During the holiday season, quite a few people are told one of the greatest stories ever shared- the birth of Jesus Christ. And there are also some films that tell this incredible story.

The Dietrich Theater is currently showing a film that is a re-telling of this amazing story, which is a slightly different yet excellent take of the story — ‘Journey to Bethlehem.’
A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honor. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown.
This live-action Christmas musical adventure for the entire family weaves Christmas melodies with humor, faith and new songs in a re-telling of the greatest story ever told, the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus.
A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it.
‘Journey to Bethlehem’ is an amazing fresh take on this amazing story. The film delivers great music, moving moments and is something that the entire family will enjoy watching.
This is a unique, fresh look at the incredible story that is easily one of the most enjoyable films of the holiday season. The amazing journey is very moving at times and even if you’re familiar with the story of the birth of Jesus, this new take will leave you really surprised.
The film does take a couple artistic liberties to the story, yet in small doses. For those who enjoy the story, you surely won’t be disappointed. By the time the ‘Journey to Bethlehem’ concludes, you will really feel slightly emotional and the performances that are featured in the film are simply incredible.

All the actors and actresses that appear in this film do a remarkable job, especially Antonio Banderas who portrays the villainous King Herod. Banderas gives it his all for his part and can actually be rather chilling during a couple moments. I also have to give a shout out to Fiona Palomo who portrays Mary. The first time actress plays the part well and her acting abilities are amazing.
The film also features a great amount of music that audiences will love and the actors and actresses performed the songs really well. Adding music to this incredible story gives this take a truly unique feel and it works well. There is also some comic relief scattered throughout that is really humorous.
Overall, ‘Journey to Bethlehem’ is a film that’s not to be missed. The film delivers a powerful story, great songs and really moving moments that the whole family can enjoy. So, make sure to catch this amazing film while it’s showing in town!
The cast: Antonio Banderas as Herod; Milo Monheim as Joseph; Fiona Palomo as Mary; Geno Segers as Balthazar; Joel Smallbone as Antipater; Omid Dejalili as Melchior; Rizwan Marji as Gaspar; Moriah as Deborah; Stephanie Gil as Rebekah; Lecrae as Gabriel; Antonio Gil as Jacob; Alicia Borracharo as Rachel; Maria Pau Pigem as Ana and Antonio Cantos as Joachim.
‘Journey to Bethlehem’ is written by Adam Anders and Peter Barsocchini (Netflix’s Vivo) and also directed by Anders, making his directorial debut.
The film and its cast was announced in March 2023 and shooting locations included the Castle of Santa Barbara in Alicante.
‘Journey to Bethlehem’ is rated PG for thematic elements and has a running time of 99 minutes.
Make sure to keep on checking my Wyoming County Press Examiner reviews page on Facebook to see what else I will be taking a look at! And coming up next on the review front — ‘Wonka,’ ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,’ ‘Migration,’ ‘The Color Purple’ and my annual top picks of the year.
Comments