To say I had reservations about starting to watch The Chosen would be an understatement. As someone who grew up very religious and ran as fast as I could away as soon as I was old enough, revisiting the stories I was raised with wasn’t high on my priority list.

However, due to my parents’ insistence and after some contemplation on my part, I decided to immerse myself in the period drama, The Chosen. This series chronicles the journey of Jesus Christ as he assembles his disciples, performs miracles, and spreads his message of love and repentance. I even had a chance to speak with some cast members about this upcoming season! So, if you haven’t seen those make sure to check them out.

What truly captivated me was the authentic portrayal of these characters. They are far from perfect, being human just like the rest of us. The individuals who wrote the New Testament were simply men – flawed, relatable, and vulnerable. They experience joy, crack jokes, engage in disagreements, struggle to forgive, and even have moments of doubt in their faith.

WHERE THE CHOSEN SEASON 3 LEAVES OFF AND SEASON 4 PICKS UP

In the two-part season 3 finale, we get to see the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Jesus (Jonathan Roumie) must also accompany his disciples in order to prevent riots and the displacement caused by his powerful message. Additionally, he must also attend to Simon Peter, who harbors resentment towards Jesus due to feelings of disappointment. This leads to one of the biggest miracles, Walking on Water. Iconic.

My TLDR review of The Chosen Season 4’s first three episodes is this. The initial trio of episodes in Season 4 do a fantastic job of cultivating an atmosphere of tension, while also skillfully examining the profound impact of grief. This forces us to show our true priorities and illuminate the seemingly trivial matters that inexplicably consume our lives.

THE CHOSEN SEASON 4, EPISODES 1-3

SPOILERS AHEAD

The Chosen season 4 starts with a BANG. We are heading into dark times and the series doesn’t shy away from it. We get a flashback into the travels of Mary, while pregnant, going to visit her also pregnant cousin, Elizabeth. Elizabeth and Zachariah are an elderly couple who miraculously get pregnant with John the Baptist (David Amito). 

Jumping forward to the present day, we see Herodias’ daughter preparing a dance for her stepfather. The flawless execution of this dance holds the key to fulfilling her mother’s wish.  I think we all know where this is headed…no pun intended.

There is also a blend of humor and light throughout the dark episode with Ramah (Yasmine Al-Bustami) and Thomas (Joey Vahedi). The two are still madly in love and going on chaperoned dates with the other disciples. Judas is learning how to do laundry for the first time because Jesus does not tolerate weaponized ignorance.

The ending of the first episode of season 4 of The Chosen masterfully sets the stage for the future events to unfold. The powerful depiction of John the Baptist’s life in a non-linear manner leaves a profound impact, particularly as it approaches the moment of his death.

EPISODE 2

The Chosen season 4, episode 2 is a long one with a runtime of around 90 minutes. This is also where we’re introduced to Reza Diako taking over the role of Philip. Throughout the episode, authorities continue to be pressed about Jesus and his teachings but are unwilling to do anything about it. The Jewish Leadership is trying to evoke Rome, but Rome is also trying to wash their hands of it. So, Quintas is a bomb ready to explode. Brandon Potter’s portrayal of this character is truly exceptional, as his eyes vividly reflect every thought brewing within him.

However, the depth of the episode begins at the very start. The audience is dazzled by a breathtaking aerial shot that showcases Jesus standing atop a hill, engaged in a profound encounter with the spirit of the late John the Baptist. This moment of connection serves as a pivotal turning point, highlighting the increasing burden Jesus carries upon his shoulders as well as the weight of the sacrifices of those who love him.

After Jesus awakens, he finds solace in a heartwarming moment with Andrew (Noah James) as they share an intimate conversation about the tragedy of losing John. Their exchange delves deep into the realm of grief. It’s scenes like this that truly make the writing in The Chosen so special. It’s never perfect, it’s real.

As they approach the treacherous destination known as “the gates of hell,” a sense of fear circulates among the followers. Amidst this atmosphere, Jesus imparts words of wisdom, while also renaming Simon as Peter (Shahar Isaac) and appointing him as their leader. Naturally, this decision brings about some disagreement among the group. Simon Pete is known for his rough demeanor. He and Matthew (Paras Patel) are basically mortal enemies. Now, each of them must embark on a journey of personal growth and seek forgiveness from one another.

This culminates in a powerful encounter between Matthew and Simon Peter. Following their individual conversations with Jesus about the situation, during which they didn’t entirely resonate with His advice, the two manage to reconcile. This results in a heartwarming instance of forgiveness, acceptance, as well as embracing one another.

EPISODE 3

No one was ready for what would happen in season 4, episode 3 of The Chosen. However, in hindsight, I should have seen it coming. This episode also comes with a parental warning about violent images.

The episode begins with a flashback to 980 B.C. where we see King David fasting on the ground begging God to save his son’s life. We mostly learn this information through his Elders who are very concerned for his well-being. God does not answer this prayer, and his son passes away.

Garth Brooks wrote a song about moments like this:

“Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers. Remember when you’re talkin’ to the man upstairs that just because he doesn’t answer doesn’t mean he doesn’t care. Some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswered prayers”

Back in the present day, we find Quintas (Brandon Potter) in his office meticulously calculating taxes. However, frustration sets in as the numbers are in the red. As a result, he sets out to harass his constituents in an unsettling manner, clearly displaying signs of instability. The mounting pressure on him has finally reached its boiling point, culminating in a long-awaited explosive moment.

This tension is beautifully balanced by the more hilarious and human moments throughout. One of my favorites is the “Thunder brothers” sharing with their parents that Jesus gave Simon the new name, Peter. This revelation does not bring joy to anyone. I also continue to love Thomas and Ramah’s chaperoned dates. 

Frustrated by the oppressive rules imposed on him and his disciples, Jesus opts for a rebellious path. Moreover, in a bid to eliminate any possibility of denial, he decides to showcase his extraordinary powers. He encounters a well-known blind man in the town, who has remained sightless since birth and bestows upon him the gift of sight.

Jesus makes the daring decision to preach in the Forbidden Square, despite the opposition from Jewish Leaders and Roman Soldiers. This is where we angry Jesus, my favorite Jesus. One thing the writing of The Chosen does is humanize the son of God. I understand this is controversial, but for me, it makes more sense. He will later go into a temple with a whip and flip tables. No one can convince me that the rebel, known as Jesus Christ didn’t get upset and chastise those who refuse to understand him.

This moment also gives us one of the most controversial statements Jesus made in Matthew 10:34, “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” This conflict is shown perfectly in this scene. Not everyone is Team Jesus.

During this discourse, Quintas is brought in to help break things up. However, in doing so loses his mind trying to find and attack Jesus. Instead, he grabs Thomas who is trying to get Ramah to safety, and kills her. 

The outcome of this moment is going to be devastating. Even though Thomas is begging Jesus to heal her, just like in the flashback, Jesus will not, “it is not her time. I love you, Thomas. He loves you. I’m so sorry.” 

WHAT HAPPENS NOW AND WHERE DO I WATCH?

This finale leaves me with so many questions. What will happen to Quintas? Is this The Chosen’s version of “doubting Thomas”. Where do they go from here? 

The Chosen season 4 is currently only playing in theaters with no information about the Television run. Episodes 1-3 are currently playing. Episodes 4-6 will debut on February 15, followed by episodes 7-8 on February 29.

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Vanessa Benavente and Abe Bueno-Jallad Discuss Season 4 of The Chosen [INTERVIEW]