Messiah

Some people are going to give zero because of their religious believes and some people are going to give 10 because they don't like those religious people. So just watch it by yourself and don't look at the reviews.

As an ordained clergyperson myself, religion movies are often hard to watch because they get so many things wrong or treat subjects with an overly simplistic take. The writers of Messiah have not only crafted a well-written, compelling story with interesting characters and terrific acting, they've included real substance and authentic representation of religion.

The religious characters--Muslim, Christian, Jewish--are sympathetically presented with dignity and complexity. The religious texts and varying theologies are sensitively handled and respectfully addressed. Nor are religions presented in stereotypical ways: for example, Islam does believe that Jesus will return to herald in the end times, something not often known outside of Islam. But here, in Messiah, it is Muslims who first begin to follow al-Masih, believing him to be Isa (Jesus) returned.

At no point did I hear a character say something about a religious idea or do something in the guise of religion that was outlandish or the usual Hollywood version. The writers of this show clearly know what they're talking about and should be commended for that.

Further, the geopolitical, cultural, economic, and other issues are addressed in thoughtful ways that are not dumbed-down or simplified. They even manage to take on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in thoughtful ways.

In addition to all of that, the story is gripping and keeps you guessing all the way through. As one who believes that authentic faith requires embracing uncertainty and doubt, in many ways, this representation of lots of different people struggling to figure out whether al-Masih is the messiah or a charlatan was pitch perfect.

I loved this show. I had no intention of watching it, liking it, but kind of fell into it. From the very start I was captivated. By the superb writing; the great acting. I loved that many of the principals were not well known. And I have to say that Avi, and especially the Messiah were awesome. It has to be very daunting to cast these roles. The Messiah was utterly believable, mesmerizing. In the episodes there were so many iconic scenes and lines. I had to binge watch the whole show; good thing I was off work for the day. I am still reeling from it. That is why my review is so scattered. The warring religions, the nations, the tribes and races were all handled with insight and respect. This is not a show about a cause, or a point of view. It is about the arrogance of humanity, and maybe about a reckoning to come. I'd like to add a few points. I thought his speech early on ( I think Episode 2) on the steps in Jerusalem was very powerful. "History has ended"; and "no more bargaining with God; that day has passed; step forward and it will begin". There are other quotes by him. Matter of fact I wonder who wrote much of that dialogue. Also it there was a point made through out the series of young people, children in key places. Jibril and Rebecca with the eyes of the world upon them in Epi. 9. Neither one sure of what they were going to say, and both transcending. But everywhere you look in the show you see young replacing, needing to replace old. The era of old white men, and their running order must end. I don't say this as an opinion. It is stated as fact. And re. a Season 2 - yes of course, one wants to see more of this high caliber of writing and acting. But do we need things wrapped in a bow, Hollywood style? Are we that shallow? This tale has been told. Part of the narrative is just this - that we don't know, can't know. It is a call to action. That we are the actors of Season 2.

I found this series brilliant! It has great characters, plenty of action and excitement, and gets you thinking. In today's age of political correctness, it's sad to see so many people get all worked up about the subject matter. If you are easily offended over any little thing, just save yourself the trouble and skip it. Otherwise, I highly recommend watching this series!

I normally don't like to use captions, but you will need them for about half the time through this series, and it didn't bother me at all! It's a very intriguing series that makes you want to know "what's going to happen next". Makes you think and is very entertaining. If you need a series to get away and enjoy, I would recommend you give it try.