The initial episode of the fifth series of “The Chosen” portrays the life and times of Jesus Christ as he gathers his apostles and draws in those who are struggling, offering them hope against the oppressive forces of their religious leaders, their ruler, and Roman rule. This visually impressive presentation of biblical events demonstrates how Jesus (Jonathan Roumie) performed miracles—providing food for a crowd, curing illnesses, resurrecting Lazarus—while authorities grew wary as his popularity increased and their own power diminished. The production’s attention to detail evokes the feel of something like “Masada” (1981). While generally sticking close to the original text, the language occasionally feels too straightforward for modern viewers. It treads a delicate line, avoiding excessive fervor while depicting a man who may or may not have been divine and who certainly didn’t receive preferential treatment from his father as he traveled, attempting to spread a more peaceful message and resisting Satan's temptations. However, I felt the acting was the weakest aspect. Dallas Jenkins, at least, has avoided Americanized accents, but that’s about all positive one can say about this underwhelming cast, which somehow manages to dampen some of the most engaging stories ever told. For me, the most enduring lessons from biblical teachings—whether you're religious or not—have always been found in how parables connected with us through relatable human experiences. This adaptation tends toward portraying everything as inherently good, while attributing anything negative to a lack of faith; an uncomfortable situation that this somewhat gentle drama doesn’t really clarify. Perhaps that wasn’t its goal? Devout viewers may appreciate it as a loving depiction, but I had hoped for more emphasis on the political climate, beliefs, and doctrines that this man sought to change, and I didn't feel I received enough of that. There is, naturally, an unavoidable sense of what will happen in the story, but this could have used the time to forge its own path instead of simply providing a television movie for believers.

Source on TMDB