Some interesting news on this here:
"Mr. Modine, who first worked with Mr. Ferrara on 'The Blackout,' said via e-mail that he and Mr. Ferrara prepared by poring over ancient scripture. 'Abel and I tried to strip away the interpretations and poetic language,' he said."
I am fine with people who have different views than mine on the gospels making films about Jesus or related characters, I am actually significantly for it. But I keep bumping into Ferrara quotes and anecdotes about the source material for this film that rub me the wrong way.
"Mr. Ferrara pointed out that 'Mary' won not just jury and critics prizes at Venice but also the ecumenical award sponsored by a Catholic communications organization — or, as he proudly overstated it, 'the Vatican seal of approval.'"
It did win the SIGNIS at Venice that year.