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Posts Tagged ‘Noah James’

And Now We Wait For The Light Of Day

Posted in Faith, General Comments, Movie Review, Movies, Reviews, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 4, 2026| Leave a Comment »

“The Chosen:  Season 5” (2025) — TV series / movie review
Today’s (2nd) review is for the historical / faith‑based drama “The Chosen:  Season 5”.  This is the latest in the projected seven part series about Jesus of Nazareth and his followers.  The last two series are due out in late 2026 and sometime in 2027.  The series was created and directed by Dallas Jenkins.  It stars Jonathan Roumie as Jesus of Nazareth, now walking knowingly toward betrayal and death;  Shahar Isaac as Simon Peter, the impulsive fisherman whose loyalty and fear collide as events accelerate;  Elizabeth Tabish as Mary Magdalene, steady and compassionate as she tries to hold the group together and save Jesus; Paras Patel as Matthew, still meticulous and socially awkward, now racing to record what he knows are the final days of Jesus’ ministry;  Noah James as Andrew, increasingly anxious as danger closes in;  George H. Xanthis as John, the apostle whose quiet observations hint at the Gospel he will one day write;  Abe Bueno‑Jallad as Big James, one of the “sons of thunder” and part of Jesus’ inner circle;  Erick Avari as Nicodemus, the respected Pharisee whose private faith and public fear finally collide;  Shaan Sharma as Rabbi Shmuel, the Pharisee whose opposition to Jesus hardens into obsession;  Nick Shakoour as Zebedee, the father of Big James and John, now supporting the ministry through his sales of anointing oils;  Joey Vahedi as Thomas, the apostle whose grief over Ramah and conflict with her parents continues and deepens;  Yasmine Al‑Bustami as Ramah (in memory and flashback), whose death continues to haunt the group;  Catherine Lidstone as Mary of Bethany and Sophia Cameron Blum as Martha, the sisters of Lazarus who provide refuge and emotional grounding in Bethany;  Demetrios Troy as Lazarus, whose friendship with Jesus adds weight to the gathering storm;  Austin Reed Alleman as Nathanael, the architect‑turned‑disciple whose quiet faith steadies the group;  Alaa Safi as Simon Z., the former Zealot trying to reconcile violence with discipleship;  Luke Dimyan as Judas Iscariot, whose personal ambition sharpens into the choice that will define his name in history;  Ivan Jasso as Rabbi Yussif, the Pharisee whose conflicted conscience keeps him watching from the edges;  Amber Shana Williams as Tamar, whose loyalty and courage continue to shape the women’s ministry;  and Elijah Alexander as Atticus Aemilius Pulcher, the Roman investigator who seeks to protect Rome at all costs.
Background:  This is my first viewing of Season 5.  I watched Seasons 1 through 3 several years ago (and binged them recently) and Season 4 a few days ago.  Season 5, titled “The Last Supper”, is available for free on “The Chosen” website, and since I’ve already invested this much time in the series, there was never any question I’d continue.  LoL.  (I will be purchasing a copy of season 5 when the price drops.)  Released in 2025, Season 5 marks another tonal shift:  the ministry is no longer expanding;  it is narrowing, tightening, and funneling toward a single night and a single decision.  Season 5 focuses on the final days before the crucifixion:  the growing tension in Jerusalem, the Passover preparations, the Last Supper, Gethsemane, and the arrest.  The series continues as an Apostle / disciple character‑driven approach to the telling of the New Testament, and (IMHO) it still works as effective Biblical‑based fiction.  Historically, the series remains significant as the first multi‑season dramatization of the life of Jesus, funded largely outside traditional studio systems and distributed globally through streaming, apps, and word of mouth.
Plot:  Season 5 picks up shortly after the events of Season 4, with Jesus and the disciples entering Jerusalem under the shadow of an approaching Passover feast (on what would come to be known as“Palm Sunday”) and the rising hostility of both religious and Roman authorities.  The disciples struggle to reconcile the adoring crowds with the increasingly explicit warnings Jesus gives about his impending suffering and death.  Judas begins moving in two worlds at once:  outwardly loyal, inwardly increasingly entangled with those who want Jesus killed.  Matthew continues to write, sensing urgency in every conversation.  Peter wrestles with the fear that he will not be equal to what is coming.  Mary Magdalene and the other women prepare for Passover while trying to keep the group from splintering under pressure.  The season builds (via episodic interludes) toward the Last Supper itself:  the washing of the feet, the institution of the Eucharist (barely veiled in the dialogue), the prediction of betrayal and denial, and the walk to and prayer in Gethsemane.  The final episode focuses on Jesus’ prayer in the garden, the disciples’ failure to stay awake, and Judas’ betrayal with a kiss.
