Testament

My husband and I both agree that this is one of the best, if not the best show/movie produced by Angel studios. I really applaud the creators and actors for sticking true to the narrative of the book of Acts (as much as one can when recreating and adding a modern day twist). This show has deepened my perspective and added life to the book of Acts, while doing a phenomenal job of not taking too many creative liberties or diluting the book itself. I also have found myself diving into the scriptures found within Acts, and it has increased my awareness and understanding of how difficult it must have been for the disciples and new believers. All in all, I highly recommend this show!

Seriously though. I also really enjoyed the distopian feel. The world felt real and tangible - mad props to production design, DP, sound and effects! Wardrobe and music too! Honestly, everything came together so we'll in support of the story and the characters. I KNOW this story and yet I was still craving each new episode. Will do whatever for season 2 and beyond to happen.

Last things, this show has been one of the best depictions of Saul of Tarsus as a person for me. I wasn't sure at first, but that's just because actor and director did so well in making me think he was one way in the beginning. I actually do think The Chosen team will do well to review this as reference when they do their version of Acts.

And finally, S1E7 opening. I will watch again, and again, and again. With my tissue box.

Testament brings the narrative of the early gospel movement to life right before your eyes, in a modern context. Not cheesy, but faithful to the sacred text in its message in many ways. It's well done, I anticipate the new releases every week. One of the best things I enjoy is seeing the humanity of those who are heroes of the faith. We see their doubts, their emotions, relational tension between them and with family members. Even the fact that they had family members and lived in a complicated in between world adds to the dynamics. Intensity, joy, surprise, sorrow... you see a full range of emotions and I felt that I could relate to the characters.

I started this series with a skeptical eye but was quickly pulled into the story. I like the blend of old and new settings and costuming. The first 2 episodes required extra attention from the viewer as there are so many characters. But once I knew them all I was totally into the series. I am hoping there will be a second season as there is so much more of this story to tell. This is a true Christian movie that I can recommend to friends who consider themselves unbelievers. Well acted. Well scripted. Well directed.

My family and I have been genuinely surprised by how fantastic the Testament series has been, at least through Season 1. At first, I was hesitant about placing the events of the book of Acts into a modern-day setting, but I was wrong to doubt it. The storytelling is compelling, the performances/acting are strong, and the emotional and spiritual depth is remarkable. I'm surprised this series hasn't gotten more attention, because in many ways, it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with The Chosen. Like that series, Testament is full of powerful, testimony-building moments and affirmations of truth. I'll be recommending it to as many like-minded people as I can.