Quartile rating: 6.5/10 · 1 rating
In the first century, free-spirited Mary Magdalene flees the marriage her family has arranged for her, finding refuge and a sense of purpose in a radical new movement led by the charismatic, rabble-rousing preacher named Jesus.
Mary Magdalene offers visually stunning, contemplative cinematography by Robbie Ryan that lends the film genuine beauty and atmosphere. The performances, particularly Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix, are restrained and earnest, elevating the material above its modest script. The plot, however, feels thin and meandering, struggling to sustain dramatic momentum across its runtime despite its ambitious subject. The film's perspective — centering Mary rather than Jesus — offers a modestly fresh angle on familiar biblical narrative, though it doesn't push this perspective as far as it might. The ending, following the crucifixion and aftermath, lands with less emotional impact than the buildup promises, feeling somewhat anticlimactic and abrupt.