So, is this season any good?  How’s the acting?  The filming / FX?  Any problems?  And, did I enjoy the season?  Short answers:  Yes;  strong to very strong;  simple, dark, and effective;  a few;  yes, but with reservations.
Any good?  Yes.  Season 5 continues the series’ steady progression from early ministry to the brink of the “Passion“.  The show leans into the personal cost of discipleship and the emotional contradiction of believing in a Messiah who insists on walking into suffering (and death).  The pacing is deliberate, the tone is heavy, and the season feels like a continuation of what has come before.  The series remains not melodramatic, but thoughtful and moving, especially in the quieter scenes around the table and in the garden.
Acting:  Roumie continues to give a steady performance as Jesus, but here His warmth is layered with visible weariness, resigned acceptance and a very human fear of the suffering He will endure.  Tabish brings quiet strength and grief to Mary Magdalene.  Dimyan’s Judas is the season’s most confusing and arguably least successful arc:  he is neither a mustache‑twirling villain nor a misunderstood hero, but a man whose compromises slowly become a choice he can no longer undo.  Allen’s Pilate is more prominent, and his scenes with Alexander’s Atticus add a layer of political calculation and slight humor.  The ensemble continues to evolve, and by this point in the series, the familiarity of the cast actually deepens the impact of their reactions.
Filming / FX:  The cinematography remains grounded:  natural light, textured sets, and outdoor locations that feel historically plausible.  Much of the season is set in dim interiors (upper rooms, courtyards, the garden at night) and the use of shadow and lamplight fits the staged material.  The triumphal entry into Jerusalem is handled with restraint, focusing on faces rather than spectacle.  The Last Supper is filmed with an almost claustrophobic intimacy, emphasizing glances, hands, and small gestures.  The arrest in Gethsemane is simply done.  The production continues to be strong, and the filming choices support the emotional weight of the story.
Problems:  A few.  As has happened in each of the previous seasons, the pacing continues to feel slow in places as the Biblical / Apostle personal “stories” are fleshed out (made up).  Some viewers may find the expanded backstories around Judas, Pilate, and the Pharisees too speculative.  I continue to be (increasingly) one of them.  The series again takes significant creative liberties with chronology, character backstories, and dialogue, which may bother viewers expecting a more literal Biblical retelling.  None of these issues spoil the season or the series, but they are noticeable.  Also, if you’re not familiar with the biblical background, some events (dramatizations of conversations and side plots) may feel real when they are not (because they ARE made up whole‑cloth).  Example:  My understanding is the “force-Jesus’-hand” theory behind Judas’ actions / betrayal is a recent (20th century) invention / explanation with NO direct basis in scripture.  Two of the Gospels indicate Judas may have had a spiritual weakness which “Satan” took advantage of, but (again) there is no definitive Gospel statement this was THE reason.  The “main” reason which I was taught as a child was greed, but in his regret for his actions, Judas returns the 30 pieces of silver, so this also seems an unlikely “simple” motivation.  Bottom line:  we don’t know the “why”…
Did I enjoy the season?  Yes, but differently than earlier seasons.  Season 5 is emotionally rich, well‑acted, and thoughtfully constructed, but it is also increasingly heavy — intentionally so.  The character development continues strong, the emotional beats mostly land, and the season continues the series’ steady build toward the crucifixion and resurrection to come.  This is not a fast‑paced season;  it is a contemplative one, especially if you have invested in the characters from Seasons 1 through 4.  At this point, I certainly have…  The Last Supper, the foot‑washing, and Gethsemane have always been among my favorite New Testament moments, and here they are handled with respect and a fair amount of emotional punch.  Still, I found myself slightly less moved than I expected in a few key scenes, and I don’t know if that’s the writing, the familiarity of the story, or just me.
Final Recommendation:  Strong to very strong recommendation.  “The Chosen:  Season 5” continues the series’ Apostle‑driven approach to the New Testament with emotional depth, grounded cinematography, and strong performances.  It offers a thoughtful, accessible portrayal of Jesus’ ministry, gathering of his Apostles and final days before the crucifixion.  Rated TV‑PG, it is suitable for most audiences and worth watching for its emotional honesty, character arcs, and the steady build toward the larger story to come (Crucifixion and Resurrection) in future seasons.  A repeated caution / note:  this series is almost pure fiction / dramatization hung on the bones / framework of the New Testament.  The vast majority of the character background(s) and dialogue are completely made up for dramatization / entertainment, and many of the occurrences are not in the order described in the New Testament.
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Click here (4 April) to see the posts of prior years.  I started this blog in late 2009.  Daily posting began in late January 2011.  Not all of the days in the early years (2009-2010) will have posts.

