I love discovering hidden gems, and that’s exactly what happened when I stumbled upon The Star, an animated treasure that brought me joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments. It’s the kind of film that proves a great story can stand the test of time—released seven years ago and yet brand new to me.
The Story
The Star (2017), directed by Timothy Reckart, offers a fresh and playful take on the Nativity, told through the eyes of an unlikely hero—a small donkey named Bo. Trapped in the mundane routine of turning a village mill, Bo dreams of breaking free and doing something meaningful. With the help of his loyal friend, Dave the Dove (voiced by Keegan-Michael Key), Bo seizes his chance for freedom and stumbles into the lives of Mary (Gina Rodriguez) and Joseph (Zachary Levi).
What follows is a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud adventure as Bo, Dave, and a ragtag group of animals—including Ruth the Sheep (Aidy Bryant) and the delightfully vain camels of the Three Wise Men (Tyler Perry, Tracy Morgan, and Oprah Winfrey)—embark on a quest to help Mary and Joseph. Along the way, they face everything from grumpy Roman guards to menacing dogs with surprising arcs of redemption.
Standout Characters
The beauty of The Star lies in its characters—each one shines in their own way. The Wise Men’s camels, with their side-splitting banter and wry observations, steal scenes effortlessly. Joseph’s irritable disposition adds comic contrast to his otherwise dutiful role, and the gentle connection between Mary and Bo provides the film’s emotional center.
But the dove! Dave could have been on a royal stage—he’s that entertaining—yet he chooses to stay by Bo’s side, proving that loyalty means everything. Another real highlight is Ruth the Sheep, who bravely guides the group through treacherous mountainous terrain. And let’s not forget the vicious dogs, whose journey to their own day of reckoning reveals unexpected layers of conscience and growth. These moments bring depth and heart to a film that never loses its sense of fun.
A Standout Cast
The voice talent elevates The Star to another level. Steven Yeun brings earnest charm to Bo, while Keegan-Michael Key’s Dave delivers some of the film’s funniest lines. Gina Rodriguez and Zachary Levi shine as the warm and grounded Mary and Joseph, and the ensemble is rounded out by legends like Christopher Plummer (King Herod), Ving Rhames, and Patricia Heaton. Each character feels fully realized, with a perfect blend of humor and heart.
What Critics Say
While The Star may not have grabbed mainstream holiday buzz, it resonated with those who discovered its charm. Common Sense Media praised it as “a joyful and funny retelling of the Nativity story that kids and adults can enjoy together,” while The Christian Post called it “a modern classic for families celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.”
Why It Stands Out
This movie surprised me in the best ways. Yes, it’s “cartoony,” but its believability comes from the heart it pours into the story. I laughed out loud—bust-gutting laughter—at the quick-witted animals, the camels’ comedic banter, and Joseph’s irritable yet lovable moments. Yet, it was the quieter interactions, like the bond between Bo and Mary or the sheep leading the way through perilous mountains, that made it so memorable.
The animation itself is compelling. It strikes the perfect balance between playful visuals and grounded, heartfelt storytelling. And it never drags—there’s no time for lulls, as the story barrels forward like a rollercoaster, keeping you glued to the screen.
Conclusion
At its core, The Star is a joyful retelling of a timeless story. It celebrates friendship, faith, and the idea that even the smallest among us can play a part in something extraordinary. Seven years later, it feels as fresh and relevant as ever, proving that a truly great film will find its audience in time.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday movie that combines humor, adventure, and heart, The Star is a must-watch. It’s a gem worth discovering—one I’ll happily keep on repeat.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
The Star is streaming now, and trust me, it’s worth every moment.
