Summary of “Full Dallas Jenkins Interview on Reimagining the Christmas Story”

Podcast Information:

• Title: The World and Everything In It
• Host: Lindsay Mast, WORLD Radio
• Episode: Full Dallas Jenkins Interview on Reimagining the Christmas Story
• Release Date: November 30, 2024

Introduction

In a special weekend episode of The World and Everything In It, host Lindsay Mast engages in an in-depth conversation with acclaimed film and television director Dallas Jenkins. Known for creating The Chosen, a groundbreaking multi-season TV drama about Jesus and his disciples, Jenkins discusses his latest passion project: a film adaptation of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a beloved children's novel by Barbara Robinson. The episode delves into Jenkins' personal connection to the story, the challenges of bringing it to the big screen, and his vision for its impact on audiences, especially those unfamiliar with the Nativity narrative.

Personal Connection to The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Jenkins shares a heartfelt account of how he first encountered The Best Christmas Pageant Ever nearly two decades ago. “[...] My wife Amanda brought it home from Pottery Barn. She was there shopping and saw it on the counter. [...] We said, oh, let's read it to the kids,” Jenkins recounts (01:07). The experience was profoundly moving for him, culminating in an emotional moment where both he and his wife couldn't finish the a poignant ending without tears (02:34). This deep personal resonance established the story as a cherished Christmas tradition for their family, laying the groundwork for Jenkins' enduring passion to adapt it into a film.

The Journey to Bringing the Story to Life

Despite his enthusiasm, Jenkins faced significant obstacles in securing the rights to adapt the novel. Initially, studios were uninterested, preferring to pursue larger projects with established success. Jenkins narrates his persistent efforts to obtain the rights, which only materialized after the success of The Chosen. “[...] The mom of one of the rights holders calls him up and says, you've got to watch this show called The Chosen. It is changing my life. [...] He ultimately decided to, when the rights expired with the studio, to let me do it” (02:40). This breakthrough underscores the intertwining of his projects and highlights the supportive community around Jenkins and his work.

Themes and Purpose: A Trojan Horse for the Nativity Story

Describing the film as a "Trojan horse," Jenkins explains that while the story is ostensibly about a chaotic Christmas pageant run by the troublesome Herdman children, it subtly conveys the Nativity narrative. “[...] beneath the surface and in fact, not in a subtle way, it is the story of the Nativity” (03:58). The Herdmans’ outsider status and poverty position them uniquely to uncover deeper truths about Jesus and the essence of Christmas, paralleling how the film aims to impart spiritual lessons through an engaging and accessible story.

Comparing The Best Christmas Pageant Ever to The Chosen

Jenkins draws parallels between his new project and The Chosen, noting that both works aim to present Jesus' story from fresh, alternative perspectives. “[...] the theme is actually similar. And that is telling the story of Jesus that we've heard a million times, but through a different lens” (04:38). While stylistically different—The Chosen being a TV drama set in the first century and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever embracing a more contemporary and whimsical tone—the core mission to reengage audiences with the Nativity story remains consistent across both projects.

Evolving Perspectives on Christ’s Life

Through his work on The Chosen and now The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Jenkins has developed a profound understanding of the intimacy of God. “[...] God became man and dwelt among us. [...] He experienced emotions, he experienced pain, he experienced joy, he experienced laughter” (06:13). This realization has influenced his storytelling approach, striving to depict God and Jesus as personally relatable figures rather than distant or abstract entities. This theme of personal connection is a cornerstone of both The Chosen and his new film, aiming to resonate deeply with viewers by portraying divine interactions in a relatable manner.

Engaging Non-Believers: An Organic Evangelism Tool

Addressing the film’s potential impact on non-believers, Jenkins expresses cautious optimism. “[...] I do believe that this movie has [...] introduced them to God and to the story of the Nativity in a new way and caused them to go, let me look into this again” (08:08). He emphasizes that while the film serves as an introduction to spiritual themes, it does so organically, without overt evangelistic pressure. Jenkins highlights that the narrative’s fresh perspective naturally invites viewers to reconsider and explore the Nativity story, fostering genuine interest and connection.

