With the holiday season upon us, it's the perfect time to talk about new Christmas films and releases making their way to streaming and theaters. This year, audiences can look forward to some fresh storytelling and beloved actors as they cozy up with mugs of hot cocoa and festive treats.
One standout addition to this year's lineup is Netflix's animated film, That Christmas, crafted by writer Richard Curtis, known for iconic hits like Love Actually, Notting Hill, and Four Weddings and a Funeral. Set to be released on December 4, the film adapts Curtis's own collection of short stories from 2021. It captures the chaotic spirit of the holidays when a blizzard leaves parents and children separated, leading to wild adventures and unexpected lessons about love and family.
Interviewing Curtis about his inspiration for That Christmas, he shared, "I’ve been a dad for the last 25 years, so it was a real joy for me to be able to write about kids." His homage to family dynamics is reflected throughout the film, telling intertwined stories about parenting, the shenanigans of children left to navigate Christmas on their own, and the broader theme of connection amid chaos. The voice cast includes familiar names like Bill Nighy, Fiona Shaw, and Brian Cox as Santa Claus, adding notable star power to this animated delight.
Outside the festive realms of Curtis's work, another intriguing film arriving on Christmas Day is Los Frikis. Fresh from producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller, known for their work on Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, this Spanish-language movie tells the story of Gustavo, a young man living through the harsh realities of 1990s Cuba. The film recounts how Gustavo admires his older brother and his punk bandmates—the Frikis—who take the desperate measure of intentionally infecting themselves with HIV to gain refuge from oppression. This film is not just about hardship; it's about resilience and finding hope within dire circumstances. With its U.S. distribution arranged, Los Frikis promises to resonate with audiences as it captures the beauty and struggles of the human experience.
Meanwhile, fans of live-action thrills will be excited for Carry-On, featuring Welsh actor Taron Egerton. Set for Netflix release on December 13, this action thriller revolves around Egerton’s character, Ethan Kopek, who is thrust from the mundane life of an airport security guard at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to dodging danger at the hands of blackmail. The film captures the essence of the holiday rush, combining action-packed sequences with the peculiar pressures of Christmas travel.
Egerton described the script as “wildly entertaining,” stating it offered something fresh for audiences. “Here’s an everyday guy who becomes extraordinary through necessity over the course of a single day,” he explained, offering insight on the relatability of his character against the spectacle of movie action.
While each of these films offers different themes and styles, they all highlight the importance of connection, family, and the whimsical nature of the holiday season. From Curtis's animated tales of familial love to the intense narratives of Los Frikis, every project aims to resonate with audiences seeking heartwarming messages.
Critics have already begun to weigh in on these films, with early feedback for That Christmas noting it captures the chaotic happiness often associated with holiday mishaps. Reviewers are curious about how the film will stand against classics like Love Actually, which Curtis ironically references within the movie itself. One cheeky moment features the characters dismissing Love Actually as just another boring Christmas film.
The diversity among the cast and stories presented reflects modern society, with Curtis deliberately creating narratives relevant to today’s viewers. It’s clear all these films are being crafted with thoughtful consideration, aiming to portray genuine emotions and experiences. Curtis himself acknowledges the evolution of his storytelling, saying, “I’ve tried to write jokes and stories about things I find funny today, rather than what I thought was funny 20 years ago.” This intention is echoed across the other films, as they strive to engage both older and younger audiences alike.
Comparatively, Los Frikis stands out with its unique historical narrative and emotional depth, proving the range of storytelling during the holiday season isn't limited to typical cheer. The diverse voices from contemporary struggles showcase the power and influence of cinema as both entertainment and commentary, especially when intertwined with holiday releases intended to captivate the spirit of the season.
The upcoming weeks promise to unpack the anticipation surrounding these films as they rollout on their respective platforms. With December being synonymous with togetherness and indulgence, these new releases bring forth unique approaches to timeless holiday storytelling. Whether it’s the enchanting animation of That Christmas, the intensity of Carry-On, or the poignant narratives of Los Frikis, viewers will have plenty of options to fill their screens as they celebrate the festive season.
So grab those snacks, turn down the lights, and prepare for yet another season of memorable Christmas cinema, filled with laughter, love, and perhaps even some lighthearted chaos. Each film encourages both families and friends to reflect on what the holidays truly represent: connection, joy, and the importance of shared experiences.
