Netflix’s Mary: A Creative Take That Stays Within Catholic Teaching

The Netflix film Mary has sparked a wave of controversy, with some Catholics calling it heretical. But before rushing to conclusions, let’s ask a simple question: Does the film actually contradict Catholic doctrine? The short answer is no. While it takes creative liberties, it stays within the bounds of Church teaching. The uproar seems to stem more from discomfort with artistic interpretation than from any real theological errors.

The Core of Catholic Doctrine

Catholic teaching is clear on several key points about Mary and the Holy Family. Mary is the Mother of God, perpetually a virgin, conceived without sin (Immaculate Conception), and assumed into heaven (Assumption of Mary). Joseph is her chaste spouse, and Christ’s birth was miraculous (Virgin Birth of Jesus). These are foundational truths of the faith, and nothing in Mary challenges or denies them. Instead, the film explores the humanity and relationships of the Holy Family in ways that may feel unfamiliar but are entirely consistent with Church teaching.

Addressing the Criticisms

So, what exactly are the critics upset about? Let’s break down some of the main objections.

1. The Relationship Between Mary and Joseph
Some are concerned about the portrayal of Mary and Joseph as having an emotionally rich and loving relationship. But why would that be problematic? While the Church emphasizes Mary’s perpetual virginity, it doesn’t deny that she and Joseph shared a deep bond of love and respect. In fact, their mutual trust and sacrificial love are part of what makes their story so extraordinary. Highlighting these aspects only enriches our understanding of their faithfulness.

2. Mary Feeling Fear
Critics have also taken issue with Mary being portrayed as afraid during the Annunciation. But Scripture itself tells us this was the case. Luke 1:29 says:

“But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be.”

Far from diminishing Mary’s faith, this reaction underscores her humanity. The power of her “yes” to God’s plan lies precisely in the fact that she overcame her natural fear and trusted Him completely.

3. Joseph’s Doubts
The film also explores Joseph’s initial doubts about Mary’s pregnancy, which some see as problematic. But again, this is straight from Scripture. Matthew 1:19 states:

“And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to send her away quietly.”

This moment of doubt doesn’t tarnish Joseph’s righteousness; it reveals his humanity. His ultimate decision to trust God and take Mary as his wife demonstrates his profound faith and obedience.

4. Christ’s Miraculous Birth
There have been claims that the film downplays or denies the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth. But from what we can tell, there’s no evidence of this. The filmmakers may have chosen a more understated approach to the scene, but that doesn’t mean they denied the miracle. Artistic choices like these often aim to evoke wonder and reflection rather than relying on overly dramatic effects.

Art and Faith: A Long History of Tension

Religious art has always been a source of debate, from Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel to Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. Artistic interpretations can challenge our assumptions and make us think more deeply about familiar stories. That’s part of their purpose. The Church has always encouraged the use of beauty and creativity to express the mysteries of faith.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us:

“Created in the image of God, man also expresses the truth of his relationship with God the Creator by the beauty of his artistic works” (CCC 2501).

This doesn’t mean every work of art will resonate with everyone, but it does suggest that creativity has a legitimate role in helping us encounter the sacred.

What’s Really Behind the Outrage?

The controversy around Mary seems less about defending doctrine and more about discomfort with anything that doesn’t fit a narrow, traditional mold. Some critics seem to expect every portrayal of Mary to match a Renaissance painting. But faith isn’t so fragile that it can’t handle a thoughtful, creative take on familiar stories.

And let’s face it, if a single movie is enough to shake someone’s understanding of Catholic teaching, the problem probably isn’t Netflix.

Should You Watch It?

That’s up to you. If you’re curious, watch it with an open mind. If you’d rather not, that’s fine too. Either way, it’s worth remembering that Mary doesn’t challenge the truths of the faith. Instead, it invites viewers to reflect on the Holy Family’s courage, trust, and humanity in ways that might feel new but are well within the bounds of Church teaching.

At the end of the day, Mary isn’t rewriting doctrine. It’s a creative attempt to honor Mary and Joseph, bringing their story to life for a modern audience. Whether or not it resonates with you, one thing is clear: it doesn’t stray from the faith. The rest? That’s just noise.