The Star

 

Technical assessment:  4 

Moral assessment: 4

CINEMA rating:  VA with parental guidance

Netflix rating:  7+ with parental guidance

The Star retells the Nativity story through the eyes of a small but determined donkey named Bo, who joins Mary and Joseph on their journey to Bethlehem, accompanied by other animals drawn by a mysterious star. As they evade King Herod’s soldiers and follow God’s quiet guidance, the animals become unlikely witnesses to the birth of Jesus. The familiar Gospel narrative unfolds gently, emphasizing wonder, trust, and divine providence, while remaining accessible to young audiences.

The film employs clean, colorful animation and a warm visual palette suited for family viewing. Character designs are expressive without becoming overly cartoonish, and boosted by a delightful dialogue allow emotional beats to land naturally. Voice performances are competent and restrained, avoiding exaggerated theatrics common in animated features. The pacing is steady, though the animal-centered humor occasionally slows the narrative. Musical elements are sparingly used and do not overwhelm the story. While the animation quality does not rival top-tier studios, it serves its purpose well: supporting the narrative rather than distracting from it. Overall, The Star demonstrates technical modesty aligned with its reverent subject matter.

The Star presents the mystery of the Incarnation with clarity and respect, making it particularly valuable for family audiences. The film affirms central Christian truths: God enters human history in humility; obedience and trust open the way for salvation; and even the lowly have a role in God’s plan. Mary’s quiet courage and Joseph’s protective faithfulness echo Catholic teaching on vocation, cooperation with grace, and responsible love. The animals’ participation, while imaginative, reinforces the universality of Christ’s coming—that all creation rejoices in the birth of the Savior. Importantly, the film avoids moralizing dialogue, allowing actions and choices to convey meaning. Though simplified for children, The Star remains faithful to the Gospel spirit and invites families to reflect on Christmas not merely as celebration, but as the profound mystery of God-with-us.

The Star presents the mystery of the Incarnation clearly and with respect, making it particularly valuable for family audiences. The film affirms central Christian truths: God enters human history in humility; obedience and trust open the way for salvation; and even the lowly have a role in God’s plan. Mary’s quiet courage and Joseph’s protective faithfulness echo the Church's teaching on vocation, cooperation with grace, and responsible love. The animals’ participation, while imaginative, reinforces the universality of Christ’s coming—that all creation rejoices in the birth of the Savior. Importantly, the film avoids moralizing dialogue, allowing actions and choices to convey meaning. Though simplified for children, The Star remains faithful to the Gospel spirit and invites families to reflect on Christmas not merely as celebration, but as the profound mystery of God-with-us.

 

The Christmas Chronicles 

Editor's Note: In Catholic liturgical practice, the official end of the Christmas season is tied to the celebration of the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which in 2026 falls on January 11.  So if the youngsters in your family are still in Christmas movie binging mode after Christmas day, go ahead and watch some more!  Like books, even old movies are new, as long as you haven’t watched them yet!  

Technical assessment: 3

Moral assessment: 3.5

CBCP/CINEMA rating:  VA with parental guidance

Netflix rating: Age 7 and up under parental guidance

On Christmas Eve, siblings Kate and Teddy Pierce attempt to capture Santa on video but accidentally cause his sleigh to crash, jeopardizing Christmas itself. Stranded with Santa in Chicago and separated from his magical items, the children must help him recover what was lost before dawn. Along the way, they confront their own grief over their father’s death, rediscover family unity, and learn the value of belief and responsibility as they race to save Christmas for the world.

The film is briskly paced and visually polished, clearly designed for family audiences. Kurt Russell’s unconventional Santa—energetic, witty, and self-assured—anchors the movie with charisma and humor. The cinematography favors bright, festive colors and dynamic movement, while the CGI elves and action sequences are serviceable, if occasionally uneven. Editing keeps the narrative moving, though the plot relies heavily on familiar holiday formulas. The musical interlude and pop-culture humor may feel excessive to some viewers, but they contribute to the film’s contemporary tone. Overall, the technical execution prioritizes entertainment and accessibility over depth, succeeding as light holiday fare.

The Christmas Chronicles highlights values consistent with Catholic teaching, particularly the importance of family, faith, and hope amid suffering. The children’s grief reflects the human experience of loss, while their journey affirms that healing often comes through love, cooperation, and trust. The film underscores responsibility for others and self-sacrifice for the common good—virtues central to Christian moral life. Though Christmas is presented mainly as cultural celebration rather than the Nativity of Christ, the themes of belief, generosity, and reconciliation resonate with the Gospel spirit of the season. Parents and educators may use the film as a springboard to remind viewers that the joy and unity portrayed ultimately find their fullest meaning in Christ’s birth, which calls families to charity, faithfulness, and renewed hope.