[BELLS CHIMING]
[WAVES LAPPING GENTLY]
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
Long ago, in the time
of Caesar Augustus,
and in the land of Judah,
ruled by the evil King Herod,
there lived a young woman
named Mary,
who didn't know yet
that she was chosen by God
to fulfill an ancient prophecy
to bring forth a promised king
sent to save the world.
Far away in the East,
there were three kings
of the Order of the Magi,
who knew of this prophecy.
For many years,
these Magi had been searching
for a certain star to appear,
signaling the arrival
of this divine child.
What?
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
Balthazar was well known
for his ability
to read and chart the stars.
Gaspar!
Mommy?
Quickly! Come!
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
And this Magi, Gaspar,
was easily the greatest scholar
in all the lands.
The juxtaposition
of the celestial alignment
between Cronus and Ares,
both the deferent
and the epicycle model,
show the same zodiacal
positions of the five planets!
Repeat the middle part again,
if you will.
The star.
Just come look at the star!
See for yourself.
Oh.
[HIGH-PITCHED GRUNT]
Oh, goodness.
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
The moment was finally here.
Goodness!
They had to be there
when it happened.
This is it!
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
Oh, yes,
then there was Melchior.
Melchior!
He was the map man.
A great navigator.
And, well, he liked to eat--
a lot.
Show us this land called Judah.
Here. Precisely.
Judah.
That's really far.
Are you certain?
Those are King
Herod's lands.
You, don't insult me.
And, you, get me a kebab...
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
It was time to pack the tent
and assemble the caravan.
As the Magi set out
to find this young mother,
they could only wonder...
What mighty queen was chosen
for this great honor?
Giving birth to the Son of God.
O come, O come
Emmanuel
Shall come to us
O Israel
[]
Come, all you faithful
Joyful, triumphant
O come
To Bethlehem
[SINGERS VOCALIZING]
Sing, choirs of angels
Sing exultations
O come
To Bethlehem
[SINGERS VOCALIZING]
Sing hallelujah
For unto us a
Child is born
Join every nation
In celebration
A child is born
He is come
Come, o come
Emmanuel
He is come
Come, o come
Emmanuel
He is come
Come, o come
Emmanuel
He is come.
[SINGERS VOCALIZING]
[SONG ENDS]
Every girl I know
helped choose their husband.
Why am I forced to marry
someone I haven't even met?
He just moved here
from Bethlehem.
He is a good man
from a good family.
His name is Joseph.
JOACHIM:
I'm securing your future, Mary.
But what about my dream
of becoming a teacher,
like my father?
You are fortunate
anyone will have you,
with all your crazy ideas.
Crazy ideas?
You're the reason
I have these crazy ideas.
You put them into my head
by having me
study these Scriptures,
day after day, year after year.
Because I did not have a son
to teach them to.
So now you punish me for it?
You are a girl.
You will be a wife,
not a teacher,
as tradition demands.
As you wish, Father.
[DOOR OPENS]
[]
[WHISPERING]:
Oh, Fig.
This isn't fair.
[FIG WHINNIES SOFTLY]
Mary, can we
talk about this?
I'm going to town,
Deborah.
Rebekah,
we're going shopping.
[GASPS]
That isn't...
That's not what I said.
She needs to find fabric
for her betrothal gown.
[GRUNTS]
[BRAYING]
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
But I don't want
to marry for duty.
I want to marry for love.
Most girls look forward
to marriage.
Love takes time
to grow, Mary.
Mm-hmm.
Like a flower.
Your husband
might be handsome,
exciting, wonderful.
[RHYTHMIC SCRAPING, TAPPING]
He might be a very good dancer.
[RHYTHMIC CLINKING]
MARY:
And if he's none
of those things,
he'll still be my husband.
Mary,
you're getting married
It's about to be
the best day of your life
Scary,
'cause maybe married
Means that I am kissing
all my dreams goodbye
Divine institution,
a holy union
One sure sign
that you are blessed
Or a life sentence
Of daily dependence
[COUPLE ARGUING]
Bickering and "Yes, dear"-ing
until death
Mary, Mary,
married is something you do
That's very, very, very,
very good for you
Mary, Mary,
married makes two hearts into
One happy life
Engagement
then the invitations
Ceremony, celebration,
dreams are coming true
Mary, Mary, Mary, Mary,
married is good for you
Married!
It's good for you
It's good for you
You
BOTH: Married.
It's good for you
[GRUNTS]
It's good for you
So, holy matrimony
Is marrying the wedding,
not the man?
Oh, Mary,
you're so contrary
Love is secondary,
everyone knows that
It's constant attention
In someone else's direction.
Hey. [GRUNTS]
Your husband
will have eyes for only you
[COUPLE ARGUING]
It's so romantic
Or just traumatic
Being showered with
so many precious jewels
Mary, Mary,
married is something you do
That's very, very, very,
very good for you
Mary, Mary,
married makes two hearts into
One happy life
Keeping house and making
babies, going shopping
All the daily chores
are all I'll do
Mary, Mary, Mary, Mary,
married is good for you
Married.
It's good for you
It's good for you, you
CROWD: Married!
It's good for you
It's good for you
It's not my decision,
but this is tradition
Trusting that my family
knows best
Is this
what I'm chosen for?
I thought
I was meant for more
At least
you'll look so pretty
In your predicament
Mary, Mary,
married is something you do
You sure?
That's very, very, very
Very good for you
Hope you're right.
Mary, Mary,
married makes two hearts into
One happy life
Does it, though?
He may be short,
he may be hairy
Getting fat,
but, Mary, dear
He's chosen just for you
Mary, Mary, Mary, Mary,
married is good for you
Mary!
It's good for you
Maybe.
It's good for you, you
Mary!
It's good for you
It's good for you
You may be nervous,
may be scared
Your head is spinning
everywhere
'Cause I have to believe
That Mary, Mary, Mary, Mary,
married
Is good for me.
BOTH:
Guess we'll see.
