A fresh take on Christmas: Netflix’s “That Christmas” redefines the holiday spirit
Whereas many family holiday films ride on whether kids still believe in Santa Claus, Netflix’s “That Christmas” shifts the focus—appealing to a more profound belief system: belief in oneself. This delightful animated feature brings a refreshing twist to the holiday genre, making it stand out in a sea of traditional Christmas movies.
Rediscovering self-worth
Adapted from a trio of beloved picture books, this film dives deep into themes of self-worth. It’s not just about being on Santa’s naughty-or-nice list, but about understanding one’s inherent value. The movie introduces a variety of relatable, modern characters who struggle with feelings of unworthiness, often stemming from absent parents or rigid authority figures. Through clever storytelling and a touch of magic, these characters receive affirmational proof that they matter, even in the absence of adults. Saint Nick himself pops in, delivering timely presents and bolstering the narrative’s central theme.
A modern setting with timeless values
That Christmas is set in the quaint English town of Wellington-on-Sea, a picturesque coastal community that reflects how traditional holidays are evolving to resonate with contemporary values. One of the standout characters is Bernadette, who takes it upon herself to rewrite the annual Christmas pageant with a modern twist. Her well-meaning effort to update the celebrations results in a comedic disaster, introducing an array of characters and injecting humor right from the start.
Complex characters navigating real-world challenges
We quickly get acquainted with Danny, a shy boy dressed as a chickpea in the pageant—an unconventional choice that serves as a metaphor for his desire to retreat into his shell. Danny, dealing with his parents’ divorce, represents a real-world struggle not often highlighted in Christmas movies. His single mother tries to maintain normalcy and express love through simple gestures like Post-It notes, juxtaposed with her demanding nursing job that often keeps her away from home.
Parents stranded, kids in charge
The plot takes an intriguing turn when a massive blizzard on Christmas Eve leaves nearly all the parents stranded, putting Bernadette in charge of the festivities. Despite her initial desperation to modernize the holiday, she finds herself leading the community celebrations. Her story comes from the title picture book, while Danny’s and the twins’ narratives are pulled from companion books, making for a rich, multi-threaded storyline.
A reflection of modern diversity
Wellington-on-Sea is a microcosm of modern England, from the inclusion of non-Christian characters to the representation of a blended family. Bernadette and her sister, Evie, exemplify this with their bright red hair and freckles, a tribute to their Black mother and ginger-haired white father. These details enrich the narrative, giving depth to a diverse cast of characters without feeling forced.
Behind the scenes: Animation and music
The creative team behind That Christmas features talents from some of the best-known animated films. Simon Otto, making his feature directing debut, brings his experience from the acclaimed “How to Train Your Dragon” series. Bonnie Arnold, a seasoned producer, infuses the project with her enthusiastic vision, while composer John Powell’s orchestral score adds grandeur to the film.
These elements combine to create a visually pleasing and emotionally impactful movie. While the animation may not have the polish of some big-studio competitors, the character-driven storytelling more than compensates.
Juggling multiple storylines
The film intertwines several storylines—some more developed than others. For instance, the subplot involving a stocking mix-up resolves quickly, whereas the budding friendship between Danny and his intimidating teacher unfolds over the length of the film. This layered storytelling keeps the audience engaged but might feel slightly disjointed at times.
An unexpected ending
Without giving too much away, the film wraps up with a coda set on Boxing Day. While this may seem unusual for American audiences unfamiliar with the tradition, it adds a unique cultural twist.
With every holiday season bringing a plethora of new Christmas movies, only a few manage to leave a lasting impression. That Christmas stands out, joining the ranks of films like Klaus, and is one you’ll enjoy watching repeatedly.
That Christmas streams on Netflix starting December 4. Share this holiday gem with friends and family, and keep the festive spirit alive!
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