That Christmas

Netflix offers us a very entertaining animated Christmas movie that brings all the British humor and sweetness to a family pastime with a nice message to enjoy.

Director Simon Otto brings Richard Curtis' script to life with a tenderness and lightness that allows us to enjoy a fun Christmas adventure that manages to bring out emotions and a few tears, too. It's an ensemble story that gives us fun characters with truly emotional stories that allow us to have a simple connection with several of them. Curtis' first foray into animation draws on the same authentic energies that made his previous works so beloved.

Its beautiful messages such as community, kindness, affection and pure love are reflected in a big heart and it is generous with its happy endings, which inevitably invites us to have a film full of positivity and generosity when it comes to making us feel delighted and comfortable with what we are watching.

It's a simple story. We won't find any major plot challenges within the story and you may never feel that evil is present, but even so the film manages to give us moments of tension and satisfaction in equal parts, making us experience a rather pleasant and delightful family pastime.

Netflix hits the mark again with its animated releases. Although the film may not be the most spectacular of the year in the genre, it has its British charm that makes it totally enjoyable and pleasant, allowing you to have a good time without having to try too hard, which helps to win over the little ones and the older ones in equal measure.

One reviewer said the content wasn't for children. That's the joke. Those jokes are meant to go over the head of children and they do, if they don't I suggest you look at how you aren't your children. What nonsense. Anyway, film is great. British humour and added modern twists like the way we communicate in our little communities. Very heart warming and very pretty scenery. People in Suffolk do not have the same accent as those in the west country though. This is always and issue with anytging set IN Norfolk or Suffolk and it is a shame. There's a lot of locals who would be great in roles. Enjoy.

This film had lots of potential with some great voice actors let down by a very poor script and every single kind of 'political correct' statement of inclusion, diversity, and equity rammed into every inch. I am all for adding in the right message but this was just trying too hard and made it feel like 'message' rather than a movie.

My kids enjoyed it well enough but I don't think this a going to be one that we watch every year on repeat like the usual favourites. Netflix and the other streaming channels need to just bring good honest fun like Klaus which is our firm favourite and their best new Christmas movie in recent years.

That Christmas is a heartwarming holiday film that beautifully captures the essence of the festive season. The movie revolves around the intertwined lives of several families, each dealing with their own unique challenges and joys during Christmas time. The storyline is both touching and humorous, offering a perfect blend of emotional moments and lighthearted scenes that are sure to resonate with audiences of all ages.

One of the standout aspects of "That Christmas" is its emphasis on the importance of family, love, and togetherness. The movie reminds us that, despite the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, the true spirit of Christmas lies in the connections we share with our loved ones.

Overall "That Christmas" is a delightful and uplifting film that will leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling long after the credits roll. It's a must-watch for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit and experience the magic of Christmas through the lens of a beautifully crafted story.

It's hard to call this a classic right away, but is it Good? Yes, it's very good.

The director has delivered other projects in live action. This film looks, feels and is written like a good holiday movie performed by capable actors.

The animation is excellent in its realistically rendered environments and caricatured personalities.

The story, or stories, also follow a more mature theme than typical cartoon fare. Parents trying too hard to manage every aspect of the children's lives, an aging single teacher allowing a little too much of her life's disappointments bleed into her teaching, a houseful of kids celebrating Christmas without parents who are unable to get home because of the weather, a shy, nervous twin trying to understand and love her disrespectful and naughty sister, and the main protagonist who ties all of this together: the new kid who's trying to fit in at school, understand his mom's challenges with being a new single parent, and get the nice girl at school to notice him.

It's all charming, funny, sad, redeeming and thoroughly enjoyable.

Highly recommend.