The “greatest story ever told” returns in this 2010 BBC drama directed by Coky Giedroyc. The narrative begins as the carpenter Joseph (Andrew Buchan) and his teenaged wife, Mary (Tatiana Maslany), approach Bethlehem, to both pay their taxes and deliver their child. The Nativity then flashes back to their betrothal. Mary is a devout, pure, and “not scarred by the world” young woman when the couple's plans—which include building a house—are sidetracked by an unexpected visit from a heavenly host announcing that, despite her virginity, Mary will give birth to the son of God. At first not believing Mary, but still concerned for her safety, Joseph embarks with her on the perilous journey to Bethlehem. Also present here are three wise men who have detected signs in the heavens that a Messiah will be born and decide to follow the star to pay tribute; the increasingly paranoid King Herod, who sees a threat to his reign from the infant Jesus; and a shepherd, who is sorely tested by money woes and a sickly wife. Director Giedroyc mostly sidesteps the sentimental, even building a bit of dramatic tension toward the conclusion, as the characters come together at the stable. A worthy and sincere retelling of one of the most famous stories in the Bible, this is recommended. (S. Rees)
The Nativity
BBC, 113 min., not rated, DVD: $19.98 March 23, 2015
The Nativity
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