IMDb 6.3 2017 HD

The Star

The Star

2017
Adventure Animation Comedy Family Fantasy
86 min PG USA
6.436 / 10
6.3 IMDB

A small but brave donkey and his animal friends become the unsung heroes of the greatest story ever told: the first Christmas.

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Timothy Reckart
Starring
Steven Yeun / Gina Rodriguez / Zachary Levi / Keegan-Michael Key / Kelly Clarkson / Anthony Anderson / Kris Kristofferson / Ving Rhames

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

heartwarming charming predictable gentle uplifting earnest serviceable forgettable spirited endearing familiar safe

Reviews

G
Genevieve Moreau
Apr 15, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

In 'The Star,' the familiar tale of Christmas is given an animated makeover, focusing on the animal kingdom's role in the momentous events. The film's strength lies in its charming characters, particularly the brave little donkey, Bo, voiced…

R
Reginald Finch
Apr 15, 2026
2.5 / 5
2.5

While the ambition to reframe the Christmas story through animal protagonists is admirable, 'The Star' ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. The animation is serviceable but lacks a distinctive visual flair, and the pacing can be uneven. Performances…

I
Isabelle Dubois
Apr 15, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

'The Star' shines brightest when it embraces its unique premise: the Nativity as seen through the eyes of its animal participants. The central character, Bo the donkey, is genuinely endearing, and his journey is a testament to courage.…

M
Marcus Bellweather
Apr 15, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

Presented as a story of unlikely heroes, 'The Star' attempts to lend a fresh voice to the Christmas legend. The animation is competent, rendering a world that is colourful and engaging for younger viewers. The ensemble voice cast,…

E
Eleanor Vance
Apr 15, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

This animated retelling of the first Christmas, 'The Star,' offers a charmingly unconventional perspective. Focusing on a plucky donkey named Bo and his animal companions, the film injects a dose of fresh humour and heart into a familiar…

FAQs

While 'The Star' is centred on the Nativity, its approach is primarily through the eyes of its animal characters, offering a more secular and family-friendly lens. It focuses on the wonder and significance of the event without being overtly preachy. The film emphasizes the universal themes of hope, love, and the miraculous nature of the first Christmas, making it accessible to a broad audience regardless of their religious background.