
The Nativity Story
2006, Drama/Other, 1h 40m
131 Reviews 50,000+ RatingsWhat to know
critics consensus
The Nativity Story is a dull retelling of a well-worn tale with the look and feel of a high-school production. Read critic reviews
You might also like
Where to watch
Show all servicesThe Nativity Story Photos
Movie Info
Cast & Crew
Mary
Joseph
Anna
Joaquim

King Herod
Elizabeth
News & Interviews for The Nativity Story
Critic Reviews for The Nativity Story
All Critics (131) | Top Critics (45) | Fresh (49) | Rotten (82)
-
Of course there is nothing inherently wrong with preaching to the converted -- secular Hollywood does it all the time. But I confess I wish the movie had some of the passion of The Passion of the Christ.
July 9, 2007 | Full Review… -
Quote not available.
February 3, 2007 | Rating: 1/6 | Full Review… -
We just haven't had too many films that concentrate on this story.
December 4, 2006 -
...a filmed Sunday-school lesson that favors a dry, by-the-Book approach over even a suggestion of dramatic interpretation. It's more Christmas pageant than movie.
December 2, 2006 | Rating: C+ -
I have to hand it to Hardwicke: I was a lot less bored by The Nativity Story than I feared I'd be.
December 1, 2006 -
It's not exactly the dullest story ever told, but it's certainly not the greatest.
December 1, 2006 | Rating: 2/4
Audience Reviews for The Nativity Story
-
Dec 26, 2014A faithful adaption of the biblical account of Jesus Christ's birth, The Nativity Story is a powerful telling of this classic tale. Director Catherine Hardwicke does a remarkable job at creating a visual style that feels authentic to the time period; with detailed costumes and sets designs. Additionally, Keisha Castle-Hughes gives an impressive performance as Mary that's subtle yet conveys volumes through looks and movements. Also, the script is quite good, with a strong focus on characters. A well-crafted film that honors the true meaning of Christmas, The Nativity Story is emotionally compelling and spiritually uplifting.Dann M Super Reviewer
-
Dec 30, 2010I wasn't sure what to really expect from this, especially given how I was hesitant to ever see it...and that was before I knew who Catherine Hardwicke was, and way before Twilight. I finally sat down and watched it (not much better to do when one can't sleep a day or two after Christmas)..truth is...this actually isn't too bad. It's not a great movie, but it's decent enough, and worth a watch once in a while. Tjis is actually a quite faithful and thoughtful take on the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. It's powerful, and moving, and all of that sentimental stuff, but that doesn'ty take away from the fact that even then, it's got some good camera work (although I wish the film didn't look so washed out), okay performances, and is very accessible. Also, there's a lot of great anthropological/cultural/historical type stuff on display, and not only is it done well, I was surprised it was there (in a good way). This is no masterpiece, but it does the story justice.Chris W Super Reviewer
-
Nov 30, 2010Christmas Move Review Mania Episode #1: The Nativity Story It's the last day of November and people around the world are preparing for the Christmas season. I am to and welcome to Christmas Movie Review Mania! I will be writing reviews of Christmas movies up until the big day. This won't be a daily thing. To start off, I will review a film that promotes the true meaning of Christmas: The Nativity Story. The film is a retelling of Mary and Joseph story. Despite the fact that Mary is a virgin, God makes her the mother of Jesus Christ. Her and her arranged husband, Joseph travel to Bethlehem in order to pay their taxes and give birth to the child as well. Meanwhile, the Wise Men are on their way to meet the child and King Herod make a plan to massacre baby boys and the Son of God himself. The cinematography is amazing and realistic and Catherine Hardwickes's direction (she also helmed Twilight) is wonderful. The acting is good. I don't see why many critics hated it. Mary's actress added much emotion into her character. Oscar Isaac was awesome as Joseph. The supporting cast delivers as well. A beautiful film that everyone needs to see this season. I mean it! "I wonder if I will even be able to teach him anything."Bentley L Super Reviewer
-
Dec 25, 2009I thought it was pretty good. Well acted, not really 100% accurate, but still a nice family film to celebrate Christmas.Mondo M Super Reviewer
The Nativity Story Quotes
There are no approved quotes yet for this movie.
Movie & TV guides
About Tomatometer
The percentage of Approved Tomatometer Critics who have given this movie a positive review
About Audience Score
The percentage of users who rated this 3.5 stars or higher.
Verified