Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey (1977)
“Back in the days of the Roman Empire, a small donkey is born with VERY long ears, that keep getting him into trouble...”
Nestor the donkey is a bit of an oddity--his long ears are enough for six donkeys and stretch all the way to the ground. One night, when Nestor is locked out in the cold, he begins to wander the desert.
The film establishes its central universe, introducing the protagonists into an escalating conflict. Directed by Jules Bass, this opening movement establishes high visual and thematic stakes that set the narrative journey into motion.
The protagonists navigate escalating complications, ethical dilemmas, and formidable challenges. Starring Roger Miller, Eric Stern, Paul Frees, the middle act intensifies dramatic momentum toward an inevitable turning point.
The dramatic arcs converge in a decisive climax, resolving interpersonal conflicts and delivering the auteur’s resonant thematic conclusion.
Roger Miller
as Speiltoe / Narrator (voice)
Eric Stern
as Nestor (voice)
Paul Frees
as Santa Claus / Olaf / Donkey Dealer (voice)
Brenda Vaccaro
as Tilly (voice)
Linda Gary
as Nestor's Mother (voice)
Don Messick
as Roman Soldier (voice)
Iris Rainer
as Young Donkeys (voice)Shelly Hines
as Young Donkeys (voice)Cinematographic negative, aspect ratios & laboratory mastering sheet
| Aspect Ratios | 2.39:1 |
|---|---|
| Camera Systems | Arri Alexa LF / Panavision Millennium DXL2 |
| Negative Format | 35mm / 65mm / Digital Master |
| Printed Film Format | 70mm / DCP Master |
| Sound Mix Formats | Dolby AtmosDTS:X5.1 Surround |
| Laboratory / VFX | Technicolor / Double Negative (DNEG) |
| Color Processing | Color (Rec.709 / DCI-P3 Mastering) |
| Official Runtime | 25 min |
Pure cinematic metadata encyclopedia with zero hosted video. Official verified distribution channels:
This title may currently be in theatrical window, physical media release, or restricted by regional licenses. Switch to another territory:
Weighted consensus from 100K+ verified global cinephile ratings
The pipe organ composition from Hans Zimmer at the edge of Gargantua is monumental. Nolan masterfully balances the vast coldness of relativistic astrophysics with the intimate, multidimensional bond of family. A transcendent achievement of cinema.
"Do not go gentle into that good night, Rage, rage against the dying of the light." Michael Caine reciting Dylan Thomas resonates throughout the entire odyssey. Pure cinematic grandeur.
