bonniehairdo1964

I am 43, don't remember ever seeing this special when I was a kid. I watched it the first time when the Family Channel had their very first 25 Days of Christmas programming. I have watched it every year since, and bawl like a baby every time. The underdog is always the hero, but never so sweetly as in this story. Little Nestor with his way too long ears, loses his mother and is befriended by a little Cherub who tells him that he will save Someone as his mother saved him. It puts a spiritual spin on the usual "Christmas Special" line-up, where it actually has something to do with Christmas, rather than Santa or Frosty or whatever. It is a sweet story, and I think it is very kid-friendly. Mine have always loved it. It could even open up some interesting conversations about Christmas and its meaning.

A common man is transformed over the course of the movie, due to circumstances beyond his control.

Orlando Bloom is VERY good in his leading role. Overall this movie was excellent. I would definitely see it again, and do plan on purchasing when it comes out on DVD. The additional actors, Liam Neeson, Eva Green, Jeremy Irons, and David Thewlis, etc., are fabulous.

The scenery is great, and looks like the city of Jerusalem has always been there. I loved the costuming as well as the reality of the weapons and war machinery--very authentic-looking. It may be a little graphic for smaller kids, but tweens and up would enjoy it, and maybe learn something about the Crusades of 1180's and perhaps gain some insight to the conflicts of today. Ridley Scott has done a great job of bringing this historical time to life.