Lightwise

Lightwise #013 | The Challenges of Portraying Evil with Actor Elijah Alexander of "The Chosen"
#thechosen #angelstudios #evil
The story is there’s a difference between flawed, imperfect people and evil people. But is that a difference of degree or kind? And how do you tell stories that portray evil convincingly and in a way that doesn’t turn off audiences? Today, we discuss “The Challenges of Portraying Evil.”
Elijah Alexander is an American film and TV actor who has been in the business for nearly 30 years. He stars in the role of Atticus, a secret agent for Caesar, in “The Chosen”-Angel Studios’ hit show about the life of Jesus Christ.
Check out "The Chosen" on the Angel app and go see "Sound of Freedom" still playing in select theaters.
Go to angel.com for more information. www.angel.com/watch
Follow Lightwise on all the socials!
Facebook: Lightwise Podcast
Instagram: @lightwisepodcast
Twitter: @lightwisepod
TikTok: @lightwisepodcast
KZread: @LightwisePodcast
Download the Angel app on your phone or streaming device and begin watching the content that inspires the podcast. You can also watch the Lightwise podcast at angel.com/lightwise.

Пікірлер: 54

  • @grannyjane30060
    @grannyjane300605 ай бұрын

    I do not see his part in The Chosen as evil. I see him as a soldier of the Empire that he has sworn to uphold. He is often humorous at times.

  • @lonnievaughn5202

    @lonnievaughn5202

    4 ай бұрын

    Absolutely best interviewing and response. Bravo to both of you for your great communication skill set and complete content that is so open for discussion and highly detailed experts in each of your craft.

  • @James-dv3dl

    @James-dv3dl

    Ай бұрын

    I don't see him as evil either

  • @natecloe8535

    @natecloe8535

    28 күн бұрын

    And hes warned disciples of coming problems for they and Jesus. He also fefends them to Quintus numerous times. Ive seen him as a potential Nicodemus all along. I knew Gaius would come around but only because of how hard the focus on him was beforehand. Plus hes as biblically as popularas as the women at the well, or the unclean woman who touches his garment in the crowd, or the paralytic on the roof. Quintus and Atticus are in the bible very VERY briefly and Im not sure they are even named to us in the Bible. Just as roman soldiers. I was suprised at just how many show characters are actually in the gospels. Dallas did a fantastic job of including EVERYTHING from the biblical accounts as a framework and building the added drama AROUND that truth instead of changing it. He DOES move the timeline around but its irrelevant because its in flashbacks or flash forwards so it doesnt mess with the source timeline. The man created a FANTASTIC show. My favorite for sure, and one that stands against any popular show ever. You could sit a Walking Dead or Game of Thrones viewer down and tell them to watch. Any that are completely biblically ignorant would still like the writing and score and characters. And anyone biblically knowledgeable will enjoy how well the stories are portrayed as well as fall in love with characters we mostly only know the names of. And for all its a fantastic evangelism tool. Ive seen reaction channels do this show and the questions that are answered for them are HUGE. From episode 1. When Jesus quotes Jacob back to Mary Magdela and says "you are mine" The calling of her to follow him in other words. That scene is THE MOST powerful scene Ive seen in ANYTHING EVER. And the rest of the miracles and "follow me's" are equally as fantastic. Plus..........the humor in it is always unexpectedly good. But it shows even more humanity in Jesus which are the best parts. You cant help but laugh as Jesus makes light of Andrews dancing or Peter's temper, or cry when you see his sadness as they demonstrate him in silence in a crowd. Its usually obvious he is quietly saying goodbye to the world and those he loves. While trying to find how to tell them the happy ending comes after an extremely heartbreaking plot twist. But the ending is SO WORTH IT.

  • @GinzaGeorge
    @GinzaGeorge2 күн бұрын

    Exquisite interview. Both guest and host were on the same bandwidth which made the listening intent and rich. Elijah is a deeply empathetic and responsible actor willing to plumb unseen possible depths to convey his story to his audience that just by being onscreen he adds potential wealth to the director. Without the help of this interviewer it would not have been this beautiful and nuanced. Thank you.

  • @NVRAMboi
    @NVRAMboi5 ай бұрын

    Thank you Elijah. Atticus is one of the more compelling characters on 'The Chosen'. He's a mysterious person. He has his sworn duty to Rome, and yet he's realistic enough to be cynical about aspects of Roman rule and Roman procedures. He continues to be curious about Jesus (and his followers) beyond his Roman assignment. After he witnessed the sermon on the mount, I began to believe that he was internally changed by what he'd seen and heard. And yet, there's always that sly 'Atticus smile" which hides everything and betrays nothing about the man. God bless you Elijah, and continued success for you in all of your endeavors.

  • @origamibutturfli9179

    @origamibutturfli9179

    2 ай бұрын

    I'm almost convinced Atticus is Satan.

