Christmas films often follow familiar formulas, offering a mix of heartfelt moments and comedic antics. The latest addition to this genre is “Oh. What. Fun.,” directed by Michael Showalter and now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. The film features Michelle Pfeiffer as Claire Clauster, a mother whose family takes her for granted, prompting her to take drastic action just before the holiday.
In this screwball comedy, Claire feels overshadowed by her three adult children and her inattentive husband, played by Denis Leary. After being left behind during a family outing, she decides to leave home in a nod to classic films like “Home Alone.” This unexpected turn leads her into a series of comedic misadventures, including shoplifting and crashing a live Christmas Day talk show hosted by Eva Longoria.
Showalter, who previously directed the romantic comedy “The Idea of You,” expressed his admiration for Pfeiffer. In a recent interview, he stated, “Michelle is one of my favorite actresses of all time. This character is funny but is also incredibly human and complicated. She has a rich inner life.” The film’s ensemble cast also includes notable performers such as Felicity Jones, Jason Schwartzman, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Dominic Sessa, each bringing their unique talents to the story.
Complex Characters and Relatable Family Dynamics
Moretz plays Taylor, who brings a different girlfriend home each Christmas to create a buffer between herself and her chaotic family. Sessa portrays Sammy, the youngest son, who struggles with heartbreak when his girlfriend breaks up with him just before the holidays. “I love Sammy’s vulnerability but I dislike how closed off he is to his family, especially his mom,” Sessa shared, illustrating the film’s exploration of family dynamics.
The production took place in Atlanta during the sweltering heat of July, which posed challenges for the cast and crew. Showalter described the experience as “brutal,” but the team managed to creatively adapt the setting to represent a fictional Houston home. The Clauster family’s residence was located in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood, reminiscent of the iconic McAllister home from “Home Alone.” In a twist, Claire’s neighbor, played by veteran actress Joan Chen, adds a layer of tension to the story with her seemingly perfect family.
Showalter aims to blend various tones throughout the film, stating, “I wanted to create this interesting interweaving of tones between these cast members.” This approach allows for a rich exploration of the characters’ relationships and personal growth, set against the backdrop of their holiday celebrations.
Nostalgic Moments and Emotional Growth
One standout scene features Sammy dancing with a new acquaintance to No Doubt’s cover of “It’s My Life,” interspersed with montages of other characters grappling with their own issues. Showalter noted the nostalgia of this moment, connecting it to the films of the 1980s that inspired him. “It takes me back to movies from the ‘80s and my own childhood,” he reflected. “These characters are changing and growing in different ways.”
With its combination of humor, heart, and relatable situations, “Oh. What. Fun.” offers a fresh take on the Christmas movie genre. As families prepare to gather over the festive season, this film provides an entertaining reminder of the complexities of family life, making it a fitting addition to holiday viewing lists.
