The Star of Bethlehem (1909)

• 54%
• 1909
• History
• Edwin S. Porter

A beautiful, reverential picture, suitable for the coming Lenten season, showing the eventful period immediately preceding the birth of the gentlest of men. The life of the time is faithfully shown, and the hardships attending the wanderings of Mary and Joseph. Their seeking shelter, being denied, and finally forced to find refuge in a stable. The arrival of the wise men called Magi, gentle philosophers from Persia and India, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh for the child, whom they worship as a King. Herod, the king, sends for the wise men, questions them regarding the coming of Christ: where he is to be born, and the time, for he is very much troubled withal. The wise men are warned by an angel and depart from Judea, returning to their own country. Joseph and .Mary are also warned and flee with the child, into Egypt. Herod, exceedingly angry, sends forth his command to slay all the children in Bethlehem from two years and under, hoping to encompass the death of the child whose coming he feared. Throughout, the action is beautifully sustained; enacted in a reverent spirit. Costumes and characters historically correct and stage settings as elaborate as ever used. The scenes wherein the shepherds watch by night, the humble stable and lowly manger, the arrival of the wise men bearing gifts, and the tender devotion shown, makes this a fitting product for the coming season.