Mary Magdalene

Mary Magdalene, directed by Garth Davis and released in 2018, pulls back the curtain on a character that has often been marginalized in biblical narrative into a fully fleshed-out protagonist, Mary of Magdala. This visually stunning and emotionally gripping drama unfolds the story of Mary Magdalene, her transformative journey of faith, and her pivotal role within the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix, arguably two of the most talented actors of their generation, lead an accomplished cast which also includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, effectively working to bring to life this profound and intimate tale of love, courage, and devotion.

Rooney Mara is compelling as the titular character, Mary Magdalene; bringing depth, conviction, and dignity to the character. Her deeply sensitive portrayals take viewers on an emotional journey, and her dignified and compassionate portrayal allows the audience to understand the strength of her faith. We see her transform from societal outcast to devoted follower and confidante of Jesus, offering a new perspective on gender and religion. The film explores not just her importance in religious lore, but her humanity, her dreams, her fears, and her love for Jesus.

Joaquin Phoenix casts a distinctive figure as Jesus. His portrayal is deeply human, highlighting the responsibility and struggle accompanying his spiritual mission. His Jesus is caring, thoughtful, weary, and striven by a sense of duty to people and God. Phoenix, with his raw, genuinely emotional performances, provides a fresh look at the historically significant character. The relationship between Mary and Jesus is beautifully and sensitively portrayed and forms one of the film’s most moving aspects.

Supporting actors like Chiwetel Ejiofor, as the conflicted apostle Peter, provide relevant contributions to the movie. Ejiofor's portrayal perfectly captures the inner struggles rooted in faith that Peter grapples with, brilliantly offering a nuanced perspective on how the apostles might have interpreted and understood their roles within Christ's mission.

Director Garth Davis, known for his work on Lion (2016), once again showcases his distinctive filmmaking style in Mary Magdalene. The movie is replete with stunning cinematography that manages to captivate the audience with the expansive views of ancient middle eastern landscapes. The camerawork, coupled with the immersive sound design and music score by Johann Johannsson and Hildur Guðnadóttir, beautifully complements the narrative's evocative spiritual and emotional elements.

Mary Magdalene’s screenplay, from Helen Edmundson and Philippa Goslett, is elegantly crafted, choosing to paint its characters with a slow, methodical brushstroke, rather than relying on grandeur or spectacle. It presents an ancient world that feels authentic and relatable. The dialogue remains thoughtful and layered, providing viewers with a comfortable space for theological contemplation, as the story unfolds in a way that mirrors the slow, contemplative pace of life during those historical times. It provides a respectful glimpse into the nature of faith and discipleship that widely diverges from mainstream inspirational storytelling.

The film is also noteworthy for its strong feminist undertones. It highlights the struggle of Mary Magdalene to be heard and recognized amidst the male-dominated society of her time. It highlights her bravery and resilience in seeking spiritual fulfillment outside of societal norms, redefining the concept of femininity in the Biblical era. Mara’s performance lends a profound authenticity to this narrative thread, her quiet determination underlining the film’s feminist themes.

Even though it explores historical religious themes, Mary Magdalene remains accessible for all audiences. Regardless of your religious beliefs or understanding of historical Christian theology, the film offers a broader message of faith, love, understanding, and equality that manages to resonate universally.

In conclusion, Mary Magdalene is a refreshing, thoughtful dive into the life of one of Christianity's most misunderstood figures. It provides a new perspective on biblical stories we thought we knew, filled with stunning performances and profound themes. While its contemplative pace may not be everyone's cup of tea, those who appreciate character-driven stories, exquisite cinematography, and powerful performances, will likely find Mary Magdalene a poignant and rewarding cinematic experience. Daring, beautifully shot, and profoundly emotional, it is an examination of faith that touches upon the divine that resides within each of us.