Entertainment Movies Joaquin Phoenix Plays Jesus Opposite Real-Life Girlfriend Rooney Mara in 'Mary Magdalene' Trailer The film is set for a March 16 release date By Jodi Guglielmi Jodi Guglielmi Instagram Twitter Writer-Reporter, PEOPLE People Editorial Guidelines Published on November 29, 2017 11:40 AM Share Tweet Pin Email One of Hollywood’s most elusive couples are taking center stage in the first trailer for the upcoming film Mary Magdalene – and it’s easy to see where their undeniable chemistry first sparked. Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix star as Mary Magdalene and Jesus, respectively, in the biblical tale. The film chronicles Jesus’ story through the view of Magdalene, who has long been at the center of religious controversy. In the trailer, Magdalene is seen meeting and joining Jesus on his mission to spread the word of God. “Mary, you are my witness,” Phoenix’s Jesus says. “I’ll be with you until the end,” Magdalene replies. Mara and Phoenix have been romantically linked since meeting on set of Mary Magdalene. The two were reportedly seen spending time together on and off set while filming last fall, including an outing on their Italian hotel’s balcony where they were seen hanging out while smoking. Universal Pictures In May, the two made their relationship awards-ceremony official when they jointly attended the Cannes Film Festival’s closing-night ceremony. Phoenix recently revealed the pair are living together in Los Angeles. Mary Magdalene is slated to open March 30, 2018.