Podcasts > The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast > 509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

By DailyWire+

The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast explores the creative vision behind The Chosen, a groundbreaking new multi-season series that reimagines the life of Jesus through a deeply humanizing lens. Filmmaker Dallas Jenkins discusses his transformative personal journey that led to this project, shifting from a desire for public affirmation to a focus on authentically serving a higher purpose.

The blurb covers the innovative approach and unconventional financing model of The Chosen, which has resonated with audiences around the world and sparked a resurgence of personal connections to faith. Notably, the series aims to tap into emotional experiences of Jesus that potential audiences—Christian and non-Christian alike—have yet to explore on screen.

Listen to the original

509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Dec 23, 2024 episode of the The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast

Sign up for Shortform to access the whole episode summary along with additional materials like counterarguments and context.

509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

1-Page Summary

Jenkins' Transformative Journey

After the failure of his film "The Resurrection of Gavin Stone," Dallas Jenkins experienced a crisis of faith that led to a pivotal perspective shift. A stranger's message helped Jenkins realize his role was to humbly provide his talents, not control outcomes. This sparked Jenkins' surrender of ego and desires for public affirmation, focusing instead on authentic service to God.

The Creative Vision Behind The Chosen

Drawing from previous experiences reimagining Bible stories from fresh perspectives, Jenkins envisioned a multi-season series that could deeply explore the lives of Jesus and his followers. He aimed to humanize Jesus by portraying His everyday life and tailoring interactions to connect emotionally with viewers. According to Jenkins, this personal approach could impact modern audiences similarly to those who encountered Jesus historically.

Unconventional Financing and Distribution

The Chosen pursued an innovative crowdfunding model, raising a record-breaking $10 million from over 16,000 backers worldwide, indicating strong public interest. Its free online release built a large, engaged global audience by prioritizing authentic storytelling over conventional business models.

Cultural and Spiritual Impact

The Chosen has resonated with both Christian and non-Christian viewers, sparking what some deem a spiritual revival, particularly among younger generations. By setting a new standard for relatable biblical storytelling, the series is credited with igniting profound personal connections to faith. Jenkins' approach has positioned The Chosen for lasting cultural influence.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The success of a crowdfunding campaign does not necessarily indicate the overall quality or impact of a project; it may simply reflect effective marketing or a niche audience's enthusiasm.
  • The portrayal of biblical figures in a humanized, everyday context can be controversial and may not align with all religious interpretations or doctrines.
  • Free online distribution, while innovative, may not be sustainable for all types of content creation and could set challenging precedents for creators with less initial support.
  • The claim of sparking a spiritual revival is subjective and difficult to measure; not all viewers may have experienced the same level of spiritual engagement or transformation.
  • The impact on non-Christian viewers might be overstated, as the series may primarily appeal to those already interested in Christian narratives.
  • The assertion that "The Chosen" has had a lasting cultural influence might be premature, as the long-term effects of media projects can only be assessed over time.
  • The idea that the series has set a new standard for biblical storytelling could be contested by proponents of traditional or alternative religious media who may not see "The Chosen" as representative of their values or storytelling preferences.

Actionables

  • Reflect on your personal talents and consider how you can use them in a humble way to serve others. Start by listing your skills and then brainstorm ways they can be used to help your community. For example, if you're good at cooking, you might volunteer to prepare meals for a local shelter.
  • Create a personal project that aligns with your values and offers it for free to build a community. This could be as simple as starting a blog to share inspirational stories or creating artwork and sharing it on social media. The key is to focus on the act of giving without the expectation of immediate returns.
  • Engage with stories from different cultures or religions to broaden your perspective and find common ground. You could join a book club that focuses on spiritual or religious texts outside of your own tradition, or watch films and series that depict the lives of figures from various faiths and backgrounds.

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

Jenkins' personal/spiritual journey and transformation

Dallas Jenkins recounts his emotional and spiritual metamorphosis that followed the crushing disappointment of his film's failure. This journey is a testament to the transformative power of perspective and faith in the face of adversity.

