By Louise Rochford: October 20, 2024

‘That Christmas’ Review: A Potential Holiday Classic from Netflix

In the spirit of the season, Netflix's That Christmas emerges as a delightful animated feature poised to carve its niche among holiday classics. This charming film, penned by the beloved Richard Curtis and directed by Simon Otto in his feature debut, takes audiences on a whimsical journey through the quaint seaside town of Wellington-on-Sea. Voiced by the illustrious Brian Cox, Santa finds himself battling treacherous winter weather on Christmas Eve, navigating the stormy skies while racing against the clock to deliver gifts to eager children.

A Familiar Dilemma

The film opens with Santa facing a familiar yet daunting dilemma: a fierce winter storm threatens to derail his plans. With only one reindeer, voiced by Guz Khan, to pull the sleigh, tensions rise between them—so much so that Santa jokingly considers trading in his sleigh for a self-driving vehicle next year. The stakes are high, and as Santa pushes through snow and strong winds, he must rely on his determination and the spirit of the season to fulfill his mission. Despite these comedic setbacks, Santa's ultimate goal remains clear: to bring joy to children around the world, especially those in his fictional English coastal town.

A Joyous Celebration of Community

That Christmas premiered at the BFI London Film Festival, and it’s clear that this animation from Locksmith Animation (known for Ron’s Gone Wrong) is destined to become a holiday favorite. Unlike many holiday films that can veer into overly saccharine territory, this story gracefully sidesteps cliché by grounding its whimsical narrative in authentic and relatable emotions.

Otto, renowned for his work on How to Train Your Dragon, adeptly balances playful self-awareness with the required suspension of disbelief inherent in holiday tales. The film manages to evoke the heartwarming charm that Curtis is known for while introducing a fresh animated style. The narrative is rooted in the interconnected lives of its characters, with Santa guiding us through Wellington-on-Sea, a close-knit community where the magic of Christmas unfolds.

The film introduces a diverse array of characters, each adding their own flavor to the holiday spirit. A group of local children, led by the bold 15-year-old Bernadette (India Brown), embarks on a progressive rendition of the traditional Three Kings play, dubbed Three Wise Women. Their imaginative production swaps traditional shepherds for organic vegetable farmers, creating a vibrant tapestry of creativity and joy. The performance becomes a metaphor for the changing times, emphasizing sustainability and community involvement.

At the heart of the story is Danny (Jack Wisniewski), the new kid in town, who finds himself navigating the complexities of childhood friendships and the emotional turmoil of his parents’ divorce. His growing bond with the grumpy yet endearing teacher Ms. Trapper (Fiona Shaw) adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the importance of connection during the holiday season. As Danny struggles with feelings of loneliness and the hope of rekindling a relationship with his estranged father, viewers are invited to reflect on their own familial connections and the importance of community.

Meanwhile, Danny’s crush on the anxious Sam (Zazie Hayhurst) brings a lighthearted, relatable layer to the film, highlighting the ups and downs of young love. Their tentative relationship mirrors the awkwardness of adolescence, with all its hopes and fears, as they navigate school life together.

Comedic Chaos and Emotional Depth

The McNutt family, portrayed by Lolly Adefope and Rhys Darby, injects a sense of comedic chaos as they prepare for the holiday alongside their amusing friends. The plot thickens when Bernadette's parents leave town for a wedding, leaving their children to fend for themselves amid a snowstorm. This decision spirals into a series of comedic mishaps, culminating in a desperate struggle to return home before Christmas day.

As the parents scramble to find a way back to their families, the film explores themes of sacrifice and the lengths to which people will go for their loved ones. The children, meanwhile, must navigate their own challenges, leading to moments of unexpected bravery and friendship. The McNutts' quirky antics add a layer of humor, keeping the tone light while still addressing deeper emotional currents.

Throughout its 91-minute runtime, That Christmas skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, ensuring each character receives the attention they deserve. The attention to detail—from the lighthouse keeper’s daily town bulletin updates to the friendly rivalries among residents—creates an immersive experience that breathes life into this fictional village.

A Heartwarming Adventure

What sets That Christmas apart from typical holiday fare is its dedication to portraying the complexities of community life. The film doesn’t shy away from the challenges faced by its characters; rather, it embraces them, presenting a narrative that feels genuine and relatable. The characters' struggles with love, family, and personal growth resonate with viewers of all ages, offering lessons about resilience and the true meaning of Christmas.

With its rich storytelling, charming animation, and a talented voice cast, the film is set to become a holiday staple for families and fans of all ages. Brian Cox’s Santa, alongside a colorful ensemble, delivers a heartfelt narrative that resonates with the warmth and spirit of Christmas. It reminds us that the holidays are not just about presents but about the connections we make and the love we share with one another.

Full Credits

Venue: BFI London Film Festival (Gala)
Distributor: Netflix
Production Companies: Double Negative, Locksmith Animation
Cast: Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker, Bill Nighy, Rhys Darby
Director: Simon Otto
Screenwriters: Richard Curtis, Peter Souter
Producers: Nicole P. Hearon, p.g.a, Adam Tandy, p.g.a
Executive Producers: Mary Coleman, Natalie Fischer, Julie Lockhart, Elisabeth Murdoch, Bonnie Arnold, Lara Breay, Sarah Smith, Rebecca Cobb, Richard Curtis, Colin Hopkins
Production Designer: Justin Hutchinson-Chatburn
Editor: Sim Evan-Jones, ACE
Music: John Powell
Rated: PG
Runtime: 1 hour 31 minutes.

With its rich tapestry of characters and heartfelt storytelling, That Christmas is bound to become a cherished addition to holiday movie nights, reminding audiences of the joy, laughter, and love that define the season.

Finance Monthly Star Rating: 8/10