Review: Nativity!

Nov 27 2009 By The Journal

Length: 1 hr 45 minutes
Certificate: U
Starring: Martin Freeman, Marc Wootton, Ashley Jensen, Pam Ferris, Alan Carr, Ricky Tomlinson
Director: Debbie Isitt
Star rating: 4

Christmas comes early courtesy of British director Debbie Isitt (Nasty Neighbours, Confetti) and her improvised comedy about the preparations for a primary school nativity play.

Shot without a script as a safety net, this is a treat steeped in festive cheer that delivers tidings of comfort and boundless joy for the family.

The central character’s redemption echoes George Bailey in the classic It’s A Wonderful Life and a supporting cast of inexperienced child actors is cute and cheeky.

By the time the curtain rises on the nativity play, we’re hopelessly smitten with all of players.

Nativity! is a joy and passes all too quickly in a blur of laughter, song and heartfelt confessions.

The ensemble cast is excellent.