The Star (2017) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The Star is set in two primary biblical locations: Nazareth, a town in Galilee known as Mary and Joseph's hometown, and Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. The story follows the characters as they travel between these locations, with Nazareth representing their humble beginning and Bethlehem marking the iconic nativity setting.

• nazareth
• bethlehem
• setting
• locations
• biblical

The Star takes place during the 1st Century, specifically around the time of Jesus' birth. This historical period is critical to Christian faith and features the religious context of the time, including the prophecy of the Messiah's arrival and the events surrounding the nativity.

• 1st century
• time period
• historical
• biblical era

The Star explores three major themes: Faith, as characters grapple with their beliefs about the Messiah's birth and trust in divine purpose; Friendship, highlighting the bonds between Bo, Dave, and other animals as they support each other through challenges; and New Beginnings, symbolized by the birth of Jesus representing hope, salvation, and personal transformation for the characters.

• faith
• friendship
• new beginnings
• themes
• meaning

Faith is a central theme in The Star, portrayed through Mary's unwavering belief in her divine calling to bear God's son. Bo's journey also reflects the transformative power of faith, as he moves from doubt about his mundane life to trusting in a greater purpose. The film emphasizes trusting in God's plan even when circumstances seem uncertain.

• faith
• belief
• trust
• mary
• divine calling

Friendship is portrayed through the unlikely companionship between Bo the donkey and Dave the dove, whose bond exemplifies loyalty and mutual support. The film shows how friendship helps characters face danger and challenges, with the animals cooperating to help Mary and Joseph. Their teamwork underscores that companionship and unity are essential for overcoming obstacles.

• friendship
• loyalty
• teamwork
• bo
• dave
• companionship

Bo is a young donkey voiced by Steven Yeun who yearns for adventure beyond his ordinary life at the mill. He dreams of being more than a simple work animal and sets off on a journey that transforms him from a dreamer into a courageous hero. Bo represents self-discovery, bravery, and the belief that even the smallest creature can have a significant purpose.

• bo
• donkey
• steven yeun
• protagonist
• adventure

Mary is a strong and faithful young woman voiced by Gina Rodriguez who is chosen to bear the son of God. She possesses a nurturing nature and unwavering belief in her divine calling. Throughout the film, she remains compassionate and supportive, particularly toward Bo, demonstrating that her role extends beyond being the mother of Jesus to being a guide for other characters seeking purpose.

• mary
• gina rodriguez
• virgin mary
• faithful
• mother of jesus

Joseph is Mary's devoted fiancé voiced by Zachary Levi who struggles with the shocking news of her miraculous pregnancy. His character arc involves moving from doubt and confusion toward acceptance of his role in supporting Mary and the impending birth. Joseph represents strength, protection, and the journey from uncertainty to faith in divine plan.

• joseph
• zachary levi
• father of jesus
• husband of mary

Dave is Bo's supportive dove friend voiced by Keegan-Michael Key, who provides comic relief while representing loyalty and encouragement. His playful yet courageous spirit contributes to the group's adventures and helps them face dangers together. Dave's friendship with Bo highlights the importance of camaraderie in overcoming obstacles and pursuing a greater purpose.

• dave
• dove
• keegan-michael key
• comic relief
• friend

The bright star serves as a central symbol throughout The Star, guiding the characters on their journey to Bethlehem. It represents divine guidance, hope, and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy about the Messiah's birth. The star acts as a literal and metaphorical beacon that leads Bo and his companions to become part of the nativity story.

• star
• bright star
• guiding light
• prophecy
• Bethlehem

Animals are central to The Star because the film tells the nativity story from their perspective, particularly Bo the donkey. This creative choice allows the film to explore themes of purpose, belonging, and courage through characters who feel overlooked or ordinary. The animals' journey demonstrates that everyone, no matter how small, can be part of a miraculous event.

• animals
• nativity
• donkeys
• camels
• perspective