JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM is a live-action Christmas musical that reimagines the Nativity story with a blend of classic holiday melodies and modern pop songs. Directed by Adam Anders, the film follows Mary (Fiona Palomo), a young woman in Nazareth with dreams of teaching, who is betrothed to Joseph (Milo Manheim), a kind but conflicted man she’s never met. When the angel Gabriel (Lecrae) announces that Mary will miraculously bear the Son of God, she faces societal judgment and Joseph grapples with doubt, depicted in a dream where he debates himself. Their growing bond is tested as they navigate her divine pregnancy and embark on a perilous journey to Bethlehem for a Roman census.

Meanwhile, King Herod (Antonio Banderas), a jealous and power-hungry ruler, learns from the three wise men—Balthazar, Gaspar, and Melchior—of a prophesied king. Fearing a threat to his throne, Herod orders his son Antipater (Joel Smallbone) to hunt down the newborn. The wise men, portrayed with comedic flair, follow a star to Bethlehem, aiming to honor the child while evading Herod’s schemes. As Mary and Joseph face dangers, including Roman soldiers and societal scorn, their faith and love deepen, culminating in the birth of Jesus in a humble stable. The film balances reverence for the biblical narrative with creative liberties, such as musical numbers and humorous interludes, to appeal to families and non-believers alike.

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM was released on November 10, 2023.