In a documentary that has Jesus in the title, one would expect a string of theologians and historians to weigh in. But this documentary is about Jonathan Roumie's experience in playing Jesus. Consequently, the breadth of this series is actually wider than the title might lead one to believe. In navigating the intersection of faith and fame, Roumie actually interviews several people, mostly musicians (because Roumie's first love might actually be music), who have had to learn how to live out their faith while being famous. Incidentally, Alice Cooper gives the best description of extreme fame during his segment that we should all keep in mind when it comes to celebrity culture.
Along with familiar celebrities, Roumie also speaks with faith leaders like Francis Chan and a missionary working with refugees in France as well as other faith leaders.
Alongside following Roumie's daily life, a sometimes fraught journey to meet the Pope, and an international promotional tour for The Chosen, the crew interviews people whose faith in Jesus has lead them to combat racism, sexism, and human trafficking. In dealing with fame and faith they interview psychologists and health experts, some of whom openly admit to being non-believers, which was a surprise in this production pointed squarely at The Chosen core audience.
The biggest surprise at the end is the video of a story that Roumie tells pretty much any time anyone asks him about how he got the role of Jesus in The Chosen. It is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness, but also illustrates why SAG-AFTRA went on strike partially due to how residuals were paid.
