The Christmas story is pretty familiar to Christians and non-Christians alike. Can The Nativity Story breathe new life into this classic tale? Kidzworld takes a look!
The Nativity Story - Cheesy Start
Mary (Whale Rider's Keisha Castle-Hughes) is going about her rounds as a cheese delivery girl when the tax men roll into town. These aren't your regular IRS types, either. They're a violent military force who will take whatever they think they're owed, including Mary's dad's donkey. Thankfully, a dashing young man named Joseph manages to get it back. Mary's dad is so grateful that he gives Joseph his daughter's hand in marriage. Wouldn't a thank-you card have sufficed?
The Nativity Story - No Room at the Inn
Mary is young and a virgin so she's more than a little surprised to discover she's pregnant. Understandably, so is her soon-to-be husband Joseph. Her immaculate conception tests the couple's faith and courage as they struggle to deal with the huge responsibility they've been entrusted with.
The Nativity Story - A Star is Born
As if being parents to the Messiah isn't hard enough, Mary and Joseph have to trek 100 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. Throw in a bright star, a manger, and three wise men and the scene is set for one of the most recognized stories on earth.
The Nativity Story - DVD Features
If you can get over the fact that The Nativity Story DVD is being released closer to Easter than it is to Christmas, you might want to check it out. Special features for this DVD are almost non-existent (just the original theatrical trailer).
The Nativity Story - The Bottom Line
If you're not a Christian or interested in Christianity, The Nativity Story will likely put you to sleep. In fact, even if you are a Christian, you may grow tired of the lifeless acting and dreary storytelling in this flick. The movie aims for biblical accuracy but sacrifices entertainment-value to get there. You could see more vibrance in a small-budget Sunday school video than there is in this multi-million dollar Hollywood film.
