That Christmas is a heartwarming story that intertwines the lives of various characters in the fictional seaside town of Wellington-on-Sea as they navigate the challenges of the holiday season. Co-written by renowned filmmaker Richard Curtis, known for classics like Love Actually, this film adapts his beloved children's book series into a delightful animated feature.
The movie features an impressive voice cast, including Brian Cox as Santa Claus, Jodie Whittaker, Fiona Shaw, and Bill Nighy. Directed by Simon Otto, making his directorial debut, That Christmas promises a blend of humor and emotional depth, exploring themes of love, loneliness, and the spirit of Christmas.
The film's original song, “Under the Tree,” written by Ed Sheeran, adds an extra layer of festive charm. Sheeran has expressed that the song reflects the bittersweet nature of spending Christmas away from loved ones, resonating with many during the holiday season.
The world premiere took place at the BFI London Film Festival on October 19, 2024, where it received mixed reviews from critics. However, anticipation remains high as audiences look forward to its release on Netflix.
In summary, That Christmas aims to capture the essence of holiday storytelling through animation while appealing to both children and adults alike. With its star-studded cast and rich narrative, it is poised to become a new favorite for family viewing this Christmas season.
What are your expectations for That Christmas? Do you think it will capture the magic of classic holiday films?