Balancing Message with Narrative: Avoiding Preachiness

Jenkins reassures that the film successfully integrates its spiritual messages without feeling heavy-handed. “[...] because it is Christmas and because we're telling this story in an organic way, it doesn't feel like talking about the reason for the season, quote unquote. [...] It feels like a natural conversation that would be had” (09:33). He credits the performances, particularly Judy Greer's portrayal of Mary, for delivering impactful lines seamlessly within the storyline. This natural integration ensures that the film's messages are perceived as intrinsic to the narrative rather than inserted explicitly for didactic purposes.

Comparison to Resurrection of Gavin Stone

Reflecting on his earlier work, Jenkins compares The Best Christmas Pageant Ever to Resurrection of Gavin Stone, acknowledging significant growth in his filmmaking abilities. “[...] I did say at the time when I was making Resurrection of Gavin Stone [...] I just wasn't the same filmmaker that I am today” (10:56). He attributes his improved craft to experiences and lessons learned from The Chosen, positioning the new film as a more refined and impactful storytelling effort, albeit with similar thematic elements of outsiders engaging with faith communities.

The Charm of Quaint Storytelling in Modern Christian Narratives

Jenkins advocates for the continued relevance of simple and charming storytelling in Christian media. “[...] there's something charming about the quaintness of it because that's actually the story itself” (12:45). He underscores that the authenticity and simplicity inherent in the Nativity story are effectively captured in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, demonstrating that profound spiritual messages do not necessitate grandiose productions. This approach aligns with the film’s aim to present Jesus’ story in a genuine and relatable manner, emphasizing heartfelt connections over spectacle.

Future Projects and Continued Commitment to Storytelling

Looking ahead, Jenkins shares his commitment to both The Chosen and future biblical projects. “[...] Season five and season six of The Chosen. [...] you'll be hearing about some other Bible projects that we want to do as well” (14:19). Despite the demands of directing both the ongoing TV series and the new film, Jenkins remains dedicated to expanding his portfolio of faith-based storytelling, promising audiences more enriching narratives that explore various facets of biblical history and teachings.

Christmas Lightning Round: Personal Insights

In a lighthearted segment, Jenkins participates in a Christmas lightning round, sharing personal preferences that humanize him beyond his professional work:

• Favorite Christmas Tradition: “Watching It’s a Wonderful Life with the family every Christmas Eve” (15:02).
• White Christmas or Winter Wonderland: “White Christmas for sure” (15:04).
• Real Tree or Fake: “Neither. I don’t. My wife does them. Fake is just fine” (15:08).
• Put Up the Tree Before or After Thanksgiving: “After, for sure” (15:19).
• Shop for Gifts Early or Procrastinate: “Procrastinate. That’s how I live my entire life” (15:24).
• Favorite Christmas Food: “Christmas cookies. I go crazy with them” (15:28).
• Presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Morning: “Christmas morning. 100%” (15:36).

Conclusion

The interview concludes with host Lindsay Mast thanking Dallas Jenkins for his time and insights. Jenkins expresses gratitude for the engaging conversation, highlighting the meaningful exchange about storytelling, faith, and the creative process. Listeners are encouraged to engage with WORLD Radio by providing feedback via email or subscribing and leaving reviews on their preferred podcast platforms.

Notable Quotes:

• Dallas Jenkins on Emotional Connection: “In the last chapter I am weeping like I am. I can't read” (02:34).
• On the Film as a Trojan Horse: “It is the story of the Nativity. It is the story of how the power of Jesus and the power of church can actually truly change a kid's life” (03:58).
• On God’s Intimacy: “God became man and dwelt among us” (06:13).
• On Avoiding Preachiness: “It feels like a natural conversation that would be had” (09:33).
• On Quaint Storytelling: “When we can see the heart of Jesus through quaintness and we don't need spectacle, I think that's actually closer to the heart of the story” (12:45).

Final Thoughts

This comprehensive interview offers listeners an intimate glimpse into Dallas Jenkins' creative journey and his dedication to reimagining beloved Christian stories. By blending personal anecdotes with professional insights, Jenkins illustrates his unwavering commitment to authentic and impactful storytelling, promising that The Best Christmas Pageant Ever will be a heartfelt addition to his portfolio of faith-based narratives.