What if Jesus revealed himself in this present-day world? Messiah is an intriguing new series that attempts to answer that question. Set in the Middle East before moving to America, Mehdi Dehbi plays the 21st century savior Al-Masih, from a Jewish/Muslim background. Living in both worlds currently in conflict, is what attracted me to see how they would handle this tricky situation. Strong characters and a compelling story make for a powerful combination that will keep you coming back for more.

With his dark skin and slight accent, Dehbi makes for an interesting choice as Savior. Not the usual picture of a blond-haired, blue-eyed Jesus seen in typical depictions throughout the Christian world. Claimed by Arab, Israeli and Evangelical Christians his interactions with each group left me absolutely transfixed throughout the entire season. Is he the Shepard foretold to come or a fraud out to deceive those who believe in him? Whether The Son of God, the new age Antichrist or the Muslim Dajjal, Messiah asks as many questions as it answers.

Michelle Monaghan is cast as a CIA agent tasked with finding the answers to those questions as the power and influence of this mystery man continues to grow. Israel sends its own agent into the fray and the two play a cat and mouse game from episode to episode. I binged-watched all 10 in one weekend, and loved every minute of it.

See it while you can

Beautifully shot, with great acting and dialogue, Messiah takes many twists and turns before reaching a powerful conclusion. This is a vivid example of how something like this might actually play out if it happened right now. Messiah is an amazing series, and once you start watching, you won't want to stop. It's the best thing Ive seen all year.

Watch it now while you can as Deadline reports that unfortunately there will be no season 2 due to the effects of the coronavirus and the objections from The Royal Film Commission of Jordan. Sad new that Netflix caved in and I would love to see this picked up by Apple TV+ or another streaming service courageous enough to air this provacative series. What do you think?