A couple of days ago, someone called in to the radio station I listen to and asked why the Gospel of Luke was so much more detailed than Matthew's. Keep in mind that the Nativity story is only related in these two Gospels.
Steve Ray, an apologist that I really like explained that it was because Luke probably had to be absolutely sure of his facts, since he was the only Gentile to write a Gospel, and who would take a Gentile seriously unless "all his ducks were in a row?"
He said many theologians believe that Luke was so methodical (he was a physician, after all) and thorough that if he were alive today he would not be checking Wikipedia or listening to hearsay stories about Christ--He would go to great lengths to find the most accurate source of information available in order to relate "the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth".
Where, in Luke's time would he find the most reliable source of information? Steve Ray says probably from St. Paul, with whom Luke traveled somewhat. It is also probable that he met St. John and of course Mary, the Mother of Jesus at some point in his quest for the truth. It is highly likely therefore that Luke may have interviewed Mary herself in order to get the details of Jesus' birth that are found nowhere else except in Luke's Gospel. It makes sense, if you think about it...NO ONE other than Mary and Joseph and Jesus and a few shepherds and the Magi were there in the stable. Obviousy Joseph had already died, Jesus had risen and the Magi were long gone by the time Luke wrote his Gospel. I found this answer and the possibility that Mary actually met with Luke and told the story that no one had ever asked her about fascinating. I could imagine Mary was so filled with joy as she related the circumstances surrounding her encounter with Gabriel, her visit to Elizabeth, and the birth of Our Savior, then the ensuing journey into Egypt to escape Herod. Who else could have given Luke the details of his account?
Anyway, of all the movies I've seen that relate the nativity story, none have explored this angle. I had an idea that someone who writes much better than I do should maybe write a screenplay about the interaction between Luke and Mary as she relates her story to him. It could include visits by Luke to Paul and John. who introduces Mary to him and maybe some shepherds who were blessed enough to witness the Birth of Jesus that day. The movie would end with Luke taking pen in hand to begin his chronicles. What do you think? Anyone out there up to the challenge? I'd actually pay the exhorbitant rates theaters charge to see that movie!
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