Netflix is set to release a biblical epic that promises to captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds in winter of 2025. Titled “Mary,” the film takes a fresh perspective on the Nativity story, focusing on Mary of Nazareth, the mother of Jesus Christ. Directed by D.J. Caruso and written by Timothy Michael Hayes, “Mary” is executive produced by Pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church, who hopes to deliver an inspiring tale of faith and endurance to a global audience.

The movie stars two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins as the infamous King Herod, while Israeli actress Noa Cohen portrays Mary, and Ido Tako takes on the role of Joseph. The film follows the holy family’s perilous journey as they flee from Herod, who seeks to eliminate the newborn Jesus to secure his throne. This time, the story is told from Mary’s perspective, offering viewers a deeper insight into her journey as a young woman grappling with an unimaginable calling.

Producer Mary Aloe, a dedicated Christian, calls “Mary” a “labor of love” and believes that its message is especially relevant today. “In this unbuttoned world we live in, the story of Mary is needed more than ever,” she said. Aloe, driven by her faith and her passion for storytelling, expressed a deep desire to make Mary’s story relatable to younger audiences. “I always thought, what if we could make an exciting movie about Mary, her family, Joseph, and Jesus—a survival thriller,” she added.

This film aims to resonate with youth and families around the world in hopes that it will not only entertain but also inspire viewers to explore the Bible. “I hope this movie about Mary inspires people to find out more about the Bible and to learn more on their own,” Aloe said. The film seeks to present Mary as more than just a figure in a divine narrative but as a young woman of faith, navigating her fears and uncertainties with resilience.

Noa Cohen, who stars as Mary, spent months preparing for the role by studying religious texts and meditating on Mary’s humanity. “She was a young woman, likely filled with her fears and uncertainties, suddenly asked to carry an immense responsibility,” Cohen reflected. “I spent a lot of time reflecting on what it must have been like for her as a young girl becoming a woman in the midst of such divine expectations.”

Cohen’s portrayal balances Mary’s vulnerability with her inner strength, showing both her divine role and her humanity. In doing so, the filmmakers hope to connect Mary’s story with people’s everyday lives, making her journey relatable to modern audiences.

Aloe emphasized the team’s dedication to maintaining biblical accuracy and authenticity. The script, which went through 74 drafts, received input from priests, rabbis, theologians, and scholars to ensure respect for its religious roots. The attention to detail extends to the setting as well. The film was shot in Morocco, which provides a realistic backdrop for ancient Judea.

In an era where faith-based films are finding new momentum, “Mary” stands out for its commitment to telling an authentic, heartfelt story. Producer Aloe and executive producer Joel Osteen hope that the film will resonate not only with Christian audiences but with people from all walks of life, offering universal themes of love, sacrifice, and faith.

The film’s release on Netflix ensures it will have a worldwide audience, similar to other recent Christian projects like “The Chosen,” which has become a global sensation. With Netflix’s vast platform, “Mary” has the potential to reach millions of people and spark conversations about faith, love, and the extraordinary journey of Mary and Joseph.

As Cohen said, “I hope that this version of Mary’s story resonates on multiple levels. While it tells a story that is deeply significant to Christianity, it also speaks to universal themes of love, sacrifice, and faith.”