A Savage Christmas

Other than awards season, Christmas movie Season is my favorite time of year. I was so excited to check out A Savage Christmas since its an Aussie film, with a familiar cast.

I had so much fun with this!!!! Not only does it have one of my favorite holiday movie tropes "surviving Christmas", its also simultaneously hilarious and heartfelt, with two fantastic trans leads. I love being a fly on the wall with this kinda family drama, and mixed with the classic Australian cringey humor made for a great watch. Theres also some cheeky Schitt's Creek vibes which I loved.

An easy and great watch this Christmas!!

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.

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.

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.

In this uproarious Australian comedy, "Swinging Safari" collides with the irreverent humour of "Schitt's Creek," creating a cinematic experience that's nothing short of a riot. A diverse and talented ensemble cast takes center stage, uniting to celebrate Christmas in a way that's hilariously disastrous. With unexpected twists and turns at every corner, this festive gathering quickly devolves into chaos.

One standout performance comes from Brenda, played by a brilliant actress who channels the whimsical energy of Moira Rose from "Schitt's Creek." Her portrayal is a true highlight of the film, bringing charisma and eccentricity to the screen.

Throughout the movie, you'll find yourself in moments of delightful cringe, as well as bursts of slapstick comedy that will have you in stitches. The belly laughs are plentiful, ensuring that you won't be able to contain your amusement. But amidst all the chaos, there are also touching moments that add depth and heart to the story, reminding us that even in the midst of pandemonium, the spirit of togetherness and love can prevail.

This classic Aussie comedy is a rollercoaster of absurdity, showcasing the best of Australian humor while delivering a Christmas celebration like no other. A must-see for anyone looking to escape into a world of hilarity and heartwarming chaos. Too.