This Is Christmas (2022) User Reviews

Nice surprise

[wolfman111071 · 8/10 · 11 December 2022]

Watched this not expecting much - I've watched Sky Original films before and been unimpressed.

Not sure what others are watching when criticising the lead actors... both natural and the chemistry is palpable.

Genuinely gives a warm fuzzy feeling, which is everything you need from a Christmas film! Definite strains of Love Actually, in the intertwined storyline, and even a little bit of "Pay it Forward" in the scenes on the train. All set against the backdrop of London at Christmas which is just magical - truly heartwarming!

Properly surprised, and enjoyed every minute of the film. Added to my list - Love Actually, Last Christmas, The Holiday, Gremlins, Polar Express and Disney's A Christmas Carol (the Jim Carrey one). Give it a go - if you're like me, and a sucker for a true feelgood, Christmas film, I don't think you'll be disappointed!

New favourite

[Owl-10 · 8/10 · 9 December 2022]

Love Actually, Die Hard and this little British gem. Believable characters, human stories of coming together at a time of year when hope and kindness are paramount. Not earth shattering just a nice little Christmas film in the tradition of those other Christmas favourites we'll be happy to roll out every year. No huge stars, no huge special effects, just human stories woven into a commuter train community who traditionally can barely pass a nod to people they see every day; and apparently could care even less about. No bah humbug from me. Just get the drinks and chocolates and maybe a few hankies handy.

Better than average Christmas movie

[Jzsimdb · 8/10 · 5 May 2023]

I am a big fan of Christmas movies and this is one of the better ones. While it has the requisite romance it also explores so much more- friendship in all of its variations, sorrow, regret and reconciliation. The entire cast is talented and attractive with interesting characters who have depth. And I very much enjoyed the music- the "band" is delightful.

Basically, this is every bit as warm and fuzzy as a typical Hallmark movie but with many more interesting characters that you learn to love. It's a sweet movie you can save for Christmas, but it really is a treat any time of year. You won't regret the time.

Unexpectedly good

[danbull-20427 · 7/10 · 31 December 2022]

As is so often the case with Sky original movies, I was expecting an awful rushed to produce piece of tat that, that was made just to fill a gap. How wrong I was.

This will now be one of those movies I look for every Christmas. Although actually you could watch this anytime of the year as it is so much more than just a Christmas film.

It's classed as a romcom and rightly so but there is a lovely wonderful message that goes with it. Something that helps give this movie its depth, that mean you enjoy watching it rather than waiting for it to end (as with so many sky originals).

Well written, directed and performed. Even the characters with smaller parts still have enough that you fully understand them. Care about them and want to see more.

Must see movie.

It made me cringe early on, but

[r96sk · 7/10 · 12 December 2022]

An interesting thing.

On the one hand 'This is Christmas' is ultra, military grade, extra mature cheddar cheese and I've rarely been as uncomfortable watching a scene as I was during the initial speech on the train by Alfred Enoch's Adam - that sorta stuff, fake positivity/togetherness, is just something that makes me cringe, I can't help it.

However, in fairness, the film actually manages to play it off well. I was fearing the worst at that aforementioned moment, though as the scenes go by the characters actually do feel like they are getting to know each other in a relatively believable way - therefore making the earlier cringe actually befitting, given it would initially be awkward.

The cast help the film come to life in that way. Alfred Enoch is good value in the lead role, as is Kaya Scodelario alongside. I wouldn't say they have amazing chemistry, but what's there is most definitely enough. Timothy Spall chews the heck out the scenery, but eventually his character's story is probably my standout - as he is predominantly joined onscreen by Jack Donoghue, who plays his role nicely. The rest of 'em? All decent.

It made me cringe early on, but I did end up liking and respecting the message that it sends. Overall, it's solid Xmas viewing.

Lovely film

[HelenMary · 7/10 · 17 December 2022]

Alfred Enoch was the draw here from HTGAWM, and looking for a seasonal film, and British. This didn't disappoint. Set on a commuter train, and the relationships that blossom if Brits break the cardinal riule of engaging with fellow travellers. Great ensemble cast and a sweet yet predictable story. Exactly what you want for holiday feels.

London looks amazing. The town where Adam (Enoch) lives looks stunning, and all the cast had stories to tell.

Few weirdnesses; the train they commute on - how old is it?! All the characters commuting in work within what appears to be walking distance of each other but the locations are all over the place, Enoch's accent is a bit all over the place, and Spall's acting is a little ... hard to watch, it's a bit too much for such a light film. But it adds some chiaroscuro!

