Chasing the Star

I admitt, I like it. Yes, it is far to be a great movie and accuracy is not exactly its basic virtue. But it has the gift to propose a new perspective about a very familiar story. And it represents a puzzle of personal stories, touching and dramatic in some measure. And it does a reasonable job in this sense. In essence, no surprises because, from the first part, you know the tone and the vision and the idea of director about manner to tell the story. The big problem - the didacticism of the dialogue between Archangel Gabriel and Devil and the actor in the role of Archangel . But that are only details. The result - it represents more than a Christmas film but a nice portrait of vulnerability and reconciliation with yourself.

Unique telling of the Magi story, which has been overlooked both spiritually and cinematically. The movie takes us with The Three Wise Man as they reveal their own faith journey on their way to Bethlehem. Strong performances by Bello Pizzimenti and Taymour Ghazi. Rance Howard isn't on the screen long but like a true pro he doesn't have to be and he makes the most of it.

As CHASING THE STAR follows the Three Magi (Wisemen) on their predestined quest, instead of the epic Biblical story we're familiar with, it provides wonderfully intimate portraits of humanity caught up in larger cosmic themes of power, pride, status and duty weighed against individual choice. Though the breathtaking scenery and some very nice effects capture an arduous journey, the focus is on small moments of personal struggle, often done in poignant flashback, as each of the very different trio comes to terms with the surrender of his own dreams (and demons) to embrace the sacrifice their faith demands. From main cast to brief cameos, the acting is top notch, earnest and emotional, with refreshing hints of humor. The decisions are heartrending and real. My personal favorites: The appearance of warrior angels (no wings or halos for these all business fellows!) and the slickly seductive tempter weaving in and out of the story offering dreams like forbidden fruit. My only peeve: The sound track, though appropriate, got a bit heavy at times. A thoroughly entertaining and enlightening film I would recommend to all viewers.

...where do I begin? Either a High School project or a 2nd year college exam. The language is awful, it's a mixture of old and new English, the filming is all modern motion, and the settings...oh myy, more like 19th century than first century. This movie could have been a great retelling but apparently it must have had a very very low budget. A waste for actress Yancy Butler, she must have donated her time. I hope someone else decides to remake it with better dialogue, acting, and sets, and most of all, heart.

I enjoyed this film and the different perspectives on the Christmas story. It was well made and the story well told.