[SONG ENDS]
[GRUNTS]
I'm so sorry.
I'm...
You're welcome.
Hmm?
Thank you.
[GRUNTS]
[CLEARS THROAT]
[CLEARS THROAT]
I'm an expert at choosing.
Uh...
Oh-oh,
what I mean is th-that
I-I know how...
You choose... fruit?
[CHUCKLES]
I have many skills.
Mm-hmm.
That's nice.
Why are you telling this
to a stranger?
I feel like
we're already friends, no?
Apparently,
I'm betrothed,
so I really should
get going now.
Yet here we are.
Goodbye.
[STAMMERS]
Wait, wait.
You haven't picked any fruit.
I-I don't think
you heard what I said.
Choose one.
It'll be my gift
to a beautiful bride.
I don't accept gifts
from strangers.
Strangers.
Aren't we past that?
This one's perfect.
Oh.
Uh, I didn't get your name.
[BRAYING]
[CHUCKLES]
Fig?
[SNORTS, GROWLS]
Uh, okay.
Whoa.
[WHIMPERS]
I hate donkeys.
[]
Welcome back, sire.
[HEROD SINGING QUIETLY]
Up, up, up, up, up.
There. There.
[DOOR OPENING]
There.
[DOOR CLOSING]
[CHUCKLES]
ANTIPATER:
Father.
Oh. Antipater.
My firstborn.
Returning from, uh...?
Rome.
Rome. So, um...
What do you want?
Oh, oh.
Rome has ordered us
to conduct a census.
Oh.
"King Herod, by decree
"at the command of our lord
and emperor, Caesar Augustus,
"a census shall be taken
throughout the Roman Empire.
All citizens shall return
to their ancestral..."
To their blah,
blah, blah, blah.
Rome. You know? Rome.
[LAUGHING]:
Rome.
Father, we-we cannot
just ignore Caesar.
[STAMMERS]
A census would
only anger the people.
WOMAN [IN DISTANCE]:
We hate you, Herod!
You seem to have no problem
angering the people
without Caesar's help.
[STAMMERS]
Wine.
MAN [IN DISTANCE]:
Herod sucks!
Should I have them removed?
Oh, no, no, no, no.
They amuse me.
Uh, they are nice people.
Father.
[SIGHS]
I have concerns that Rome will
hear about this unrest and...
Well, I have concerns
that you don't know
what it means to be a king.
I...
A king doesn't need to be loved.
Only obeyed and feared.
I live only to serve my king,
not to be one.
[HEROD LAUGHING]
[CHUCKLES]
[LAUGHING LOUDER]
[SLURRING]:
Hello, baby.
[MUMBLING PLAYFULLY]
Father.
Father.
Don't pretend
you don't want to be king.
Everyone
wants this crown.
My crown!
[GRUNTS]
[SNIFFS]
Oh.
[CROWD CLAMORING IN DISTANCE]
Oh, wow.
That sound.
Hatred?
Misery?
No, no, no.
Power.
[RHYTHMIC THUMPING]
[GROANS MOCKINGLY]
[RHYTHMIC THUMPING CONTINUES]
[RHYTHMIC CLAPPING]
HEROD:
Showtime.
[CROWD CLAMORING, JEERING]
[]
WOMAN:
Herod! I hate you!
It's good to be king
And have
the absolute authority
All the attributes
of divinity
I'm a religion
Look how they all
worship me
Don't have to be good
SOLDIER: Down!
To be a good king
Just gotta look
[CROWD JEERING]
Like you've got sympathy
Then keep them rooked
and suffering
To maximize your profiting
[MAN SCREAMS]
Look how the peasants
work down to the bone
As I sit up high
on my velvety throne
Pulling the strings
on the people below
It's so stinking good
to be king
Mine is the kingdom
Mine is the power
Mine is the glory
Forever
More
Kiss the ring, babies.
[WOMEN GIGGLING]
Kiss the ring.
King Herod.
Everybody hates me.
Yeah.
[]
I'm gonna k*ll him.
Ha ha!
[YELLS]
It's good to be king
And be the one who screams,
"Off with his head!"
Or be the one
who's deemed savior instead
It's delicious
to watch a man
Begging for his death
[WHIMPERING]
I put in a knife
and then give it a twist
A smile opens up
on my sinister lips
The joy of the crown
is too much to resist
It's so stinking good
to be king
I just love it!
Mine is the kingdom
Mine is the power
Mine is the glory
Forever
More
Forever
More
Forevermore...
[CARRYING NOTE]
So stinking good
to be king.
[SONG ENDS]
[FINGERS SNAP]
[LIVELY CHATTER]
They're here.
Welcome, Jacob. Welcome.
[KISSING]
I am so pleased that we can
share this joyous occasion.
Thank you, Joachim,
for your hospitality.
[COUPLE ARGUING]
[CHUCKLES]: Oh.
This looks more like a wedding
than a simple
betrothal ceremony.
What better way for our
families to meet than a party?
Rachel.
It's Rahel.
It is so nice
to finally meet you.
We are delighted to accept
your daughter into our family.
No, the joy is ours.
We don't feel as if
we are losing a daughter
but gaining a son.
Until now, I have been
severely outnumbered.
And how is Mary feeling
about the betrothal?
Mary? Oh.
[LAUGHS, STAMMERS]
She couldn't be happier.
Why make any plans
if everything's decided for me?
Sometimes God's plans for us
are even bigger than
we can imagine.
You must let your faith
guide you.
I wish I had your faith.
Oh, but you do.
Do you know why your father
spent so much time with you
on the Scriptures, Mary?
Because he didn't have a son
to teach them to.
No.
Because he saw
how strong your faith was.
And because he has always known
you are special.
Nothing
will change that, Mary.
Not even this young man.
Joseph. My son.
I wonder if he's cute.
[JOSEPH GRUNTING]
JOACHIM: Oh, nice to meet you.
JOSEPH [MUFFLED]:
Very nice to meet you, too.