Jenkins experienced a personal and spiritual crisis after the failure of his previous film

Dallas Jenkins's professional and personal life was thrown into turmoil after his film "The Resurrection of Gavin Stone" failed at the box office, grossing only $2.3 million. Jenkins felt responsible not just for the film's financial success, but also for its spiritual mission. On January 20th, 2017, with other projects getting canceled as a consequence, he felt he went from a promising future to having no future at all. Jenkins, alongside his wife Amanda, was left grappling with a crisis of faith; they prayed and even turned to the biblical story of the feeding of the 5,000 for guidance.

Jenkins received a pivotal message that shifted his perspective on success and failure

Amidst his self-doubt, Jenkins’s perspective changed significantly after a stranger from Romania imparted a key message by alluding to the biblical story of the feeding of the 5,000. The stranger reminded Jenkins that his job was not to “feed the 5,000” but to faithfully provide the "loaves and fish." This parable helped Jenkins understand that his role was not to guarantee success but to offer up his talents. He realized that the boy in the biblical story played his part without focusing on the scale of the miracle, paralleling Jenkins's situation of providing his best work while leaving the impact to a higher power.

Jenkins underwent a profound change in his mindset and priorities

This encounter prompted Jenkins to surrender his ego and desires for external affirmation. He began to understand that true s ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Jenkins' personal/spiritual journey and transformation

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The idea that Jenkins felt responsible for the film's financial success and spiritual mission could be seen as an overly personal burden, as the success of a film is often contingent on many factors beyond an individual's control.
  • The notion that true success is about sincerity and authenticity in offerings to God may not resonate with everyone, especially those who do not share Jenkins' faith or who believe in different metrics for success.
  • The concept of detaching from the outcomes of one's work could be criticized for potentially leading to a lack of accountability or a diminished drive for improvement.
  • The idea of surrendering ego and desire for external affirmation, while spiritually noble, might be impractical in the entertainment industry, where recognition and audience reception can be crucial for career advancement.
  • The perspective shift that Jenkins experienced might be seen as a coping mechanism rather than a g ...

Actionables

  • Create a personal "talent offering" ritual where you dedicate your work to a higher purpose before starting each project. This could involve writing a short statement of intent, lighting a candle, or simply taking a moment of silence to set your intention. This practice helps to remind you that your effort is valuable regardless of the outcome and encourages you to focus on the sincerity of your work rather than its success.
  • Start a "release journal" where you document instances where you let go of control over the results of your efforts. This could be as simple as noting down when you've completed a task without obsessing over its reception or outcome. Over time, this journal can serve as a reminder of the freedom that comes with detaching from results and can help reinforce the habit of focusing on your calling rather than external validation.
  • Engage in a monthly "ego fast" where for a day or a set ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

The creative process and vision behind The Chosen

Dallas Jenkins shares his comprehensive approach to creating "The Chosen," a series that reimagines biblical stories by focusing on the emotional and human aspects, aiming to make the narratives personal and relatable for a modern audience.

Jenkins drew inspiration from his previous experiences in biblical storytelling

Jenkins had previously created short films for church services that retold Bible stories from various perspectives. One such film focused on the crucifixion from the perspective of the two thieves on the cross. Another showcased Peter's point of view of the crucifixion, featuring a vignette where the disciples were arm wrestling. These short films, which used the historical and cultural context to inform the stories, proved to have a powerful impact on audiences by unlocking emotional connections to these familiar narratives.

Jenkins envisioned a multi-season television series that could deeply explore the lives and backstories of Jesus and his disciples

Inspired by binge-watching "The Wire," Jenkins appreciated the multi-dimensional storytelling and realized that biblical films and miniseries typically failed to explore characters beyond the miracles and verses of the Bible due to time constraints. He proposed a detailed, multi-season show that would delve into the backstories and context of Jesus and his followers, enhancing the dramatic effect and audience engagement.

During the development of "The Chosen," Jenkins created sets for various biblical locations on property owned by the Salvation Army in Texas. This detail-oriented approach reflected his vision for the series. Jenkins also described the excitement of working on the upcoming season, which deals with Holy Week, presenting both dramatic events and intimate personal encounters with Jesus.

