Nativity! Film Deemed a Core Element of Christmas Culture

“It’s up there with some of the most important Christmas films for people.” This assessment comes from movie director Debbie Isitt, who largely attributes the widespread affection for Nativity! to the significant involvement of Coventry’s Holy Family Primary School. Commemorating 15 years since its inception, Ms. Isitt, a native of Harborne in Birmingham, has revisited the school, which was known as St Bernadette’s in the film series she authored. Admitting her initial unawareness of the film’s potential for such longevity, she stated, “I think it’s true to say it is part of the culture now for Christmas.” The inaugural film featured a primary school teacher, portrayed by Martin Freeman, who engages in a festive rivalry with a teacher from another school, played by Jason Watkins. Following the success of the 2009 movie, Ms. Isitt subsequently wrote and directed three additional films in the series, alongside a stage musical. She conveyed that she felt “really emotional” returning to the school and confessed that she had anticipated it would be a Christmas movie that “would just come and go like so many do.” She added, “Its amazing that it’s still going strong, stronger than ever really.” Several teachers also hold cherished memories of the filming process from 15 years ago. “It surprises me, because you don’t think that people will recognise you or even remember,” remarked teacher Angie Ward, who had a minor role in the film. She described it as “just mind blowing” that strangers continue to recognize her from the movie. Another teacher, Clare Tompkins, shared that her daughter successfully auditioned for a part and appeared as a member of the St Bernadette’s choir. However, she recounted that her son, who was five at the time, became “just completely stage struck” when he faced the film crew for his audition. She explained that she was invited to sing alongside him to help him overcome his nerves, but when he still wouldn’t sing, the crew stepped in to assist. She recalled, “All of the crew were so beautiful, they started singing when Santa got stuck up the chimney with me.” Ultimately, he made an appearance in the film’s out-takes at the end, “sat there with a little glum face.” Despite this, she affirmed that it was “the most incredible experience” and one that both her children retain “really fond memories of.” Tom McGarrity, then 11, played the character of Zack in the first film and remains profoundly grateful for having been cast in the role. Now a director on a cruise liner, he stated, “I do not not believe I would have the career I would have now if it weren’t for the fact that I got Nativity!. Debbie gave us the chance to perform, and honestly I had the best time and I’m so glad I was able to do it.” He mentioned that he watches the film annually, adding, “Every time I watch it I remember different memories of filming different scenes, of different people, it was just amazing.” Mrs. Tompkins, who has worked at the school for 28 years, commented that the movie “was a great thing for the city.” She asserted that it brought Coventry recognition and “was a real positive because it shows the talent Coventry has, but also showed some of the environments that we have.” Head teacher Grainee Griffiths agreed, stating, “Everybody knows somebody who was in at least one of the films in Coventry and that’s what’s so special about it.” She noted that she is consistently asked about the film at teaching conferences, and people still visit the school to take photographs. “We’re very proud to be known as the Nativity! school,” she declared. For more from BBC Coventry & Warwickshire, find them on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.