Film Review: Nativity! (U) *****

Nov 27 2009 by Graham Young, Birmingham Mail

Clearly shot in Coventry – instead of a typically-unidentified Midlands’ town doubling up for Nowhere-ville – the city’s former cathedral site makes for a perfect film set exactly 69 years after it was bombed so heavily in November, 1940.

With not a swear word in sight, this script is also suitable for all the family.

For sheer joie de vivre, this is as much fun as last year’s biggest hit, Mamma Mia!

Not only will many Nativity! scenes appeal to junior viewers from The X Factor generation, but this is such a warm-hearted film it ought to do for festive plays across the world what The Full Monty did for redundant Sheffield steelworkers.

Young Ben is a scream with his green socks and quick quips, while ten-year-old Bernard Mensah is terrific as JT/Angel Gabriel. Brave, too, when you see his towering performance!

Isitt’s previous films, Nasty Neighbours and Confetti, both had universal themes. But by aiming more at adults she was limiting her potential audience.

The very essence of Nativity! ought to give her latest film genuine international appeal.

And it deserves an annual release in Britain, too.

Eyebrows will be raised that imprisoned former Midlands Today reporter Ashley Blake plays the reporter who goes to cover the play’s launch.

But his appearance – apparently rewarded at no more than a standard extra’s rate – is fleeting and won’t register with viewers outside of this region.

Producer Nick Jones said the film had already been ‘locked down’ by the time of the reporter’s court case which led to a two-year jail sentence on September 2.