Nativity: The Art and Spirit of the Creche (2004)

Documentary. Nativity: The Art and Spirit of the Creche is a beautiful presentation of dozens of folk-art and artisan-crafted nativity sets from numerous lands with a detailed historical and cultural discussion of why Christianity values the creche scene so much. After the cross, it is the most recognizable symbol of the coming of Jesus Christ; the standalone nativity scene (separate from architectural embellishment) greatly grew in popularity with its introduction by St. Francis of Assisi; it depicts the Holy Family as the exemplar of familial love, devotion, and piety; it depicts the rich and the poor alike who are called to witness the event; and (as one of a half-dozen priests and creche experts commented) children can relate to the Christ Child, esp. knowing that "this is a child their parents have to obey." Exquisite classical music accompanies the documentarians' discussions. The presentation is only 27 minutes but it is packed with more cultural artifacts and historical perspective than I have ever seen in less than half an hour. 4.5 stars.