So, Joachim, shall we proceed
with the ceremony?
But yes. Uh, yes, of course.
Deborah, tell Mary
we are ready.
The music. Play.
[LIVELY MUSIC PLAYING]
They're ready
for you, Mary.
REBEKAH:
You look beautiful.
You're going to be
so happy.
He is very
handsome.
We are almost finished.
This was my mother's.
[]
Now let's pour the wine
And dance together
What they start tonight
Will last forever
If you believe
Then join with me
And celebrate
Oh
It's a brand-new life
A gift from heaven
Showing hope will rise
And all's forgiven
If you believe
Then join with me
and celebrate
Celebrate
this brand-new life.
[SONG ENDS]
JOACHIM:
In the words of Solomon:
"Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
But a cord of three strands
is not easily broken."
May God bind
Mary and Joseph together
till the end of their days
on this earth.
Or at least until
their wedding day.
[BOTH CHUCKLE]
Thanks be to God!
ALL: Thanks be to God.
Joseph.
Hi, Mary. Oh.
I'm...
Joseph.
You?
And you.
They know each other?
A man of many skills.
JOSEPH: Yeah.
Uh, you're welcome.
You were also betrothed?
Uh...
Mary?
Do you need
to take a walk?
Great idea, Mother.
[CROWD MURMURING]
MAN: What?
Uh, so what exactly
do I do now?
You go after her.
All right. There. Okay.
[CHUCKLES]
To life.
ALL:
To life!
Mary.
Please don't chase me.
I'm not. I'm not chasing you.
I just...
Okay, wow, you walk fast.
[PANTING]
For a girl?
No. What? No.
For anyone who walks.
Look.
Mary, we are supposed
to be talking, okay?
We're supposed to be
getting to know each other.
We're betrothed.
And you spent considerable
amount of effort in
the marketplace charming a girl
who informed you
that she was betrothed.
You were charmed?
I was cornered.
[CHUCKLES]
Mary.
Look, I'm just friendly.
So friendly
that you forgot to mention
that you were also betrothed,
while offering
a different girl gifts.
Well, actually, it-it turns out
it was the same girl, so...
May I just point out, you...
weren't exactly unfriendly.
I was being polite
while trying to escape.
If you can walk this fast,
escaping should not
have been a problem.
Mary, they are back there
planning our wedding right now.
Yes, they are.
So what do we, Mary?
I don't know, Joseph.
My whole life,
I wanted to be a teacher.
And then one day marry someone
who I actually love.
[SMACKS LIPS]
Yeah, well, you know,
this wasn't
in my plans either, okay?
I-I'm an inventor.
I'm coming up with ideas
that could change the world,
but my father said,
"You're getting married, son,"
and that's the end of it.
I'm sorry.
Are you even hearing me
right now? Mary.
[JOSEPH SIGHS]
You're not the only one
that wasn't given a choice.
[MARY SIGHS]
Yet here we are.
[]
How could I be
Oh so naive
Foolishly thinking there's
more to this life for me?
Two broken hearts
Right from the start
Watching the dreams that
we have as they fall apart
This will never work
Even trying feels insane
This will only hurt
Don't you feel the same?
I feel it, too
But what can I do?
I'm just the stranger
they say is the man for you
Maybe with time
Something will change
Making the best of this
might be the only way
Can we make this work?
Even trying feels insane
Maybe
[SIGHS]
When it hurts
We'll be worth the pain
There are
too many questions
Too little time
Too much to ask for
the rest of my life
It's a mountain
too high to climb
Too many voices
filling me with doubt
Can you hear them now?
It's hard to have faith
It's hard to believe
Our future holds more
than what we can see
We have to trust
when we don't understand
It could be
a part of God's plan
Can we
Can we
Make this work?
Make this work?
I know trying feels insane
Maybe
Maybe
When it hurts
When it hurts
We'll be worth the pain
Can we make this work?
Can we make this
Work?
[SONG ENDS]
[SIGHS SOFTLY]
We should get back now.
[SIGHS SOFTLY]
[]
[WIND WHOOSHING SOFTLY]
[EXHALES SHARPLY]
[QUIETLY]:
Okay. I am Gabriel.
I'm Gabriel.
God has sent you--
No. No, no, no. Okay.
[CLEARS THROAT]
I am Gabriel.
God has sent you...
God has chosen you to bear--
to give birth--
to have a son.
Good.
Okay.
[EXHALES SHARPLY]
[GRUNTS]
Of course.
Mary.
Mary.
Just choose a fruit.
Man of many skills.
[DISTORTED]: Mary!
[SHOUTS]
[YELPS]
[PANTING]
Do not be afraid.
[WHISPERS]: Deborah.
I'm sorry I frightened you.
Rebekah.
Wake up. Wake up.
They won't wake up.
Am I... am I dreaming?
You are not dreaming.
No one is talking to me right
now because I am dreaming.
Wake up now.
Again, not dreaming.
Am I, am I dead?
You're not dead.
Though you sleep like you are.
[GABRIEL CLEARS THROAT]
I'm Gabriel,
and I bring you good news.
God has chosen you
to have a son.
Th-That can't be. I don't,
I don't have a husband yet.
And this child will be
the Son of the Almighty God.
[SIGHS]
And you will name him Jesus.
And he will be called
the King of All Kings.
Impossible.
Nothing is impossible
when it is God's will.
Your cousin Elizabeth,
even in her old age,
is with child this very moment.
"Jesus"?
[]
That's... that's the...
The promised king.
[SIGHS]
I am not
in the least bit worthy.
You are more blessed
than any other woman, Mary.
Who would...
who would believe me?
They'll think I'm crazy.
Or worse.
And-and-and Joseph.
I mean, what betrothed man
would want to hear
that his wife-to-be
is already pr... pregnant.
Rise, Mary.
You are to be the mother
to a savior and king.
[PANTS]
You cower before no one.
Wait, wait-wait-wait-wait.
I have, I have
so many questions.
