Nugget Is Dead: A Christmas Story

I thought it was a nice break from the cookie cutter, formulaic, predictable hallmark style movies. It's different, I'm liking Australian productions and this Christmas in Australia film is definitely that. I like all the characters in this dysfunctional, yet loyal and loving, family. The mom and Dad are great Infact I thought the casting was spot on all the way through. Shayla and Hassan were another bright spot. The scene in the car is hilarious. And nugget, the dog, is a treasure. I guess I don't really get the 1 star ratings. Are you serious? I've seen horrible movies that deserve a 1 star rating and this is definitely not one of those. Lighten up and merry Christmas!

I'm an American enjoying this Aussie film. I loved that the characters looked and acted like regular people, not the heavily manicured characters you get in most American TV. People in this movie had wrinkles, thinning hair, unflattering clothing, emotional outbursts, and said inane things regular people would say. Only one character was super thin. Even the rich mother character had obvious wrinkles. In American TV, you see very little of this- everyone gets a glow up. The plot of this movie isn't revolutionary, but it's sweet as expected for a holiday movie. It's a nice contrast to Hallmark movies.

I'm not sure why this was even made. What is the point of this film? It's set around Christmas but is the furthest from being a Christmas movie.

It's unclear why the main character was even in a relationship with the rich kid. There is never enough of a spark between them to even believe the main character cares about missing Christmas with her Boyfriend. This undermines the whole film off rip. Making the rest hard to even stomach.

Overly annoying cast, predictable story, unrealistic characters and character motivation... and the dog ends up dying? What about this is Christmas. Absolutely depressing movie for the holidays.

Disappointed we even spent the time to watch it. Not sure why so many channels are bothering to air this.

I can say several positive things about this movie. It is possible that people who hate the perfect couples or perfect families all over Hallmark and Lifetime will like this family. I am reminded of a TV movie about "The Partridge Family" where Danny Bonaduce's father was so happy about writing for a show called "All in the Family" where everyone hates each other. The truth is there was love there if you were patient, and that's true of this family too. When Steph first arrives, everyone is happy to see her, and there are a few scenes where they get along. And I think people looking for a nice holiday will eventually be rewarded.

But this much arguing, especially at Christmas, is hard to take. Also, even though I don't like dogs, how exactly is it funny that the dog dies? Or does it? There is a lot of deception going on. And I misunderstood some of it and thought the vet was doing something inexcusable, something that would get her in a lot of trouble. I assume Australia has ethics rules for professionals. I did at least find the vet pleasant.

I did like the pretty holiday clothes. If you hate matching pajamas ... well, it wasn't like that at all.

Okay, I did like Randy, Steph's brother. And his friend Leon, who wasn't used to holiday celebrations. He tried to put up with it all.

Steph had a cousin who usually wore brightly colored exercise wear that showed off a very fit body.

The only thing I can suggest is that you either have patience or record it and fast forward to the end.

I suppose the first question on everyone's mind, given the title is "Does the dog die?" You'll have to watch to find out. What I can say is that Nugget (played by Reuben) steals every scene that he's in. Ed Oxenbould is as always a pleasure to watch and I find myself wanting to spend much more time with his character in this film. So nice to see Tiriel Mora in a smallish role too.

Yes, it's a Christmas film and yes it's a bit overdone, not unlike the sausages, at times but I woke up the next day wondering what this family might be up to, always a good sign I think. I'd recommend giving it a go.