PATH Reviews the Movie ‘Black Nativity’ in Theaters November 27

Review – Written By: Naomi Richard — Black Nativity has all the makings of an annual holiday tradition for families to enjoy. Viewers will experience the struggles of a single parent trying to make ends meet, the decision to separate during the holidays, the tragedy of unforgiveness, the impact of bad choices and the power of love, redemption and reconciliation!

Raphael Saadiq, Executive Music Producer, took the original music, remixed some and added newly written ballads. Nearly all genres of music are covered and performed masterfully. Forest Whitaker and Angela Bassett will be surprise soloists in this film for many viewers. Yet both delivered performances ringing from the rafters along with veteran songsters Jennifer Hudson, Jacob Latimore, Tyrese, NAS, Luke James and Mary J. Blige!

This musical has soul-stirring songs beginning with Test of Faith sung by Jennifer Hudson as she says goodbye to her son Langston amidst an eviction notice. It seemed so powerful and moving at the beginning of the film, I wondered how the other songs could top it; but the talented casts indeed made it happen.

Another heart gripping performance was Be Grateful sung by Forest Whitaker, Jennifer Hudson, Jacob Latimore and Luke James. The music is sure to ignite emotions of love, compassion and joy.

The all-star casts give top acting performances and demonstrate superb musical ability. The entire spectrum of cast members delivers a strong sense of faith throughout the entire movie.

Poetry written by Langston Hughes was woven throughout the production in both spoken word and song. One quote that stuck with me was, “I’d rather be a lamppost in Harlem, than the Governor of Georgia.”

Black Nativity is a must see this holiday season and appropriate for the entire family.

Synopsis: In a contemporary adaptation of Langston Hughes’ celebrated play, the holiday musical drama BLACK NATIVITY follows Langston (Jacob Latimore), a street-wise teen from Baltimore raised by a single mother, as he journeys to New York City to spend the Christmas holiday with his estranged relatives Reverend Cornell and Aretha Cobbs (Forest Whitaker and Angela Bassett). Unwilling to live by the imposing Reverend Cobbs’ rules, a frustrated Langston is determined to return home to his mother, Naima (Jennifer Hudson). Langston embarks on a surprising and inspirational journey and along with his new friends, and a little divine intervention, he discovers the true meaning of faith, healing, and family.

Cast: Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, Jennifer Hudson, Jacob Latimore, Mary J. Blige, Tyrese Gibson, Nasir Jones (NAS), Luke James, Vondie Curtis-Hall and Grace Gibson

Director: Kasi Lemmons

Executive Producers: Trudie Styler, T.D. Jakes, Joy Goodwin, and Derrick M. Williams

Writers: Langston Hughes (libretto), Kasi Lemmons (screenplay)

Rating: PG – Drama | Musical | Opens November 27