  • @CBA-kc9rc
    @CBA-kc9rc6 ай бұрын

    I so wish Elijah would establish his own teaching channel. He's an absolutely awesome teacher. Thank you for this interview. Be blessed.

  • @invitationtoserenity-RNcoach
    @invitationtoserenity-RNcoach5 ай бұрын

    Fantastic Interview. Deep intelligent conversation and commentary by both Mary and Elijah. I've become a huge fan of Elijah Alexander from both his characterization of Atticus in the Chosen and the many recent interviews he's been doing. He is always interesting & provides deep perspectives on spirituality, humanity & art. And love every scene Elijah is in on the Chosen. The entire cast of the Chosen is absolutely outstanding but he & Jonathan Roumie's performances particularly draw you in.

  • @MrsSLFlores
    @MrsSLFlores8 ай бұрын

    This man is amazing! His psychology is sound for story telling. Elija is a precious man. Blessed and beautiful.

  • @bjher1
    @bjher19 ай бұрын

    I enjoyed this discussion with Elijah Alexander (love his name btw) and how thoughtfully he answered the questions. I got a little hint, though, that Atticus' attitude regarding Jesus may be changing. Oh, I hope so! I would love to see this character become a follower of Jesus! I see he is an excellent actor, which is another kudo to the Chosen for their continuing rise to excellence in all areas of the show! ❤

  • @PC-CPPC

    @PC-CPPC

    9 ай бұрын

    I see this happening as well. Atticus seems to be jaded with the lower Roman bureaucracy and that they’re not handling things. But he also knows what he is seeing. He’s not seen anything like that before, and Atticus has seen it all. I can’t wait to see what’s next for him.

  • @charlottewalker6490

    @charlottewalker6490

    8 ай бұрын

    I agree.

  • @michellemullins7802
    @michellemullins78029 ай бұрын

    Fantastic interview! He has such a fascinating take on the world. I could listen to him for days, weeks, months, years on about any topic ❤😊prayers for his family in 🇮🇱!

  • @LightwisePodcast

    @LightwisePodcast

    9 ай бұрын

    Really a great and thoughtful person.

  • @marilan3455
    @marilan34558 ай бұрын

    This was absolutely wonderful interview on so many levels! Elijah is so passionate, animated and complex. I love his outlook on life and the human condition. He has a very deep understanding of what makes people become who they are and why they behave the way they do. This is a truly worthwhile interview and I congratulate and thank both the interviewer and Elijah for bring it forth!

  • @doompod
    @doompod5 ай бұрын

    His character and acting is incredible!

  • @dagmarcamargo393
    @dagmarcamargo3932 ай бұрын

    He is doing his job to the Cesar. But even then there is curiosity, after everything he saw. After knowing a little of the person Ellijah, I admire him still more.

  • @lucystephanieproperties
    @lucystephanieproperties8 ай бұрын

    One of the best actors in the series! Love seeing him in all the scenes he's in. ❤ This interview is really good. Good job Mary.

  • @elisabethlohr4120
    @elisabethlohr41205 ай бұрын

    This was an Amazing interview Mary. I stumbled on this channel & am so glad I did! Mr. Alexander is a true Gem. So very thoughtful, insightful & such a truly gift to be part of the Chosen family. Thank you for saying “Yes” to portray the part of Atticus. Brilliantly done.

  • @jimwinchester339
    @jimwinchester3398 ай бұрын

    I'm nothing short of ecstatic about 'Atticus': both the character [kudos to the writers] and the acting by John Alexander. Totally cool; totally savvy; totally deserving to have the unique job that he does in Christ-era Palestine.

  • @KatieCatWalker
    @KatieCatWalker3 ай бұрын

    He plays one of my favorite characters on Thw Chosen. I don't see him as evil, he's there on a mission and he seems to be turning towards christ.

  • @missmaggie5509
    @missmaggie55093 ай бұрын

    I love the character of Atticus.

  • @jenniferc.4819
    @jenniferc.48199 ай бұрын

    I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this conversation!! I'm not surprised, though. Elijah is always so thoughtful in his responses. God bless him for his riveting and nuanced portrayal of Atticus in The Chosen. He keeps us on our toes! 🙏❤🎬

  • @LightwisePodcast

    @LightwisePodcast

    9 ай бұрын

    Such a thoughtful and lovely human.

  • @lindaking6711
    @lindaking671110 ай бұрын

    Compelling conversation. Loved it!

  • @LightwisePodcast

    @LightwisePodcast

    9 ай бұрын

    Thank you for listening!

  • @user-tm4my4jb6d
    @user-tm4my4jb6d8 ай бұрын

    A villain with great lines. Because he's very clear and what his objectives are and why. He is one of my favorite characters. I don't see Atticus as evil I see him as a Apex predator trained to hunt. And that's what he's doing. His only goal is to resolve this problem. He sees the problem. He wants to solve the problem. But I don't think you particularly hates people. I don't think he would hurt people unnecessarily.

