Is 'That Christmas' movie based on a book? Explained

Rajan
Poster of That Christmas
Poster of That Christmas (Image via Netflix)

That Christmas is the latest animated film to capture the hearts of families during the holiday season. Released on December 4, 2024, the movie is available for streaming on Netflix.

This British animated fantasy comedy, inspired by Simon Otto’s debut, features vivid animation and a festive plot. Premiering at the BFI London Film Festival on October 19, 2024, it received mixed reviews from critics but quickly became a holiday favorite.

That Christmas is indeed based on a book. The film adapts Richard Curtis’s beloved trilogy of children’s books, including That Christmas, The Empty Stocking, and Snow Day.

The film brings Curtis’s charming holiday stories to life through animation, staying true to the original books. It weaves together narratives about family, love, and holiday challenges. The screenplay was co-written by Richard Curtis and Peter Souter, known for Notting Hill and Love Actually.


Story of That Christmas: A film based on a book

The movie follows a series of intertwined tales that revolve around love, loneliness, and the complexities of family dynamics. Central to the plot is Santa Claus, voiced by Brian Cox, who makes a significant mistake affecting several families' holiday celebrations.

Amidst the chaos, the characters must navigate their relationships and personal challenges to find the true meaning of Christmas.

The film explores themes of acceptance, life's unpredictability, and the importance of being with loved ones. Director Simon Otto highlights the need to re-evaluate traditions. Blending humor and heart, it offers relatable stories for all ages, focusing on forgiveness and the joy of giving.


Cast and characters

That Christmas boasts an impressive voice cast, which includes:

  • Brian Cox as Santa Claus
  • Fiona Shaw as Ms. Trapper
  • Jodie Whittaker as Mrs. Williams
  • Lolly Adefope as Mrs. McNutt
  • Alex Macqueen as Mr. Forrest
  • Katherine Parkinson as Mrs. Forrest
  • Sindhu Vee as Mrs. Mulji
  • India Brown as Bernadette
  • Zazie Hayhurst as Sam
  • Sienna Sayer as Charlie
  • Jack Wisniewski as Danny
  • Rosie Cavaliero as Mrs. Beccles
  • Paul Kaye as Yirrell
  • Guz Khan as Dasher
  • Andy Nyman as Mr. Beccles
  • Kuhu Agarwal as Nisha
  • Bronte Smith as Eve
  • Freddie Spry as Teddy
  • Ava Talbot as Scarlett
  • Bill Nighy as Bill

Release, reception and production

That Christmas was released on Netflix on December 4, 2024 following a premiere at the BFI London Film Festival. Critics gave the movie mixed opinions; they praised its emotional narrative and powerful vocals but pointed out some areas where animation quality and timing might use some work.

The movie marks Simon Otto’s directorial debut, bringing his expertise from previous projects like Love, Death & Robots and the How to Train Your Dragon series.

It is produced by Locksmith Animation and DNEG Animation.


Stay tuned for more news and updates on the movie and similar projects as the year progresses.

Quick Links

Edited by Divya Singh
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications