THE VERY FIRST NOEL
A charming, Christian animated Nativity for the whole family.
Should You Watch It?
If you want a short Christmas movie that clearly celebrates Jesus’ birth, this is a lovely choice. The rhyming dialogue, upbeat Christmas carols, cute animation, and constant jeopardy make this 23-minute film engaging rather than merely instructional.
The story is told from the point of view of Melchior, one of the Magi, so parents should explain that Christians do not believe in magicians or astrologers. The film’s central truth is different: the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
For a joyful, explicitly Christian introduction to the Nativity, choose WORTH THE TRIP.
The Story
NO SPOILERS — WE KEEP THE SURPRISESMelchior follows the Star of Bethlehem and joins two other Magi, who bring humor and wisdom to the journey. Their search leads them to Jerusalem, where King Herod disguises his anger after learning that a new king has been born.
Meanwhile, Mary and Joseph encounter the angel who tells them they will be the parents of the Messiah. The Magi continue toward the newborn King.
Is It Any Good?
Four stars means this is excellent family entertainment. The cute animation, rhyming dialogue, upbeat Christmas carols, and lively action create a captivating short film.
The narration is superb after the opening, and there is jeopardy in nearly every line of dialogue and action. The film’s brevity works well as an introduction to the Nativity story, especially for children.
The Worldview
This film presents a very strong Christian, biblical worldview through an animated retelling of the Nativity story. It celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ as the birth of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and it treats the arrival of the Messiah as a miraculous event.
The main point requiring explanation is the Magi’s description of themselves as magicians and astrologers. The film includes those ideas as part of its characters’ identities, but the review specifically distinguishes them from Christian belief. Herod also lies, while the story otherwise remains family-friendly and focused on the Nativity.
The film points toward the central Christian announcement of Christmas: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).
The Content Guide
The specifics — spoilers included by nature — so you can judge for your own family.
Dominant Worldview and Other Worldview Content/Elements
Very strong Christian, biblical worldview presents the Nativity story in an animated form for families but talks about magicians and astrologers
Foul Language
No foul language
Violence
A few comic pratfalls
Sex
No sex
Nudity
No nudity
Alcohol Use
No alcohol use
Smoking and/or Drug Use and Abuse
No smoking or drugs;
Miscellaneous Immorality
Herod lies.
Talk About It
Questions for the drive home, the dinner table, or the youth group.
The Magi follow the Star of Bethlehem. What does the Nativity story teach us about seeking and recognizing God’s work?
Matthew 2:1–12 · Luke 2:8–20Herod disguises his anger and lies. Why is honesty important, especially when our motives are wrong?
Proverbs 12:22 · Ephesians 4:25The film calls Jesus the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. What does that title mean for how we live and worship?
1 Timothy 6:15 · Revelation 19:16The film presents the birth of Jesus as a miracle. Why is Jesus’ birth central to the Christian faith?
Luke 1:30–35 · Luke 2:10–14The Final Word
Cute animation, rhyming dialogue, lively action, and a clearly Christian message make this a wonderful short Christmas introduction. Explain the film’s references to magicians and astrologers, then enjoy its celebration of Jesus’ birth. WORTH THE TRIP.
