“Christmas with the Campbells” is a 2022 romantic comedy that reimagines the holiday film genre with a raunchy, comedic twist. Directed by Clare Niederpruem and penned by a team including Vince Vaughn, the film stars Brittany Snow, Justin Long, and Alex Moffat, offering a fresh take on traditional holiday romance.
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Table of Contents
Plot
The story revolves around Jesse, portrayed by Brittany Snow, who finds herself unexpectedly single during the holiday season. After her boyfriend Shawn (Alex Moffat) breaks up with her, Jesse is invited by Shawn’s family to spend Christmas with them. The film unfolds as Jesse navigates this awkward situation, leading to unexpected bonding and romantic interests, particularly with Shawn’s cousin, David (Justin Long).
Cast
- Brittany Snow as Jesse, the protagonist navigating a post-breakup holiday.
- Justin Long as David, Shawn’s cousin who forms a bond with Jesse.
- Alex Moffat as Shawn Campbell, Jesse’s ex-boyfriend.
- Julia Duffy and George Wendt play Shawn’s parents, Liz and Robert Campbell.
- JoAnna Garcia Swisher stars as Becky, adding to the ensemble’s dynamic.
- The cast also includes Duane Stephens, Annette Wright, and several others in supporting roles.
Production
Vince Vaughn and Peter Billingsley produced the film with the idea of creating an adult-oriented Christmas romantic comedy. Filming took place in Utah over 17 days, capturing the state’s picturesque winter landscapes. The production faced challenges, including accessing remote mountainous locations for shooting.
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Release
“Christmas with the Campbells” was released on December 2, 2022, in select theaters and on the streaming service AMC+.
Reception
The film received mixed reviews, with a 37% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 56. Critics praised the cast’s performances, particularly Snow’s, and the unique blend of traditional holiday movie elements with adult humor. However, some reviewers found the film’s attempt to be edgy fell short, lacking in genuine action.
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Closing Remarks
“Christmas with the Campbells” stands out for its attempt to blend a Hallmark-style holiday film with R-rated humor. Its unique approach and talented cast create a memorable addition to the holiday movie genre, even as it divides critics and audiences with its unconventional take on Christmas romance.