A Savage Christmas

On the surface, A Savage Christmas is a light-hearted Aussie comedy about the all-too-familiar chaos of Christmas, however its pursuit of deeper subject matter - familial estrangement, identity, privilege and class - provide a challenging balance. So, does this balance translate?

The film observes the reunion of Davina Savage, a recently transitioned trans woman, with her character-filled family, as she struggles to find acceptance while they manage their own personal tribulations. Although amusing in its mayhem, the audience is left unfulfilled by unresolved storylines as a product of the film's pace. Newcomers Thea Ravenau (Davina) and Rekha Ryan (Leia), in particular show potential as the subjects of more emotional moments throughout the film, however this is stifled by cuts to poorly timed interruptions and jokes, or abruptly segued scenes.

Overall, the film's mission to provide comedic relief overpowers the complexity of its more delicate and resonant themes. With an extra 20 mins of footage, A Savage Christmas had the potential to be both "savage" and thoughtful.

Thoroughly enjoyed this new Aussie classic and have watched it twice already. The blunt sensitivity/empathetic savagery of the writing is outstanding. The camera loves each of the actors - Max Jahufer was a stand-out for me - and the film showcases each character beautifully as well as the tight, convincing ensemble playing. The pace is perfect to build and sustain tension that keeps the viewer in a similar state to the characters. Anyone who has ever attended their own or a friend's/partner's tense family Christmas will both love and loathe this deliciously accurate suspended state of tension, broken by the omfg laugh out loud moments. To me, this feels like a slow burn movie - like The Castle - which will come to be more widely known, appreciated and enjoyed over time.

"A Savage Christmas" delivers a refreshingly unique take on the holiday film genre. With its blend of modern-day education and heartwarming moments, the writer's concept is both inventive and engaging. From heartfelt emotions to laugh-out-loud humor, this film offers a rollercoaster of feelings that leave audiences craving more. A diverse cast of both seasoned Australian actors and newcomers brings depth and authenticity to the holiday tale. The casting is spot-on, adding depth and authenticity to the characters' journey. "Overall, "A Savage Christmas" is a must-see for those seeking a fresh perspective on seasonal storytelling"

This was such a great film. I thought it was cast brilliantly and the storyline was a really fun, funny and it was a chaotic family Christmas.

Highlights are definitely mum Brenda, played by Helen Thomson. Her facial expressions thoughout the film had me laughing.

Loved seeing two trans leads who did a brilliant job. Also loved seeing Rachel Griffiths and Gary Sweet pop up.

It's a really good movie that doesn't play to much on your emotions, I did cry but they were happy tears. It's an easy to follow storyline and the mix of different characters means you absolutely can relate to one or more of the characters.

I don't normally watch Christmas movies but was interested as this movie has a few well-known actors, and some Colin from Accounts cross-over. A very diverse younger cast, and of the newcomers Rekha Ryan and Ryan Morgan are excellent. I was a big fan of Helen Thomson in Elvis, and she's fantastic in this, she is a great comedic actor. Darren Gilshenan is at his wacky-best and brings the majority of the laughs.

I thought there was some genuinely very funny moments in this - typical Aussie humour whilst also offering a fresh perspective given the trans leads. This movie tries to touch on some important topics, but these moments feel undercooked. I appreciated the trans narrative but it seems to miss the mark if it's trying to be heartfelt or moving. I felt like they were trying pack a lot into 90 mins (gender identity, drug abuse, adoption, alcoholism, gambling etc etc) and didn't manage to quite get there, but I appreciate what the filmmakers were trying to do. It tried to do a bit too much and failed, but ultimately a fun silly movie that's worth a watch.