Key Takeaways
- Dallas Jenkins' 'The Chosen' humanizes biblical figures, connecting with diverse audiences by focusing on their experiences.
- The series achieved success and maintained free distribution through crowdfunding and an 'outsider spirit,' rather than traditional Hollywood models.
- Jenkins' filmmaking journey included past failures, leading to a spiritual surrender that shifted his focus from outcomes to effort.
- Hollywood's attitude towards faith-based content is evolving, showing less open hostility and more interest at the studio level.
- Aspiring creators are advised to prioritize honing their craft and producing high-quality work to stand out in the digital landscape.
Deep Dive
- Dallas Jenkins, creator of 'The Chosen,' addresses the challenge of portraying Jesus, who is often depicted as perfect and distant.
- The show, inspired by 'The West Wing,' focuses on the human perspectives of those around Jesus, such as Mary Magdalene and Simon Peter.
- This approach aims to make Jesus and his contemporaries relatable, fostering a more personal connection for viewers.
- The portrayal, including Jesus's humanity and humor, has drawn both criticism from some viewers and affirmation of historical accuracy from Jewish scholars.
- Jenkins committed to keeping 'The Chosen' free indefinitely, supported by a successful crowdfunding campaign and donations during COVID.
- The series is available on Amazon Prime Video and its dedicated app, requiring no subscriptions or ads.
- This distribution model highlights an 'outsider spirit,' emphasizing freedom, risk-taking, and a lack of artifice in its creation and delivery.
- Andrew Klavan questioned Jenkins' path, noting many creators seek traditional studio avenues.
- Jenkins recounted limited opportunities due to past failures, including a studio project that performed poorly.
- VidAngel (now Angel Studios) suggested a crowdfunding model after seeing a short film, a concept Jenkins initially considered 'ridiculous.'
- The short film resonated deeply with early investors, leading to the show's unexpected success, which Hollywood studios only recognized after its second season.
- Klavan noted historical Hollywood disdain for Christians, citing examples like Mel Gibson's film and critical faith-based productions.
- Jenkins observes Hollywood is opening up, with less hostility towards faith-based projects at the studio level.
- He notes while content can be corporatized, Prime Video has shown a positive relationship and success with 'The Chosen' and other Bible-based content.
- Jenkins' passion for storytelling began in high school, influenced by his father, Jerry Jenkins, author of 'The Left Behind' series.
- After 15-20 years of independent work and varying success, including the film 'The Resurrection of Gavin Stone' (2017) with Blumhouse, he faced disappointment.
- A profound moment of surrender occurred following the film's poor performance, questioning his filmmaking calling.
- A divinely inspired message shifted his focus from results to effort, fundamentally changing his life and creative direction.
- Jenkins highlights the digital landscape's pros and cons: anyone can create, but exceptional quality is necessary to stand out.
- Drawing from Steve Martin, he advises new creators to focus on honing their craft and producing high-quality work over seeking attention.
- For writers, advice includes mastering fundamental skills like grammar, storytelling, and reading widely before pursuing agents or industry connections.
- Success in creative fields, like filmmaking for 'The Chosen,' requires dedication and hard work to make the output undeniable.