A Sudden Case of Christmas: Release date, cast, plot, and everything you need to know

A Sudden Case of Christmas is an upcoming American Christmas comedy film directed by Peter Chelsom. It's a remake of the 2022 Italian film Improvvisamente Natale. This holiday film will be released digitally on November 7, 2024, and on DVD on November 19, 2024. The film promises to bring laughter and warmth, set against the picturesque backdrop of Italy’s Dolomite Mountains.

The movie stars Danny DeVito and Andie MacDowell in leading roles. The story revolves around young Claire, who's resolved to save her parents' marriage by staging Christmas in August. Wilmer Valderrama, Lucy DeVito and Antonella Rose join the cast to give this touching tale complexity and appeal.

The official synopsis of the movie reads:

"What a granddaughter wants, a granddaughter gets - even if that's Christmas in August."

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All about A Sudden Case of Christmas

Cast of A Sudden Case of Christmas

Danny DeVito portrays Lawrence, a loving grandfather with a unique relationship with his granddaughter Claire. DeVito is expected to give the character comedy and heart. Andie MacDowell, known for her grace and elegance, portrays one of Claire's grandparents, accentuating the family dynamic.

Wilmer Valderrama and Lucy DeVito play Claire’s parents, a couple on the brink of separation. Their portrayal of strained yet hopeful parents adds depth to the storyline.

Antonella Rose, known for her role in Terrifier 3, plays the spirited and determined Claire. Her performance as the young protagonist is central to the film’s emotional core.

The supporting cast includes José Zúñiga, who plays another grandparent with secrets that could upend the family’s reunion. Adrian Dunbar, Valeria Cavalli, Mario de la Rosa and Francesco Salvi round out the cast, contributing to the film’s rich narrative tapestry.

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Trailer insights

The trailer for A Sudden Case of Christmas offers a glimpse into the film’s heartwarming and comedic moments.

It introduces viewers to the central conflict — Claire’s attempt to bring her family together during an unconventional Christmas celebration. The trailer showcases the beautiful Italian scenery, emphasizing the festive and magical atmosphere.

In a sneak peek, Danny DeVito’s character Lawrence is seen orchestrating holiday activities with Claire, aiming to mend the fractured family bonds. The lighthearted moments are balanced with emotional scenes as the characters navigate personal challenges amidst the holiday chaos.

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Plot of A Sudden Case of Christmas

The story unfolds as Claire, a Christmas enthusiast, learns about her parents’ plans to separate during a family trip to Italy. Determined to keep her family together, she convinces her grandfather Lawrence to help her recreate Christmas in August. The unconventional timing adds a humorous twist while the underlying goal remains deeply emotional.

Claire's preparations draw the family into a range of celebratory events meant to strengthen their ties. The road is not without difficulties, though. Secrets surface, mostly involving Claire's other grandparents — played by Andie MacDowell and José Zúñiga. These disclosures add layers of complexity to the story and threaten to derail the family's precarious unity.

The film skillfully balances humor and emotion, showcasing the resilience of family ties and the magic of holiday traditions.

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Behind the scenes: Director and production

Peter Chelsom, the film’s director, is known for previous works like Serendipity and The Space Between Us. His expertise in crafting emotionally resonant stories is evident in A Sudden Case of Christmas. Chelsom co-wrote the screenplay with Tinker Lindsay, Gianluca Bomprezzi, Neri Parenti, Federico Baccomo and Francesco Patierno.

Signature Entertainment has overseen the production of the film. The choice of Italy's Dolomite Mountains as the main backdrop improves the visual attractiveness of the movie and offers an amazing scene for the developing drama.

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A Sudden Case of Christmas seems to be a great addition to holiday movies. With a compelling story, superb ensemble and breathtaking images, it offers a new viewpoint on the Christmas genre.

Perfect for the holidays, the film highlights family, love and togetherness. As viewers get ready to welcome this poignant narrative on November 7, 2024, the thrill for it grows.