Review of “Office Christmas Party” (2016): A Wild Holiday Comedy
“Office Christmas Party,” directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck and released in 2016, is a raucous holiday comedy that brings together an ensemble cast to deliver laughs, chaos, and a touch of holiday spirit. With a star-studded lineup including Jason Bateman, Jennifer Aniston, T.J. Miller, and Olivia Munn, the film sets out to capture the hilarity and madness of an out-of-control office party.
Plot Overview
The story follows Clay Vanstone (T.J. Miller), the fun-loving branch manager of a struggling tech company, and his uptight CEO sister, Carol Vanstone (Jennifer Aniston). When Carol threatens to shut down Clay’s branch right before Christmas, he and his Chief Technical Officer, Josh Parker (Jason Bateman), decide to throw an epic office Christmas party to land a big client and save their jobs. As the party spirals out of control, the employees find themselves in increasingly outrageous and comedic situations, leading to unexpected revelations and holiday mayhem.
Performance and Direction
The ensemble cast brings their comedic talents to the forefront, with standout performances from Jason Bateman and Jennifer Aniston. Bateman, as the straight-laced Josh, provides a perfect foil to T.J. Miller’s wild and unpredictable Clay. Aniston excels in her role as the no-nonsense Carol, showcasing her knack for playing strong, authoritative characters with a comedic edge. Olivia Munn, as Tracey Hughes, adds charm and intelligence to the mix, contributing to the film’s heart and humor.
Directors Josh Gordon and Will Speck manage to balance the film’s slapstick comedy with moments of genuine warmth and character development. Their direction ensures that the film maintains a fast-paced, energetic vibe, keeping the audience engaged through the various comedic set pieces and escalating chaos.
Cinematography and Production Design
The cinematography by Jeff Cutter captures the vibrant and festive atmosphere of the party, using dynamic camera movements and colorful lighting to enhance the sense of excitement and fun. The production design by Andrew Laws effectively transforms the office setting into a wild and extravagant party venue, complete with over-the-top decorations and elaborate setups that contribute to the film’s comedic impact.
Themes and Symbolism
“Office Christmas Party” explores themes of camaraderie, teamwork, and the importance of balancing work and fun. The film highlights the value of coming together to overcome challenges and the power of a supportive work environment. The chaotic party serves as a backdrop for personal growth and the mending of strained relationships, emphasizing the idea that even in the most absurd situations, meaningful connections can be made.
Streaming Availability
For those interested in watching “Office Christmas Party,” the film is available on various streaming platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
- Netflix: Available with a subscription.
Conclusion
“Office Christmas Party” is a wild and entertaining holiday comedy that delivers plenty of laughs and festive cheer. With strong performances from its ensemble cast and energetic direction from Josh Gordon and Will Speck, the film captures the spirit of the season with a humorous and outrageous twist. Its blend of slapstick comedy, heartwarming moments, and holiday chaos makes it a fun watch for the holiday season.
