Christmas may have passed, but winter lingers — and so does the spirit of the holidays. Even weeks after the festivities, Netflix’s animated festive film ThatChristmas transports you to the warmth and joy of the holidays.

A heart-warming addition to the holiday movie roster, it is directed by first-time director Simon Otto, who has been associated with the character animation of the How to Train Your Dragon series. He selected Richard Curtis’s trilogy of Christmas-themed picture books, That Christmas and Other Stories, as the inspiration for this amusing family offering.

Richard Curtis, known for scripting the beloved Mr Bean TV series in the 1990s, is the producer behind That Christmas, which is perfect for families looking to refresh their Christmas movie traditions. Set in the fictional seaside village of Wellington-on-Sea, the story follows young Danny (voiced by Jack Wisniewski), raised by a single mum who often leaves him for work, not to forget on Christmas Day. Danny feels his father’s absence, who no longer lives with them. He’s also a shy kid. It’s not about Danny, but multiple interconnected storylines that feature different characters.

When a blizzard paralyses traffic and blinds Santa’s airborne view, the close-knit families experience a Christmas crisis, making it nearly impossible for Santa to navigate through the stormy night. As parents become stranded and kids fend for themselves, the town bands together unexpectedly, exploring love, loneliness and family themes.

The film’s voice cast includes some familiar names, including Bill Nighy (Lighthouse Bill), Brian Cox (Santa), and Fiona Shaw (Ms. Trapper). The animation is visually stunning, filled with vibrant detail that showcases the progress made in modern animation. It’s a film for all ages, offering holiday cheer that lingers well beyond winter.

Coupled with a diverse cast of characters, That Christmas feels both timeless and modern, capturing the magic of Christmas in a way that resonates with today’s audiences. The duration, under two hours, is enough to hold the attention of younger viewers. With its charming blend of humour, heart and beautiful animation, That Christmas is a must-watch for families.

Published in Dawn, Young World, January 11th, 2025