A.D.

A.D. is an impressive biblical epic series produced by NBC in 1985, featuring an international all-star cast. The talented constellation of actors includes Anthony Andrews, Colleen Dewhurst, Ava Gardner, David Hedison, John Houseman, Richard Kiley, James Mason, John McEnery, Ian McShane, Jennifer O'Neill, Millie Perkins, Denis Quilley, Fernando Rey, Richard Roundtree, Susan Sarandon, Ben Vereen, Jack Warden, Anthony Zerbe, Michael Wilding Jr., and others. The directors of this grand undertaking were Stuart Cooper and Tony Wharmby, while the executive producers were Vincenzo Labella and Anthony Burgess.

Set in the years immediately following the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, A.D., which stands for 'Anno Domini', Latin for 'In the year of our Lord', is a sweeping historical drama that tells the story of the dawn of Christianity, through the lives and events of both biblical and historical figures. The series shines a spotlight on the significant social turbulence and political intrigue following Christ's death, arrestingly depicting the dramatic story of early Christianity and its ruthless opposition by the Roman Empire.

The plot weaves together several storylines, each contributing essential threads to the broader tapestry. It explores the lives of Christ's apostles, the Jewish fight for freedom against Rome, and Roman politics. It provides a fascinating perspective on familiar characters from Christian history, not just as hallowed figures, but as individuals grappling with the widespread chaos and the immense responsibility of spreading Christ's teachings in hostile circumstances.

The casting is a triumph in itself, with each of the acclaimed actors delivering gripping performances that are arrestingly sensitive to the emotional arcs and ideological motives of their historical characters. Anthony Andrews brilliantly portrays the part of the Apostle Simon Peter, showcasing the transformation of a simple-minded fisherman into the bedrock of Christianity. The charismatic Ian McShane impersonates Judas Iscariot with conviction, making his character's notorious treachery more nuanced and complex. Other notable performances include James Mason as Tiberius, Susan Sarandon as Livilla, and Richard Kiley as Pontius Pilate, who each add unique depths to their respective roles.

Another impressive aspect of A.D. is its dedication to effective historical representation. The series executes this through its fantastic set designs, which recreate the biblical era spectacularly, propelling viewers back to the 1st century Roman Judea. The historical accuracy extends to not only the physical settings but also the dramatic events and cultural nuances, engaging and immersing viewers in the raw realities and underlying tensions of that era.

A.D. doesn't shy away from magnifying the intense persecution faced by the early Christians and the resultant underground movement they had to build. It further spotlights socio-political dynamics within the Jewish community and the Roman aristocracy, reflecting the power struggles and manoeuvrings that would significantly affect the development of Christianity. It also deftly evolves the narrative's religious subtexts into prominent themes, revolving around faith, sacrifice, love, forgiveness, and the constant struggle between human fallibility and divine aspirations.

Though a dramatized interpretation, A.D. offers an exciting mix of history and what some may call mythology—the Bible’s narrative. Despite unfolding events framed within a religious context, the series successfully keeps a broad appeal. Non-believers will find the rich and authentic historical canvas, the human relationships, and the political intricacies fascinating, while those of faith will appreciate the respectful treatment of their sacred text.

In conclusion, A.D. is a remarkable mixture of history, religion, drama, and politics, underscored by phenomenal performances from its impressive ensemble cast. This engaging miniseries is less a didactic religious discourse and more a brilliant union of storytelling and historical interpretation that will appeal to a wide range of viewers.