Anna Daniels
That Christmas tells a touching tale set in the charming coastal town of Wellington-on-Sea, focusing on the lives of various individuals as they face the ups and downs of the festive season. Co-created by the celebrated filmmaker Richard Curtis, known for hit films like Love Actually, this animated feature is based on his cherished children’s books.
With a talented voice cast featuring Brian Cox as Santa Claus, alongside Jodie Whittaker, Fiona Shaw, and Bill Nighy, the film is directed by Simon Otto in his directorial debut. That Christmas blends humor with poignant themes of love, solitude, and the true spirit of the holiday.
The inclusion of the original song, “Under the Tree,” composed by Ed Sheeran, enhances the festive atmosphere of the movie. Sheeran noted that the song encapsulates the bittersweet feelings of celebrating Christmas away from friends and family, a sentiment many can relate to during this time of year.
The film premiered at the BFI London Film Festival on October 19, 2024, where it garnered mixed reviews from critics. Nonetheless, viewers are eagerly anticipating its arrival on Netflix.
In essence, That Christmas strives to embody the spirit of holiday storytelling through animation, designed to resonate with both kids and adults. With its impressive cast and engaging plot, it looks to become a beloved choice for family entertainment this Christmas.
What are your thoughts on That Christmas? Do you believe it can capture the enchanting essence of timeless holiday movies?