[PANTING]
[EERIE VOICES WHISPERING]
[HEROD GROANING]
[ECHOING]: Get out!
[VOICES STOP]
[]
[]
JOACHIM [VOICE-OVER]:
This is madness.
Our minds play tricks on us
at night.
This wasn't a dream.
The angel was there.
It was Gabriel.
Madness.
The Son of God?
Those words alone
are dangerous.
People are stoned
for that kind of blasphemy.
Father, those are the words
the angel spoke to me.
No more talk of angels.
What if it's true?
How can it be?
Have I ever lied to any of you?
I must pray to merciful God
for guidance.
No one speaks of this
to anyone.
To anyone!
MARY: This wasn't a dream.
What?
[JOSEPH STAMMERS]
What are you saying?
I'm telling you the truth.
An angel came to me.
He said I would give birth
to the Son of God.
Do you even hear yourself?
[SCOFFS]
Is marrying me so bad
that you had to make up a story
like this to get out of it?
I know
it sounds impossible.
It doesn't sound
impossible, Mary.
It is impossible.
What did you expect me to say,
"congratulations"?
You can say you believe me.
RAHEL:
Joseph cannot help you.
Mary, tell them
this is just a joke.
I'm with child.
It's not like what you think,
I promise.
He won't be sullied by this.
He's a good young man.
P-Please, if I can just explain
more of what the angel said.
Oh, yes, the angel.
We won't listen
to more of this blasphemy.
I won't have it.
Let's just,
let's just take a walk.
RAHEL:
Leave him alone.
JACOB:
Enough.
You must leave.
Joseph, please.
JACOB:
Get out.
Please don't come here again.
[MARY SIGHS]
Joseph.
JACOB: Get out.
[DOOR CLOSES]
[]
But I can care for Mary here.
No, Mary's right.
It is better
for all of us
if she goes to stay
with Elizabeth.
She will leave for Hebron
in the morning.
MARY:
I don't understand
the words you've spoken
And my heart is
still trying to believe
When you're looking
down on me
Why do you see
A mother to a savior
and king?
There's nothing in my life
I have to offer
Nothing in my blood
of royalty
I'm just a poor
and simple virgin
I am not
A mother to a savior
and king
I need you more than ever
God, can you hear me now?
Your stars are
full of answers
Hiding behind the clouds
Give me eyes to see
Just how I can be
Carrying your son
when I need you
To carry me
Should a miracle
feel like an anchor
Bringing shame upon
my family?
This burden is too heavy
I need strength to be
A mother to a savior
and king
Oh, God,
please light the shadows
'Cause I can't see
where to go
This road
that I must travel
Is too dark
To walk alone
You said, "Do not fear"
So, Lord, if you are here
Help me have the faith
you have in me
Give me eyes to see
Just how I can be
Mother to a savior
When I need saving.
[SONG ENDS]
Elizabeth.
[GRUNTS]
It's true.
[CAMEL GRUNTS, SNORTS]
Are we close
to Judah yet?
We have been out here forever.
[SMACKING LIPS]
This is Judah.
What?
Why wouldn't you tell us?
We've been here for days.
We must meet the king
of this land.
He will have the scrolls
we need to find the child.
[MOCKING GRUNT]
Obviously.
Then let's go.
Hey. Listen.
It's date palm season.
It happens once a year.
Melchior, we must go.
But I'm saying that I know
a place nearby where they've got
the fat, juicy ones.
Fresh. Smell great.
Goodness. Shame!
They're fresh.
Shame!
What's the matter with you?
You are a Magi.
You would miss
the birth of the Son of God?
Jerusalem.
I'm talking about Jerusalem.
What is in Jerusalem?
King Herod! Your scrolls!
My dates!
Now stop yelling at me!
No one is yelling at you.
You were yelling a little bit.
Yeah. You were.
I was not yelling.
Come on. Help me up.
[STRAINED GRUNTING]
[STRAINING]:
No more dates for you.
Thank you.
[PANTING]
BALTHAZAR: Geez.
Ah.
I hate camels.
Not you.
But as a mode of transport.
Look at you.
Yeah, yeah, exactly.
Look at you
with your dead eyes.
He's talking to camels now.
You know, someday
there has to be a better mode
of transport other than you.
Is there no other king
available?
There has to be.
Could've just been
two wise men.
Let's go!
You're yelling again.
[CAMEL GRUNTS]
[]
Zachariah still
hasn't said a word.
From the moment
he learned of my pregnancy,
he hasn't been able to speak.
Oh.
I was shocked at first.
But now I think
I may have been given
yet another gift.
Apparently his ears still work.
[SIGHS]
Elizabeth, who am I
to raise this baby?
Maybe my father is right.
This is madness.
You were chosen for reasons
that, one day, even your
father will understand.
When will I understand?
If my husband could talk,
he would say,
"Patience is
a good companion for faith."
Mary.
Why didn't Joseph bring you?
This is more than
he can accept.
I don't believe
you're meant to be alone.
Then why did God have me
promised to a man
that doesn't want to
believe me?
JOSEPH:
Why does part of me
want to believe her?
It's like I'm being
torn in two.
Joseph, it is over.
I feel like
I've done something wrong.
This is her doing,
not yours.
[SCOFFS]
Joachim and I have agreed
there will be no wedding.
What?
There can't be
any other way.
Tell Joachim
I will end the engagement.
Quietly.
Your mother and I
will return home to Bethlehem.
I just don't know what to do.
You need to forget
about her, Joseph.
[SIGHS]
[DOOR OPENS]
[DOOR CLOSES]
[INDISTINCT,
OVERLAPPING WHISPERING]
You are a liar.
This is blasphemy.
You should be stoned for this.
JOSEPH:
Enough.
Enough of this. Stop!
