The recently released Netflix film, ‘Mary,’ a coming-of-age biblical epic directed by DJ Caruso and written by Timothy Michael Hayes, has ignited a firestorm of controversy across the internet. Starring Noa Cohen as Mary, Ido Tako as Joseph, and the acclaimed two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins in a supporting role, the movie presents a fresh, albeit contentious, interpretation of the nativity story.
The film follows Mary, Joseph, and their newborn son, Jesus, as they embark on a perilous flight from the tyrannical King Herod. The narrative emphasizes the extraordinary journey of the birth of Jesus and the immense challenges faced by Mary and Joseph. Depicted as a young woman who faces societal ostracization following a miraculous conception, Mary is forced into hiding with Joseph. When Herod unleashes a brutal campaign to eliminate the infant Jesus, Mary and Joseph’s unwavering faith and courage drive their desperate escape, highlighting their determination to protect their child at any cost. This dramatic retelling of a well-known story explores the themes of faith, perseverance, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.
However, the movie’s release hasn’t been without significant backlash. A major point of contention centers around the casting of an Israeli actress, Noa Cohen, in the titular role. This decision has provoked strong reactions, particularly among conservative Christians who view it as a departure from traditional representations. Critics have voiced concerns about cultural sensitivity and the accuracy of the portrayal of biblical figures within the Middle Eastern context. The film has also drawn criticism for what some perceive as inaccuracies in depicting Mary and Joseph’s relationship, considered by some to be a deviation from established religious doctrines.
Online forums are ablaze with passionate opinions, with some users expressing outrage and even resorting to hateful language. One comment found online exemplifies this extreme reaction: “This is a joke and a slap in the face to all Christians. How dare you let that disgusting Jew play Mary?” Such comments underscore the intensity of the feelings surrounding this cinematic interpretation of a deeply sacred narrative.
Director Caruso, in a Netflix blog post, attempted to address some of these concerns, stating, “When I first read Tim’s script, I knew it could serve as the foundation for my goal: to portray Mary as someone we can all connect with, not just as a saint but as the young woman we all recognize before her sanctification.” This statement suggests a deliberate attempt to present a relatable and humanized portrayal of Mary, departing from the more traditionally idealized depictions often seen in religious art and film.
‘Mary’ is currently streaming on Netflix, where it has already entered the top 10 trending movies in India. If you’re interested in experiencing this controversial reimagining of a pivotal moment in religious history and engaging with the subsequent debate, you can stream ‘Mary’ on Netflix now. The film undoubtedly prompts thought-provoking questions and promises to spark further conversation surrounding faith, representation, and artistic interpretation of religious narratives.
