Father Christmas Is Back

Father Christmas Is Back is a delightful feel-good festive comedy that came to our screens in 2021, bringing with it an ensemble cast of accomplished actors including Elizabeth Hurley, John Cleese, and Kelsey Grammer. These beloved figures of the screen not only bring depth to their characters but also infuse the film with a sense of warmth and relatable charm that is needed for a Christmas film to truly resonate with audiences.

The story follows Caroline Christmas, portrayed by Elizabeth Hurley, a control-obsessed perfectionist, who is blessed, or rather cursed, with three loveable yet exasperating younger sisters fueling the holiday chaos. Cash-strapped Lisa (Talulah Riley) is a free-spirited Bohemian trying to save the world one charity at a time, while quirky Dr. Pippa (Sarah Alexander) is an animal-loving veterinarian, Mama Christmas is a doting mother whose enthusiasm for the holiday season matches that of a child, and finally, youngest sister, Evie (Naomi Frederick), is a culinary whizz with her own cooking show. The story rapidly unfurls when Caroline, Lisa, Dr. Pippa, and Evie come together at their childhood home to prepare for a perfect Christmas celebration.

However, what was otherwise destined to be a heartwarming reunion takes a dramatic turn when their long-absent father, James Christmas, portrayed by comedy icon John Cleese, unexpectedly shows up after 27 years with his new girlfriend in tow. Kelsey Grammer portrays a cantankerous man named Jack, another surprise that the Christmas sisters did not bargain for. Tensions mount, and with old feuds reigniting and new secrets coming to light, the family is sent into a tailspin. The unexpected arrival of their estranged father and his unexpected companion at the Christmas gathering climaxes into a whirlwind of comedic situations and emotional revelations.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of a grand yet charming English country house, which is festively decorated to the hilt, the setting of the movie becomes a character in itself. The brightly-lit hallways, snow-topped idyllic landscape, and heartily decorated Christmas tree serve as a perfect milieu for a film brimming with light-hearted humor, familial warmth, and holiday spirit. Adding to the enchanting visual experience is the feel-good, life-enhancing original score that perfectly complements every high and low of the narrative.

Directed by Philippe Martinez and Mick Davis, Father Christmas Is Back smartly combines British wit and slapstick humor to make for a winning comedy. At the heart of the film, it is a poignant reminder of the joys, embarrassments, and love that come with the territory of familial bonds and holiday gatherings. The directors seamlessly blend traditions of the Christmas film genre, like the chaotic family reunion and mishaps under the mistletoe, with the charm and effervescence of a modern-day comedy. There's a welcome lack of cynicism that makes Father Christmas Is Back enjoyable even when it flirts with genre cliches.

The brilliant star-studded cast needs no introduction. Elizabeth Hurley delivers a strong performance as the control-freak oldest sister while John Cleese brings his expertly-timed comedy chops into play. Kelsey Grammer, Talulah Riley, Sarah Alexander, and Naomi Frederick each add substance to the film, crafting characters that are both relatable and refreshingly eccentric.

As the story spins its comedic and emotional magic, Father Christmas Is back ultimately centers on the theme of forgiveness, acceptance, and the undeniable importance of family, despite their flaws and eccentricities. With fun-filled humor and endearing family bonds, it is a heartfelt reminder of the essence of Christmas – joy, love, and togetherness. One that encourages us to accept each other’s peculiarities, reconcile with the past, and celebrate the joyous spirit of this special time of year.

For those in search of vibrant laughter, a touch of Christmas magic and a story that dilutes the often complicated essence of family into a digestible, warm, and fun film, Father Christmas Is Back is just the movie to add to your holiday viewing list. It is a film that will not only warm your heart but also remind you just how vibrant, unpredictable, and ultimately rewarding a family Christmas can be.