Boxing Day
Boxing Day
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Boxing Day is a charming British romantic comedy set at Christmas with some strong language and sexual references. Featuring a nearly all-Black cast, this film offers a positive, and authentic portrayal of the Black-British experience, celebrating the West Indian community in London in an honest and affectionate manner. Culture and identity is a theme too and the film is about the strength of family, albeit coming with complications. Writer Melvin (Aml Ameen) returns home for Christmas with his new fiancé Lisa (Aja Naomi King) only to discover his ex-girlfriend Georgia (Leigh-Anne Pinnock) is joining them too. Characters are flawed, some indulge in infidelity, and the film doesn't shy away from confronting a father who left his wife and children to contend for themselves. A character expresses a feminist viewpoint and is laughed at, while another refers to women as his "ting," but he is pulled up on his comment. There are a couple of fight scenes, and while characters punch one another, it's near-slapstick in its approach. There are sexual references as characters discuss their sex lives. While the language is strong, featuring several uses of the words "f--k," "s--t," and "d--khead." Characters can be seen with marijuana joints, and they also drink alcohol at family gatherings.
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What's the Story?
BOXING DAY tells the story of successful L.A.-based writer Melvin (Aml Ameen) who is returning home to see his family for Christmas. He comes bearing a gift, in the form of his new fiancé Lisa (Aja Naomi King). While excited to return to London and spend time with those he holds dearest, he hadn't quite anticipated the drama that could ensue when his ex-partner turned global superstar Georgia (Leigh-Anne Pinnock) joins the festivities.
Is It Any Good?
This British romcom is an entertaining festive film that is the perfect tonic after a long week's work. Boxing Day is a film to kick back to, make a cup of tea and enjoy, under a blanket while it snows outside. For this you've got to commend first-time writer and director Ameen, who has displayed a real aptitude for his new craft behind the lens, while of course starring as the leading role. Casting himself as a love interest to two brilliant women does bear shades of self-indulgence, but it's heart remains in the right place.
Ameen affectionately ridicules the cliches and familiar beats of the Christmas comedy genre, while remaining sincere and romantic. What helps is the fine ensemble he has put together, with Marianne Jean-Baptiste brilliant, as ever, while there's an impressive debut turn for Pinnock, taking a break from her musical career to show a real skill for acting. All of which contributes to making Boxing Day a stand-out festive film.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the diversity of Boxing Day. Can you think of any other Christmas romcoms that have an all-Black leading cast? Why does representation matter?
Discuss the strong language used. Did it seem necessary or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
Do you consider any of the characters to be role models? Why, or why not? What character strengths do they display?
Talk about how sex was discussed in the movie. Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 17, 2021
- Cast: Aml Ameen, Aja Naomi King, Leigh-Anne Pinnock
- Director: Aml Ameen
- Studio: Rocket Science
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: Holidays
- Character Strengths: Teamwork
- Run time: 109 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 28, 2022
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