How do you pretend that an episode is an entire movie? Play a lot of vocals at the beginning that does not help move the plot. I had loved the Chosen series, the multi-threaded plot lines, backstories for the characters, a really wholesome experience. You would anticipate that concept taken to a whole new level in a movie version. Instead you get an hour and 15 mins of Gospel singers, lip singing to their own videos and then a 30 mins episode in the TV series. Does not meet the expectation that it created.
71 Reviews
Be forewarned, but still go see it
jlandrasn7 December 2021
I would gladly have paid the money just to watch the episode, but I really wish I had been able to choose to skip the first hour or so.
If you go into this knowing that it's not a movie, but 15 music videos, some promotion, testimony, and then a single episode you will do well.
Just buy the ticket, then grab dinner, then come in halfway through it.
Dallas & team, I'll gladly watch this again in the future, but I did not need the first 90 minutes. Next time, please have the clip first, then let me leave. (Also, I didn't like that all the wide camera angles seemed to center on people's crotches...)
If you go into this knowing that it's not a movie, but 15 music videos, some promotion, testimony, and then a single episode you will do well.
Just buy the ticket, then grab dinner, then come in halfway through it.
Dallas & team, I'll gladly watch this again in the future, but I did not need the first 90 minutes. Next time, please have the clip first, then let me leave. (Also, I didn't like that all the wide camera angles seemed to center on people's crotches...)
An important message to be shared
Mike_Devine24 December 2021
Going into this without any background or familiarity with the series 'The Chosen,' it was hard to know what to expect. Was this going to be two hours of music videos? Was there going to be an extra long episode from the series? Well, it was a little of both.
The musical performances were uplifting. The interviews and confessionals that were interspersed throughout the special were moving. The story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem was raw and emotional. All around, it was a great way to help share an important story with a general audience.
It may be a bit "niche" compared to other Christmas programming out there, but 'The Messengers' is just as worthy of a watch this Christmas season.
The musical performances were uplifting. The interviews and confessionals that were interspersed throughout the special were moving. The story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem was raw and emotional. All around, it was a great way to help share an important story with a general audience.
It may be a bit "niche" compared to other Christmas programming out there, but 'The Messengers' is just as worthy of a watch this Christmas season.
Brilliant
jessagallo3 December 2021
At the time I found out this movie would be in theatre, I was ecstatic, I told my 4 year old I was going to watch a movie that is the true story of Christmas. To my surprise, this "movie" was a cinematic event unlike any other I have seen. The music was stunning and uplifting, the presence of God, I could feel right next to me, the monologs were genius, and each one spoke to my soul and told me I must listen again and again. Then, right when I was starting to wonder if there would be a "movie" the chosen began. Captivating as it always is, the story unfolded in a way I have never seen done before. Humorous, devoted, beautiful, and bringing glory to the birth of Jesus. Then, it ended; and my hunger for more of my saviors story left me upset, upset because I wasn't ready to leave the presence of God. Upset because the production in its entirety brang you right into that amazing moment in time, as if a time capsul spilt out across the screen and I could almost touch the walls of Bethlehem. I wanted more. We all wanted more. As I left the theater, my husband brang me the vision I had been to distracted by my love for the story to see. The entire message of "The messengers" ... WE are the messengers. We are the ones who need to share the truth with the world, the truth that this isn't the end, the truth that if we know Jesus, we are free. Yes, I heard the message while watching the movie... but when my husband said it to me out loud, it made it all clear to me, and the movie in its entirety became brilliant. From wonderful and beautiful. To absolutely brilliant. Its a must see, and I could explain for hours on what this movie truly was and what it meant to me. But simply stated- well done Dallas Jenkins and his amazing team. Thank you for bringing Jesus to the television and thank you for this one of a kind epic cinematic experience. I can not wait to buy the movie and watch it .. probably monthly.
Not what I expected but no regrets
ritaoneal5 December 2021
Just thought it would be more of a movie instead of a worshiping service , and I believe others thought the same. Although I did enjoy it all, music was just a little long for me. I'm thinking since I've seen both seasons. The arriving of Jesus. Along with the fish symbol between the two men , I cried. Some ppl will get others maybe later.
