A new film about the mother of Jesus will be released this Christmas by streaming giant 'Netflix'.
'MARY' will reach home screens on 6th December.
The film has already stirred some controversy online - with some alleging that character of Herod has been 'whitewashed', with Anthony Hopkins in the role.
The lead role will be played by Israeli actor Noa Cohen – which itself has drawn backlash.
One X user said: “There is something profoundly offensive about having an Israeli actor play Mary, the mother of Jesus, while Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians, killing some of the oldest Christian communities in the world and erasing their heritage sites.”
There is something profoundly offensive about having an Israeli actor play Mary, the mother of Jesus, while Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians, killing some of the oldest Christian communities in the world and erasing their heritage sites. https://t.co/Vk6O7659Ak
— John P (@Johnpatrick500) November 13, 2024
Megachurch pastor Pastor Joel Osteen worked as an executive producer on the film
Film critic Simon Carver tells Premier that Christians should see Biblical depictions in mainstream media has a positive opportunity to share their faith.
He said: “If you can hold the fact that this is not the Bible, but a depiction, then I think it's okay. It might get people to look at their Bibles and see what the Bible actually says.
“Films like this behove Christians to get involved in conversations. We can show up and talk to people about what they're seeing.”