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What You Do Today Will Determine Your Future

Posted in General Comments, Movie Review, Movies, Reviews, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 2, 2026| Leave a Comment »

“The Chosen:  Season 4” (2024) — TV series / movie review
Today’s (2nd) film (TV Series) review is for the historical / faith-based drama “The Chosen:  Season 4“, created and directed by Dallas Jenkins and starring Jonathan Roumie as Jesus of Nazareth, whose calm authority now carries a sharper, more urgent edge as opposition closes in and he sees his death approaching;  Shahar Isaac as Simon Peter, still learning to lead;  Elizabeth Tabish as Mary Magdalene, increasingly aware of the dangers surrounding the group;  Paras Patel as Matthew, still meticulous and socially awkward, but more confident in his role as a witness / scribe;  Noah James as Andrew, torn by uncertainty from Thomas’s loss of his fiance;  Yasmine Al-Bustami as Ramah, Thomas’ fiance until her sudden death;  Luke Dimyan as Judas, who becomes a thief and who starts down his path of betrayal;  Brandon Potter as Quintus, who’s role in Ramah’s death leads to demotion;  Elijah Alexander as Atticus Aemilius Pulcher, the Roman investigator whose curiosity sharpens into concern;  Kirk B. R. Woller as Gaius, the Roman Centurion who’s son / slave is cured / healed by Jesus;  Andrew James Allen as Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect whose political instincts sharpen as Jesus’ reputation grows;  Demetrios Troy as Lazarus, whose friendship with Jesus becomes a focal point of a public miracle;  Sophia Blum as Martha (one of Lazarus’ sisters), practical, protective, and increasingly aware of the political storm gathering around her family;  Stella Velon as Mary of Bethany, (second of Lazarus’ sisters) whose quiet devotion and emotional openness add depth to the season’s escalating tension (she washes / anoints Jesus’ feet);  Shaan Sharma as Rabbi Shmuel, whose theological certainty waivers and then sharply hardens into opposition to Jesus;  and Alaa Safi as Rabbi Yanni, who is increasingly alert to the political and religious threat the Pharisees represent to Jesus’ and His ministry.  The season’s emotional weight comes from how each character confronts the cost of following Jesus as events accelerate toward conflict.
Background:  This is my first viewing of Season 4.  I watched Seasons 1 through 3 when I first noticed them (online) and then bought the collection when it dropped down to near my price point.  I’ve re-watched the first three seasons over the last few days and now I’m finally getting to Season 4 (reviews 1, 2, and 3).  Released in 2024, Season 4 marks another tonal shift in the series:  the ministry is expanding, the opposition is gathering, and the disciples are beginning to understand that following Jesus will cost them far more than they expected.  Season 4 focuses on the rising conflicts between Jesus’ teachings and both Roman and religious authorities.  It also deepens the fictional personal struggles of the disciples as the story moves closer to the events Christians will recognize as the “Passion“.  The series continues as an Apostle / disciple character-driven approach to the telling of the New Testament, and (IMHO) it continues to work as effective Biblical based fiction.
Plot:  Season 4 picks up after the events of Season 3, with Jesus’ followers trying to understand what comes next as the crowds grow and the opposition (some personal, some religious) grows.  The group begins traveling more widely, encountering both eager supporters and increasingly hostile religious authorities.  Thomas continues to struggle with grief, and his emotional arc becomes one of the season’s anchors.  Matthew grows more confident in his role as scribe, even as he slowly becomes less socially awkward.  Judas’ ambition and greed take on a darker shade (and we know the “ending”), making his scenes particularly tense.  Roman officials and Pharisees intensify their scrutiny of Jesus and His followers.  The season builds toward several major events:  the death of Ramah, growing public confrontations, the rising tension in Jerusalem, and the disciples’ increasing fear and confusion as Jesus’ path becomes clearer and more obviously dangerous.  The final episodes focus on the emotional and spiritual weight of what is coming, and on Jesus’ insistence that faith is not merely belief, but trust even when the cost becomes painfully real, personal and physical.
So, is this season any good?  How’s the acting?  The filming / FX?  Any problems?  And, did I enjoy the season?  Short answers:  Yes;  strong across the board;  simple but effective;  a few;  yes.
Any good?  Yes.  Season 4 continues the series’ steady progression from walking on water to the “Palm Sunday” entrance to Jerusalem.  The show leans into the personal cost of discipleship.  The pacing is steady, the tone is serious, and the season feels like a natural continuation of the story.  The series continues as not melodramatic, but thoughtful and surprisingly moving.
Acting:  Roumie continues to give a warm, steady performance as Jesus, but with more intensity as the stakes rise.  Isaac’s Simon Peter carries much of the season’s emotional load, and his scenes remain some of the strongest in the series.  Patel remains excellent as Matthew, and Tabish brings quiet strength to Mary Magdalene.  Alexander’s Atticus remains an interesting presence, and the continued development of Pilate adds a mix of humor, menace and background Roman politics.  Dimyan’s Judas is particularly effective as the tension around his character grows.  The ensemble continues to feel natural.