Amazing
mozjen1975-903-4982432 December 2021
Just finished watching the 7pm showing and it was absolutely phenomenal. I went with my youngest who is 12 and he absolutely loved it as well. The music performances were anazing. Most of all it was moving to see the humble beginning of Jesus. Definitely can't wait to watch it again with the rest of my family.
Brings A Touching Story And Music Revolving Around Jesus Christ's Birth
rannynm6 December 2021
Calming, musical and inspiring are just some of the words that describe this new episode of The Chosen series, Christmas with the Chosen: The Messengers. This episode is just in time for the Christmas holiday and brings a touching story and music revolving around Jesus Christ's birth. This special event is the first time The Chosen fans gather across the country and they will not be disappointed.
Christmas with the Chosen: The Messengers is a two-hour Christmas special episode of The Chosen's multi-season series. It shows the birth of Christ through the eyes of Mary and Joseph. It also includes Christmas-themed musical performances by Christian artists and storytelling from the Bible.
The Chosen fans will feel right at home watching some of their favorite actors from the original series. The director of this episode, Dallas Jenkins, is known for faith-based media and put this episode together flawlessly. From the songs to the musicians that perform them and even the accurate storytelling, everything is amazing. The costumes, sets and cinematography make you feel like you are actually witnessing Jesus being born. The music is sensational and helps drive the film. My favorite song is Emmanuel (God with Us Forever) performed by Bryan and Katie Torwalt, because it is delivered beautifully and is soothing, inspiring and heartwarming. Fun fact ... this entire film was recorded in secret and is the perfect Christmas gift for The Chosen's fandom. I think it is pretty amazing that the filmmakers, cast and the staff behind the episode were able to pull off such a huge surprise.
Audiences will enjoy the spiritual Christmas music and Bible stories that are included in this episode and it makes a great addition to a Christian family holiday film collection.
I rate Christmas with the Chosen: The Messengers 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 8 to 18, plus adults.
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST!
Christmas with the Chosen: The Messengers is a two-hour Christmas special episode of The Chosen's multi-season series. It shows the birth of Christ through the eyes of Mary and Joseph. It also includes Christmas-themed musical performances by Christian artists and storytelling from the Bible.
The Chosen fans will feel right at home watching some of their favorite actors from the original series. The director of this episode, Dallas Jenkins, is known for faith-based media and put this episode together flawlessly. From the songs to the musicians that perform them and even the accurate storytelling, everything is amazing. The costumes, sets and cinematography make you feel like you are actually witnessing Jesus being born. The music is sensational and helps drive the film. My favorite song is Emmanuel (God with Us Forever) performed by Bryan and Katie Torwalt, because it is delivered beautifully and is soothing, inspiring and heartwarming. Fun fact ... this entire film was recorded in secret and is the perfect Christmas gift for The Chosen's fandom. I think it is pretty amazing that the filmmakers, cast and the staff behind the episode were able to pull off such a huge surprise.
Audiences will enjoy the spiritual Christmas music and Bible stories that are included in this episode and it makes a great addition to a Christian family holiday film collection.
I rate Christmas with the Chosen: The Messengers 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 8 to 18, plus adults.
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST!
Beautifully portrayed Nativity, a fresh new view of the Christmas story, with a realistic telling of Jesus birth.
vrenfrovanita4 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The musical presentation, wonderful songs and worship, and this beautiful story of the birth of Jesus birth drew you into the event. Without the glamour of Hollywood they echoed the powerful yet simple message of hope and love at a time when we all need it so desperately. People must know. Thanks to Dallas and the Chosen team for another wonderful experience.
Disappointed, but want to support The Chosen
Spiff-226 December 2021
I'm glad to support Christian movies in the theaters, but in this case it was very disappointing. The hour plus of CCM prior to the short episode was too long, and did not have very many well known artists. We asked each other - when is the actual movie going to start?
The short nativity episode was well acted and fits within the Chosen series, but was way too short to be in the theater. My wife and I went to the theater in support of the Chosen financially, and have given $ to support this kind of entertainment, but in this case we expected more.
I'd rather watch the Chosen from home on the TV and be able to FF to the actual episode. We're still looking forward to season 3 whenever that becomes available.
We didn't hate the movie, just felt like it could have been done much better. In this case it was a swing and a miss.