Putting aside someone standing up on a commuter train and engaging with everyone, it's a believable premise and charming. The film is commentary on how we see people every day but know very little about them, how we could connect or what they would add to our lives.

The ensemble cast are mostly well known faces some big names. Typical of London, there's much more diversity than your usual film, which I loved. I really loved. Emma's character, and the actress, who's name I wasn't familiar with but who's face was familiar. She was lovely. Nice gentle chemistry between her and Adam.

A real feel good London Christmas movie. Not too much cheese, the right amount, lots of emotion, some laughs and (no spoiler) a happy ending.

Magical.

[Sleepin_Dragon · 9/10 · 5 January 2023]

Adam one day breaks the commuter code, and dares to speak to his fellow travellers, and worse, invites them to a Christmas party.

It's a gorgeous story of human interaction, human relationships, and I know it sounds horrendously corny, but the spirit of Christmas. Every single character is rich, deep and has a real story to tell.

I can relate, having commuted on a train for seven years of my life, and I truly get this story, maybe writer Alastair Galbraith used to do the daily commute.

It's a love story, it's a comedy, it's so much more than that, I found it rather an enchanting watch, I got into it straight away, and found the characters so rich.

What a cast list, what an astonishing wealth of British talent here, so many favourites, Timothy Spall, Kaya (glorious) Scodelario, Joanna Scanlan, Ben Miller and many more.

Alfred Enoch, fabulous, imagine that smile coming at you on a train, there's nothing you wouldn't agree to, he's such a lovely actor, such a different type of character for him to play, compare him in this to How to get away with murder.

Maybe the best thing I sat down to in Christmas 2022.

9/10.

Christmas

[WatershipBrakey · 6/10 · 11 December 2022]

I've given this a 6, not because it's not necessarily worthy of anything higher but purely down to what it is - a rather enjoyable Christmas rom com. It's not an Oscar worrier and it's not going to get BAFTAs but it's a decent Christmas movie and I enjoyed it. It's nothing out of the ordinary and there are far worse things to watch at this time of year but you won't be disappointed if you head into it knowing it is what it is.

It's a great cast & you know exactly what's going to happen (and it does) but that doesn't mean it's not a nice journey - I recommend it for a cold winter's night with a hit chocolate. Merry Christmas.

Lots of different well acted characters

[barneyjess · 9/10 · 11 December 2022]

Perhaps because I am British I find it easier to relate to the characters who are all superbly acted than I do in USA made movies. Great mix of characters and back stories made this a enjoyable movie to watch as a family.

Excellent cast of actors who made the characters come alive as the film progresses and made them all seem real. Yes the storyline between Adam and Emma is very predictable but it does not spoil the movie.

The whole movie seemed to be genuinely sincere and not too cheesy or over sentimental and not your usual Christmas movie.

Loved seeing the different London locations.

I highly recommend this movie.

Predictable festive viewing of the OK variety

[deano-21559 · 6/10 · 25 December 2022]

This film is ok in terms of it being the wholly predictable festive affair we enjoy now and again.

I enjoy the anticipation of a feel good factor and although this does eventually get there, I was bored en route. The writers seem to have stuck with the bare bones blueprint and seemingly not bothered about adding a richness - something that will make this stay in the memory. It's all a bit reliant on being twee.

The acting is fine and the characters likeable (those meant to be liked anyway).

It was nice to see something new of this ilk - rather than semi watch the usual Christmas shows, but I won't watch it again.

Feel good Christmas treat

[clark-84961 · 10/10 · 11 December 2022]

Tend to stick to my Christmas favourites (Home Alone, Love Actually, Elf, Die Hard) but fell across this whilst looking for something to cheer us up after England's World Cup exit! This movie was the perfect remedy.

Definite Love Actually feel good vibes. Good chemistry between the romantic leads in the movie. Some laugh out moments. Really enjoyable, well acted, and well made.

Only minor criticism was the movie was set in December but clearly filmed in the summer (reports say in July's heat wave). So some of the lighting in the outdoor scenes didn't look right for this time of year and it didn't look or appear cold.

Other than that great movie. Would like to see Enoch in some more lead roles and Scodelario is simply stunning. Appeared to perform much of the movie in very little make-up but her natural beauty and acting shone throughout.

Perfect.

