The Chosen (2017-ongoing) is an AngelStudios production that showcases the Christian gospels. This series explores the mission of Jesus, the wider Roman world, and other figures mentioned in the Bible, mainly through the eyes of the apostle Peter. The director is Dallas Jenkins, with cast members including Jonathan Roumie (Jesus), Shahar Isaac (Simon Peter), Erick Avari (Nicodemus), and Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene).
Uniquely, The Chosen employs crowdfunding as means to run the show, with astounding results. As of 2024, it is the most successful crowdfunded TV series/film project in history–with 17 million USD raised from seasons 1 and 2 alone. The series plans to have 7 seasons, 8 episodes per season, with 4 seasons released so far. In addition to the show, graphic novel and bible study companion books are planned, as well as animated spin offs for the Acts of the Apostles.
The soundtrack, written and orchestrated by Matt Nelson and Dan Haseltine (singer in the Christian alternative folk group Jars of Clay), embodies American western folk music. The production, with some Latter-Day Saint influence, takes up American Protestant western canon. The Chosen takes a detailed approach to costuming and scenery, allowing the viewer to notice personality and social status of the characters through design alone. The series can be praised for having nice pacing and cinematography, as well as extensively building characterization from the original text. While some of the most developed characters are, of course, Simon Peter and his brother, side figures also receive character details that take clear influence from the bible- the infamous fig tree of Bartholomew, for one, and the underground secret society bent on toppling an oppressive regime for another (the Roman world was a wild time).
The Chosen has the advantage of building off prior film depictions of early Christianity–including more women, people of color, disabled and neurodivergent individuals among the cast, which sets it apart from other productions. Additional perspectives are included, such as the viewpoints of Romans, jewish officials of the region, and the other ethnic groups and states that made up 1st century Judea. Valid criticism can still be made about specific characterizations, however. Jesus might be too humanized, and with the main character being Simon Peter, the other apostles don’t get nearly as much spotlight or care.
The portrayal of the Pharisees is more sympathetic than other adaptations. Although season 5 (depicting the crucifixion) has not yet been released, Passion narratives have historically treated Pharisees and Temple Era Judaism poorly, which is a source of wariness for the cautious viewer.
The plot of the show follows the harmonic storyline of all four gospels. While some plot points may have been covered more extensively than others, the show is dedicated to reproducing scenes as they fit into the timeline. Excellent depth is brought to individual stories and individuals, bringing them to life with character arcs of their own. The healing of the invalid at Bethesda, for instance, receives an entire subplot that provides the episode with a political thriller-adventure feel. In addition, The Chosen’s depiction includes great foreshadowing, with frequent references to the Hebrew bible and the political atmosphere of the time, helping to cement for the viewer the context for events as they occur.
While the reception of the show depends on the viewer’s personal views, the overall decisions that went into the show were well-done, with time and effort clearly put in, ensuring that audiences will enjoy this entertaining production. Overall, The Chosen is a show that deserves a high 7/10.
