The Nativity Story

Thus, Christmastime moviegoers will undoubtedly leave the theater more filled with the true Christmas spirit than when they arrived. Even better, as screenwriter Mike Rich told Plugged In Online, "If we can get viewers to go beyond Matthew's and Luke's early chapters, and maybe even get to the Gospel of John, then this movie will have served its purpose." (pluggedin.com)

I really like the Joseph in this movie. He is what my ideal husband will be. He constantly wonders if Mary really carries a child sent by God, yet in spite of his struggles, still does his best to take care of Mary. He is what a righteous man of God ought to be like. Mary is also wonderful. She is innocent, and trusts God in spite of all circumstances. It must not be easy to be in the shoes of Mary and Joseph.

So the manger was all they could find

About as reverent a telling of the nativity story as you would expect; the film looks stunningly beautiful at times, and Castle-Hughes and Isaac are as good in the lead roles as they are allowed to be, but the film is dogged by an air of overwhelming self seriousness, which harks back to the classic bible epics of the 50 and 60s, except missing the air of spectacle which distinguished the earlier films. As it is, a passable, workman like entry.

Fatuous, sappy, and dull.

An interesting blend of historical realities and historical traditions. Far from the greatest story ever told, though.

"Courtesy of Catherine Hardwicke, The Nativity has become the most boring story ever told." - Ed Gonzalez

Meh........