A Netflix Holiday Hit: That Christmas REVIEW

Over the weekend, we had the privilege of attending a preview of Netflix’s upcoming festive film, That Christmas. Written by Richard Curtis and Peter Souter, the movie is based on Curtis’s charming children’s book trilogy, That Christmas and Other Stories. It’s a fresh addition to the holiday movie roster, perfect for families looking to add a new tradition to their annual Christmas movie marathons.

If I had to sum it up, I’d call it Love Actually for kids—but with a unique charm all its own. That Christmas weaves together multiple storylines featuring different characters, with all the threads tying together beautifully by the end. It’s a heartwarming and cleverly written film that left me feeling genuinely touched.

One storyline features a little boy whose parents are divorced. His mother works tirelessly as a nurse, while his father is absent from his life. It’s refreshing to see a narrative that moves away from the trope of a deceased parent, which is so common in children’s films, and instead offers a story that some kids might find more relatable.

But that’s just one of the many stories in the movie. Each tale brings its own charm, humour, and warmth, creating a rich tapestry of holiday spirit. I also really enjoyed the cheeky jokes sprinkled throughout—it’s great to watch a movie that’s not just for kids, but one that adults can enjoy too.

The animation is absolutely stunning—vivid, detailed, and a testament to how far animation has come in recent years. Coupled with a wonderfully diverse cast of characters, the film feels inclusive and modern while still capturing the timeless magic of Christmas.

At 96 minutes, the movie is just the right length for younger viewers. It’s long enough to feel like a full cinematic experience but short enough to hold the attention of little ones. The BBFC has rated it PG for “mild threat and rude humour,” making it suitable for family movie nights with children of all ages.

If you’ve been considering a Netflix subscription, now’s the time to take the plunge. I pay for the £4.99 per month ad-supported tier and honestly, the ads are so minimal that it doesn’t bother me at all. With That Christmas premiering on Netflix on December 4, it’s the perfect opportunity to settle in with some hot chocolate and kick off the festive season.

Add this one to your list—it’s sure to become a holiday favourite!