This is Laugh-out loud funny! This film affected deeply. Under the obvious veneer of slapstick comedy silliness is an insightful examination of families and holiday rituals of middle class North Americans. (Although filmed/set in Canada, there is little that would not resonate just as loudly with folks south of the border).
Production design is outstanding. The verisimilitude to 1985 is incredible... The level of detail was way beyond the budget of this film...
Comedy that pokes fun at a situation at ALL possible levels, and yet doesn't go too far is very rare. There is so much going on, that this film deserves a closer second look. The mannerisms, the background details, the twists of phrase, the sub-themes (with subtle set ups and thus richly rewarded pay-offs) all build to create a comedy that gets under your skin... I know, I expected to just laugh a little and not think about this again. This film dredges up memories, resonates with your perceptions of your family and your past celebrations. The fact that I was a young adult in 1985 and can vividly remember the clothes, expressions and mannerisms just makes the film more rewarding. If you were old enough to remember 1985, RUN don't walk, and see this movie.
Coopers' Christmas pushes so many buttons at so many levels that it might at first glance to be a typical laugh and forget comedy. This is, in my opinion, a far deeper, richly textured film on Marrage, Family, Relationships and Holidays. You will laugh (there is antics galore) yet it will cause you to think about what is important in your relationships. Wonderfully Funny yet Warm and Touching.
