Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Too-sentimental sequel has drug references, mild violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
A Christmas Gift from Bob
What's the Story?
A CHRISTMAS GIFT FROM BOB is the true story of James Bowen (Luke Treadaway), a man who lived on the streets of London with his cat, Bob. As the nights get colder and he seeks to make some money before Christmas, James finds himself at the center of a media storm as local authorities question whether he's a suitable owner for his beloved feline pet.
Is It Any Good?
This follow-up to 2016's A Street Cat Named Bob continues the real story of James Bowen, a former drug addict who lived on the streets of London. But in the original it felt there was a story to be told: how Bowen turned his life around, and how much of that was due to the wonderful cat he adopted. Unfortunately, the sequel lacks narrative and feels as if it was made solely because the first film did well. And tonally it's overly sentimental in parts.
There's no denying the movie gives off a real Christmas spirit though, and the sense of community and good karma feels fitting for the holidays. But it's dragged through the snow with all the other contrived moments. On the plus side, Treadaway is brilliant in the lead role, with a nuanced display that subtly gives the audience a real flavor for everything this man has gone through in his life. And of course his supporting lead isn't too bad either. In fact the movie could have been vastly improved if there had been a little more Bob in it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how A Christmas Gift from Bob depicts the effects of drug use. Are the consequences realistic? Why is that important?
Talk about the relationship between James and Bob. Why are pets often so important to us? What can they teach us about life?
Discuss the issue of people experiencing homelessness. What are some of the reasons people end up in situations like James? What can be done to help them?
Would you describe James Bowen as a role model? If so, why? What other real-life people that have had their lives portrayed in a movie have inspired you?
How does this movie compare to the prequel, A Street Cat Named Bob? How does it compare to other Christmas movies you may have seen?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 5, 2021
- On DVD or streaming : November 11, 2021
- Cast : Luke Treadaway , Anna Wilson-Jones , Nina Wadia
- Director : Charles Martin Smith
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Indian/South Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Lionsgate
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Animals , Friendship , Holidays , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Run time : 93 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate