Review of The Nativity Story (2006) by Jamesh. — 03 Dec 2006

This was a visually and spiritually beautiful telling of the nativity story, completely character driven rather than event driven. The scenery, music, and costumes were beautifully rendered. The performances by Oscar Isaacs and Keisha Castle-Hughes were particularly moving and appropriate to the characters.

I thought Castle-Hughes caught Mary's "pondering all these things in her heart" particularly well with her expressions and gestures. Isaac brought Joseph alive to me as a good man, who deeply loved Mary, and wanted to believe the angels prophecy that her story was true.

I believe this movie will build momentum as Christmas approaches and that people will watch it for years to come at this time. I have already seen it twice and enjoyed it as much or more the second time.