A new movie centered around the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, has ignited a flurry of discussions among viewers and religious scholars. "Mary," a Biblical epic now streaming on Netflix, unfolds the story of the Nativity through the eyes of Mary of Nazareth (portrayed by Noa Cohen). It follows Mary, Joseph (played by Ido Tako), and the newborn Jesus as they evade persecution from King Herod (Anthony Hopkins).

Unveiling the Human Side of Mary in a Controversial Film

Depicting Mary's Journey

The film "Mary" takes viewers on a profound journey into the life of Mary. It showcases her as a young woman facing extraordinary circumstances. As she navigates through the events surrounding the Nativity, we see her fears, her courage, and her unwavering faith. Noa Cohen's portrayal brings Mary to life, making her relatable to audiences in a way that goes beyond the traditional saintly image.This aspect of the movie is particularly significant as it allows viewers to connect with Mary on a human level. It challenges the common perception of her as a distant and untouchable figure and presents her as a real person with real emotions.

Historical and Biblical Inaccuracies

While some viewers praise the film for its unique take, others have raised concerns about its historical and Biblical inaccuracies. Christy Cobb, an assistant professor of Christianity in the department of religious studies at the University of Denver, highlights the discussions sparked by the movie within the field of Biblical studies.She points out that aspects of Mary's character in the movie are based on limited passages from the New Testament and an early Christian text. However, filmmakers took creative liberties, which led to certain inaccuracies. For example, the movie portrays the Holy Family as a modern conservative nuclear family, which is not supported by the text or historical context.In the Bible, families looked different, and divorces were common. There were more people living in households than depicted in the movie. This shows how the filmmakers' interpretations can deviate from the original sources and lead to debates about the authenticity of the story.

Casting Controversy

The casting of Noa Cohen as Mary also stirred up controversy. Some viewers believe that Mary should have been portrayed by an Arab Palestinian actor due to modern conflicts in the region. However, others defended the casting of a Jewish actor.Caruso, the director, explained that it was important to select actors from Israel to ensure authenticity. He aimed to find a great young Jewish actress who could bring Mary to life. Noa Cohen's performance, he believes, is amazing and showcases her grace and beauty while also making her accessible.The casting decision highlights the complex issues surrounding the representation of religious figures and the impact it can have on different audiences. It shows how a seemingly small casting choice can lead to significant debates and discussions.This movie is not just a story about Mary but a reflection of the diverse perspectives and tensions that exist in our society. It prompts us to think about the importance of authenticity, representation, and the role of art in spreading love and unity.