Mary 2024

I kept yelling wow at the visuals. For a moment I really thought this was shot by Greig Fraser, but to my surprise it is not. It has that beautiful desert cinematography comparable to Dune Part Two during the desert scenes, that yellowish brownish cinematic aesthetic. In Dune Part Two the desert palette leans heavily into warm ochres, deep ambers, and dusty gold tones. The highlights almost glow, while the shadows still hold texture. It feels epic yet intimate at the same time. Then during the more urban and palace interiors, this film reminded me of Dune Part One. That deep and dark greyish blue look, colder and more metallic. Dune Part One often used desaturated steel blues and charcoal tones inside structures, giving it that solemn, heavy atmosphere. The contrast between the warm desert and the cool interiors creates emotional separation, and I feel like Mary uses a similar language. Warm tones for journey and destiny, cooler tones for power, fear, and control. Ang ganda talaga ng grading. There are parts where Lucifer is shown, similar to what was shown in The Passion of the Christ. Also, the wardrobe, sets, and actors are great here too. Noa Cohen as Mary carries both innocence and quiet strength. Anthony Hopkins as King Herod brings that commanding presence. I can feel his authority and paranoia. The ending is emotional. Albeit not the same production, but for me this is a perfect prequel to The Chosen. Jesus is the King of Kings!