The Nativity (1978) movie backdrop
The Nativity (1978) movie poster
197898 minDrama, History, Family

The Nativity

The Nativity Movie Hit or Flop?

FLOP

Verdict:The Nativity is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 6.0/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Drama, History, Family genre.

Is The Nativity Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, The Nativity is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.

It features a runtime of 98 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

6.01 votes
98Minutes
1978Release Year
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The Nativity Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1978, The Nativity enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on The story of the courtship of Joseph and Mary, and of the events leading up to the first Christmas. Under the direction of Bernard L. Kowalski, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Madeleine Stowe, John Shea, Jane Wyatt. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, The Nativity offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.

🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context

Beyond the narrative, The Nativity resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.

📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info

As of January 2026, The Nativity is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of The Nativity centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. The story of the courtship of Joseph and Mary, and of the events leading up to the first Christmas. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1978 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of The Nativity has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Nativity sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for The Nativity (1978): with an audience rating of 6/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, History, Family cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Parents Guide & Age Rating

Not Rated
The Nativity has not been officially rated yet.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, The Nativity stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1978 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Nativity movie hit or flop?

The Nativity has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is The Nativity worth watching?

The Nativity is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, History, Family movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is The Nativity?

The Nativity is a Drama, History, Family movie that The story of the courtship of Joseph and Mary, and of the events leading up to the first Christmas....

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.0
The Nativity
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/the-nativity-293380" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 6.0</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">The Nativity</div></div></a>

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More with Madeleine Stowe

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is The Nativity movie hit or flop?

The Nativity has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is The Nativity worth watching?

The Nativity is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, History, Family movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is The Nativity?

The Nativity is a Drama, History, Family movie that The story of the courtship of Joseph and Mary, and of the events leading up to the first Christmas....

Is The Nativity family friendly?

Yes, The Nativity is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Drama, History, Family genre.

Where can I watch The Nativity?

You can find streaming options and availability for The Nativity on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.

Who is the main cast of The Nativity?

The Nativity features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.

How long is the movie The Nativity?

The runtime and duration of The Nativity are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

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