A Merry Little Ex-Mas

I love these kind of movies but this was.... Odd. The kids are oblivious to their mom's feelings, the mom is controlling but also loses it a lot, the dad says pretty much the most hurtful thing you can say to an ex-wife. I wanted to like this for Alicia Silverstone but the story was uncomfortable. Maybe watch it once?

A decent Christmas movie without the usual Hallmark cringe. Made me laugh genuinely a few times and had a nice Christmas spirit. I was pleasantly surprised. Good acting and good actors. Will it win a Oscar ? No. Will it give you a cozy Christmas watching experience without feeling plastic hallmark Christmas? Yes! Recommend for watching with loved ones during the holidays.

I was hoping to like this movie and thank God, I actually did. I mean, sure, I thought it would be funnier, but it was super enjoyable. It's exactly what a Christmas movie should be: cozy, light, and filled with charm. Alicia Silverstone still has that power that effortless presence that makes her so watchable. She's easygoing, clearly not taking herself too seriously, and just having a good time. And honestly, that's the whole point of this kind of movie: to have a good time. It's not about nostalgia it's about watching a genuinely good comedic actress shine. Special shoutout to Pearson Fodd, Jameela Jamil, and Timothy Innes, because they were the glue that held everything together. They made it extra funny, extra enjoyable, and extra X-mas (if that makes sense). When they're on screen, the movie just works. Story-wise, it's exactly what you expect from a Netflix Christmas film: nothing Oscar-worthy, but totally enjoyable and feel-good. It's the kind of movie you watch with cookies and milk and a blanket nearby. The script does its job I would've loved to see some parts developed more, but it serves its purpose. You can't have everything the way you want it... and honestly, that might just be the message of the movie itself.

Alicia Silverstone is completely unlikable in this. Normally she's cute and quirky and fun but in this movie she's naggy and whiny and miserable. I would divorce her too. And the daughter's boyfriend is over the top weird. I love Harry Potter, but this guy is just... no. The best part about this whole movie are all of the side characters. The grandpas are adorable, Melissa Joan Hart is a good friend and keeps it real as do the people who run cafe. I get trying to have an amicable Christmas with your ex, but this is just stressful to watch and I still have 46 minutes to go. I'm sure it's going to end in some sappy way, but So far this has been the longest 45 minutes of a movie I've ever watched.

I had some hope for this film as I like the cast. Jameela was especially good. But it was missing that Christmas sparkle, and felt quite bland. The ending dragged out, and although I don't mind some predictability in Christmas movies, this ending didn't feel very special. Overall quite disappointing.