Watch The Chosen

The Chosen is a 2016 historical drama film that sheds light on the life and struggles of a Jewish boy growing up in Jerusalem during the first century. Directed by Chris Gabriel and featuring an international cast, the movie offers a fresh perspective on the story of Jesus Christ and his disciples. The film follows the journey of two young men, Judah ben-Hur (Alfonso Herrera) and his best friend, Messala (Antonio Cupo), who are both studying to become rabbis. Despite their different backgrounds, the two are inseparable until Messala leaves for Rome to gain experience in the Roman army.

Years later, Messala returns to Jerusalem as a Roman commander, intent on establishing order in the city. He quickly becomes a ruthless oppressor, treating the Jews as second-class citizens and confiscating their property. Judah tries to intervene, but he is only met with hostility and betrayal from his former friend.

As tensions rise between the Jews and the Romans, Judah finds solace in the teachings of a mysterious rabbi named Jesus Christ (Henry Goodman). He initially approaches Jesus out of curiosity, but he soon comes to see him as a spiritual leader and guide. He becomes one of Jesus' followers, along with a group of other unlikely disciples.

The film weaves together themes of redemption, forgiveness, and faith as it explores the lives of these characters in the midst of political and social turmoil. The Chosen presents a nuanced portrayal of the complex relationships between the Jews and the Romans, showing the cultural and religious differences that underpin their conflicts.

The performances in the film are uniformly strong, with Alfonso Herrera delivering a particularly nuanced performance as Judah. Hannah Murray is also noteworthy as Lillith, a troubled young woman who finds refuge among Jesus' followers. Henry Goodman imbues the role of Jesus with a quiet, contemplative presence that is both compelling and enigmatic.

The production values of The Chosen are impressive, with elaborate sets and costumes that recreate the look and feel of ancient Jerusalem. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing both the grandeur of the city and the intimacy of the characters' struggles.

Overall, The Chosen is a thoughtful and well-crafted film that offers a fresh take on a familiar story. Its themes of redemption and faith are universal, making it a compelling watch for audiences of all backgrounds.