Review of The Nativity Story (2006) by Lisa C — 22 Dec 2007

While a lot of tomatoes are being thrown, I thought this movie was pretty good. Sure it isn't epic in quality or particularly sophisticated, but the acting was sincere and genuine. The attention to Joseph was a nice change and the idea that Mary was truly a young girl when the angel came to her is finally depicted. The actors looked more Middle Eastern than other Biblical films that typically have British-sounding and European-looking actors. It was wise to choose actors that are not too well known so the audience does not have prior associations to distract away from this story.

This film is good for anyone wanting to watch this predictable story (not a bad thing) and gain a few new insights. Of all the nativity movies, this is up there as one of my favorites for the reasons mentioned above. I would give it a higher rating, but the second half seemed a little disappointing ad I would like to have seen more of Ciaran Hinds.

The best scenes are 1) When Joseph learns of Mary's pregnany 2) While Joseph and Mary are traveling and Joseph confides in Mary about his fears of being the earthly father of Christ.