Based on the book by Matt Haig, A Boy Called Christmas is an adorable and whimsical take on the origin of Christmas.
A Boy Called Christmas tells the story of a boy named Nikolas who sets out on an adventure to find his father who has gone missing. Joining him along the journey are his talking pet mouse, Miika, and a reindeer named Blitzen. Together they journey to the land of the fabled land of Elfhelm (the land of Elves).
Bringing to life a children’s book can be a challenge, especially one that takes on the tundra of the North Pole, Elves, Fairies, and more! At the helm of it all is Co-writer/Director Gil Kenan (Ghostbusters: Afterlife), who has proven time and time again that fantasy world-building is his bread and butter. He can absolutely add A Boy Called Christmas to that list. The film entranced me from the beginning with its fantastic cast, set design, creature making, and more.
A Magical Journey Needs a Fantatic Cast
Leading the film is newcomer Henry Lawfull as Nikolas who takes us on this magical journey. I am incredibly impressed by him carrying the entire film with ease at such a young age. Lawfull is charming and easy to watch. His interactions with his CGI buddies were more believable than I’ve seen from most adults. I cannot wait to see where he goes from here.
Other fantastic characters in A Boy Called Christmas come from Kristen Wiig (Wonder Woman ’84) plays the mean, Aunt Carlotta. Channeling her inner spinster with a blend of comedy and cruelty. Playing Nikolas’s father, Joel is the ever-charming Michiel Huisman (Game of Thrones). His role is surprisingly small and is there to only serve as a catalyst to Nikolas beginning his journey. A new addition to the story is the incomparable Maggie Smith (Harry Potter). Smith serves as a Princess Bride–esque narrator with a twist. I absolutely loved the addition of a narrator. She helps progress the story while also making you feel like it’s being told to you vs shown to you.
Where to watch A Boy Called Christmas
If you’re looking for a new fantastic family film to get you into the Christmas spirit, look no further than A Boy Called Christmas coming to Netflix on November 24th!
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