The new live-action series TESTAMENT is now available for streaming on Angel.com and the Angel App, accessible to all Angel Guild members. All eight episodes of the first season are ready for you to watch and enjoy. 

TESTAMENT offers a reimagined take on The Book of Acts set in an alternate modern era. A miraculous resurrection ignites a movement that overturns the status quo, spreading hope amidst turmoil. As the followers risk everything to share the good news, the Temple strives to silence them before the oppressive Imperium regime takes action. However, public miracles, hidden secrets, and divided loyalties compel both sides to grapple with the true price of their choices. This compelling live-action series will challenge you, touch your heart, and prompt you to rethink what it means to truly follow Jesus. 

I’m pressed for time this week, so I'll focus on reviewing the first episode, titled "Something Old," which runs for nearly 48 minutes. The story unfolds in a modern-day dystopian District of Salem, governed by the Roman Imperium, led by Governor Pilate and his Temple Guards, who don striking red armored uniforms reminiscent of the Praetorian Guard in the latest Star Wars films. The episode takes place after the arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. As news of the resurrection spreads among the populace, the apostles James, John, Peter, and others begin to proclaim this miraculous event. In response, the Roman Imperium dismisses it as a mere rumor and sets out to dissuade the public from believing.

The production budget seems to be on the lower side, evident in the numerous outdoor shots featuring large crowds of extras. The main cast consists of relatively unknown actors; the performances ranged from decent to merely tolerable, lacking any standout talent. The opening credits, clearly influenced by Game of Thrones, carry an oddly supernatural tone. While the theme score is intriguing, it also feels akin to something from Game of Thrones.

Overall, I found TESTAMENT's first episode to be quite engaging; it packs in a lot of world-building and character development in just under fifty minutes. The dystopian backdrop might deter some viewers, though I didn’t mind it at all. This series isn’t suitable for younger children; I’d recommend it more for older teenagers and adults. I suggest giving at least the first episode a shot.