A Boy Called Christmas

Movie Trailer

Release Date
November 24, 2021

Genre
Fantasy, Family, Adventure

Cast & Crew

• Henry Lawfull as Nikolas
• Maggie Smith as Aunt Ruth
• Michiel Huisman as Joel
• Sally Hawkins as Mother Vodol
• Kristen Wiig as Aunt Carlotta
• Jim Broadbent as Father Topo
• Toby Jones as Father Vodell
• Stephen Merchant as the voice of Miika

Director
Gil Kenan

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Monster House (2006)
• City of Ember (2008)
• Poltergeist (2015)

Producers
Graham Broadbent, Peter Czernin, Damian Jones

Writers
Ol Parker, Gil Kenan (screenplay), based on the book by Matt Haig

Budget
Estimated $35 million

Production Company
StudioCanal, Blueprint Pictures, Netflix

Running Time
106 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
PG (for thematic elements, some action/peril, and mild language)

Content Advisory

• Mild fantasy violence
• Perilous situations
• Themes of loss and hope

Movie Story
“A Boy Called Christmas” is a heartwarming fantasy film that tells the origin story of Father Christmas, reimagined as an enchanting adventure filled with magic, hope, and discovery. The story follows young Nikolas (Henry Lawfull), a boy living in a remote village in Finland. His life is tough, but he holds onto hope and his belief in the impossible, which keeps him going despite the hardships.

Nikolas embarks on a perilous journey to the fabled village of Elfhelm in search of his father, Joel (Michiel Huisman), who disappeared while trying to find proof of the existence of elves. Along the way, Nikolas is accompanied by a loyal pet mouse named Miika (voiced by Stephen Merchant) and a reindeer named Blitzen. As Nikolas ventures deeper into the snowy wilderness, he encounters magical creatures, faces danger, and uncovers the true meaning of Christmas.

In Elfhelm, Nikolas discovers a world of wonder where elves live in harmony, creating gifts and spreading joy. However, all is not well in the magical village, as the elves have lost their festive spirit under the rule of the stern Mother Vodol (Sally Hawkins). With his kindness and belief in the magic of Christmas, Nikolas must find a way to bring hope back to Elfhelm and fulfill his destiny as the bearer of Christmas joy.

The film weaves together themes of hope, family, and the power of belief, offering a timeless holiday story that resonates with viewers of all ages. The narrative is framed by a story told by Aunt Ruth (Maggie Smith) to her great-niece and great-nephew, adding a layer of warmth and nostalgia to the tale.

Special Effects
“A Boy Called Christmas” features stunning special effects that bring its magical world to life. The film uses a combination of CGI and practical effects to create the fantastical landscapes of Elfhelm, the vibrant characters of the elves, and the perilous adventures Nikolas faces on his journey. The visual effects are particularly impressive in scenes involving the flying reindeer, the mystical appearance of Elfhelm, and the magical elements that imbue the story with wonder and excitement.

Box Office Performance
“A Boy Called Christmas” was released simultaneously in theaters and on streaming platforms like Netflix, making it widely accessible to audiences during the holiday season. The film received positive reviews for its heartwarming story, charming performances, and visual spectacle, becoming a popular choice for family holiday viewing.

Filming Locations

• Lapland, Finland
• Czech Republic
• Slovakia
• United Kingdom

Notable Quotes

• “An impossibility is just a possibility you don’t understand yet.” – Nikolas
• “Hope is a powerful thing. It’s the spark that lights the way when everything seems dark.” – Aunt Ruth

Behind-the-Scenes
“A Boy Called Christmas” is based on the popular book by Matt Haig, and director Gil Kenan worked closely with the author to bring the story to life on screen. The film’s production involved shooting in various snowy locations across Europe, with the filmmakers striving to capture the authentic, magical feel of a winter wonderland. The casting of Maggie Smith as the storyteller Aunt Ruth added a layer of warmth and gravitas to the film, while the visual effects team worked to create a seamless blend of real and fantastical elements.

Awards

• Nominated for Best Production Design at the British Independent Film Awards (2021)

Final Verdict
“A Boy Called Christmas” is a delightful and magical holiday film that will capture the hearts of both children and adults. With its enchanting story, charming performances, and beautiful visual effects, the film offers a fresh take on the origins of Father Christmas. Henry Lawfull shines as the hopeful and brave Nikolas, and the supporting cast, including Maggie Smith, Sally Hawkins, and Kristen Wiig, adds depth and warmth to the narrative. Whether you’re looking for a new holiday classic or a heartwarming family adventure, “A Boy Called Christmas” delivers a festive and uplifting experience that celebrates the spirit of Christmas.

IMDb Rating
6.7/10