Filming / FX:  The cinematography remains grounded:  natural light, textured sets, and outdoor locations that feel historically plausible.  The show mostly avoids flashy CGI, relying instead on practical effects and careful staging.  The production design continues to be strong, and the filming choices support the emotional weight of the story.
Problems:  A few.  Because each season allows roughly eight hours for the season, the pacing continues to feel slow in places as the Biblical / Apostle personal “stories” are fleshed out (made up).  Some viewers may find the dramatized subplots too speculative.  I am starting to be one of them.  Judas’ arc is curious because we (I) know the ending which has me watching for clues to explain / justify his betrayal in later series.  And again, (as always,) the series takes significant creative liberties with chronology, character backstories, and dialogue, which may bother viewers expecting a more literal Biblical retelling.  None of these issues spoil the season or the series.  Also, if you’re not familiar with the biblical background, some events (dramatizations of conversations) may feel like they come out of nowhere (because they ARE made up whole-cloth).
Did I enjoy the season?  Yes, but less than prior seasons 1 through 3.  Season 4 is again emotionally rich, well-acted, and thoughtfully constructed, but it struck me as darker than prior seasons.  The character development continues strong, the emotional beats (mostly) land, and the season continues the series’ steady build toward the larger events to come.  This is not a fast-paced season, but it is an interesting one, especially if you have invested in the characters from Seasons 1 through 3.  At this point, I certainly have…  Three of my favorite stories from the New Testament are:  the foot bathing / anointing, the raising of Lazarus from the dead, and the healing of the Centurion’s “slave” / child;  yet, for some reason, the only one I was particularly stuck by was the healing.  The other two were good (powerful) scenes, but for some (whatever) reason, they didn’t strike me with the same emotional impact as some of the important moments from the earlier seasons.  …And I don’t know why they didn’t.
Final Recommendation:  Low strong recommendation. “The Chosen:  Season 4” continues the series’ Apostle-driven approach to the New Testament with emotional depth, grounded cinematography, and strong performances.  It remains historically significant as part of a global, crowd-funded project that has reached millions, and it offers a thoughtful, accessible portrayal of Jesus’ ministry as it moves toward the events of the Passion and Resurrection.  Rated TV-PG, it is suitable for most audiences and worth watching for its emotional honesty, character arcs, and the steady build towards the larger story to come (Crucifixion and Resurrection) in future series.  A repeated caution / note:  this series is almost pure fiction / dramatization hung on the bones / framework of the New Testament.  The vast majority of the character background(s) and dialogue are completely made up for dramatization / entertainment.
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Click here (2 April) to see the posts of prior years.  I started this blog in late 2009.  Daily posting began in late January 2011.  Not all of the days in the early years (2009-2010) will have posts.

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Sometimes God Sends A Dove

Posted in General Comments, Movie Review, Movies, Reviews, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 31, 2026| Leave a Comment »

“The Chosen:  Season 3” (2022 – 23) — TV series / movie review
Today’s 2nd review is for the historical / faith-based drama “The Chosen:  Season 3“, created and directed by Dallas Jenkins and starring Jonathan Roumie as Jesus, whose calm authority begins to take on a sharper edge as His ministry expands;  Shahar Isaac as Simon Peter, wrestling with pride, responsibility, and a marriage strained by his calling;  Elizabeth Tabish as Mary Magdalene, steadier now but still learning how to live in grace;  Yasmine Al-Bustami as Ramah, the former winemaker’s daughter whose growing confidence and affection for Thomas deepens her role in the group;  Amber Shana Williams as Tamar, the bold and resourceful follower whose loyalty to Mary and the others gives the season several strong moments;  Lara Silva as Eden, Simon Peter’s wife, whose emotional arc becomes one of the season’s most affecting;  Paras Patel as Matthew, continuing his slow transformation from isolated tax collector to trusted disciple;  Noah James as Andrew, torn between loyalty to his brother and the growing demands of the mission;  Alaa Safi as Simon the Zealot, struggling to reconcile his past violence with his new purpose;  Jordan Walker Ross as Little James, the sole apostle with a physical disability (in the series, but not in the New Testament);  Luke Dimyan as Judas, whose ambition / actions we interpret because we (I) know where the Bible takes his character;  Brandon Potter as Quintus, increasingly irritated by Jesus’ influence;  Elijah Alexander as Atticus Aemilius Pulcher, a Roman undercover security officer, watching the growing religious movement with a mix of suspicion and fascination;  Kirk B. R. Woller, as Gaius, a Roman soldier who starts as Matthew’s bodyguard then ends up as the Centurion who believes in Jesus;  Andrew James Allen as Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect whose political instincts sharpen as Jesus’ reputation grows;  and Sarah Bartholomew as Claudia Procula, Pilate’s wife, whose quiet warnings and uneasy intuition add tension to the Roman story line.  The ensemble continues to fit the material naturally, and the season’s emotional weight comes from how each character confronts the cost of following Jesus.
