Watch A.D.

A.D. is a sweeping historical drama that spans the life of Christ and the early days of Christianity. Set in the first century after the birth of Jesus, the show explores the political and religious landscape of ancient Rome, tracking the rise of Christianity in a world dominated by paganism and the Roman Empire. With a star-studded cast that includes Anthony Andrews, Colleen Dewhurst, Ava Gardner, David Hedison, John Houseman, Richard Kiley, James Mason, John McEnery and Susan Sarandon, just to name a few, A.D. delivers a richly detailed and engrossing account of a pivotal period in human history.

The series begins in the aftermath of Jesus' crucifixion, with the disciples torn between grief and fear for their lives. Despite their doubts and misgivings, Peter (Andrews), John (McEnery) and the others begin to spread the message of Christ, relying on faith and divine guidance to weather the storms of persecution and oppression. Along the way, they encounter a host of characters, from powerful Roman rulers to Jewish zealots, each with their own agenda and motivations.

As the story unfolds, we witness the events that shaped the early Church and the development of its doctrine. We see the Council of Jerusalem, where the issue of Gentile converts is hotly debated, and the emergence of Paul (Quilley) as a key figure in the spread of Christianity. We witness the conflict between the new faith and the entrenched powers of Rome, including the emperor Nero (Kiley) and his brutal persecution of Christians. We also see the role of women in the early Church, including Mary Magdalene (Perkins) and other disciples who played a vital role in the movement.

Throughout the series, A.D. offers a vivid portrayal of life in ancient Rome, from grand palaces to dank dungeons, from glittering chariot races to bloody gladiatorial contests. We see the opulence of the aristocracy, the poverty of the masses, and the harsh realities of life for slaves and other marginalized groups. A.D. also delves into the complex interplay of politics and power in the Roman Empire, from the ruthless machinations of a scheming empress (Gardner) to the struggles of a local governor (Hedison) to maintain his authority in a volatile province.

As the story builds towards its conclusion, A.D. delivers an epic finale that brings together all the threads of the narrative. With powerful performances and stunning visual effects, the series offers a compelling and poignant vision of the origins of Christianity and its enduring legacy. Whether you are a history buff, a religious scholar, or simply a fan of engrossing storytelling, A.D. is a must-see series that has stood the test of time, retaining its power and relevance over thirty years after its initial release.