Just Another Christmas (2020) Movie Review – A Hilarious and Heartwarming Brazilian Holiday Comedy
Introduction
Just Another Christmas (original title: Tudo Bem No Natal Que Vem) is a 2020 Brazilian holiday comedy directed by Roberto Santucci and written by Paulo Cursino. The film stars Leandro Hassum, Elisa Pinheiro, and Danielle Winits, and it brings a unique and hilarious twist to the Christmas movie genre. Combining humor with heartfelt moments, Just Another Christmas is a perfect watch for the holiday season, offering a refreshing take on family, love, and the true meaning of Christmas.
Plot Summary
The story follows Jorge (Leandro Hassum), a grumpy and overworked father who dreads Christmas. For Jorge, the holiday season is a stressful time filled with family obligations he’d rather avoid. However, everything changes when, after a bizarre accident on Christmas Eve, Jorge wakes up to find that he is living in a time loop. Every time he wakes up, it’s Christmas again, and he has no memory of the previous year. This Groundhog Day-like scenario forces Jorge to relive Christmas Day over and over again, giving him a chance to rethink his life choices, relationships, and the way he views the holiday.
As Jorge experiences the ups and downs of his repetitive Christmases, he begins to realize the importance of family, love, and appreciating the small moments in life. The film is a journey of self-discovery wrapped in a comedic package, with plenty of laughs, mishaps, and touching moments along the way.
Characters and Performances
Leandro Hassum shines in the role of Jorge, bringing his well-known comedic timing and charisma to the character. Hassum’s portrayal of Jorge is both funny and relatable, capturing the frustrations of a man who feels trapped by his circumstances but ultimately finds a way to embrace the chaos. His ability to shift from comedy to more emotional scenes makes Jorge’s journey both entertaining and heartfelt.
Elisa Pinheiro as Laura, Jorge’s wife, provides a strong counterbalance to Jorge’s grumpiness, portraying a character who is loving, patient, and supportive despite her husband’s flaws. Danielle Winits as Jorge’s sister-in-law, Ana, and Arianne Botelho as his daughter, Aninha, add depth to the family dynamics, each contributing to the film’s emotional resonance.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Roberto Santucci, known for his work in Brazilian comedies, brings a lively and festive energy to Just Another Christmas. The film’s pacing is brisk, keeping viewers engaged as Jorge navigates his repeating Christmases. Santucci effectively uses humor to explore deeper themes, balancing light-hearted moments with more serious reflections on family and life.
The cinematography by Julio Costantini captures the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of a Brazilian Christmas, with warm tones and festive decorations that enhance the holiday spirit. The film’s visual style complements its comedic tone, creating a feel-good experience that is both visually appealing and emotionally satisfying.
Themes and Message
At its core, Just Another Christmas is a film about gratitude, family, and personal growth. The repetitive nature of Jorge’s experience forces him to confront the aspects of his life that he has taken for granted. The movie explores themes of forgiveness, the importance of being present in the moment, and the idea that even the most ordinary days can hold extraordinary meaning when viewed from a new perspective.
The time-loop scenario serves as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life’s challenges and the opportunity for redemption and change. As Jorge learns to embrace the chaos of his Christmases, he also learns to appreciate the love and support of his family, ultimately finding joy in the very things he once dreaded.
Streaming Services and Availability
For viewers in the United States, Just Another Christmas is available exclusively on Netflix.
Streaming Services:
- Netflix: As a Netflix original film, Just Another Christmas is available for streaming worldwide. The platform offers the film in multiple languages, including English dubbing and subtitles, making it accessible to a broad audience.
Given its status as a Netflix exclusive, the film is not available for rental or purchase on other platforms, making a Netflix subscription essential for those who want to enjoy this holiday comedy.
Conclusion
Just Another Christmas (2020) is a delightful and heartwarming holiday comedy that brings a fresh perspective to the genre. With its mix of humor, emotion, and festive spirit, the film is perfect for family movie nights during the holiday season. Leandro Hassum’s charismatic performance, combined with the film’s universal themes of love, family, and personal growth, make it a standout addition to the Christmas movie lineup. Don’t miss the chance to experience this joyful and uplifting film, now streaming on Netflix.
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