I watched That Christmas and I really liked it! 4/5
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That Christmas, the debut directorial feature from Simon Otto, brings a uniquely British charm to the animated holiday genre. Based on Richard Curtis’s children’s books That Christmas and Other Stories, the film interweaves several heartwarming narratives about love, family, and the occasional festive blunder. Produced by Locksmith Animation and featuring a stellar voice cast, including Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, and Bill Nighy, That Christmas is a cozy, feel-good holiday treat with enough warmth and wit to make it a new seasonal favorite.
A Web of Holiday Stories
The film adopts a vignette structure, presenting interconnected tales set in a seaside village brimming with holiday cheer. At its center is Santa Claus (Brian Cox), who makes a significant mistake that sets off a chain reaction affecting multiple families. Among these stories are a heartwarming exploration of loneliness, a child’s wish to reunite her divided family, and a lighthearted chaos involving far too many turkeys.
Richard Curtis and Peter Souter’s screenplay stays true to the spirit of the source material, emphasizing themes of community, togetherness, and the importance of small acts of kindness. While some storylines are more compelling than others, the overall tapestry is delightful, creating a narrative as cozy as a crackling fire on a snowy evening.
A Cast that Delivers
One of That Christmas’s strongest assets is its stellar voice cast, who breathe life and charm into the characters. Brian Cox is a standout as a gruff yet lovable Santa Claus, bringing both humor and gravitas to the role. Fiona Shaw shines as Mrs. Trapper, a feisty and endearing presence whose storyline carries surprising emotional weight.
Bill Nighy, a frequent collaborator of Curtis, brings his signature dry wit and warmth to his role, while Jodie Whittaker and Lolly Adefope add depth and humor to their respective characters. The younger voice actors, including India Brown and Zazie Hayhurst, also deserve credit for their heartfelt performances, capturing the wonder and vulnerability of childhood.
Animation with a Distinct Personality
Visually, That Christmas is a treat. The animation style strikes a balance between traditional warmth and modern polish, with the seaside village rendered in rich, cozy detail. From the frosty rooftops to the bustling markets, every frame is imbued with a festive charm that makes the world feel inviting and lived-in.
Simon Otto, best known for his work on How to Train Your Dragon, makes a confident directorial debut here. His experience with character-driven storytelling is evident, as each vignette is visually distinctive yet cohesive within the film’s overall aesthetic. The character designs, while simple, are expressive and perfectly suited to the film’s tone.
Humor and Heart
Curtis’s signature blend of humor and sentimentality is present throughout That Christmas. The film’s comedic moments, from Santa’s blunders to turkey-related hijinks, will elicit chuckles from audiences of all ages. At the same time, its more poignant storylines resonate deeply, particularly those addressing themes of loneliness and family reconciliation.
One of the film’s most touching threads follows a young girl trying to mend her fractured family during the holidays. It’s a storyline that Curtis handles with sensitivity and authenticity, capturing the bittersweet emotions that often accompany the season. The humor and heart work in tandem, creating a balanced tone that keeps the film engaging from start to finish.
A Few Stumbles
While That Christmas excels in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. The vignette structure, while charming, occasionally leads to pacing issues. Some storylines feel underdeveloped, while others might overstay their welcome. Additionally, the film leans heavily on familiar holiday tropes, which, while comforting, might feel overly predictable to some viewers.
The film’s resolution, though heartwarming, ties up its numerous storylines a little too neatly. While this approach aligns with the film’s optimistic tone, it might leave some viewers craving a bit more nuance.
Music and Atmosphere
The soundtrack, featuring an original song by Ed Sheeran titled “Under the Tree,” adds to the film’s festive atmosphere. Sheeran’s contribution, paired with John Powell’s evocative score, enhances the emotional beats without overwhelming the narrative. The music complements the film’s visuals beautifully, creating an immersive holiday experience.
A Worthwhile Holiday Watch
Ultimately, That Christmas succeeds in its mission to provide a heartwarming and entertaining holiday film for families. Its charming animation, talented voice cast, and heartfelt storytelling make it a delightful addition to the seasonal movie lineup. While it doesn’t reinvent the holiday genre, it doesn’t need to—its sincerity and warmth are more than enough to leave a lasting impression.
For families seeking a feel-good movie to watch together during the festive season, That Christmas delivers the perfect blend of humor, heart, and holiday magic. It’s a film that reminds us of the importance of connection and kindness, making it a welcome gift for audiences young and old.