The Christian series “The Chosen” is performing strongly at the box office during its fifth season, competing effectively with major Hollywood releases. The first part of Season 5, featuring the initial two episodes titled “The Chosen: Last Supper,” has become the series’ most successful theatrical release, earning over $19 million.
Subsequent releases from Season 5 have also seen success. Part 2, encompassing episodes 3 through 5, surpassed the $10 million mark. Part 3, which includes episodes 6 through 8 and was released on April 11, achieved $5.8 million in its opening weekend.
Creator’s Vision for the Last Supper
Dallas Jenkins, the creator, writer, and director, discussed his approach to depicting the Last Supper in Season 5. He emphasized portraying the human element often missed in traditional depictions like famous paintings. Jenkins described the scene as initially involving “13 brothers who were very, very close” grappling with Jesus’s announcement of his departure and struggling to comprehend his important, yet unclear, messages. The goal was to humanize the event and draw viewers emotionally closer to the experience of being in that room.
Character Development and Insights
Actor George Xanthis, who plays John the Apostle, elaborated on his character’s evolution from a “Son of Thunder” to the “beloved disciple.” In Season 5, John becomes more attentive, learning to listen intently, partly influenced by Mary Magdalene. This interaction foreshadows their later roles. Xanthis noted that Jenkins constantly reminded the cast that the disciples did not know the future outcome, a challenge for actors familiar with the Gospel accounts. While John starts to grasp some understanding in Season 5, he doesn’t fully anticipate the imminent events.
Hopes for Viewers
Dallas Jenkins hopes that Season 5 encourages viewers to maintain faith and trust even when faced with confusion, contrasting this with the rejection stemming from misunderstanding shown by Judas and the religious leaders. He highlighted the tendency to reject what isn’t understood and aimed to show the value of following even without complete comprehension.
Paras Patel, portraying Matthew, shared his hope that viewers recognize the recurring theme of “light after darkness.” While acknowledging the season will be difficult due to the unfolding events, he hopes audiences leave with a sense of hope, rejuvenation, and strength.
Success in Faith-Based Productions
“The Chosen” is part of a trend of successful faith-based content. Other notable examples include Angel Studios’ animated film “King of Kings,” which had a strong opening weekend, and the series “House of David,” which topped Prime Video’s charts and garnered significant viewership.
