A moving ‘Mary Magdalene’

In “Mary Magdalene” (R; ⋆⋆⋆), Rooney Mara as Mary flees the marriage her family has arranged for her, finding a sense of purpose in a radical new movement led by the charismatic, defiant preacher Jesus of Nazareth. Her choice defies her patriarchal society, but gives her a spiritual awakening. Mara’s performance makes this a deeply emotional and moving experience. She gets surprisingly strong support from Joaquin Phoenix as Jesus. He plays the role with a deep serenity and passion.

Rick Bentley, Tribune News Service

Also coming Tuesday

• “Booksmart”

• “Canal Street”

• “Into the Ashes”

• “Ma”

• “Men in Black:  International”