Black Nativity (2013)
A gospel-infused holiday musical that weaves family, faith, and the spirit of Christmas through an all-star cast and soulful original songs.
Black Nativity - Movie Information
- Original Title: Black Nativity
- Release Year: 2013
- Directed by: Kasi Lemmons
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Music, Drama
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): November 27, 2013 (Romania - AP), November 27, 2013 (United States - PG), December 6, 2013 (United Kingdom - PG)
- Alternative Titles: Jul i New York (DK), Navidad en Familia (SV)
- Production Companies: Malvern Pictures, Fox Searchlight Pictures, TSG Entertainment
- Production Countries: United States of America
Black Nativity - Plot
A street-wise teen from Baltimore who has been raised by a single mother travels to New York City to spend the Christmas holiday with his estranged relatives, where he embarks on a surprising and inspirational journey.
Black Nativity - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a feel for the music, heart, and holiday magic ahead:
The Musical Event of the Holiday Season
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Black Nativity - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Kasi Lemmons
Main Cast
- Forest Whitaker
- Angela Bassett
- Jennifer Hudson
- Tyrese Gibson
- Jacob Latimore
- Mary J. Blige
- Nas
- Vondie Curtis-Hall
- Grace Gibson
- J. Mallory McCree
Writers
- Kasi Lemmons
Producers
- T.D. Jakes
- Trudie Styler
Black Nativity - FAQs
Where can you stream or watch Black Nativity?
Black Nativity is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It is not currently available on a major subscription streaming service, so digital rental is the most accessible viewing option.
Is Black Nativity based on a true story or play?
Black Nativity is based on the celebrated 1961 gospel song-play of the same name by Langston Hughes. The stage production retells the Nativity story through the lens of African American gospel music and culture. Writer-director Kasi Lemmons adapted it into a contemporary holiday musical film.
Who are the main actors in Black Nativity?
The film stars Forest Whitaker as Reverend Cornell Cobbs, Angela Bassett as Aretha Cobbs, Jennifer Hudson as Naima, and Jacob Latimore as the teenage protagonist Langston. The cast also includes Tyrese Gibson, Mary J. Blige, and rapper Nas in supporting roles.
What is Black Nativity about?
A street-smart Baltimore teenager named Langston is sent to New York City to spend Christmas with grandparents he has never met. Through gospel music, family conflict, and unexpected spiritual encounters, he discovers the meaning of faith, forgiveness, and belonging during the holiday season.
What is the age rating for Black Nativity?
Black Nativity is rated PG by the MPA, making it suitable for general family audiences. The rating reflects mild thematic elements and some depictions of poverty and family hardship, but the film remains accessible and appropriate for children watching with parental guidance.
Who directed Black Nativity and who wrote the screenplay?
Black Nativity was both written and directed by Kasi Lemmons, the filmmaker known for Eve's Bayou and Harriet. Lemmons adapted Langston Hughes' original gospel play into a contemporary musical narrative, bringing her distinctive vision to this holiday story of family and spiritual redemption.
How long is Black Nativity and when was it released?
Black Nativity has a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It was theatrically released in the United States on November 27, 2013, timed for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. It also opened in the United Kingdom on December 6, 2013.
How was Black Nativity received by critics?
Critical reception was mixed. Reviewers praised the film's vibrant musical performances, especially from Jennifer Hudson and Mary J. Blige, and its warm holiday spirit. However, some critics felt the narrative was uneven and the story underdeveloped. The ensemble cast and gospel soundtrack were widely considered the film's strongest assets.
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