Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Heartfelt holiday comedy has a little language, drinking.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
A Sudden Case of Christmas
What's the Story?
A SUDDEN CASE OF CHRISTMAS follows Claire (Antonella Rose), whose parents, Abbie (Lucy DeVito) and Jacob (Wilmer Valderrama), bring her to her grandfather Lawrance's (Danny DeVito) hotel in Italy to tell her that they're separating. In an effort to cope with the traumatic news, Claire demands that her family spend one last Christmas together before they split up, leading to Lawrance doing everything he can to make it the best Christmas ever—even though it's the middle of summer.
Is It Any Good?
This is a surprisingly fun film in a sea of mid-tier Christmas movies. When A Sudden Case of Christmas starts, you might find yourself expecting the story to be implausible and emotionally stale. But as it goes on, you'll be able to see the characters' emotional depth and the heartfelt storyline. The most implausible thing is outfitting Lawrance's chalet—a place of business—as a Christmas wonderland in the middle of summer. But that allows the family at the center of the story to air their grievances, unearth secrets, and finally come together in a healthy way.
Danny DeVito is a standout, playing a character who goes against his usual type. In A Sudden Case of Christmas, he's a warm, caring grandfather who's also grieving the loss of his wife and, like his granddaughter Claire, wants his family to stay together. His scenes with Rose are charming and sweet, giving the film its heart.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how characters demonstrate communication in A Sudden Case of Christmas. How do they improve their communication skills?
What communication issues do Mark and Rose have? How do they resolve them?
How does Lawrance show Claire empathy?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 8, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : November 8, 2024
- Cast : Antonella Rose , Danny DeVito , Wilmer Valderrama , Lucy DeVito , Andie MacDowell
- Director : Peter Chelsom
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Shout! Studios
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Holidays
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Empathy
- Run time : 91 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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