An 'underrated Christmas comedy film' is returning for the festive season, and it's airing on BBC1 today.
Nativity!, released in 2009, is a British Christmas comedy about primary school teacher Paul Maddens (Martin Freeman) who, while directing his school's Nativity play, lies to his rival that a Hollywood producer (his ex-girlfriend) is coming to turn it into a movie, leading to chaotic, improvised fun as he tries to make the lie a reality with help from his eccentric assistant, Mr. Poppy, and a cast of eager kids.
Shown every year on TV, the comedy and laughter have never failed to win over fans and its considered an 'underrated Christmas film' according to viewers. The film, which was filmed in Coventry with real local kids who often thought Martin Freeman was a real teacher, has become a huge hit and it became the most successful British independent film of 2009. Since the first film, it's also and lead to a franchise with sequels and a stage musical.
On film ratings website, the movie commands an impressive score of 67% on the Popcornmetere and countless five star reviews. One five star review said: "Technically I have seen this before but I was like 8 so this feels fresh in my mind. What a joyful film. That's the only word you can use joyful. It's able to be so joyful while also being able to go deep with some of it's themes. Yeah I just loved it, not much more 8 can say that hasn't already been said."
Another added: "Underrated Christmas Comedy film. A friend of mine from High School recommended this to me and I love it. Although, some moments felt like they went nowhere, that's the idea of comedy films. Mr. Poppy is such a legendary character, the story is genius and the comedy is perfect."
"Such a charming film! Great for a young family and some genuinely funny moments," said another review giving it five stars. Another shared: "I watched this movie for the first time today! I can't believe I've been missing it all of these years. It was hilarious and heartwarming! I'll be watching it again every year now!"
"Really cute movie!! Enjoyed!" said another. Another posted: "Such a brilliant film. Perfect to watch with all the family. The critics really don't get this and don't seem to have a sense of humour. The kids are outstanding and it is absolutely laugh out loud."
Another review blasted any criticism the film has received as it added: "All critic reviews of this are depressing and show that film critics really have no idea. This film is one of the most popular Christmas films, and every single year millions come back to watch it. The BBC recognise this as they add it to iplayer each Christmas without fail. If films like "violent night" rate better than this (which it is) then I really have lost hope in film critique."
