Unveiling the Epic Tale of Mary: A Riveting Movie Review
You know the way Dracula likes to deliver a dramatic speech, then turns into a bat, and flies away? It turns out that the angel Gabriel does something similar, only he turns into a blue scarf, the same kind of snazzy number you might get in Monsoon as a birthday present for your mum. Whoosh! Away he goes. Unfortunately, Gabriel-as-knitwear is about as entertaining as it gets in this fairly straightforward biblical adaptation of the early years of Mary, mother of Christ. Actually that’s not quite fair. Anthony Hopkins as Herod understands the assignment, bellowing lines such as “KNEEEEEEEL!” with requisite gusto. We’ve seen him serve more fully flavoured ham before, however, in lavish tosh like The Silence of the Lambs sequels Hannibal and Red Dragon; this is more ham-lite, the sort of villainy Hopkins can deliver in his sleep. Not that it’s not pleasurable to watch, but his Herod could have used at least twice as much screen time as he gets. The titular Mary (Noa Cohen) is a bit of a drag, prone to pieties such as “I find pleasure every day in the mysteries of the Lord.” Fair enough, she’s the future mother of God. But when she tells a man who has just been brutally blinded by Herod that “vision comes in many forms”, you can see how people end up so virulently anti-religion. A very late stage swerve into Marvel heroine vernacular – “You may think you know my story. Trust me, you don’t” – doesn’t help matters either. It does, however, come right after the film’s best sequence, in which the infant Christ is saved from the swords of Herod’s minions as Bethlehem burns and our heroes get the hell out of the raging inferno on a horse. There is also a good bit where Mary is urged to stick baby Jesus in a wicker basket and lob him off a roof. Alas, you have to sit through a lot of turgid Bible studies dramatisations of bits of scripture to get to the good stuff. All in all, last year’s Journey to Bethlehem, a musical covering the same material with Antonio Banderas as Herod, represents more bang for your biblical buck. Mary is on Netflix from 6 December.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is “Mary” a faithful portrayal of biblical events?
While “Mary” offers a dramatic interpretation of Mary’s early life, it may not align entirely with traditional biblical accounts. The movie takes creative liberties to bring the story to life.
Who delivers standout performances in the film?
Anthony Hopkins shines in his role as Herod, bringing a commanding presence to the screen. His portrayal adds depth to the narrative, making his character memorable.
What sets “Mary” apart from other religious adaptations?
The film blends elements of spectacle with intimate moments, offering a unique perspective on familiar biblical tales. It combines grandeur with emotion to create a compelling viewing experience.
Does the movie explore Mary’s character in depth?
While focusing on key events in Mary’s life, the film delves into her inner struggles and beliefs. Viewers gain insight into her journey and the challenges she faces.
What themes are prominent in “Mary”?
The movie touches on themes of faith, sacrifice, and destiny, weaving them into the narrative to create a rich tapestry of storytelling. These elements add depth to the overall plot.
Are there any standout visual moments in the film?
The movie features visually striking scenes, including the intense rescue of infant Christ amidst chaos. These moments captivate the audience and enhance the cinematic experience.
How does “Mary” compare to other religious films?
“Mary” offers a fresh take on familiar religious narratives, combining elements of drama and spectacle to engage viewers. It stands out for its unique approach to storytelling.
Is the movie suitable for audiences of all ages?
While “Mary” deals with mature themes and intense scenes, it can be enjoyed by viewers of various age groups. Parents may want to consider the content before watching with younger children.
What makes “Mary” a film worth watching?
From powerful performances to gripping storytelling, “Mary” offers an immersive cinematic experience that resonates with audiences. Its blend of emotion and spectacle makes it a compelling watch.
Where can viewers stream “Mary”?
Don’t miss out on the divine journey of Mary—stream the movie on Netflix starting December 6th for an unforgettable viewing experience.