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That Christmas

That Christmas

Representation Score

8.3/10

Excellent

2024

PG

Director

Simon Otto

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Christmas distinguishes itself from typical seasonal fare by prioritizing psychological depth and the subversion of social hierarchies. Rather than reinforcing the sanctity of tradition, the film uses characters to interrogate the friction between individual identity and community expectations. The narrative structure leans into moral relativism, particularly through Bernadette McNutt’s rebellion against conventional holiday norms. This approach allows for a more pluralistic view of social structures than is common in the genre. While the film excels in cultural deconstruction and women's ability to drive the story, it remains somewhat limited in its depiction of racial diversity and explicit LGBTQ+ details. However, its focus on mental health and non-traditional social structures provides a sophisticated layer of representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does That Christmas have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film moves away from the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender, suggesting a departure from standard conventions that assume everyone is straight. While specific romantic pairings are not detailed, the focus on subjective morality indicates a shift from traditional norms.

How does That Christmas portray gender?

Good

The narrative prioritizes women's ability to drive the story through central protagonists like the Beccles twins and Bernadette McNutt. Bernadette specifically challenges established social orders by disrupting traditional holiday archetypes.

How racially and ethnically diverse is That Christmas?

Fair

The setting in a seaside Suffolk town suggests a somewhat homogeneous community. While the voice cast includes diverse talent like Guz Khan, the primary character arcs appear to reflect traditional English coastal demographics.

How does That Christmas represent religion and culture?

Good

The story deconstructs traditional Western holiday institutions by exploring the idea that not everyone likes Christmas. It uses a liberal spin on local traditions to challenge singular, traditional morality.

Does That Christmas include disability representation?

Fair

The film provides a window into neurodivergent experiences through Sam Beccles, who is identified as anxious. This offers a grounded, character-driven portrayal of internal mental health struggles.

Present on Screen

  • Strong emphasis on women's ability to drive the story and the subversion of traditional gender hierarchies.
  • Sophisticated deconstruction of Western holiday institutions and singular moralities.
  • Grounded portrayal of anxiety and neurodivergent internal struggles.

Limited or Absent

  • Limited evidence of significant racial blending within the primary character arcs.
  • Lack of explicit detail regarding LGBTQ+ romantic pairings or specific representation.
  • The localized setting appears to lean toward a more homogeneous demographic.

Official Synopsis

It's an unforgettable Christmas for the townsfolk of Wellington-on-Sea when the worst snowstorm in history alters everyone's plans — including Santa's.

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