What are your go-to holiday films? I have a list of favorites that I make sure to watch each year, and sometimes, I find myself extending my Christmas movie marathon well into the new year just to cover them all. One perennial favorite of mine is Christmas with the Kranks. Adapted from John Grisham's bestselling Skipping Christmas, the film didn't make a huge impact commercially or critically upon its release in the fall of 2004. Nonetheless, with its heartwarming message of community goodwill and boosted by the comedic talents of Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis, it has secured a permanent spot on my holiday watchlist.
Similar to the novel, the film follows Luther and Nora Krank (portrayed by Allen and Curtis, respectively) as they bid farewell to their young adult daughter Blair, who is embarking on a journey with the Peace Corps. The void left by Blair's absence triggers a case of empty nest syndrome, particularly affecting Nora, who grapples with the prospect of an upcoming holiday season without her. Considering the significant expense—over $6,000—that the Kranks incurred during the previous year's festivities, Luther proposes a radical solution. To both save money and find a fresh way to celebrate, he suggests diverting the funds typically allocated for decorations, gifts, and entertainment towards a ten-day Caribbean cruise. Luther is adamant about boycotting the traditional holiday celebrations, and after some hesitation, Nora eventually agrees.
As news of the Kranks opting out of Christmas spreads throughout their neighborhood, the community is left in disbelief at this unconventional choice. Vic Frohmeyer, the self-proclaimed block captain played by Dan Aykroyd, rallies the neighbors to persuade the Kranks to decorate their home. Despite facing a barrage of negative reactions, the Kranks stand firm in their commitment to embark on a cruise. However, everything takes a turn on Christmas Eve when they receive an unexpected call from Blair. She is back in the US and is on her way home for Christmas, anticipating all the usual family traditions. When asked if they are hosting their customary Christmas Eve Party, Nora caught off guard, impulsively says yes. Now, with less than 12 hours before their daughter's arrival, the Kranks find themselves needing to reverse their decision and hastily orchestrate a Christmas celebration.
Christmas with the Kranks takes John Grisham's concise story and injects numerous comedic moments for its stars to explore. Watching Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis navigate the preparations for a cruise, complete with tanning and botox mishaps, is one of the film's highlights. The movie boasts a supporting cast of character actors, each breathing life into the community as they grapple with the Kranks' unconventional decision to skip Christmas. However, the film has flaws, as it grapples with narrative inconsistencies and introduces a few peculiar subplots that seem more like attempts to extend the runtime than integral components of the story. The emotional moments can be heavy-handed, and the theme of a community rallying to help their fellow man isn't as pronounced as in the book. Nevertheless, this film has become a holiday mainstay in my household, serving as a suitable, lighthearted diversion during the festive season.
Can you believe that I haven't seen this movie? I'll have to try to catch it this year. It sounds like a lot of fun. :)
ReplyDeleteIt is a fun comedy. Hope you enjoy!
DeleteI've never seen this one either, though I do love Jamie Lee Curtis and Tim Allen. I should add it to my list of holiday favs. I always watch Desk Set (with Catherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy), While You Were Sleeping, Miracle on 34th Street, Better Off Dead, The Santa Clause, The Muppet Christmas Carol and Anna and the Apocalypse every year at Christmas time. Oh, and Year Without a Santa Clause! :D
ReplyDeleteAll classics. White Christmas is probably my favorite, though Miracle on 34th Street isn't too far behind.
DeleteOh, I forgot about White Christmas! That is a good one. Danny Kaye is so funny, and I love Bing Crosby's voice. :D
DeleteIt is a must watch at my house!
DeleteI don't watch a lot of tv and I really don't do Christmas movies. The only holiday I watch movies centered around it is Halloween. lol
ReplyDeleteThat's my favorite holiday too!
DeleteI didn't know this was based on a John Grisham novel. I watched the movie many years ago and don't remember much of it.
ReplyDeleteThe book and movie are both worth a revisit!
DeleteI think I have watched it, but we always gets such weird translations of titles so I might not know the English one
ReplyDeleteIt is always funny seeing how these things get translated!
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