Variety nods to "Nativity"

In Variety's article about Hollywood "getting" religion, they open by giving their example about the upcoming "Nativity," in addition to citing "The Passion of the Christ," "The Chronicles of Narnia," and "The Da Vinci Code" as recent examples of successful religious movies.

Now that Hollywood has tackled Jesus' offspring and his passion, it's time for the prequel. New Line's Christmas release "Nativity" is the next entry to tap into the growing market for Christian-themed films.

Pic, a family-friendly retelling of the Christmas story, is a departure from New Line's usual slate of thrillers. It follows Mary and Joseph in the year leading up to the birth of Jesus, and continues until their flight to Egypt.

Helmed by Catherine Hardwicke, cast includes "Whale Rider" star Keisha Castle-Hughes as Mary, newcomer Oscar Isaacs as Joseph and Alexander Siddig as the angel Gabriel.

New Line senior VP, production, Cale Boyter says that this is the first time a studio feature has tackled the Nativity story. "This could be the definitive Christmas movie. It's filling a need in the market that Hollywood's been a bit slow to pick up on."