A 6.75 But I'm Rounding Up

[laura-dreamweaver · 7/10 · 29 November 2023]

I'm so frustrated by all of the hyperbolic reviews on IMDB these days; 1's & 10's are very rare in movies. This is neither. I'd give it a 6.75 but, I'm rounding up. We haven't had a decent new Christmas movie in a while and this is just that. The plot is sweet without being treacle. The acting and directing are good; not great. The ensemble chemistry is charming. And the script is predictable in the way we want our holiday movies to be. This isn't Love Actually but, it isn't Hallmark or Lifetime either. It is a nice movie that made me smile. If you like warm and fuzzy during the holidays, then this is for you.

This is Christmas

[henry8-3 · 5/10 · 17 December 2022]

All round nice guy Alfred Enoch commutes to London each day with the same people and suggests that instead of travelling in silence they all get together for a Christmas party. He is supported in his quest by fellow commuter Kaya Scodelario and the two start falling for each other despite both already being attached.

Rather sweet Christmassy film featuring an impressive array of character actors, particularly Timothy Spall as a lonely ex footballing legend and Joanna Scanlon as a quiet, sad wine shop owner coming to terms with a personal loss. It's all rather predictable and a little bit sentimental in place, but it is well acted, occasionally amusing and never gets too sickly. Pleasant enough, albeit unremarkable festive fun.

British train commuters get to know each other.

[TxMike · 22 November 2023]

As soon as this movie was over my wife and I both said, "That is a very good movie." Which doesn't happen that often, streaming movies from Amazon Prime.

It is England in the few weeks leading up to Christmas. The subjects are men and women who work in London but live a short train ride to a smaller community. So they pretty much see the same people each morning going into London, then again in the evening going home. But they know nothing about each other.

Adam gets an idea for a work assignment, it is rejected, but he still wants to try it out. So one day, when the train is stopped for an issue that arises, he takes the opportunity to stand up and address all the other travelers. His idea is to have a Christmas party on December 22nd so everyone can get together and celebrate the Holidays and get to know each other.

However as it goes forward it looks like his main motivation was to get to know Emma better. But even if he does, she has plans to move with her boyfriend to Chicago. And, Adam already has a live-in girlfriend. But we viewers notice very quickly that the two subject couples might not really be good for each other.

Aside from the main plot several other stories develop. A shy young man who has talents with art. An old man who was a former football star. Commuters start to converse with each other. And a few others. This is all woven into a very interesting movie with very interesting characters.

Plus it has a worthwhile message, about taking the time to reach out to others, you might be pleasantly surprised at what you find.

Alfred Enoch's Accent!!!

[ross-london · 6/10 · 28 December 2022]

It's a lovely concept, a decent film and, most importantly, this movie is more than romance filmed at Christmas. This truly has heart, is thought provoking and reminds us that Christmas is also about community.

Unfortunately, all of that is hampered by the distraction that is Alfred Enoch's accent.

Is it brummie?

Is it East London?

Is it middle class posh?

Is it Northern, with a Lancs twang?

At parts of the film, it is ALL of the above.

What is most bizarre is that no one else's accent follows suit. Everyone else is firmly South East England.

Why the actor, the director, the screenplay writers - whomever - thought this strange accent was a good idea, I'll never know.

If it is his normal accent, then they should have asked him to do another, as he so ably did in How To Get Away With Murder.

By the end of the film each time he spoke either made us laugh or cringe - it was that bad.

Other than that, it's a lovely Christmas film.

Strangers on a Train

[lantern4444 · 7/10 · 21 April 2024]

A self-employed advertising agent develops the idea that groups of strangers given the right incentives can become friends. He believes that modern social norms and fears prevent people from interacting with each other. He then attempts to prove his idea by inviting the strangers on his commuter train to a Christmas party.

The movie follows the many diverse and socially different characters and how they develop understanding and respect towards each other. It shows the different individual challenges everyone faces and how we all need support from others. The movie show the difficulties in attempting to bring people together with the uncertainty of whether the goal will be achieved.

This is a heartwarming Christmas movie showing how lives can change for the better through the help and understanding of others.

Lovely Christmas film

[malynch1974 · 8/10 · 10 December 2022]

Very enjoyable Christmas film, much better than much of the efforts on Netflix. Well acted, great cast, sweet story. Well worth a watch if you like a feel good movie. I don't watch many of these type of films but when I do I, I really want a well produced film with a good story, and this delivered.

Lots of minor sub plots and characters, but a really good ensemble cast and lead actors you could believe in. You'll come away feeling festive and possibly better about humanity.

You need to suspend disbelief a little, just go with the flow and enjoy for what it is intended to be. Three film had it's heart firmly in the right place.

