El Camino Christmas

9 December 2017. Definitely not what the comedic trailer suggests. This drama thriller is much more dark and gets darker as the movie proceeds to its predictable ending. Those expecting a Christmas romance comedy will be in for a shock. Instead this is a movie about a young man in search for his father after his mom passes away and he discovers letters written from his father. What he discovers is a questionable small town with some questionable law enforcement officers, a pretty single mother with a mute son and whose mother's mother is questionable as well. There's a number of characters to dislike in this movie as it swerves from comedy to drama towards an attempt at action thrills and a soft landing. Too bad the movie didn't take itself more seriously, it would have been a much better show.

**WARNINGS**

First warning: If this were a rated film, it would be "R", not only for the multiple F-bombs, but the subject matter and plot.

Second warning: This ain't Hallmark. There are some funny moments, but overall, this is pretty dark. It's not a typical "Christmas" movie. In fact, there isn't a super strong connection to Christmas.

That said, I enjoyed it a lot. Tim Allen is definitely playing against type. I believe it's hard to play "stupid" convincingly, but Dax Shepard pulls it off. Michelle Mylett looks very familiar, but upon checking IMDb, it's doubtful I've seen her before. I predict we'll see a lot more of her. The rest of the star-studded cast turn in an excellent ensemble performance.

It's a bit predictable in parts, but still a very enjoyable movie. And in the end, you really are in the Christmas spirit.

Could have been better and only ironicly funny. Good premise for the story and good cast a bit wasted by plot and script.

Whether you think El Camino Christmas is a good film or not may depend on your expectations. Objectively, it's a long way from being a classic (Christmas or otherwise), but if you're looking for an easy watch with a bit of fun sprinkled in, then this film will fit the bill.

Luke Grimes is decent in the lead role, and the rest of the cast also put in a good shift. The action moves along at a healthy pace, and clocking in at just under 90 minutes it doesn't outstay its welcome.

The storyline is a classic "how did we get here?" tale, with one unfortunate incident leading to another. Only in the last half hour does it venture from the just-about plausible to the faintly ridiculous.

El Camino Christmas isn't a film that will change your life, but there's a good chance you'll finish watching it with a smile on your face.

This movie is different to any other Christmas movie before it, it boasts a great cast with a long time no see(Tim Allen).The movie may seem budget, but has enough laughs, story line to keep the viewer entertained. It is by no means a masterpiece, but for only 1hr 30 mins it is more than good enough. Overall a solid watch.