A Sudden Case of Christmas

The whole theme is great, and it sort of hit me because I felt similar as Claire when I was 7, last of the "classic" family christmas I had with the whole family, after which my mom took me away and christmas, my favorite time of the year, was never the same, so yeah, I felt the beginning... BUT...

The characters lack consistency, the writing is abysmal, and the only actors that are actually believable are Danny, ofc, and Claire, the rest feel off, and as I said there is no consistency

The character development is done so badly, they literally don't know how to write it, and some actions the characters randomly take are just dumb or out of the blue, there is no build up to some of the decisions.

This Christmas comedy from Peter Chelsom is a remake of the 2022 Italian film Improvvisamente Natale.

Abbie (Lucy DeVito) and Jacob (Wilmer Valderrama) are a couple on the brink of separation. They take their daughter Claire to her grandfather's Lawrence (Danny DeVito) hotel in the Italian mountains in August.

Only Claire senses what is about to happen and wants to celebrate Christmas in August. Lawrence and his loyal employee Otto go about making sure they have one last family Christmas.

They are joined by Jacob's parents who are also facing a marital crisis.

Peter Chelsom once had a promising directing career in small scale British movies such as Hear My Song and Funny Bones. It all grinded to a halt with the disastrous Warren Beatty film Town and Country in 2001.

He has never got his mojo back. Even though this is a remake, A Sudden Case of Christmas is a poor film that wastes Danny Devito. Not really Christmassy, not aimed at a family audience and not funny.

I've just finished watching A Sudden Case of Christmas, and while some viewers may not fully grasp the underlying message, I certainly did. I found myself identifying with Claire from the moment I started watching. As a child, every Christmas, I was filled with anxiety, fearing that my parents would argue and that we wouldn't be able to celebrate at home with all of my cousins. I vividly recall a particular year when my aunt couldn't make it, and I was deeply upset because the holidays were always at their best when spent with my cousins. The central theme of the film is undeniably clear: no matter the differences that may exist between people, it is imperative to put them aside and come together to celebrate Christmas as a family. Watching Danny DeVito's performance was like the proverbial cherry on top-he is, without a doubt, an extraordinarily charming and hilarious presence. The dynamic between Claire and Danny was truly heartwarming, evoking both laughter and tears. The hotel staff member was equally entertaining, and the cinematography was simply breathtaking. The children's performances were endearing, adding a layer of sweetness to the film. Without hesitation, I highly recommend this movie.

Realistic and heartwarming. The scenarios are breathtaking. Real life drama, makes me appreciate my family even more. Antonella Rose did such a good job and her chemistry with Danny Devito was the reason I would watch a sequel! When the puppy was missing and the way Claire found him it was such a special moment.

The guy that works at hotel was so funny. The ballon scene was hilarious. I would have jumped too, I'm so scared of heights, so I don't blame the dad.

I would say a cute, wholesome movie with good acting/directing and life lessons. If you like real story movies this one is for you!!!!!

I'm giving this sweet film 9 stars mostly for the great Acting and beautiful setting. The story doesn't seem too unrealistic like some Hollywood movie plots tend to lean - that turns me off as a viewer since I prefer realistic and relatable story lines. I came for a Christmas movie, which it isn't really, its about family and forgiveness. The young actress playing Claire is outstanding! Danny is also fabulous, as is the entire cast. I definitely recommend this film is you like a cozy little story. It has a little comedy, a little romance, a little culture, and a little suspense - something for everyone.