Testament

Never imagined that a show like this could exist but here we are. I've always loved movies and shows with themes of political rebellion and survival set in a dystopian future. It reminds me of The Divergent Series or The Hunger Games but adding in the familiarity of scripture. The way the writers reimagined the book of acts felt completely fresh to me and I never felt bored or that it was predictable even though I have read the book that inspired it. It challenged my assumptions about what it must have been like on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit fell upon the church. It also challenged my assumptions about who these early Christians were as people and how they related to each other. The acting is also excellent. Well done to the creators. I'm truly looking forward to each episode.

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.

This is such a cool way to present bible stories. First of all it is entertaining and captures my attention. It's really enjoyable. Secondly, it has caused me to see Peter, Saul and the other apostles in a different light. I am learning differently and it is inspiring. I find the stories more relatable to my life.

I can watch this with my family, we all love it and we have had great conversations about the gospel. Highly recommend.

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.

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!