Something 'bout this girl
makes me believe her
Even when the world
wants me to leave her
It's out of my control,
I can't let her go now
Something 'bout this girl
says she's a liar
She brought this on herself
with her desires
Your family will be stained
Gotta walk away now
Don't make concessions
for her transgressions
She's made a mess
A fool of you
I don't see deception
in her confession
I just see the truth
[CROWD CHATTERING EXCITEDLY]
[GRUNTING]
[GRUNTING]
[LAUGHING]
[EXCITED CHATTERING]
[]
Don't make concessions
for her transgressions
She's made a mess,
a fool of you
I don't see deception
in her confession
I just see the truth
I'm completely torn in two
Half of me believes her
While the other
half needs proof
This was no
immaculate conception
Only just
the ultimate deception
Guilty to the bone
We should have her
stoned now
Come on!
Wait
Don't you throw your stones
No, don't you judge her
I look into her eyes
And think I love her
Innocent and pure
How can you be sure now?
CROWD:
Ultimate deception
No, you've gotta let her go
Why can't someone
show me how?
CROWD:
Ultimate deception
Oh, the only thing I know
Is I just want to go
To her now
[WIND BLOWING]
[GABRIEL'S VOICE]:
Do not be afraid, Joseph.
You must believe.
[JOSEPH GASPS]
GABRIEL [ECHOING]:
Mary needs you.
[GASPS]
[PANTING]
GABRIEL [ECHOING]:
Go to her now.
[EERIE VOICES WHISPERING]
No.
[LION ROARING]
No!
[ROARING]
Get out!
[DOOR OPENS]
Is everything all right, sire?
Get out.
Get out!
[]
Shay...
Do I look, uh,
pale to you?
Yes.
I mean, I think His Highness
could use some sleep.
Wow.
Brilliant.
You are useless.
Father.
What?
About that.
There are some Magi here
who claim they're experts
in reading the stars.
What-what-what are Magi?
I don't know
what you're talking about.
Wise men from the East.
They are kings.
Kings.
They may be
of some use to you.
[HEROD CHUCKLES]
They look like circus people.
Eh.
This should be interesting.
King Herod, it is very nice
to meet you, Your Majesty...
Why are you in my lands?
We have come from far away
to worship a divine king
that is to be born
in your lands.
A star appeared to us,
one we've been searching for
our entire lives.
A star.
Yes.
It led us here, sire.
We believe
the time is nigh.
Which means soon.
It may also
explain your...
recent dreams, sire.
You told them about
my nightmares?
I've not heard of any queen
visiting this kingdom.
Who is the mother?
Now we believe
that he is to be born
not of a queen,
but of a humble virgin.
Where might we find this,
uh, humble mother?
We've been trying to unravel
that very mystery,
Your Magnificence.
But we are missing
certain ancient scrolls.
BALTHAZAR:
We need your help, sire,
to find the child.
And why would I help you
to find a new king
in my kingdom?
[LAUGHS]
[LAUGHING]
Eh. He's got a point, right?
[SHOUTS]
Well, when you
put it that way.
Because I...
have the very thing
to get you back
sitting on your...
nightmare-inducing throne.
What are you blathering about?
I'm talking about...
myrrh.
Myrrh?
Myrrh.
Myrrh.
Myrrh.
[BLEATING]: Myrrh.
It-it-it sounds like
a little lamb.
[CHUCKLES]
Myrrh.
Not now, Melchior.
Will Your Lordship
allow me to give you a gift?
One king to another.
Please stop,
I beg of you.
Do you want your scrolls
or not?
[]
With my king-sized brain
I understand that
We cannot show up here
empty-handed
Things are given to a king
by other kings
ALL:
Like us!
We Magi are three wise guys
We'll bring
the finest herbs
Our royal wealth can buy
Myrrh is the cure,
it's the treatment de jour
To procure some relief
from insomnia
With a sprinkle, a dabble
Your nightmares skedaddle
Can even cure megalomania
Sleep through any plight
With just one dose at night
Thanks to myrrh
If you've got an affliction
and money to spend
Myrrh is your
new best friend
[LAUGHS]
Oh, no, no.
Such a mighty king
Should not be bothered
With the myrrh he brings,
there's something stronger
Please allow us to proceed,
Your Majesty
Eh.
[CHUCKLES]
We Magi are three wise guys
We bring the best
essential oils we can buy
Frankincense
is all you need
If you need to decrease
daily stress or anxiety
And with one application,
reduce inflammation
It's all the rage
in Roman therapy
You will be impressed
with all the benefits
Of frankincense
If you've got an affliction
and money to spend
Frankincense
makes more sense
[LAUGHING]
My library is at your disposal.
Thank you, sire.
Thank you.
You know,
you're really lovely.
BALTHAZAR:
Allow me to show
my gratitude.
[SNAPPING FINGERS]
[GRUNTS]
Please, open it.
[GASPS]
MAGI:
Gold
Gold is the only thing
Worthy for royalty
We'll find her.
And when the time comes,
we will worship the child
together.
Like a kings' thing, yeah?
[LAUGHING]
But of course.
We'll map out a course,
all together, of course
And then search
the whole land for divinity
We have other mothers,
but we've become brothers
While following
this ancient prophecy
Melchior
Gaspar
And even Balthazar
Will follow that star
'Cause where there's a king
that needs worshipping
You'll find
three wise guys
He'll reign forever
and ever
He will reign forever
And ever
On high...
Over three wise guys
Hey.
[SONG ENDS]
Hey.
[CHUCKLING]:
Hey.
BALTHAZAR:
Perhaps we should go.
My thoughts exactly.
Where is the exit?
Is it this way?
MELCHIOR:
Okay, enough.
Balthazar. Come on. Come on!
Rome cannot hear about
this other king.
I want the mother found.
I'll send spies
to every village.
Yeah.
It should not be difficult
to locate an unwed peasant girl
claiming to carry the child
of a Hebrew God.
Yeah, it shouldn't be,
so find her!
I'm gonna take a nap.
[HEROD GROANS]
[GOATS BLEATING]
[HOOFBEATS APPROACHING]
[MUFFLED YELPING]
What beautiful flowers.
