The holiday season often brings forth tales that tug at our heartstrings, and Richard Curtis’s animated feature, That Christmas, is no exception. With a blend of love stories and comedic elements framed by the festivities, the film underscores Curtis’s enduring legacy as a purveyor of romantic merriment while simultaneously poking fun at his previous works. The story not only serves up a platter of seasonal cheer but critiques the very tropes it employs, leaving audiences to ponder the complexities of love and happiness during the holidays.
Visually captivating and underscored by joyful soundtracks, That Christmas transports viewers to a quaint seaside town that feels familiar yet fresh. Under the animation guidance of Simon Otto, famed for his contributions to the How to Train Your Dragon trilogy, the film bursts to life with captivating character designs and engaging environments. This film follows a much similar route as Curtis’s earlier holiday film, Love Actually, threading together various interrelated narratives that culminate in a heartwarming climax. However, this new venture cleverly subverts expectations, as it does not shy away from acknowledging the simplistic nature of its own plotlines.
The primary tale revolves around a diverse group of children, particularly focusing on Danny, the newcomer navigating the nuances of young love, and his adventures in the school’s unorthodox nativity play. This narrative is complemented by the addition of a diverse cast of characters, each with their unique backstories and desires, which reflect the complexity of human emotions, especially during the holiday season. Curtis lays bare the myriad feelings evoked during this time—joy, longing, and even loneliness—encapsulated in moments of levity and introspection.
Children’s Perspectives and Adult Humor
While primarily aimed at a younger audience, There are distinct moments within the film that compel adults to resonate with its themes. In particular, a philosophical monologue delivered by Santa Claus, voiced by Brian Cox, elevates the narrative into deeper waters. The metaphor of Christmas as an “emotional magnifying glass” offers a poignant commentary on how the holidays can heighten both happiness and sorrow. For children, comedic antics—such as the ubiquitous fart jokes—may draw laughter, while adults can connect with the underlying messages that capture the bittersweet nature of the festive season.
The awareness of this dual audience is significant, as it ensures That Christmas is not just another run-of-the-mill holiday film. While children chuckle at playful scenarios and pop culture references, parents may find themselves compelled to reflect on deeper issues, making the movie an inclusive experience.
Curtis is clearly self-reflexive about his cinematic exploits, and That Christmas exemplifies a level of humility through its critique of romcom clichés. He has historically faced scrutiny for some of the more dated elements in his dialogues, particularly those that might provoke unease today, such as body image issues. In a fascinating turn, characters in this film reflect contemporary values—such as environmentalism and inclusivity—resulting in a nativity play that celebrates vegetarianism, multiculturalism, and climate consciousness.
The film’s teenage protagonist, Bernadette, emerges as a delightfully complex character whose direction of the school play imbues a sense of wisdom and responsibility. This evolution showcases a shift in Curtis’s storytelling—one that embraces modern sensibilities while retaining his signature warmth and humor.
At its core, That Christmas is a celebration of love, hope, and connection. It cleverly intertwines multiple narratives while Offering unexpected reflections on the challenges and joys inherent in the holiday season. Curtis’s ability to balance humor with sincerity resonates well across generations, ensuring that the film serves as a festive reminder of what truly matters: the relationships we build and nurture, especially during the most magical time of the year. As viewers watch the characters navigate the ups and downs of their festive experiences, there is an understanding that love—in all its forms—is an essential part of our shared humanity, making That Christmas a timeless piece that will surely resonate for years to come.