The short nativity episode was well acted and fits within the Chosen series, but was way too short to be in the theater. My wife and I went to the theater in support of the Chosen financially, and have given $ to support this kind of entertainment, but in this case we expected more.
I'd rather watch the Chosen from home on the TV and be able to FF to the actual episode. We're still looking forward to season 3 whenever that becomes available.
We didn't hate the movie, just felt like it could have been done much better. In this case it was a swing and a miss.
Mostly Music
Aunt_Bee4 December 2021
I love "The Chosen" series and wanted to support it by seeing "Christmas with the Chosen" in theaters. I knew there would be special music in addition to the story itself, but hadn't realized the story would only be about 25% of the viewing experience. CCM isn't really my cup of tea, and all the zoomed-in facial emoting didn't help. (The Bonner family, however, was wonderful, as were the children's choir pieces). I wouldn't want to discourage anyone from supporting a good cause or from sending a message to theaters that there is a market for good-quality Christian films like "The Chosen"... but just recognize that most of this film is not actually "The Chosen."
Worshipful Celebration of the season's true meaning!
tepack10 December 2021
Still rating it a 10/10 for the episode even though the music was frustrating...
stargatesam11 December 2021
LOVED THE ACTUAL EPISODE ITSELF. It actually moved me to tears. Some of the absolute best and most powerful scenes and performances possible. Those 30 minutes was worth trying to sit through the rest of this thing. Some honest reviews here nail it. For over an hour to start this construct is nothing but song after song after song after song after song after song after song... bad lip syncing of revival music on the Chosen set. They honestly bought two plants from Peir One and placed them on the set and told the musicians to pretend to sing. One great verbal exposition by the wonderful actress that plays Peter's wife was also in there somewhere. I had no idea going in that this was 75% music. After about an hour I had to get up and walk out. I checked my phone and discovered reviews here that informed me that an actual episode was eventually coming. I'm so glad I did and instead of walking to my car I walked back in. What hit next was beyond WONDERFUL. Like the series, the little nuances and true essence was in every scene. You could feel the Holy Spirit with the actors and the writers. Best Christmas present possible. Worth the 75% check your watch music to get to that 25% pure gold.
Dialogue re the most critical moments in history, fell flat.
debrakwilson2 December 2021
Great in many ways, but extremely weak and unmoving Joseph and Mary dialogue. The most critical moments in history fell flat. What were they thinking. Such talented writers yet this moment was written light years below the high and moving level of the very moving "the shepherd".
All the rest was TERRIFIC, INCREDIBLE, AWESOME and to be seen and cherished by all.
All the rest was TERRIFIC, INCREDIBLE, AWESOME and to be seen and cherished by all.
Deceitful Marketing!
frgfrws4 December 2021
The Chosen Christmas Special was marketed as a special episode in the theaters! In reality it is 1 hour and 25 minutes of Hollywood music video style performances of Christmas songs with a short 30 minute episode that is loosely connected to the Chosen Series, honestly the episode felt rushed and was a overall weak performance.
The 1 Star is for the deceptive marketing. Everyone I have talked to expected a longer episode of the Chosen around the Christmas Story. You get nothing close to that.
The 1 Star is for the deceptive marketing. Everyone I have talked to expected a longer episode of the Chosen around the Christmas Story. You get nothing close to that.
Out of the park!
tessravenhurst3 December 2021
This was the best new Christmas movie I'll see this year! You've knocked it out of the park for certain. Thank you for such a quality program. The music was awesome! So many groups, some I've heard of and a few new ones for me as well.
Absolutely incredible, encouraged in my faith
graceandgiggles13 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Incredible movie. Full of truth, full of real people who really believe what they're talking/singing about. Real words spoken by our Creator, breathed out through the Big Screen; so refreshing!! I couldn't stop crying, especially for the final song "Joyful, Joyful" with everyone singing - a picture of what Heaven will be like. Such a blessing to see people excited about what's Real and True - abundant life in Jesus. Hallelujah!
Encouraged in my faith to know there's others out there who will proclaim the Good News and make the truth known in the ways God has gifted them. 10 out of 10 recommend.
Encouraged in my faith to know there's others out there who will proclaim the Good News and make the truth known in the ways God has gifted them. 10 out of 10 recommend.