Background:  This is my second viewing of Season 3.  I watched it when it originally released online and again now as part of my re-watch of Seasons 1-3 before starting Season 4.  Released in late 2022-early 2023, Season 3 marks a tonal shift in the series:  the ministry is growing, the opposition is sharpening, and the disciples are beginning to understand that following Jesus will cost them more than they expected.  Historically, the series remains significant as the first multi-season dramatization of the life of Jesus, funded largely outside traditional studio systems and distributed globally through streaming, apps, and word of mouth.  Season 3 focuses on the continuing conflicts between Jesus’ teachings and both Roman and religious authorities.  It also deepens the fictional personal struggles of the disciples.  It is a Apostle / disciple character-driven approach to the telling of the New Testament, and (IMHO) it continues to work as effective Biblical based fiction.
Plot:  Season 3 picks up after the Sermon on the Mount, with Jesus’ followers trying to understand what comes next.  The disciples begin traveling more widely, performing tasks in pairs, and encountering both eager crowds and growing hostility.  Simon Peter and Eden face a painful marital crisis that becomes one of the season’s emotional anchors. Matthew reconciles with his parents.  Little James confronts the tension between his physical disability and Jesus’ decision not to heal him.  Judas’ ambition and charm begin to take on a darker shade (and we know the “ending”).  Meanwhile, Roman officials and Pharisees intensify their scrutiny of both Jesus and his followers.  Quintus grows increasingly frustrated with Jesus’ influence, and Atticus watches with a calculating eye.  The season builds toward two major events:  the feeding of the five thousand and the walking on water, both dramatized with emotional weight rather than spectacle – although the walking on water scene is pretty visually dramatic / spectacular (IMHO) in its depiction.  The final episodes focus on the disciples’ exhaustion, fear, and confusion, and on Jesus’ insistence that faith is not merely belief, but trust even while in the middle of the storm.
So, is this season any good?  How’s the acting?  The filming / FX?  Any problems?  And, did I enjoy the season?  Short answers:  Yes;  strong across the board;  simple but effective;  a few;  yes.
Any good?  Yes.  Season 3 is the strongest entry in the series (so far, anyway) because it leans into the personal cost of discipleship.  The show continues to take its time with character moments:  arguments, doubts, small acts of kindness.  Those moments give weight to the larger Biblical events.  The pacing is steady, the emotional beats land, and the season feels like a natural progression from Seasons 1 and 2.  The series continues as not flashy, but thoughtful and surprisingly moving.
Acting:  Roumie continues to give a warm, steady performance as Jesus, but with more intensity (and slightly shorter temper) as the stakes rise.  Isaac’s Simon Peter carries much of the season’s emotional load, and his scenes with Lara Silva (Eden) are some of the strongest in the series.  Patel remains excellent as Matthew and Tabish brings quiet strength to Mary Magdalene.  Alexander’s Atticus remains an interesting presence and the introduction of Pilate provides a mix of humor, menace and background Roman politics.  The ensemble continues to feel natural – particularly highlighted with the playing at the beach scene.
Filming / FX:  The cinematography remains grounded:  natural light, textured sets, and outdoor locations that feel historically plausible.  The show mostly avoids flashy CGI, relying instead on practical effects and careful staging.  The feeding of the five thousand is handled with restraint, focusing on reactions rather than spectacle.  The walking-on-water sequence is simple but effective, emphasizing emotion over visual effects.
Problems:  A few.  Because each season allows roughly eight hours for the season, the pacing continues  to feel slow in places as the Biblical / Apostle personal “stories” are fleshed out (made up).  Some viewers may find the dramatized subplots (particularly Simon and Eden’s marital arc) too speculative.  Judas’ arc is curious because we (I) know the ending which has me looking for clues to explain / justify his betrayal in later series.   And again, (as always,) the series takes significant creative liberties with chronology, character backstories, and dialogue, which may bother viewers expecting a more literal Biblical retelling.  None of these issues spoil the season or the series.  Also, if you’re not familiar with the biblical background, some events (dramatizations of conversations) may feel like they come out of nowhere (cause they ARE made up whole-cloth).
