Black Nativity

Black Nativity

Year: 2013

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Kasi Lemmons

DramaMusical

A troubled teenager from Baltimore is sent to New York City to spend the Christmas holiday with relatives he barely knows. Struggling to adjust to their strict environment and traditions, he encounters unexpected friendships and confronts personal challenges. Through his experiences, Langston begins a journey of self-discovery, finding strength in community and exploring the meaning of faith and family during the Christmas season.

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Timeline – Black Nativity (2013)

Trace every key event in Black Nativity (2013) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Langston's Journey Begins

As the festive cheer of the holiday season fades, Langston embarks on a life-changing journey from Baltimore to New York City. He seeks refuge with his estranged grandparents, carrying the heavy burden of eviction and loss.

Baltimore
2

Conversations of Loss

During the trip, Langston shares poignant conversations with Isaiah about the pain of growing up without a mother. This reflection sets the emotional tone for the challenges that lie ahead, as the song 'Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child' resonates deeply with him.

3

Arrival in New York City

Upon arriving in the bustling New York City, Langston's initial enthusiasm quickly diminishes as he experiences the harsh realities of urban life. Almost immediately, he is robbed of everything he owns, plunging him into despair.

New York City
4

Mistaken for a Thief

Langston's search for directions leads him into a hotel, where fate takes a grim turn as he is mistaken for a thief and subsequently arrested. In the holding cell, he faces ridicule from other inmates, which deepens his growing sense of hopelessness.

Hotel
5

Reverend Cobbs Comes to Aid

Just when Langston feels completely lost, Reverend Cobbs arrives to help him. He introduces Langston to Maria, a pregnant woman struggling with homelessness, and together they return to the Reverend's home, offering Langston a semblance of hope.

Cobbs' Home
6

Gift of a Pocket Watch

In an attempt to bond, Reverend Cobbs gifts Langston a cherished pocket watch inscribed with words of inspiration from Martin Luther King Jr. This generous gesture symbolizes both familial love and hope amidst Langston's troubled circumstances.

Cobbs' Home
7

Haunting Performance

One evening, Maria and Jo-Jo perform a haunting rendition of 'Silent Night' at the Cobbs' home. This musical moment provides a brief respite from the harsh realities of their lives, creating a sense of warmth and community.

Cobbs' Home
8

Revelations of the Past

That night, Aretha, Langston's grandmother, opens up about his mother's absence. She reveals the painful circumstances surrounding Naima's departure, connecting it to unresolved issues with Langston's father, deepening Langston's internal conflict.

Cobbs' Home
9

Attempting to Pawn the Watch

The following morning, determined to seek a way out of his troubles, Langston attempts to pawn the valuable pocket watch. However, a pawnshop owner, who is a friend of his grandfather's, advises him to cherish the gift instead, reminding Langston of its significance.

Pawnshop
10

Encounter with the Stranger

After leaving the pawnshop, Langston runs into the man from the holding cell, who now offers to help him acquire anything he needs. This encounter reignites Langston’s desperation as he seeks to understand his reality and options.

11

Desperate Questions

In a moment of desperation, Langston approaches his grandmother to confront her about his mother's departure. However, Aretha remains silent, leaving Langston with lingering questions as he struggles to piece together his family's troubled history.

Cobbs' Home
12

Church Service Begins

Despite their previous differences, Aretha and Reverend Cobbs encourage Langston to join them at church. There, a powerful rendition of 'Black Nativity', written by Langston Hughes, captivates the audience, marking a highlight of the holiday season.

Church
13

Meeting His Father

During the church service, Langston is taken aback to see familiar faces, including Maria playing the Virgin Mary. However, as the worship comes to a close, he decides to slip away and meet the dubious stranger in a tense confrontation.

14

Confrontation with Tyson

In a tense exchange with the stranger, Langston finally gets his hands on the gun he yearned for. However, Tyson, Langston's father, confronts him with powerful words, challenging him to reflect on his goals and aspirations.

15

Reconciliation and Healing

In a climactic moment within the church, surrounded by family, Langston seeks clarity about his mother's past. As Tyson reveals the painful truth about Naima's departure, the reunion ultimately leads to a powerful family reconciliation, supporting Langston's journey towards healing.

Church

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 14:07

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Black Nativity Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Black Nativity

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