Performance & Direction: Black Nativity Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Black Nativity (2013) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Music.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Music is often anchored by its ensemble, and Black Nativity features a noteworthy lineup led by Forest Whitaker . Supported by the likes of Angela Bassett and Jennifer Hudson , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Black Nativity
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2013, Black Nativity is a Music, Drama film directed by Kasi Lemmons. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Forest Whitaker.
Ending Explained: Black Nativity
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Kasi Lemmons, Black Nativity attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to music resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Forest Whitaker, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the music themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Black Nativity reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Black Nativity?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Music films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Black Nativity
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $17.5M |
| Worldwide Gross | $7.0M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Black Nativity Budget
The estimated production budget for Black Nativity is $17.5M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Black Nativity
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Black Nativity Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeBlack Nativity Parents Guide & Age Rating
2013 AdvisoryWondering about Black Nativity age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Black Nativity is 93 minutes (1h 33m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.1/10, and global performance metrics, Black Nativity is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2013 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Black Nativity worth watching?
Black Nativity is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Music movies. It has a verified rating of 5.1/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Black Nativity parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Black Nativity identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Black Nativity?
The total duration of Black Nativity is 93 minutes, which is approximately 1h 33m long.
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Critic Reviews for Black Nativity
I was, for the most part, feeling pleasant enough about this... until that ending. It's not that 'Black Nativity' ends badly, it's just so incredibly forced and cringeworthy. It's a Christmas film so I guess I could cut it some slack, but I feel it could've concluded things much better. Some of the character decisions felt odd at times, also. One of the reasons as to why I was actually finding this satisfactory throughout is the cast - loads of recognisable and likeable faces. Forest Whitaker (Cornell) is honestly great, his performance is the only one I'd class as anything over 'good'. Jacob Latimore (Langston) and Angela Bassett (Aretha) are the best of the rest, though I always like watching 'Fast & Furious' star Tyrese Gibson act too. All in all, nothing positive or negative... just average.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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