The Chosen
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to The Chosen
The Chosen is a multi-season historical drama television series that offers a fresh and intimate portrayal of the life of Jesus Christ and his disciples. Set in first-century Judea and Galilee, the series delves into the untold stories and backstories of biblical figures, expanding on the Gospels with artistic imagination to depict the human side of Jesus and those who encountered him. It explores the social, political, and religious climate of the time, aiming to make the characters more relatable and the biblical narrative more engaging for a contemporary audience. Targeted primarily at a Christian audience, the show has gained widespread popularity for its high production quality, character development, and unique crowd-funded distribution model. It is generally considered appropriate for families and individuals interested in a dramatized, yet reverent, interpretation of the Gospels. The series seeks to help viewers see Jesus through the eyes of those who knew him, fostering a deeper connection to the biblical story.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The series itself does not depict explicit LGBTQ+ characters or storylines within its narrative. However, controversy arose when a pride flag was seen on set, belonging to an openly gay crew member. Several cast members publicly expressed support for LGBTQ+ individuals and pushed back against critics, while the creator, Dallas Jenkins, affirmed differing beliefs among his crew but maintained the show's theological focus. This has led to discussion and concern within some Christian communities regarding the production's external associations.
Violence
The series contains moderate depictions of violence consistent with its historical setting and biblical narratives, including skirmishes, Roman oppression, and implied conflict. While not overtly graphic or frequent, some episodes feature impactful scenes of physical altercations and death, sometimes accompanied by content warnings.
Romance and Sexual Content
Romantic and sexual content within 'The Chosen' is generally mild, with no explicit sexual acts or graphic nudity. However, the show's narrative, in its portrayal of real-life human struggles, alludes to mature themes such as prostitution, adultery, and implied sexual abuse, particularly in character backstories.
Witchcraft & Occult
The series includes clear depictions of demonic possession, which is a significant element of the biblical accounts of Jesus' ministry. These scenes can be intense and frightening, portraying individuals tormented by spiritual forces before being miraculously delivered by Jesus.
Substance Use
Alcohol consumption, primarily wine, is regularly depicted in 'The Chosen,' consistent with the historical and cultural context of the time. While not glorified, some scenes show characters engaging in heavy drinking as part of their pre-conversion struggles or social gatherings.
Scary & Intense Content
The show contains several moments of scary and intense content, primarily through its depictions of demonic possession and instances of violence. These scenes are designed to convey the gravity of suffering and the power of Jesus' interventions, but they can be emotionally impactful for viewers, particularly children.
Disrespect & Rebellion
The series portrays disrespect and rebellion primarily within the historical context of Roman occupation and the Jewish people's resistance, as well as the initial human flaws and interpersonal conflicts among Jesus's disciples. While the disciples grow in faith, early episodes show their struggles with pride, jealousy, and questioning authority.
Anti-Christian Themes
While 'The Chosen' is overtly Christian in its subject matter and intent, some evangelical Christian reviewers have raised concerns about theological interpretations and production partnerships. These concerns focus on the inclusion of extra-biblical storylines and dialogue, and the involvement of individuals associated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism), which some critics view as having a different theological understanding of Jesus.
Profanity
Profanity in 'The Chosen' is minimal and generally mild, aligning with its target audience and faith-based nature. Strong or aggressive expletives are absent, with occasional uses of less offensive terms that reflect the characters' emotions or the gritty realism of the setting.
The Chosen offers a generally strong Christian worldview, presenting core themes that align closely with biblical values. The series aims to help viewers experience an authentic Jesus and foster a deeper connection to the biblical story by emphasizing universal themes of hope, forgiveness, and personal growth. It portrays a distinctly transcendent worldview, encouraging reflection on life, values, and beliefs, and highlighting the transformative power of the Gospel in individual lives. Characters are depicted with relatable struggles and flaws, yet the narrative consistently shows moral accountability and rewards virtue, demonstrating how divine intervention can lead to profound personal transformation. Redemption is a central theme, with clear elements of forgiveness, grace, and sacrificial love woven throughout the storylines, particularly in the depictions of individual encounters with Jesus. The series carefully handles difficult subjects, such as Mary Magdalene's past, emphasizing her journey to redemption without explicit inappropriate content. Family values are portrayed positively, showing disciples with families and friends who navigate everyday challenges, making the biblical figures more relatable to a modern audience. The show is widely considered family-friendly, promoting wholesome values and fostering faith-based discussions within families. Faith itself is represented respectfully and positively, actively combating secular narratives and inspiring many viewers to engage with the Bible and embrace Christianity. While the series takes artistic liberties in expanding biblical narratives and adding extra-biblical dialogue to enhance character development and storytelling, creators have consulted with diverse theological experts to maintain a biblically informed perspective. Christian parents can approach "The Chosen" as a valuable, generally reverent, and engaging dramatization that largely supports and encourages Christian faith and values, while exercising discernment regarding the creative additions to the biblical text.
Additional Context
Best For Ages
Ages 10+ with parental guidance. While much of the content is suitable for a general audience, some themes and depictions, such as violence, demonic possession, and discussions of mature social issues, warrant parental discretion. Younger children may find certain scenes intense or frightening, and parents may wish to discuss the extra-biblical interpretations and theological concerns raised by some Christian reviewers.
Good to Know
Parents should be aware that 'The Chosen' takes creative liberties in expanding on the biblical narratives to flesh out characters and plotlines. While the creators aim for biblical faithfulness, these additions are interpretive and not direct scripture. Engaging in dialogue with children about the content, distinguishing between biblical text and artistic interpretation, is highly recommended. The series has evolved across seasons, with some content intensifying in later installments, necessitating ongoing parental review.
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