Did I enjoy the season?  Yes.  Season 3 is emotionally rich, well-acted, and thoughtfully constructed.  The character development is strong, the miracles are handled with restraint, and the final episodes deliver some of the series’ most memorable moments.  It is not a fast-paced season, but it is a rewarding one, especially if you have invested in the characters from Seasons 1 and 2.  At this point, I certainly have…
Final Recommendation:  Strong recommendation. “The Chosen:  Season 3” continues the series’ character-driven approach with emotional depth, grounded cinematography, and strong performances.  It is historically significant as part of a global, crowd-funded project that has reached millions, and it offers a thoughtful, accessible portrayal of Jesus’ early ministry.  Rated TV-PG, it is suitable for most audiences and worth watching for its emotional honesty, its character arcs, and its steady build toward the larger conflicts to come.  A repeated caution / note:  I failed to emphasize in my review of Season 1, but note in my review of Season 2, that this series is almost pure fiction / dramatization hung on the bones / framework of the New Testament.  The vast majority of the character background(s) and dialogue are completely made up for dramatization / entertainment.  Also, many of the occurrences are not in the order described in the New Testament.
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Click here (29 March) to see the posts of prior years.  I started this blog in late 2009.  Daily posting began in late January 2011.  Not all of the days in the early years (2009-2010) will have posts.

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Can You Start Today?

Posted in General Comments, Movie Review, Movies, Reviews, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 29, 2026| Leave a Comment »

“The Chosen:  Season 2” (2021) — TV series / movie review
Today’s (2nd) review is for the historical / faith-based drama “The Chosen:  Season 2”, created and directed by Dallas Jenkins and starring Jonathan Roumie as Jesus, the calm, steady center of the growing group whose teachings and miracles begin drawing attention far beyond Galilee;  Shahar Isaac as Simon Peter, the impulsive fisherman still learning how to balance faith, family, and leadership;  Paras Patel as Matthew, the former tax collector whose meticulous nature and social awkwardness make him both an outsider and an essential witness;  Elizabeth Tabish as Mary Magdalene, struggling with her past and her sense of belonging;  Noah James as Andrew, Peter’s quieter brother who tries to keep the peace;  Abe Martell as Big James and Jordan Walker Ross as Little James, both dealing with their own expectations of what following Jesus should look like;  Alaa Safi as Simon the Zealot, a former assassin trying to redirect his zeal from violence to discipleship;  Luke Dimyan as Judas, the newest disciple who wants to make his name famous;  Brandon Potter as Quintus, the Roman official whose irritation with Jesus grows as the crowds increase;  Elijah Alexander as Atticus, the Roman investigator who watches Jesus with a mix of curiosity and concern;  and Shaan Sharma and Ivan Jasso as Shmuel and Yanni, the Pharisees whose determination to expose (and eventually arrest) Jesus adds to the rising tension.  The ensemble fits the material naturally, and the season’s emotional weight comes from how each character tries to understand what following Jesus actually means — not just in belief, but in daily life.
Background:  This is my second viewing of this season.  I watched Seasons 1 through 3 when 3 originally came out (on the Angel.com website) and then bought the collection when it dropped down to near my price point.  I’ve decided to re-visit the first three seasons before watching number four (which I’ve just bought).  Released in 2021, Season 2 continued the show’s unusual path as a crowd-funded project that grew into a global phenomenon.  While not part of the Academy Awards world, the series is historically significant in its own way:  it’s the first multi-season dramatic portrayal of the life of Jesus, and it has reached a massive international audience through streaming, apps, and word of mouth.  The season focuses on the early ministry of Jesus:  teachings, healings, and the growing tension with both Roman authorities and religious leaders.  It’s also notable for its character-driven approach, giving time to the disciples’ doubts, conflicts, and personal histories rather than rushing through familiar Bible stories.
Plot:  Season 2 picks up shortly after the events of Season 1, with the disciples beginning to travel with Jesus as His ministry expands.  The group struggles with internal disagreements, old resentments, and the practical realities of following a teacher who attracts crowds wherever He goes.  Matthew tries to reconcile with the others, who still resent his past as a tax collector.  Mary Magdalene faces a crisis of faith and briefly returns to old habits before being brought back with compassion.  The disciples encounter new followers, skeptics, and people seeking healing — including the memorable scene of the man lowered through the roof.  Meanwhile, Roman officials and Pharisees begin to take more notice of Jesus’ growing influence.  The season builds toward the Sermon on the Mount, showing the preparation, tension, and emotional stakes behind one of the most famous teachings in history.  The final episodes focus on how the disciples help organize the crowd, how Jesus shapes His message, and how each person reacts to the responsibility of being part of something they barely understand.
So, is this movie any good?  How’s the acting?  The filming / FX?  Any problems?  And, did I enjoy the film?  Short answers:  Yes; grounded and sincere;  simple and effective;  a few;  yes.
Any good?  Yes.  Season 2 is a thoughtful continuation of the story begun in Season 1.  It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t try to be. The strength of the show is in the character moments — small conversations, doubts, and personal struggles that make the disciples feel like real people instead of icons.  The pacing is steady, and the emotional beats land because the show takes its time building relationships.  The season works as a human story first and a religious one second, which is probably why it resonates with so many viewers.