  • @shannonbrown7433
    @shannonbrown74335 ай бұрын

    Fantastic discussion from both. Love the deep dive!

  • @angelicatitus
    @angelicatitus5 ай бұрын

    This was one of the best interviews I have ever seen - Bravo!

  • @yanaf.-g.7743
    @yanaf.-g.77435 ай бұрын

    In my perspective every human beeing has a set of 'believes', also historical psycopaths do. It is the order of prioroties of their individual 'faith' that makes them into f.e. killing beings or revenging ones. Thank you for this complex, facinating interview, so well done. I agree, Mr Alexander has a lot to teach and has an engaging and inspiring way to present his wealth of wisdom and experience. Thank you very much 🙏🏻

  • @rickflippin1
    @rickflippin13 ай бұрын

    This cat is a great actor love his character its real to me in the chosen well done sir you made me believe you were the roman Atticus. Excellent

  • @MidnightBlue1913
    @MidnightBlue19135 ай бұрын

    Great job!

  • @lindacook8819
    @lindacook88194 ай бұрын

    Thank you. Very enlightening

  • @ekadam
    @ekadam3 ай бұрын

    Such an introspective interviewer!

  • @MelvinWilliams-gl6wp
    @MelvinWilliams-gl6wpАй бұрын

    I think his part isnt evil. Mean most the time but not evil. Evilness is devil. He does do a great job.

  • @chrisblanc663
    @chrisblanc66316 күн бұрын

    Interesting. I didn’t see him as evil. Just a guy loyal to an empire that doesn’t hold subjects in high esteem. He didn’t kill Z when he had the chance to. He pressured Quintice, which lead him to accidentally kill Ramah, but that wasn’t his intention at all. He clearly views Jesus as a potential threat after he saw Him walk on water, but even that just seems like he doesn’t fully know what he saw, or what it means.

  • @leeleeturn
    @leeleeturn9 ай бұрын

    I hated him in the show!😂 what a great actor!

  • @LightwisePodcast

    @LightwisePodcast

    9 ай бұрын

    Love to hate this guy!! Thanks for listening!

  • @bethlearyhegedus839

    @bethlearyhegedus839

    8 ай бұрын

    When you hate an actor because of his part, he's a fabulous actor❤

  • @kimberlyevans9637
    @kimberlyevans96379 ай бұрын

    Sounds like Hamas. Grudge holding, angry, ruthless.

  • @marieoleary527

    @marieoleary527

    5 ай бұрын

    @kimberlyevans9637 I think Atticus would look at Hamas the same way he views the zealots in the Chosen

  • @strife10301
    @strife103014 ай бұрын

    I don't think atticus is evil. he's like Rome's FBI

  • @vervinck
    @vervinck4 ай бұрын

    I think Atticus will be a big twist and be the gospel author Mark

  • @ladybugmom10
    @ladybugmom1017 күн бұрын

    I don’t see the character as evil. Annoying as H yes but not evil. I do think he walks around stirring up trouble. But I don’t know if that equates as evil.

  • @Marcia811
    @Marcia8119 ай бұрын

    Never have i disliked Atticus ... yet 😮

  • @LightwisePodcast

    @LightwisePodcast

    9 ай бұрын

    He's such a good character. Complex and nuanced, like the best ones are.

  • @natecloe8535
    @natecloe853528 күн бұрын

    Why on earth are we asking Elijah Alexander about an evil character instead of asking the guy that plays Quintus or the guy that plays Caephus or the one that is arguing with Jesus right before they stabbed And killed off a character that I still can't believe is gone? Atticus might become more evil but as of now and at the very worst..... He's undecided but mostly he's been a GOOD guy. He has warned the disciples to keep jesus safe more than once and the only thing outright evil that I have ever heard him say to anybody was in the last episode when he told Quintus to get a handle on Jesus before there's more unrest. Which I believe irritated Quintus enough to go and do what he did. But it isn't Atticus' fault he did that, and I don't see Atticus as evil and if the actor does see it that way......... Why are we taking advice on how to play an evil character from Somebody that doesn't Know how to play an evil character? Because I haven't seen Atticus as evil AT ALL. We need to talk to somebody else. This actor doesn't know what he's doing.

  • @jinnybikini
    @jinnybikini8 ай бұрын

    He looks like he lost a bunch of weight. He now the new improved Atticus.

  • @origamibutturfli9179
    @origamibutturfli91792 ай бұрын

    My theory, and I'm almost completely convinced, is that Atticus is Satan.

  • @LucyLangston-mw3qq
    @LucyLangston-mw3qq3 ай бұрын

    Yes you r mean and Evil but is OK just playing

  • @2012escapee1
    @2012escapee19 ай бұрын

    Is Atticus evil?

  • @LightwisePodcast

    @LightwisePodcast

    9 ай бұрын

    It's a good question. Though he technically is the antagonist, evil is a strong word.