Directed By: Sam Boyd

Written By: Richard Curtis

Cinematography: John Guleserian 

Editor: Heather Persons

Cast: Melissa McCarthy, Paapa Essiedu, Denee Benton, Jordyn McIntosh, LaChanze, Tate Ellington, Alan Cumming, Marc Maron, Luis Guzman, Ellen Cleghorne 

The film is a fairy-tale comedy about a workaholic man who enlists the help of a magical genie to help win his family back before Christmas.

---

This is your typical holiday fare, where yes it’s predictable and silly, but it’s also heartwarming and tries to remind you what is important about the holiday and life In general.

What makes this one a bit more intriguing is its cuteness and Melissa McCarthy. Who may as she didn’t originate this project. Isn’t all over the production, but also plays a charismatic and fun character. Rather than trying to create an iconic comedic character who is either sloppy, stupid or over the top. Here she is playing a comedic character, but one with heart and who resembles a character and not a bunch of jokes that are needed.

Ultimately the movie seems to be about wish fulfillment, but at the end of the day, it tries to show that friendship and family are what is the most important gifts you can have in life. 

Alan Cumming seems wasted in his very few scenes. It seemed like he was a big name to be put into the cast. 

The film is written by noted screenwriter Richard Curtis the man who wrote films such as LOVE ACTUALLY, FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL, and ABOUT TIME. This might be why the film is charming more the storytelling and not so much the visuals. 

Is it the best Christmas movie you will see? No, but it does make a nice addition during the holidays to watch regularly. It will help put a smile on your face. if not put you in a total holiday mood. 

Grade: C+