Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

A new Netflix movie titled "Mary" has sparked discussions among Catholic viewers regarding its faithfulness to biblical narratives. Directed by D.J. Caruso and produced by Joel Osteen, the film aims to make the story of Mary accessible to younger audiences. The movie presents a mix of orthodox depictions and creative liberties, drawing from both biblical and extra-biblical traditions.

In an analysis titled "A Catholic Review of Netflix’s Mary: How Biblically Accurate Is It?" available on emmausinstitute.net, various elements of the film are graded for their adherence to Scripture and Catholic theology. The depiction of King Herod received high marks, while portrayals of Gabriel and the Annunciation were less favorably reviewed.

The film raises broader questions about biblical interpretation and the challenges of translating sacred texts into cinematic form. Critics argue that efforts to uncover the 'true story' behind biblical texts can undermine their theological significance.

Despite these concerns, the filmmakers are recognized for their sincere attempt to bring historical religious figures to life on screen. However, critics suggest that in trying to make Mary relatable, the film prioritizes action over fidelity and heroism over faithfulness.

For those interested in a detailed examination of the movie's approach from a Catholic perspective, more information can be found at emmausinstitute.net.