“Surviving Christmas” is a 2004 classic holiday movie filled with comfort and laughter. This is a humorous and heartfelt journey of a lonely millionaire who pays a family to spend the upcoming Christmas together.
Drew Latham (Ben Afflek) is a wealthy advertising executive who finds himself facing another Chrismtas alone after his girlfriend breaks up with him for being shallow and money-oriented. Driven by remembrance, he travels back to his childhood home hoping to feel in the holiday spirit again. When he arrives at the house, he discovers that it is now occupied by the Valco family. Drew makes an undeniable offer of $250,000 for the Valco’s to let him stay at his house and act as a part of the family. They agree because they are a middle class family facing money issues during the holidays. The situation becomes even more chaotic after Drew has them follow a script of his ideal traditions and even hires someone to act as his grandfather. When Valco’s daughter, Alicia (Christmina Applegate), finally makes it home for Christmas, she struggles to find normalcy while he is occupying her house. Tensions between the entire family escalate as Drew has them doing activities together they never had done before. Throughout the difficult time, Drew worsens the already existing problems between the parents, but his vulnerability slips when his past is uncovered. His father left him when he was too little to remember, and his mother died when he was in college so he never got to spend time in their home together. Ultimately, the time the Valco’s family were forced to spend with each other helps them address their conflicts and Drew learns about the importance of genuine relationships rather than store bought items.
“Surviving Christmas” is a remarkable movie because it doesn’t follow the usual take on the holiday genre. The film is enjoyable because it shies away from the overly sentimental Christmas movies. It is a unique and fresh idea that perfectly captures both the cheer and emotion of the season. The movies focus on a dysfunctional and middle class family that is relatable to the audience. It has charm but also doesn’t force a picture perfect family, providing entertainment. The dynamics between the characters are kept lighthearted and amusing.
The characters in “Surviving Christmas” undergo a quick but remarkable change throughout the film. Drew begins as a self absorbed businessman who seems out of touch, but by the end, he learns to appreciate the connections he makes in any type of relationship. Drew also contributes to the growth of the Valco family as well. Initially, the parents were close to splitting up after constant problems and no money. Due to Drew’s intrusion, he forces them to work out their issues. In the end, everyone becomes closer and tends to each other’s needs.
This movie deserves a 5/5 rating because of the nostalgic feel, relatable dynamics and holiday chaos.
