Last Christmas - Movie Review

‘Last Christmas’ is about an independent young lady, named Kate, still dealing with her problems, who works as an elf in Christmas store that is open throughout the year. She befriends Tom, the enigmatic man who brings back the light of laughter and the love of life into her otherwise monotonous existence, but he keeps many shades of gray to himself. Their special bond serves to uncover powerful lessons that may transform her life, set against the backdrop of a enchanting wintry London.

This is a romantic comedy with a great deal of focus on the spirit of Christmas and the opportunities for personal rejuvenation, forgiveness and self-realization. That lovingly contrasts the hardships of life with the joys of Christmas, though it brings a bittersweet feel to it all.

Emilia Clarke carries the film well playing Kate, providing depth and sensitivity to the character. Henry Golding easily fits into the role and complements Annabelle with his detached yet captivating role of Tom. There is also strong support from the likes of Emily Mortimer as Kate’s overbearing mother Petra played by Emma Thompson who gives both comedy and emotional scenes pleasing to the eyes.

In this movie Paul Feig does a good job in directing the film and combining themes with a good touch of humor and emotions. His executive and coding of comedy and romance make ‘Last Christmas’ a lovely and emotional saga to stream.

The soundtrack of the movie is splendid especially emphasized by the songs of George Michael which makes the audience tender and nostalgic. The music equally fits into the storyline, and the major themes of love and self-reflection are emphasized in it.

English used in the movie truly depicts London during decorated festive seasons. John Schwartzman does a very good job in shooting beautiful scenes in which the beauty of architecture and interactions between the characters are represented.

Using detailed and bright production design, ‘Last Christmas’ brings the Christmas spirit into a whole new level. Physical design is once again a strong component of the movie; for example, the Christmas shop itself is appealing and gives even more of a festive air to the film.

As previous Genette notes, there is not an overuse of special effects, however they do add to films imagined element, especially within the more fairy-taleish moments that can be seen as contributing to films charm.

The film is also well edited to swiftly transition between comedy Such factors help in maintaining the continuity of the story with focus on romance, adventure and revelation are presented by Brent White as its editor. Some sequences are purposely Strait-laced and bring about depth and reflexivity needed to drive the plot.

Speaking is sharp, charged with humor and genuine passion at some point. It offers a realistic portrayal of the kind and nature of relations and personal development, which inject realism into characters’ dynamics and agendas.

Despite a generous measure of charm, the film does not shy away from clichés at times. It can be not so difficult to predict some of the plot twists which is likely to be attributed to the film’s genre. Still, there is some true feeling going for it — in the cast’s earnestness and in the movie’s thematic resonance.

Similar to hugging one’s self while wearing a festive warm blanket, watching ‘Last Christmas’ feels like. It is a picture of warm emotionality, of humor and of feeling – in its most basic sense. It has clichéd holiday rom-com route but still resonates on the emotional and charm quotient. Rather than simply a narrative picture this film gives the audience more, an opportunity to contemplate love, death and happiness in disguise.