Seems you have the magic touch.
[WHISPERING]: It's me.
What are you doing here?
Those men are looking for you.
What are you talking about?
I had a dream,
I had a nightmare,
and those soldiers
were in my dream.
One does not often
see a woman of your... years
ready to give birth.
Yes.
What was God thinking?
Is this your husband?
Yes, but I'm afraid
my husband is mute.
JOSEPH:
Look at me.
This isn't safe.
ELIZABETH:
It is not every day
that a prince of Judea
visits us, sire.
To what do we owe this honor?
I've heard from reliable
sources in Hebron
that a certain young woman
with child
might be living on this farm.
We've been searching
for her for weeks.
[GASPS]
As you can see, sire,
whoever told you that
must be blind.
No, the woman I seek
is unmarried and much younger.
She's in no danger.
You don't mind
if we have a look around?
Of course.
You're our guest.
[CLUCKING]
ANTIPATER:
You live quite modestly.
God has blessed us,
for which we are grateful.
[WHISPERING]:
Just trust me.
There's no need to be nervous.
Is there?
[BRAYING]
If you do see
this young woman...
...you will report it.
Then my father, King Herod,
will bless you.
Your generosity is appreciated.
[JOSEPH SIGHS]
ELIZABETH: Mary.
[JOSEPH GRUNTS]
You're welcome.
Joseph, my betrothed.
MARY:
So you're here
because of a dream?
JOSEPH:
Yes.
No. Uh...
Mary, I'm here because
I'm supposed to be with you.
I should have never let you go.
You owe me nothing.
[SIGHS]
Please, Mary.
Come back to Nazareth with me.
You heard him.
He said he was looking for
a young, unwed pregnant woman.
Listen to Joseph,
Mary.
He was a royal.
A son of King Herod.
Those exact soldiers
were in my dream.
That's no coincidence.
You are in danger, Mary.
Herod must know
of the prophecy.
He wants my child.
We're getting married.
Great. Great, yes.
Um, yes. I...
We will go to Nazareth
in the morning
to make arrangements,
and I...
I will claim this child
as my own.
No, we're getting married
right here.
Today.
Uh, well...
What about our fathers?
They called off the wedding.
What about our mothers?
They would...
they would want to be here.
We can't wait, Joseph.
When I'm married,
my child is safe.
Will you marry me, Joseph?
I do.
I will. Yes.
Of course. Yes. Um...
Who's gonna marry us?
A priest.
Stop.
Stop being such an a...
[FIG BRAYING]
[]
[GASPS]
Can we become we?
No longer known as just
you and me
Two separate lives now
in unity
Stuck here together
But will this always be
just an arrangement?
Can we become more
JOSEPH: We're more
Than half of a union
Union
BOTH:
We're chosen for
Where I am your best half
And I am yours
Stuck here forever
And hopefully not ending
in estrangement
It's the step of faith
We have to take sometimes
If I'm with you
I can take it
But if we are one
What happens to you and I?
If I'm with you
I will make it
Will this always be
just an arrangement?
We'll find out in time
if we don't break it
Can mine become yours
Combining our dreams
without keeping score?
Always together
but never bored
No choice in the matter
But this will never work
without each other
Can we become we?
Can we become we?
Start a new line
on this family tree
Two hearts connected
by one beat
Your hand in my mine and
I could never choose
to love another
Maybe one day I could learn
to love you, too.
[CHUCKLES]
[BRAYS QUIETLY]
[BOTH CHUCKLE]
[CHUCKLES]
You have been here
a very long time.
Are you no closer to learning
where this king will be born?
We are patient men.
My father is not.
You seem... tense.
Have some wine.
I do not need wine.
I need answers.
I don't understand
your obsession
with this peasant and her baby.
You are rich kings.
What we seek cannot be
purchased with riches.
Then what do you seek?
Wisdom.
Truth.
And the very meaning
of life.
What meaning is there
in groveling to a peasant baby?
You are meant to be worshipped,
not to worship others.
The meaning of life comes not
from what others do for us,
but what we do for others.
King or peasant, we will
all one day bend the knee.
What could this child
possibly offer
that my father
does not already have?
Well, how about...
I don't know,
a good night's sleep?
My father wants
the mother found!
GASPAR:
We'll do our best.
[STAMMERS]
That was my favorite vintage.
Are you certain the child
will be born in Bethlehem?
Oh, goodness,
I'm quite certain.
Well, clearly, we must find
the mother before they do.
[]
ANTIPATER:
The Magi are gone.
They must have left
in the night.
HEROD:
What do you mean they're gone?
ANTIPATER:
I have reports of them
heading toward Bethlehem.
That must be
where the mother is.
I will go after them.
I-I thought
you scoured Bethlehem.
No one matching
her description was there.
Well...
[SIGHS]
then...
[GRUNTS]
take your men back to Bethlehem
and-and k*ll
every pregnant woman
and baby you find.
Problem solved.
Father.
No.
[GRUNTS]
I...
We cannot do that.
Why not?
What if...
all of Judea
revolts against you?
Rome may question your sanity.
My sanity.
My sanity is why I need
to rid myself
of these nightmares.
There is another way, Father.
Well?
Then tell me, my son.
[CHUCKLES]
What would you do
if you were king?
Use Rome to your advantage.
If Caesar wants a census,
give it to him.
[ECHOING]:
Continue!
A census allows for your
soldiers to search every home
and count every head,
all in the name of Caesar.
The woman will be found.
And Rome will be appeased.
[GRUNTS]
[HEROD GRUNTS]
Order the census.
But if you don't find her,
k*ll them all.
Show me you can be a true king.
You are no different
than me, boy.
My blood runs
through your veins.
[]
When I was a boy
You were like a god
I worshipped
Father
I could hear your voice
Echo in the halls
like thunder
Father
On a mission to prove
I was worthy of approval
From you, Father
I've been brave, feared
and fearless
Ruthless and relentless
Just like you
So
Am I just like you?
