Since many of us were young children, the Nativity story has been a staple in the pre-Christmas conversation. Whether learning about it in church, at school, through family or through festive episodes of our favourite television shows, the tale of Mary being chosen to give birth to Jesus, along with her donkey-powered journey to Bethlehem is one well known.
A story less frequently told, however, is the nativity as seen from Joseph’s perspective – Mary’s partner, and a father by surprise.
When translated into contemporary experiences, the idea of a woman becoming pregnant without having sex sounds like the beginnings of a crass social media debate. But instead of making this a story ready for The Maury Show, I Am Joseph is a tender and meaningful exploration of one man’s journey to accepting a life-altering development in his relationship.
Starring Michael Akinsulire as Joseph, and Asmara Gabrielle as Mary, the film is the Nativity story in a way you’ve never heard it before. It’s the first film from Four8’s I Am series, which reintroduces biblical characters in timeless settings and humanises their experience.
Having just debuted on the Four8 YouTube channel, it comes at a perfect time as we get closer to Christmas – and for Michael Akinsulire, this film also has relevance outside of the festive season, as it inspires a belief in love, faith and fighting for a relationship. He says:
‘We’re less inclined to fight for love today. It’s easier to quit and run than it is to fight when something as delicate as the heart is involved. I think this film will connect with those who can relate to Joseph’s situation, empathise and understand the complete contrast between love at its climactic and most joyous points, and the pain and destruction of love from a broken heart.’
Writer and director Tomisin Adepeju decided to focus on Joseph due to his previous lack of spotlight in most tellings of this story: ‘Joseph is a largely forgotten character in the nativity story, he is seldom mentioned or referenced in any profound or significant way, despite being the earthly father of Jesus.
‘Thus, to make a film entirely centred on him, exploring perhaps one of the most difficult and challenging moments of his life was what interested me in making this film. We really wanted to humanise Joseph and make him a relatable character.’
And as Mary, Asmara Gabrielle found personal and professional significance, saying: ‘Getting to play Mary has been an absolute honour, both – professionally, as a BAME actress and personally, as a Muslim.’
It’s definitely something different and worthwhile to add to your Christmas programming. To watch the full film, head to the Four8 YouTube page – and let us know your thoughts!