Loved it!!
kmmmlayton13 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Those that gave this anything below a 9 or 10 rating obviously did not see the Christmas With the Chosen from last year. If they did they would know that it is mostly music. This was a great program about Jesus Christ, our Savior.
Greater Love by Matthew Layton-- He is our Savior, Lord and King He saved us from eternal suffering Our Savior's love, pure and strong In His arms is where we belong.
When you're out there on your own And you don't know what to do Remember Jesus Christ has been there before He suffered ALL for you!
Greater Love by Matthew Layton-- He is our Savior, Lord and King He saved us from eternal suffering Our Savior's love, pure and strong In His arms is where we belong.
When you're out there on your own And you don't know what to do Remember Jesus Christ has been there before He suffered ALL for you!
Brings the Bible alive
michaeljross-0677214 December 2021
This presentation contained more music than I expected but considering how this show is funded, I think the best choice was made. The new drama is very typical of the previous seasons. The storyline is familiar but is presented in a way that makes the characters seem very human. I find that very valuable in trying to relate to the story.
Exactly as advertised
bmsexton-3836617 December 2021
Beautiful music and a beautiful film! Are some of these bad reviews atheist trolls, because the "Christmas special" was exactly what iDallas said it would be . He dis not promise a full-length feature film. The negative and hypercritical reviews don't sound very Christian with the bad attitudes and actual lies about what was going to be presented hurt "The Chosen TVV show. I am not a huge fan of some contemporary Christian music, but I really enjoyed all of the music in "Christmas with The Chose"-The Messengers, and want to hear more. The Messengers was wonderful as well.
Music or movie?
bwiseman-6509318 December 2021
After about an hour of dialogue interspersed with boring songs I almost walked out. When I read one of the reviews that this show was 2/3 songs and 1/3 episode of The Chosen I decided to stay. The children's choir with strings was delightful.
music videos and commentary with a short story
gnqhzrs7 December 2021
I was hoping to see a movie but saw music videos and commentary for most of the time. Would have liked to see more getting to know Mary and Joseph and then wisemen and shepherds. It felt more like a 2 hour preview to a movie instead. I know we all know the story but if I wanted to bring unbelievers or barely believers so that they can know and feel it this is not the show for them.
Great Job And In Time for Christmas
shelbythuylinh18 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
It is a concert and that over in the telling over in the Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord there birth and in the hardships of Mary and Joseph traveling.
With songs over that are Christian Christmas songs there. Are in the having in the having CCM artists like King and Country and Phil Wickam just to name a few there.
No regrets as well.
With songs over that are Christian Christmas songs there. Are in the having in the having CCM artists like King and Country and Phil Wickam just to name a few there.
No regrets as well.
Wonderful Music Followed by a Short Episode
sparkie0012 December 2021
Roughly 90min of very beautiful and inspiring Christmas music by Christian bands (?) interspersed with moving sermon-like monologs by some members of the groups. Located on the beautiful Utah set. Then a short 35min episode of the travel to Bethlehem and birth of Jesus. Then one final song by the combined musical groups. It was wonderful, but unfortunately left me hoping for a longer episode. I guess the episodes of Seasons 1 and 2 spoiled me. Thank you Dallas and company. Merry Christmas!
What a disappointment!
jeanneodom6 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
You want to support Christian movies but...! Wow. There was about 30 minutes of looped commercial for the Chosen projects. Well ok. I get that BUT then it starts. An hour and half of Christian artists singing not matter how well produced was too much! If you are bringing a non-Christian to this Don't! The tickets were pricey but I get that. But the actual story part was no longer 30 minutes long out of the two hour production. There was no back story. There was little explanation to what was going on as to why there was no room at the Inn. There were no angels, no shepherds, no magi( even though I believe there didn't show up at the stable) and actually no star more of an Aurora borealis! My 12 year old granddaughter who wanted so desperately to see this because she's so hungry for the Word was so confused. There were many other children in attendance. How disappointed they must have been. It was not what I paid for and I felt tricked. I did not pay for a concert. I paid to see the Christmas story.
Music was advertised!
AprilDDJ7 December 2021
Wow negative reviews about the music. This was advertised as musical guests being there. Did you not see the 1st Chosen Christmas Special with music? This was a worship event! Music was great and the story was told from a different and insightful way. See it as soon as you can!
See also
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