This story at a glance…

1. Anthony Hopkins stars as King Herod in the biblical thriller “Mary,” with newcomer Noa Cohen as young Mary.

2. The film follows Mary’s struggles after Jesus’ miraculous conception and Herod’s relentless pursuit to eliminate the child.

3. Rooted in theological research, "Mary" will offer a fresh, humanizing take on this timeless story.

4. With Pastor Joel Osteen supporting the marketing, the film is set to captivate audiences.

“Mary”: The Upcoming Biblical Thriller

Hollywood legend Sir Anthony Hopkins is back on the big screen, this time taking on the role of the infamous King Herod in the new biblical thriller Mary. Joining him is Israeli newcomer Noa Cohen, who will portray the film’s title character, Mary. The movie, which finished filming a few months ago in Morocco, promises to deliver a gripping retelling of the Nativity story with a fresh perspective on some of its most well-known figures.

A Star-Studded Cast in a Timeless Story
Hopkins, known for his roles in The Silence of the Lambs and The Father, brings his signature gravitas to the role of King Herod, a ruler whose paranoia and thirst for power led him down a dark path. As the villain of the story, Herod is obsessed with eliminating any threat to his throne, including the newborn Jesus, leading to a tense and thrilling cat-and-mouse game.

Noa Cohen, a rising star from Israel, steps into the shoes of Mary, the young woman chosen to bring the Son of God into the world. The film explores Mary's journey from her miraculous conception to her life on the run with Joseph and their infant son. Cohen’s portrayal promises to bring a fresh, humanized perspective to the story of Mary, showing her as a real person with fears and hopes, rather than just a distant biblical figure.

The cast is rounded out by a mix of seasoned actors and fresh faces, including Mila Harris as young Mary, Ido Tako as Joseph, and Stephanie Nur as Salome. The ensemble promises to deliver powerful performances that will bring the ancient story to life in a new and compelling way.

Behind the Scenes: A Team of Experts
The film’s screenplay was crafted by Timothy Michael Hayes, who went the extra mile to ensure the story’s authenticity by consulting a wide array of religious leaders and scholars. His goal was to create a script that would resonate with people of all faiths while staying true to the biblical narrative. With such a thorough approach, audiences can expect a story that is both respectful and thought-provoking.

Director Caruso and his team, including Oscar-nominated hair and makeup artist Karen Hartley Thomas and acclaimed production designer James Merifield, have worked tirelessly to create a visually stunning film. From the intricate costumes by Tina Kalivas to the atmospheric cinematography by Gavin Struthers, every detail has been carefully considered to transport viewers back to the time of Christ.

A New Take on a Classic Tale
What sets Mary apart from other biblical films is its focus on the lesser-known aspects of Mary’s life. According to Caruso, the film aims to explore the human side of Mary, portraying her not just as the mother of Jesus but as a young woman facing extraordinary circumstances. This approach is expected to offer a fresh take on the Nativity story, making it more relatable to modern audiences.

Hopkins himself has expressed excitement about the project, noting that at this stage in his career, he’s drawn to complex characters like King Herod. His involvement, along with Cohen’s breakout role, is sure to generate buzz as the film moves toward its release.

Reflection
Mary’s life reminds us that God's plans can often take us down unexpected paths, where even our greatest trials can lead to our greatest blessings. As we journey through our own challenges, may we draw strength from her example, remembering the words of Luke 1:37: "For with God, nothing will be impossible." Let her faith inspire us to persevere, trusting that God's purpose for our lives is always greater than we can imagine.