There have been many different films about Jesus and the crucifixion. We’ve had many different actors grow the beard and play the part, including Jim Caviezel, Willem Dafoe, and Christian Bale. But we’ve never had Joaquin Phoenix do it. Well, until now with “Mary Magdalene.” Phoenix (and his bushy beard) is starring alongside the amazing Rooney Mara as the titular character.
In first trailer for the film, we see exactly what you think we might see from a biblical film. However, with this movie, we’re straying from the normal point of view of Jesus, and focusing on the controversial Mary Magdalene. For those not up on your Christian teachings, Mary Magdalene was said to be one of Jesus Christ’s followers that was present at his crucifixion and eventual resurrection. The controversy stems from the exact nature of their relationship, as some believe it was more romantic.
“Mary Magdalene” is clearly trying to paint a much more realistic, human portrait of the religious figure. It doesn’t seem as if they’re going for the silent, obedient Mary Magdalene that was in “Passion of the Christ.” Instead, we might be getting something more along the lines of the character seen in “The Last Temptation of Christ.” If that’s the case, expect a lot of controversy to surround this film as we approach its release. Here’s the official synopsis:
Set in the Holy Land in the first century C.E., a young woman leaves her small fishing village and traditional family behind to join a radical new social movement. At its head is a charismatic leader, Jesus of Nazareth, who promises that the world is changing. Mary is searching for a new way of living, and an authenticity that is denied her by the rigid hierarchies of the day. As the notoriety of the group spread and more are drawn to follow Jesus’ inspirational message, Mary’s spiritual journey places her at the heart of a story that will lead to the capital city of Jerusalem, where she must confront the reality of Jesus’ destiny and her own place within it.
The film is directed by Garth Davis, who is coming off the huge critical success “Lion.” “Mary Magdalene” is written by Helen Edmundson and Philippa Goslett. Joining Phoenix and Mara are Chiwetel Ejiofor and Tahar Rahim as Peter and Judas, respectively.
“Mary Magdalene” opens next year.