Acting:  Roumie continues to give a warm, steady performance as Jesus:  approachable, calm, and quietly authoritative.  Isaac and James work well together as Peter and Andrew, showing the tension between responsibility and uncertainty.  Patel remains one of the standouts as Matthew:  awkward, literal, and deeply sincere.  Tabish carries the emotional weight of Mary Magdalene’s arc, and her scenes are some of the strongest in the season.  The supporting cast is solid, and even the smaller roles feel lived-in.  Nobody overacts, which is important for this kind of material.
Filming / FX:  The filming is simple and functional, which fits the tone.  Natural light, outdoor settings, and practical locations give the show a grounded feel.  The costumes and sets look believable without being overly polished.  There are no special effects to speak of, just clean, steady camera work that supports the story.  The music is understated and fits the mood without drawing attention to itself.
Problems:  A few.  Because the season allows roughly eight hours for the season, the pacing can feel slow in places as the Biblical “stories” are fleshed out (made up).  Some scenes linger a bit too long on conversations that don’t seem to move the story forward.  Mary Magdalene’s relapse arc, while emotionally strong, may feel abrupt / unnecessary to some viewers.  And because the show tries to balance so many characters, a few disciples still feel underdeveloped.  None of these issues ruin the season, but they’re noticeable.  Also, if you’re not familiar with the biblical background, some events (dramatizations) may feel like they come out of nowhere (cause they are made up whole-cloth).
Did I enjoy the film?  Yes.  It’s a warm, steady season that focuses on people rather than spectacle.  I appreciated the character development, the quieter moments, and the way the show portrays doubt and growth.  It’s not a fast-paced series, but it’s an engaging one.  The Sermon on the Mount sequence is particularly well done, and the final episodes bring the season together in a satisfying way.  It’s the kind of show that rewards patience and attention.
Final Recommendation:  Strong recommendation.  “The Chosen:  Season 2” is significant for its character-driven approach to a familiar story and for its impact as a global, crowd-funded series.  It’s worth watching for the performances, the thoughtful writing, and the way it humanizes Jesus Christ and the early disciples.  Rated TV-PG, it’s suitable for most audiences and offers a grounded, accessible portrayal of the early ministry.  Watch it for the character arcs, the emotional honesty, and the build-up to the Sermon on the Mount (some of the season’s best moments).  A couple of notes:  1)  the season ends at the start of the Sermon on the Mount. Much of it is recited during Jesus’ preparations, but the actual Sermon is not shown in this season.  2)  I failed to emphasize in my review of Season 1, that this series is almost pure fiction / dramatization hung on the bones / framework of the New Testament.  The vast majority of the character background(s) and dialogue are completely made up for dramatization / entertainment. Also, many of the occurances are not in the order described in the New Testament.
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Click here (29 March) to see the posts of prior years.  I started this blog in late 2009.  Daily posting began in late January 2011.  Not all of the days in the early years (2009-2010) will have posts.

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“The Chosen:  Season 1” (2019) — movie (TV series) review
Today’s (2nd) review is for season one of the (mostly) on-line historical / religious drama “The Chosen:  Season 1”, starring Jonathan Roumie as Jesus of Nazareth, portrayed with a calm, grounded presence that anchors the series;  Shahar Isaac as Simon Peter, the impulsive fisherman drowning in debt and pride;  Noah James as Andrew, Simon’s loyal but anxious brother;  Elizabeth Tabish as Mary Magdalene, whose early episodes give the season its emotional core;  Paras Patel as Matthew, the socially isolated tax collector whose analytical mind can’t reconcile what he’s witnessing;  Erick Avari as Nicodemus, the respected Pharisee whose certainty begins to crack;  Lara Silva as Eden, Simon Peter’s wife, whose frustration, loyalty, and quiet strength give the domestic stakes real weight;  Brandon Potter as Quintus, the ambitious Roman prefect whose pressure drives much of Simon’s desperation;  and Kirk B.R. Woller as Gaius, the Roman centurion assigned to Matthew, whose wary professionalism slowly shades into something more complicated.  The supporting cast fills out the world of first-century Galilee with families, merchants, and the occasional miracle-seeker.  The season builds slowly, letting the characters breathe / grow before their lives intersect with Jesus in meaningful ways.  There are eight episodes in season one and they run between 30 and 60 minutes, so watching / re-watching is a substantial “investment” of time.