Jenkins' approach aimed to make the biblical narratives personal and emotionally resonant for viewers

Jenkins sought to humanize Jesus by showing him engaging in everyday activities, allowing the audience to connect w ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

The creative process and vision behind The Chosen

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While Jenkins' approach to humanizing biblical figures can make them more relatable, it may also risk deviating from traditional interpretations, which could be a concern for some viewers who value a more literal or conservative approach to biblical stories.
  • The creative liberties taken in "The Chosen" to add backstories and personal details not found in the biblical text might be seen by some as adding to or altering the original narratives, which could be problematic for audiences who prefer strict adherence to scripture.
  • The focus on emotional resonance and personal connection, while engaging, might overshadow the theological and doctrinal aspects that are also important to many believers.
  • The detailed sets and the decision to film on property owned by the Salvation Army in Texas, while impressive, could be criticized for potentially not reflecting the true historical and geographical context of the biblical stories.
  • Some viewers might argue that the series' attempt to "remove the religiosity" could inadvertently diminish the sacredness or spiritual significance of the biblical events depicted.
  • There is a challenge in ensuring that the portrayal of Jesus as fully human does not compromise ...

Actionables

  • You can explore different perspectives of familiar stories by writing a short story or journal entry from the viewpoint of a lesser-known character. For example, if you're reading a historical event, imagine the experience from a bystander's perspective and write about their thoughts and feelings, which can deepen your understanding of the event's impact on everyday people.
  • Enhance your empathy by practicing active imagination with figures from history or literature. Pick a well-known figure and imagine a day in their life, focusing on mundane activities they might have engaged in. This exercise can help you relate to these figures on a human level, making their experiences more tangible and relatable.
  • Create a personal ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

The unorthodox business and distribution model of The Chosen

"The Chosen," a series about the life of Jesus Christ, has defied conventional media industry norms in both its financing and distribution, using a crowdfunding campaign for the former and releasing episodes for free online for the latter.

The Chosen was financed through a crowdfunding campaign, which was an unconventional approach at the time

When the time came to fund "The Chosen," creators turned to an innovative way of raising funds that would also involve and empower their audience: crowdfunding.

Jenkins was initially skeptical of the crowdfunding model, but was willing to try it after his personal transformation

Jenkins, the creator of "The Chosen," admits that he had his reservations about the crowdfunding model. However, following a personal transformation that left him more humble, he grew receptive to this unconventional method. His role transitioned from simply providing the short film to humbly inviting potential viewers to invest in the project.

The crowdfunding campaign was a resounding success, raising $10 million and breaking records

The crowdfunding approach was not only a marked departure from traditional TV and film funding methods, but it also proved to be an overwhelming success. VidAngel, a streaming platform now known as Angel Studios, presented the idea to Jenkins, and they launched a campaign that spoke directly to potential viewers' desires to see the story of Jesus told in a new and compelling way. The result was a record-breaking $10 million raised by 16,000 people around the world, driven by the impact of a 20-minute short film Jenkins made.

Peterson views this crowdfunding effort as a "market test," which not only raised funds but also demonstrated the public's interest and support for such a series. The financial success of the campaign underscores the audience's desire for content that resonates with their faith and interests.

The Chosen has utilized an innovative distribution strategy, releasing episodes for free online

While there's no specific information provided from the content about the distribution strategy of releasing episodes for free online, the success and popularity of "The Chosen" points to an innovative model that goes beyond customary approaches. By releasing episodes to a global audience online without a paywall, "T ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

The unorthodox business and distribution model of The Chosen

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • VidAngel was a streaming platform that allowed users to filter content for language, nudity, violence, and other factors. Due to legal challenges related to copyright infringement, VidAngel rebranded itself as Angel Studios, focusing on producing original content like "The Chosen." This transition allowed the company to shift its business model while continuing to engage with its audience in a new way.
  • Jenkins underwent a personal transformation that humbled him and made him more open to unconventional methods like crowdfunding. This change in perspective shifted his role from a mere provider of content to someone who invited audience participation in funding the project. His newfound humility and willingness to engage with the audience played a crucial role in the success of the crowdfunding campaign for "The Chosen."
  • The Chosen's distribution strategy of releasing episodes for free online involves making each ep ...

