By Andy Hale
In this week’s CBF Podcast Conversation, we had the privilege of sitting down with D.J. Caruso—renowned director, producer, and screenwriter. You may recognize his work from The Shield, I Am Number Four, or Redeeming Love. Now, Caruso is turning heads with his latest film, Mary, streaming on Netflix. Known for his ability to craft captivating narratives, Caruso takes on the nativity story in a way that’s never been done before. From the stunning cinematography to the humanistic portrayal of Mary and her family, Mary is a refreshing departure from the clichés of the Christian film genre. As Caruso delves into the timeless themes of family, faith, and love, he brings to life the cultural and historical complexities of first-century Israel in a way that resonates deeply with modern audiences.
Our conversation explored what drew Caruso to this sacred story, how he ensured authenticity by casting Israeli actors, and his painstaking research into the historical and cultural nuances of the nativity. One of the film’s standout achievements is its ability to humanize the figures surrounding this ancient narrative. Whether it’s Mary’s family challenging religious norms or Herod’s chilling descent into tyranny, the film connects the struggles of the past to the challenges of today. As Caruso says, “Love will cost you dearly. It will pierce your heart. But in the end, love will save the world.” That overarching theme of sacrificial love leaves viewers with a poignant reminder of what truly matters. For Caruso, Mary is more than a film—it’s an invitation to rediscover the timeless power of love and hope.
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Andy Hale is the creator and host of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Podcast. Hale is the Associate Executive Coordinator of CBF North Carolina. He’s also served as CBF’s Church Start Specialist, the founding pastor of Mosaic Church of Clayton, and the senior pastor of University Baptist Church of Baton Rouge. Follow on Twitter @haleandy.