‘Last Christmas’ Review: A Predictable, Yet Perfect Holiday Date Night Movie

When a film’s description notes that Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding are the leads, that Emma Thompson also stars, that Paul Feig is directing (A Simple Favor, Bridesmaids), and that it’s a romantic comedy inspired by a George Michael song… I’m pretty much already out the door and in the theater waiting for the film to start. The only thing that can hold me back is Atlanta traffic, which actually did hold me back from the first 5 minutes of this media screening, but none-the-less, I was beyond excited to see this film, the first-holiday movie of the season!

So what’s the story here? Kate (played by Game of Thrones‘ star Emilia Clarke) is plagued by the consequences of bad decision after bad decision. Each of these life moments is accompanied by the jingle of bells on her shoes. It’s just one more irritating consequence from her job as an elf in a year-round Christmas shop. Tom (played by Crazy Rich Asians‘ star Henry Golding) seems too good to be true when he walks into her life. He immediately starts to see through so many of Kate’s barriers. And as London transforms into the most wonderful time of the year, nothing should work for these two. But sometimes, you gotta let the snowfall where it may, you gotta listen to your heart … and you gotta have faith.

Take a look at the trailer below

Last Christmas Review: What I Did and Didn’t Like

There’s not much for me to complain about here. If you’ve seen the above preview, you know the type of film you’re walking into. If the genre isn’t your jam, you won’t like the film. If it is, then you’ll leave the theater smiling after this one.

Last Christmas isn’t one of 2019’s best films, but what it does offer is 1 hour and 43 minutes of holiday charm. It’s fun, it’s quirky, and seeing it for Emma Thompson alone is worth it. Not to mention, Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding have incredible chemistry and couldn’t be a more charming pair together. While some may argue that the film is too predictable (which yes, it is – almost painfully so), it doesn’t discount the fact that it delivers exactly what it promises – a holiday romantic comedy that will make you laugh… and maybe tear up just a little. It may seem Hallmark-esque with its storyline, but it’s a freaking cute film – and one with a great soundtrack.

Overall Thoughts

Predictability aside, Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding’s chemistry and charm will sell the tickets. And while the film doesn’t weave multiple storylines together, it has a Love Actually vibe to it with its tonality – almost as if it should have been one of the tales inside the 2003 holiday classic. It’s cute, it’s funny and simply put, it’s the perfect holiday date flick.

Last Christmas Review:

Grade: A-