Welcome to another spotlight feature from our ‘What To Watch On Netflix‘ series, where we dive into the streaming giant’s library and bring you the lowdown on shows worth hitting the play button for. Today, we’re delving taking you back to a series you may have missed into the enigmatic and provocative series “Messiah,” which debuted on Netflix in 2020. Created by Michael Petroni, “Messiah” challenges viewers with its complex narrative on faith, politics, and the modern world’s reaction to a figure who might be a divine entity or a masterful con artist.
Plot
“Messiah” is a show that spans across geopolitical borders with a narrative that is as much a thriller as it is a dramatic exploration of spirituality and human nature. The series starts with the appearance of a mysterious man in the Middle East, who quickly garners international attention for his actions and the miracles he appears to perform. Known as Al-Masih, this enigmatic figure becomes the centre of a global movement, leaving many to wonder if he is the second coming of Christ or a deceptive false prophet.
As the story unfolds, a CIA officer, played with a compelling mix of scepticism and curiosity, is tasked with uncovering the truth behind this man’s identity. The show takes viewers on a winding journey through various perspectives, including those of the believers, the doubters, and the power players of the world, all while maintaining a tight grip on its central mystery.
Cast
The cast of “Messiah” is led by Mehdi Dehbi, who delivers a mesmerising performance as Al-Masih, capturing the charisma and ambiguity necessary for such a pivotal role. Michelle Monaghan is the tenacious CIA officer Eva Geller, whose investigation into Al-Masih’s origins and intentions drives much of the narrative. The international ensemble also includes Tomer Sisley, John Ortiz, and Melinda Page Hamilton, among others.
Reviews
Upon its release, “Messiah” garnered a range of reactions from audiences and critics alike, reflected in its scores on major review aggregators. On IMDb, the series holds a rating that speaks to the show’s ability to engage and intrigue its viewers scoring 7.9/10. While on Rotten Tomatoes, the show has a score that suggests a more divided opinion among critics and audiences. Critics weren’t keen on the polarising series scoring 45% on the Tomatoemeter. However, audiences were far more impressed with the series generating an 88% audience score, making it one of Netlfix’s most successful original series.
Trailer
Series Details
- Year: 2020
- Seasons: 1
- Episodes: 10
- Run Time: Approx 7h
“Messiah” is a series that, regardless of the mixed critical reception, offers a lot to ponder. It’s a show that doesn’t shy away from asking big questions about faith, truth, and the nature of belief in a world that is increasingly interconnected yet divided. For viewers looking for a series that combines elements of international intrigue with a thought-provoking examination of contemporary issues, “Messiah” is certainly a show to watch on Netflix.
Messiah Season 2 Release Date
Despite rating success, Messiah hasn’t been renewed for season two and was cancelled after one season.