Mary (2024) ending explained: How does Herod react to the messiah's birth?

Modified Dec 06, 2024 19:24 GMT

The film is directed by D. J. Caruso (Image via Netflix)

Netflix's latest film, Mary, tells the stories of some of history's most revered figures in an engaging narrative. D. J. Caruso directed the film from a screenplay by Timothy Michael Hayes, which focuses on Mary's birth and life.

As she overcomes all the difficulties that come along her way since her birth to motherhood, the revered Christian figure ends up in Bethlehem to give birth to Jesus. When the news of the birth of the prophecized messiah in Bethlehem reaches King Herod, he hastily orders Marcellus to kill all male children who are two years old and under in Bethlehem.

The film starring Noa Cohen, Anthony Hopkins, Ido Tako, Stephanie Nur, and Ori Pfeffer in prominent roles is a subtle drama with a few action sequences that keep the viewers hooked till the last frame.

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers for the film. Reader's discretion is advised.

King Herod orders the massacre of the innocents

King Herod, played by the legendary Sir Anthony Hopkins, was the ruler of Judea appointed by the Romans. He was a power-hungry tyrant who would do anything possible, no matter how evil or sinister to keep himself on the throne.

As time passed, his methods became crazier and more desperate. Influenced by his sister Salome, he had his wife Mariamne killed. Later, he publicly blinds the high priest Aristobulus III, who was also his brother-in-law, fearing that the people would appoint him as King of the Jews.

However, despite ruling with an iron fist, his insecurity kept growing. When he heard that the messiah was born in the city of Bethlehem, he ordered his commander, Marcellus, to kill all the male infants in the city. His plan to kill the messiah failed, as Mary and Joseph succeeded in defeating the attackers and keeping their baby safe.

How does Gabriel and Lucifer impact Mary's life?

Both Gabrial and Lucifer significantly impacted the lives of the characters in the film. Gabriel guided the characters to fulfill their destiny, while Lucifer kept trying to stop the birth of Jesus by influencing people's minds through greed, fear, and temptation.

Gabrial first appeared before Joachim and Anna when they desperately prayed for a child. He told them that they would be blessed with a blessed girl. But, in return, they must offer her in the service of God.

As Mary spent her childhood and early adulthood in the temple, Lucifer tried to tempt her out of servitude. On the other hand, when she felt purposeless, Gabriel gave her purpose and told her that she would give birth to a son who would reign over the throne of David. He also guided Joseph toward her which ultimately led to their engagement.

Lucifer unsuccessfully tried to influence Joseph and the common people of Jerusalem to stone Mary to death, as was the law of punishment for any woman pregnant out of wedlock. Later, he tried to take her away, but Joseph put a sword in his chest. However, there are many instances where the characters are unsure about their visions, so what was a hallucination and what actually transpired is up to the viewers to decide.

Mary returned to Jerusalem with Jesus

After the birth of Jesus, Marcellus, by the order of King Herod carries out a massacre in the city of Bethlam, killing and capturing all the male newborn babies.

Marcellus had been keeping an eye on Mary since her presence caused fear in King Herod after he brutalized the high priest Aristobulus III. He even threatened her and others to know about her powers.

He, along with a band of soldiers followed her and Joseph to a house and violently interrogated the residents. Soon, a struggle ensued which resulted in Marcellus burning to death.

After shaking off the soldiers who were chasing them, Mary and Joseph returned with baby Jesus to Jerusalem, the capital of King Herod's kingdom, as Herod had lost the power and influence over people.

Jesus is introduced to the Prophetess Anna, Bava Ben Buta, the priests, and the others at the temple. Bava Ben Buta and others blessed the baby and the last frame showed the image of the Virgin Mother holding her baby. The film ended with the message,