No!
What kind of king
is in my blood?
I don't know
What kind of man
have I become?
I am stuck
with this darkness
That runs through my veins
Am I a prisoner
or can I change
What
What I've become
When it's in my blood?
Blood
My blood
Blood
When it's in my blood
Blood
My blood
Blood
When it's in my blood
Never been anything
but your loyal son
Been a good soldier,
followed your orders
Never questioning you once
You're all I wanted to be
but now it's all unraveling
There's blood on my hands,
don't know if I am a monster
Or the son of a king
Just like you
No!
What kind of king
is in my blood?
I don't know
What kind of man
have I become?
I am stuck
with this darkness
That runs through my veins
Am I a prisoner
or can I change
What
What I've become
When it's in my blood?
Blood
My blood
Blood
When it's in my
Blood...
[CARRYING NOTE]
When it's in my blood.
[SONG ENDS]
[SPEAR CLATTERS, ECHOING]
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
You know, you made
a really big mistake.
I have? What?
Well, now that I know
you can cook...
...I'll expect it every day.
Well...
that's only if you want
the same stew every day.
[CHUCKLES]
It's a start.
I think even Fig is beginning
to tolerate you.
Wow.
Must be really good stew.
[BANGING ON DOOR]
SOLDIER:
Open up!
[BANGING CONTINUES]
[JOSEPH SIGHS]
[DOOR OPENS]
Whoa. E-Excuse me. Who are you?
I'm here by order of Caesar
for the census.
[DOOR CLOSES]
Name.
I am Joseph, son of Jacob.
Place of birth.
Nazareth?
I'm from Bethlehem.
Then by order of Caesar,
you and your family
must travel to Bethlehem
and be counted.
[JOSEPH SCOFFS]
Immediately.
Sir, my wife is with child.
As you can see, she is in no
condition to travel that far.
There are no exceptions.
She is a Nazarene. Surely,
she can stay with her mother
this close to giving birth.
Your wife goes with you
to Bethlehem
or she will give birth
in a dungeon.
No.
No. Please.
Of course, we will leave
first thing in the morning.
We will be back
to make sure of it.
[DOOR CLOSES]
CENSUS TAKER:
All right, move on.
[SCOFFS]
CENSUS TAKER: To the next one.
Bethlehem is more
than a week's journey.
I don't know
if you can do this.
I'll be okay.
You heard him, Joseph.
We have to go.
[SIGHS]
I will make preparations.
[DOOR OPENS]
[SIGHS]
[DOOR CLOSES]
[]
[]
[]
[SIGHS]
[]
[]
[]
That's the way
into Bethlehem.
Stay here.
SOLDIER:
Step up. You, step up.
[SIGHS]
SOLDIER: Hurry up.
What is it? What did you see?
He's here.
Herod's son.
[JOSEPH SIGHING]
This isn't safe, Joseph.
It's probably just the census.
We're married now.
I think it'll be okay.
No. It's me they're
looking for, I know it.
[GRUNTING]
What is it?
What?
We have to hurry.
I can't have
the baby here, Joseph.
Bethlehem isn't safe.
Joseph...
We can't go back.
Mary, I'm sorry.
I promised to protect you,
and I failed you
in every possible way.
Joseph!
I'm not the only one
who was chosen for this.
[GRUNTING]
I know another way in.
I'll get you to my mother.
She will help us.
Fig. [CLICKS TONGUE]
Come on.
[]
[]
Our wait is over.
Tonight is the night,
gentlemen.
Yes. Finally.
Oh, goodness.
No, no, no, no, no.
[GROANS]
My clothes
smell of sheep dung.
My skin
smells of sheep dung.
This whole earth
is made of sheep dung.
And tonight,
I meet the Son of God.
This is just perfect.
We must ready ourselves.
Oh, hello.
Son of God,
let me introduce myself.
I am the King of Sheep Dung.
Yes, I have a few
hygiene issues right now.
Nice to meet you.
[WHISPERING]:
That tunnel's the only way in.
What are you doing?
I'm creating a distraction.
[GRUNTS]
[GRUNTS]
What are you doing?
Creating a distraction.
Mary. Mary.
That's...
[GRUNTS]
[ROCK CLATTERS]
Uh...
[DOGS BARKING IN DISTANCE]
Oh.
[WHISPERING]:
Now's our chance. Let's go.
Wait, wait. What about Fig?
He won't fit.
Don't worry. He'll find me.
He always does.
[]
[SPUTTERING]
[]
[GROANING SOFTLY]
Let me make sure it's safe.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
We can't go to my parents.
What?
There's more soldiers.
Joseph, we have to hurry.
Okay. Stay here.
Joseph, wait.
Jo... Joseph.
[PANTS]
[PAINED GROANING]
I'm asking you
if you could find it
in the kindness in your heart
to please just provide...
No. Sorry, I cannot.
...a safe place for us
to stay tonight.
We'd be out...
[MARY GROANING]
[KNOCKING]
[MOANING]
SOLDIER:
Hey, you!
Wait.
You! Stop!
No, no, no. Sorry.
We have no room.
Hey!
[BRAYING]
[GROANS]
[BRAYS SOFTLY]
Thank you, Fig.
JOSEPH:
What happened?
MARY:
Fig found me.
JOSEPH:
Good boy.
Let's go.
I found an old barn.
[]
[]
Silent night
Holy night
All is calm
All is bright
Round yon virgin
Mother and child
Holy infant
So tender and mild
Jesus Lord, at thy birth
Jesus Lord,
at thy birth.
GABRIEL:
Behold.
They shall call him Emmanuel.
"God with us."
Fall on your knees
Fall
on your knees
O hear the angel voices
O night divine
O night
O night
When Christ was born
When Christ
was born
O night divine
Divine
O night
O night divine.
[]
Now I understand
the words you told me
I'm holding all the answers
in my arms
Looking down upon
this brand-new life
I see Emmanuel
Our savior and king
Fall on your knees
O hear the angel voices
Fall on your knees
And hear
The angel voices
Thine is the kingdom
Thine is the power
Thine is the glory
Forever
More.
