Boxing Day
By Stefan Pape,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Festive romcom has diversity, language, sex references.
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Boxing Day
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Based on 1 parent review
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
- Inclusion Information: Black actors, Female actors
- 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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