Is This Is Christmas Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Modern Cinema cinema, the 2017 release of This Is Christmas stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Christmas is approaching, and best friends Harry, Jordan, Ben, and Dennis are at their annual get together before the holidays. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Modern Cinema are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Christmas is approaching, and best friends Harry, Jordan, Ben, and Dennis are at their annual get together before the holidays. As they share stories of their past year, it is clear they all still have a lot of growing to do. Jimmy struggles with an unhappy marriage and an ill-timed affair with his daughter's 17 year old babysitter. Meanwhile, his best friend Jordan splits from his partner, Steve, only to discover he may not be the biological father of their daughter. Harry struggles with an estranged relationship with his father and his ex-wife. But everything turns into total chaos when Ben loses custody of his son and decides kidnapping is the only way to save his family. Now these friends must come together and do the right thing, proving family and friendship is what is most important. With an all star ensemble cast, "This Is Christmas" is perfect for the holidays. -- from WowNow Entertainment"

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. In This Is Christmas, we see David Moscow utilizing their established screen presence to carry the story forward. It is a solid, workmanlike performance that serves the director's vision without overshadowing the larger narrative goals.

The direction by Joseph Rassulo is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 128 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is This Is Christmas truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Modern Cinema, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, This Is Christmas explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2017 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Joseph Rassulo respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, This Is Christmas serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of David Moscow or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, This Is Christmas is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.