Yesterday, a review of the Nativity script popped up on FilmForce. I am hopeful (even a bit excited) after reading this review by Stax, who gives a tremendous amount of detail about the script. According to Stax (and his detailed script summary), screenwriter Mike Rich (who also penned The Rookie) draws largely on the Gospels and gives a good background to the social and political issues also at play. As we’ve heard before, this film will cover the lives of Mary and Joseph during the year or two before Jesus’ birth and the events surrounding that event (including the wise men, who apparently have their own storyline throughout the film). Several characters not fleshed out in the Gospels round out in the script, according to Stax—like Joseph:Joseph generates a great measure of sympathy. He is a blue collar laborer who, like Mary, is called upon by God to take part in something greater than himself. Joseph is a man that hasn't asked for much out of life and will do what he must to provide for his family. You can't help but feel that this everyman got a whole lot more than he ever bargained for.And King Herod:
King Herod has always made for a grand villain; he not only orders the death of his own sons but also the slaughter of children. His portrayal here reminded me somewhat of Edward Longshanks in Braveheart, a cagey but cruel monarch who thinks nothing of dispatching people. The details about life in Judea under his rule added an extra dimension to Nativity that helps to differentiate it from other biblical films.Stax’s bottom line:
Overall, I found Nativity to be a moving drama about a young girl who confronts her destiny under the most trying of circumstances. Mike Rich's script is respectful enough of the Gospels so as to not alarm the faithful, while also being broad enough thematically in order to appeal to a wider demographic. In other words, you shouldn't expect Nativity to spark any Passion-ate firestorms.Nativity is due this December. For previous blog-talk on this film (including its stars) see here and here and here. That’s all for now.
(Image: Our Lady of Vladimir)