In the animated feature, 'That Christmas', audiences encounter Santa Claus, voiced by Brian Cox, on an arduous Christmas Eve journey through a harsh winter storm. Despite being sick and having only one reindeer, Santa remains steadfast. His mission is to bring joy to children worldwide, particularly in the fictitious English coastal town where the story unfolds.
Launching at the BFI London Film Festival, 'That Christmas' is an enchanting animation from Locksmith. The script, written by Peter Souter and Richard Curtis, is adapted from Curtis's series of children's books. Rather than the overly sentimental holiday fare, this story balances fanciful elements with the stark realities of life.
Simon Otto, known for his work on 'How to Train Your Dragon', directed the Netflix feature. The film brings the festive story to life using a talented voice cast. It gracefully blends self-aware humor with the charm of a Christmas tale. In Curtis's first animation attempt, he successfully captures the same genuine emotions that made his earlier works so loved.
The animated feature takes place in Wellington-on-Sea, a small, multicultural English town. Narrated by Santa, the story begins a few days before Christmas, starting with a modern, progressive play staged by the local children.
The narrative mainly revolves around Danny, a new boy in town, and his crush, Sam. The characters confront their personal issues, from Danny's longing for his absent father to Sam's worries about her mischievous twin's antics. Meanwhile, in another part of town, the McNutts and their friends are preparing for Christmas while dealing with their own dramas.
The story gains momentum when the adults leave town for a wedding, unaware of the impending storm. The townsfolk must confront the possibility of spending Christmas without their families. Still, 'That Christmas' astutely balances the characters' narratives, creating a vivid community portrait that successfully absorbs more whimsical elements.
Within its 91-minute runtime, 'That Christmas' achieves a pacing that never feels rushed. The film's immersive quality, owing to its attention to detail, brings the quaint fictional village alive.
