Joseph & Mary

In the earliest scenes of JOSEPH & MARY, the wise Joseph (Kevin Sorbo) and gentle Mary (Lara Jean Chorostecki), along with their trusted friend Rabbi Elijah (Stephen McCarthy) -- a character new to the traditional story -- have come to Jerusalem to be counted in the census. They are joyful when the baby Jesus is born in a stable and the Star of Bethlehem guides the three magi to the baby's side. But their happiness is short-lived when Herod, Rome's emissary to Israel, receives news that the prophecy of the Torah may be realized: It is said that the Messiah has been born. Fearful of losing power, Herod orders his men, with the cunning Tiberius in charge, to rid Israel of all male children under two. Joseph, Mary, and the infant escape the country. However, the world of Rabbi Elijah and Rebekah, the woman he loves, is shattered when Tiberius slays her two small children and her father. In the wake of such savagery, Rebekah is bent on vengeance. When it is once again safe, Joseph, Mary, and Jesus return to Nazareth where Jesus grows into a strong and thoughtful boy. Elijah and Rebekah, now married, have held fast to their desire for revenge. Unfortunately, Roman rule still oppresses the Israelites, exacting heavy taxes and menacing the citizenry. When Jesus is 12 years old and beginning to exhibit some of the wondrous qualities that will mark his life, he again becomes the target of the Roman emissaries. Joseph and Mary, along with Elijah, must ward off the threat, saving Rebekah's soul as well.