The Nativity Story wins local applause

Audience members appreciate film's story, authenticity

By BILL GLEN
WCR Staff Writer
Edmonton

Christians might know the story of the birth of Jesus before they see the new movie release The Nativity Story. But does the film tell the story well enough to be believable to a non-Christian?

Guy Levaque thinks so.

The Assumption Parish member took his wife Jeannine last weekend when the movie opened to favourable reviews.

The $65-million film follows the journey of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem, and eventually the birth of Jesus.

Tells the story

"I would recommend the movie because it is a very good story that a lot of people might not have known before," said Levaque, 74. "They might learn about Joseph and Mary and their customs."

The Nativity Story has drawn some comparisons to the blockbuster The Passion of the Christ, released in 2004. In fact, parts of both films were shot in the same town in Italy.

Joan Perrott said she would see the movie again. The outreach coordinator for John Paul II Bible School took two of her teenaged daughters to see the movie.

Believable characters

"I liked it. The characters were believable. The way the Star (of Bethlehem) was portrayed was very interesting. I don't know if it's the truth, but there were three stars aligning and they became closer and closer until it became a bright star," Perrott said. There have been theories put forward by astronomers that the star might have actually been the alignment of three planets.

Levaque said the quality of The Nativity Story is like any other big budget Hollywood production. He complimented the film saying it is difficult to put something spiritual onto something material.

"The apparition of the angels was their way of doing it. (Gabriel) appeared to Mary first as a bird, then a young man. And the same thing to Joseph in a dream. I think it was acceptable."

Levaque's favourite part of the movie was when Joseph and Mary were travelling to Bethlehem. They had stopped in the desert to rest. It is a moment the audience is treated to their love for each other.

"Joseph took care of Mary. He was very hungry, but instead of feeding himself, he gave some to Mary and he fed the donkey. It showed his sacrifice and his love because their marriage was at first imposed on Mary. But with the loving action of Joseph, she accepts him."

Lavaque said the film gives the true spirit of Christmas, to see the birth of Jesus.

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