Black Nativity Extended Musical Edition

Even though Black Nativity feels a little cluttered early on, a strong third act leaves the audience with the clarity of a more satisfying high note (and I mean that literally; a cover of the Stevie Wonder classic "As" plays over the closing credits).

"Black Nativity," loosely based on a play by Langston Hughes, is brought beautifully to life by writer/director Kasi Lemmons, a true auteur in every sense of the word.

Black Nativity is a jubilant experience.

Some devices don't work as well as others, however Kasi Lemmons has made a film that lives and breathes, even if it at times it doesn't work

To call it preachy isn't necessarily a critique; the entire film is essentially built around a closing sermon.