Background:  This is my second full viewing of Season 1.  A few years ago, I heard about the series on-line (YouTube) and the first three seasons were available in a “pack” near my price point.  I’d seen a few (shorts) spots, and was sold, so I went “slightly” over my regular price limit.  LoL.  Because I’d not done a review of the three seasons and because the fourth season just fell to my price point, I’ve decided to re-visit the first three seasons before watching number four.  Released in 2019, the series became something of a phenomenon, funded outside the traditional studio system and gaining a large following.  Historically, the series is significant because it tries to tell the story of Jesus by focusing on the people around Him (their daily struggles, their doubts, their debts, their families) instead of starting with the miracles.  It’s a character-driven approach, and it works better than I expected.  It is a multi-faith project with advisors from Protestant, Roman Catholic and Jewish faiths and is produced by Mormon production company (although they don’t “appear” to have any other input).
Plot:  The season follows several story lines that slowly converge.  Mary Magdalene is introduced at her lowest point, she is depicted as a prostitute tormented (possessed) by “demons” and isolated, until a quiet encounter with Jesus forever alters her life.  Simon Peter is scrambling to escape crushing tax debt, making questionable deals with the Romans and dragging Andrew along with him.  Matthew, who seems to be autistic, is the tax collector for the Romans, watches events unfold with growing confusion.  Nicodemus (who at first attempts to exorcise Mary Magdalene’s “demons”) investigates a strange incident (Jesus cures Mary) in the Red Quarter and begins to suspect something extraordinary is happening.  As the season progresses, Jesus calls His first disciples, performs several early miracles (including the healing of a leper, the paralytic lowered through the roof, and the wedding at Cana), and begins teaching publicly.  The season ends with His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well — a quiet, powerful moment that sets the stage for what comes next.
So, is this series any good?  How’s the acting?  The filming / FX?  Any problems?  And, did I enjoy the season?  Short answers:  Yes;  very good;  atmospheric and effective;  a few;  yes.
Any good?  Yes.  Season 1 is one of the better dramatizations I’ve ever seen of this material because it doesn’t feel rushed.  It takes its time building the world (the Roman occupation, the religious tensions, the economic pressures) and it tries to establish the characters as real people instead of icons.  The show is at its best when it focuses on the small moments:  a shared meal, a quiet conversation, a moment of doubt.  The restraint works surprisingly well.
Acting:  Roumie gives a warm, steady performance as Jesus: approachable without losing the sense of mystery.  Isaac’s Simon is impulsive, proud, and often unlikeable, which makes his eventual calling feel earned.  Tabish’s Mary is the emotional anchor of the early episodes, and her transformation is handled with care.  Patel’s Matthew is one of the season’s most distinctive choices:  socially awkward, brilliant, and painfully aware of his isolation. Avari’s Nicodemus provides the season’s most poignant arc, especially in the later episodes.  Although Roumie and Matthew are (IMHO) near perfect in their roles, I was continually drawn to Potter and Woller portraying the two Romans most involved in dealing with Jesus (before they even know it).  The ensemble fits the material naturally.
Filming / FX:  The cinematography is warm and earthy, with natural light and textured sets that make the world feel lived-in and historically appropriate.  The show uses muted colors, candlelit interiors, and wide outdoor shots to create a sense of place.  The music blends Middle Eastern influences with modern tones.  There are no flashy special effects, but the miracles are handled with a quiet confidence that suits the story.
Problems:  A few.  The series is a dramatization, not a literal Biblical-following re-enactment.  The pacing may feel slow to some viewers, particularly in the early episodes.  The show occasionally leans into modern phrasing that may distract religious purists.  And because the season focuses so heavily on character development, some biblical events are delayed or re-ordered, which may bother viewers expecting a more traditional chronology.  None of these issues break the season / series.
Did I enjoy the season?  Yes!  I found it thoughtful, well-acted, and surprisingly (repeatedly) moving.  The character-first approach works, and the emotional beats land without feeling forced.  It’s not a “perfect” Biblical re-telling (as if there could ever be one), but it’s a compelling one — and I’m looking forward to continuing with Seasons 2 through 4.  LoL.
Final Recommendation:  Strong recommendation.  “The Chosen:  Season 1” is a well-crafted, character-driven retelling of familiar Christian stories, with strong performances, grounded cinematography, and a steady emotional core.  It’s worth watching if you enjoy historical dramas, religious stories, or ensemble character pieces.  Rated TV-PG, it’s suitable for most audiences and offers a fresh perspective on material that is often handled too reverently or too stiffly.  I’ll continue the series and review the next seasons as I get to them.  I currently own streaming rights to four of the five released seasons.  I have to wait for Season 5 to fall to my price point and since it’s titled: “The Last Supper“, I guess there will be at least one more season after that.  LoL.  (I just looked it up on-line and there are seven planned seasons, so I guess they’ll be the crucifixion and the resurrection.)
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Click here (28 March) to see the posts of prior years.  I started this blog in late 2009.  Daily posting began in late January 2011.  Not all of the days in the early years (2009-2010) will have posts.

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