[WIND BLOWING]
[WIND HOWLING]
[BABY FUSSING]
[]
[GABRIEL'S VOICE ECHOING]:
Joseph.
[GASPING]
What do you want?
We have no quarrel
with you, sire.
I want to talk.
You leave her alone.
Who is the father?
I am.
No, you're not.
It seems you found your king.
The child is no threat
to your father.
My father would heartily
disagree.
GABRIEL [VOICE-OVER, ECHOING]:
You cower before no one.
So you are the one
who's caused so much trouble.
And this child is
the new king of Judea?
He hasn't come
for your father's throne.
What kind of king
does not want a throne
and is born in a place
like this?
One who has come
to save the lost.
Am I lost?
"Like sheep we have
all gone astray.
And God has put on him..."
"...the punishment for all
the evil we have done."
Yes, I know
your Scriptures as well.
So, you truly believe
that this child...
...born in this filth...
is the chosen one?
A king.
[]
I believe you know
exactly who he is.
I envy your faith.
Faith is trusting what you know
in your heart to be true.
[THUDDING]
Well done, sire.
You found them.
Yes, I did.
Do we seize them
or end them now?
You have your faith,
but I have my orders.
You have a choice.
You are not your father.
[SHUDDERED BREATHING]
SOLDIER:
Sire?
JOSEPH:
Please.
ANTIPATER: Men.
Please.
Sire?
You will give them
safe passage.
What?
They are now
under my protection.
The king's orders
were clear.
These people are no threat
to a true king.
Sire.
You heard me.
Leave us.
Yes.
Of course.
You must leave Judea at once.
When my father hears of this,
I cannot protect you.
Thank you.
What is his name?
Jesus.
[]
[SIGHS]
[SOLDIERS MARCHING AWAY]
I always knew I liked him.
[FIG SNORTS]
MELCHIOR: He came.
He saw. He went.
And so should we.
BALTHAZAR: You heard the man.
Gather your things.
MELCHIOR:
Did you hear him say "Judea"?
What's this Judea business?
It's Judah.
JOSEPH:
I had another dream.
We have to get to Egypt.
[]
Ugar is over there.
You come down to Nagur.
Ha, ha, ha.
From Ugar you go
to Beinangnin...
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
So the family
prepared to travel to Egypt,
knowing they would not
be safe at home
as long as Herod was alive.
MELCHIOR:
Oh, Judah's there.
Yes. Yes.
JOSEPH: Yeah.
So you are in...
Why don't I just take...
Why don't... Yeah.
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
But first, the Magi
had gifts to present.
Gifts that would be very useful
for the journey ahead.
Please accept this gold
for food and shelter.
You are too generous, sir.
This resin of frankincense
will soothe the baby
during your travels.
It smells wonderful.
And this is myrrh.
It does everything else.
Wh...
[CHUCKLES]
BALTHAZAR:
But, really,
what does myrrh actually do?
It does everything. [STAMMERS]
You-you cannot quantify
what one amount of myrrh does.
Goodness, please stop
with the myrrh.
Nobody cares about myrrh.
What are you saying?
Just because you're jealous
because you gave them
a basic gift, and I gave them
something to talk about,
multifaceted...
[CONTINUES INDISTINCTLY]
[]
You're welcome.
[CHUCKLES]
[BOTH CHUCKLING]
[FIG BRAYING]
[]
MARY [VOICE-OVER]:
And as her new family
made their way,
she knew that her mother
had been right.
God's plans for her were bigger
than she could have
ever imagined.
JOSEPH [VOICE-OVER]:
Wait. Wait, wait, wait, wait.
That is not how I remember it.
I kissed you first.
That is the story
of how you came to us.
Time for your Scripture lesson.
And then it's off to bed.
Okay.
[]
It's a brand-new life
A gift from heaven
Showing hope will rise
and all's forgiven
If you believe
Then join with me
and celebrate
Celebrate
this brand-new life
I never knew a star
could shine so bright
I never saw the sky
so full of light
I never felt my heart
could ever be like this
So wild and so free
I know a miracle's
happening
'Cause I hear a choir
of angels sing
Hallelujah
So let's pour the wine
and dance together
What we start tonight
will last forever
If you believe
then join with me
And celebrate
Celebrate
Whoa-oh-oh-oh
It's a brand-new life
A gift from heaven
Showing hope will rise
and all's forgiven
If you believe
then join with me
And celebrate
Celebrate
Celebrate
this brand-new life
All of creation
on a silent night
Is being covered
in a holy light
Now nothing looks the same
The sound of Jesus' name
Brings me to my knees
A new life,
a true life's awakening
It's calling,
and so I am answering
Hallelujah
Now let's pour the wine
and dance together
What we start tonight
Will last forever
Will last forever
If you believe
Then join with me
Yeah
And celebrate
Celebrate
Whoa-oh-oh-oh
It's a brand-new life
A gift from heaven
A gift from heaven
Showing hope will rise
And all's forgiven
And all's forgiven
If you believe
If you believe
Then join with me
And celebrate
Celebrate
Celebrate
this brand-new life
Hallelujah
Hallelujah
Celebrate
this brand-new life
Hallelujah.
[SONG ENDS]
[CHOIR VOCALIZING]
[RHYTHMIC CLAPPING]
["GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN"
PLAYING]
Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills
and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
[CHOIR VOCALIZING]
The shepherds feared
and trembled
When, lo, above the Earth
Rung out the angels' chorus
That hailed
our Savior's birth
Oh
Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills
and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
Oh, he's born
[CHOIR VOCALIZING]
Down in a lowly manger
The humble Christ was born
And God sent us salvation
That blessed Christmas morn
[CHOIR VOCALIZING]
Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills
and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills
and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
That Jesus Christ is born
That Jesus Christ is born.
[SONG ENDS]