Counterarguments

  • While the crowdfunding campaign was successful, it may not be a sustainable model for all types of content or creators, as it often relies on a strong existing community or fanbase.
  • Crowdfunding can also present challenges in terms of fulfilling promises to backers and managing expectations, which can lead to dissatisfaction if not handled properly.
  • Releasing episodes for free online could potentially limit revenue streams and make it more challenging to fund future seasons or other projects without additional crowdfunding or alternative monetization strategies.
  • The success of "The Chosen" in building a global audience through free distribution may not be easily replicable for other series or films, especially those without a built-in audience interested in the content's theme.
  • Prioritizing authentic sto ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
509. Retelling the Greatest Story Ever Told | Dallas Jenkins

The cultural and spiritual impact of The Chosen

"The Chosen" is impacting viewers both inside and outside of Christian circles, sparking what some believe to be a spiritual revival and setting a new standard for biblical entertainment.

The Chosen has resonated with both Christian and non-Christian audiences

The series has garnered a significant following extending beyond its Christian roots. Dallas Jenkins, creator of "The Chosen," hints at a personal, transformative experience that occurred at four o'clock in the morning, which could tie into the show's genuine appeal. While not expressly articulated, Jenkins’ own experiences may contribute to the series' authenticity and extensive resonance.

Jenkins has shared that viewers often approach him with emotional reactions to the show, communicating how it feels very personal to them and offering gratitude for its creation.

Furthermore, "The Chosen" attracts a diverse viewership, with 30 to 40 percent of its audience comprising non-believers who find the historical drama aspect intriguing.

Jordan Peterson mentions that the buzz generated among believers and recommendations by various individuals piqued his curiosity, leading him to watch the series. This suggests the show’s influence reaches beyond a strictly Christian demographic, engaging non-believers as well.

The Chosen has been credited with sparking a religious/spiritual revival, particularly among younger generations

The series has been commended for its relatable portrayal of biblical narratives. The way the show depicts Jesus reaching out to individuals in their specific circumstances has evoked profound emotional responses, resonating with viewers on a personal and spiritual level, and potentially sparking a revival.

The conversation suggests "The Chosen" may be indicating a religious revival, particularly in the West, including in North America and Europe, where spirituality and religion have been facing a d ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

The cultural and spiritual impact of The Chosen

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While "The Chosen" may resonate with a wide audience, its impact on spiritual revival is difficult to quantify and should not be assumed to be a universal or widespread phenomenon.
  • The personal transformative experience of Dallas Jenkins may enhance the show's authenticity for some, but personal experiences of creators do not necessarily translate to a broader audience's reception.
  • Emotional reactions to the show are subjective and may not reflect a universal or significant cultural shift but rather individual personal connections to the content.
  • The diverse viewership of "The Chosen" could be attributed to various factors, such as curiosity or the quality of storytelling, rather than a genuine interest in the religious content.
  • Jordan Peterson's interest in the series does not necessarily indicate a broader trend among non-believers or intellectuals.
  • The claim that "The Chosen" is sparking a religious/spiritual revival, particularly among younger generations, may be overstated without empirical evidence supporting such a revival.
  • The portrayal of biblical narratives in a relatable way is not unique to "The Chosen" and has been attempted by other media productions, which may or may not have achieved similar emotional responses.
  • The potential for "The Chosen" to become one of the most successful religiously based series ever produced is speculative and contingent on numerous f ...

Actionables

  • You can explore the universal themes in "The Chosen" by starting a journal where you reflect on each episode's message and how it relates to your own life experiences, regardless of your religious background. This practice can deepen your understanding of the show's appeal and may lead to personal insights or changes in perspective.
  • Create a virtual book club with friends who have diverse beliefs to discuss the historical and cultural context of the stories depicted in "The Chosen." This can foster a greater appreciation for the series' storytelling and encourage dialogue across different viewpoints, enhancing the sense of community and shared human experience.
  • Engage with the series b ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free

Create Summaries for anything on the web

Download the Shortform Chrome extension for your browser

Shortform Extension CTA