My new favourite

[qkhzgkm · 10/10 · 11 December 2022]

Fabulous Christmas film, and it's British! This film has instantly become one of , if not THE favourite. I can't watch the horrible american Christmas garbage that is put out in 9 out of 10 movies these days, shoving some ridiculous religious message that nobody cares about or believes in these days, (unless you are brainwashed or deluded), this is a proper British Christmas film, that will bring a tear to your eye, excellent cast, very well acted, no religious BS, just a great family feel-good film that is well worth a watch.

I'm probably gonna watch it again tomorrow, & again before Christmas day, top class, up there with Love Actually.

Restores the humanity of Christmas season

[lolomooney784 · 10/10 · 5 November 2023]

Great actors in a simple story of people reaching beyond the expectations of Christmas and friendship. Timothy Spall can break your heart and put it all back together.

As strangers come together to celebrate a Christmas dinner and share cheer. Some of them have no family, others give up fancy company parties to share a special moment.

They each have interesting backstories and the anonymous train passengers become so much more.

This is not the saccharine sweet typical movie. It moves at a gentle pace as these characters become fleshed out people with histories you'd never imagine.

Life isn't perfect but with an open heart everyone is happier.

Strong cast, poor acting, poor script.

[mrliamroberts-96739 · 2/10 · 10 December 2022]

The premise of a Christmas movie, set in beautiful London in the snow, will always be a huge draw.

From very early on in the movie though, it becomes clear that the lead was poorly cast. It's not clear if the script made it a challenge to act, or the acting was so weak that it made the script feel boring. With very little flow or personality in the writing and the acting being so amateur and over-exaggerated in low key moments, we wanted this film to be so much more than it was.

The sets and camera work is top end. London looks beautiful. The early flood of great reviews make me suspicious though.

Feel good at it's best

[richardacoad · 9/10 · 11 December 2022]

Wonderful festive tale with a strong cast, good characters and storyline. The film gives a feel good factor that is absolutely ideal for the festive season. Timothy Spall never fails to, not only act well in any film he does, but pick those roles that are part of a great script, he certainly has carried that on in this movie.

Ok yes, some of the plot can be predicted early on but this doesn't alter the fact that it's a good storyline that will make the time fly by and leave you with a warm positive feeling inside.

Well worth watching with your loved one or indeed when having a night to yourself.

Well worth watching

[tmccheyne · 9/10 · 12 December 2022]

The English scripts are so much better. A real good feeling film. Natural. The acting is lovely and real. A pleasure to watch all of the actors. Music is also good.

Wanted to really know everyone on that train. Find it strange that people can travel together everyday and not be able to strike up a conversation. If only this could happen more often. The on best thing that came out of Covid was that in our street we got to know more of our neighbours and still keep up the social get togethers that were set up opposite each other but are now in more of a social setting in one or others front gardens. As the film sets out to say a stranger is a friend you haven't met yet.

A classic

[nicolamcnaughton-58271 · 10/10 · 10 December 2022]

What a lovely movie, really enjoyed it, it strikes just the right tone for Christmas. It is both warm and sentimental without being cheesy, set in London showcasing the city full of sparkle looking its best for the December season. The ensemble cast, some big names, are brilliant each with their own relatable story to tell drawing you in, neatly interwoven into the plot, in a similar way to Love Actually. The message of the power of connection is heart warming and hopeful just what you want from a Christmas movie. This is definitely going to be added to the year on year Christmas movie watch list.

Absolute cringe

[markgoodwin-91580 · 1/10 · 11 December 2022]

I've watched half an hour and that's enough to be honest. For those that like saccharine Live Actually / The Holiday type movies no doubt this will be lapped up but the acting and script is abysmal. They even feel the need to virtue signal and also have a dig at privatisation when the train is delayed and bizarely blame Margaret Thatcher (was actually John Majors Govt but hey ho), liberal scriptwriting at its most cringe inducing!

And no doubt the early good reviews from Sky employees because I can't imagine for one second anyone thinks this is any sort of masterpiece, even for a sentimental, belief suspending Xmas movie. Stick with the cheesy Hallmark ones I would suggest instead.

Full of Christmas Spirit

[kfink016 · 10/10 · 22 November 2023]

What a pleasure this film was! Well acted and well written. Great set pieces. Loved all the little stories, personalities and history behind each character which weaved their way through the interactions with their on screen counterparts.

A perfect movie to get you into the holiday spirit and it leaves you with a warm feeling of wanting to give back and enjoy the holidays with not only your friends and family, but also a healthy reminder to be kind to those around you, and in this day and age where everyone is buried in their phones or listening to their AirPods, that it can add just a little joy to the world and our lives by simply striking up a conversation with a stranger and that we can thrive off human interaction and keeping an open mind.