating an intimate portrait of her journey.
The film features Israeli actress Noa Cohen as Mary, with Ido Tako as Joseph and Anthony Hopkins as King Herod. Producer Mary Aloe, who is a devout Christian, described the film as a “labor of love,” with the intention to introduce this story of faith and sacrifice to a new generation. According to Aloe, Mary brings forward themes of hope and love, showcasing Mary’s strength in the face of adversity, a message she feels is particularly relevant today. Aloe hopes that audiences will see Mary not only as a revered figure but as a relatable young woman enduring difficult circumstances.
As the story unfolds, Mary faces rejection from her community and is forced into hiding with Joseph and their child when King Herod, threatened by the prophecy of a newborn king, seeks to eliminate Jesus. Together, Mary and Joseph, driven by faith and love, begin a life on the run, shielding their child from Herod’s ruthless pursuit. Caruso, a Catholic and father, explains that he approached Mary with a deep sense of reverence, aiming to make Mary’s story accessible and relatable for modern viewers, particularly younger audiences.
To ensure the film remained true to the spiritual and historical aspects of Mary’s story, Caruso collaborated with religious scholars and clergy, including guidance from the late Bishop David G. O’Connell. Timothy Michael Hayes, the film’s screenwriter, carefully crafted the script through numerous drafts to capture the essence of Mary’s journey while adding dramatic elements to enhance the storytelling. Caruso emphasized that, while some creative interpretations were included, the plot respects biblical themes and aims to honor the sacred narrative.
Filmed on location in Morocco, Mary includes a diverse cast, such as Stephanie Nur, Susan Brown, and others. As part of the recent wave of biblical cinema like The Chosen and Journey to Bethlehem, Aloe hopes the film will resonate across different backgrounds, inspiring viewers to delve deeper into the stories of faith and devotion at the heart of Mary’s journey. She envisions the film fostering a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices of Mary and Joseph, making their story accessible to audiences seeking to learn about the people behind one of the Bible’s most cherished narratives.