Filmmaker D.J. Caruso discusses his motivation behind creating "Mary," a Netflix film offering a new look at the Nativity story through the lens of Mary, mother of Jesus. The movie, starring Noa Cohen as Mary, Ido Tako as Joseph, and Anthony Hopkins as King Herod, arrives on Netflix on December 6th. It follows Mary's journey as she navigates the extraordinary circumstances surrounding Jesus' birth, facing societal rejection and a life-threatening pursuit by King Herod.
Caruso emphasizes his desire to highlight Mary's often-overlooked role, portraying her as a strong young woman facing immense challenges. He aims to connect with a younger audience, showcasing the human side of this iconic figure and the sacrifices she made. The director also stresses the importance of producing high-quality faith-based films, moving beyond simple messaging to create a more cinematic and immersive experience.
Caruso acknowledges the responsibility of respectfully representing Mary and other characters, drawing on both canonical and non-canonical texts. The casting of Israeli actors, while sparking controversy online, was a deliberate choice to honor the story's origins. Caruso's goal is for viewers to not only admire Mary but also understand her struggles and feel a deeper connection to her journey.
