A Holiday Delight, Unwrapped With Laughs and Love

Read Time:3 Minute, 34 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Christmas with Jerks
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Genre: Comedy, Romance
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Leanna Adams, Kristina Arjona
Writer(s): Leanna Adams
Cast: Leanna Adams, Tyler Buckingham, Steve Coulter, Lauren Richards, Ashlee Heath
Where To Watch: On Demand now

RAVING REVIEW: When the holiday season rolls around, there's nothing like settling in with a new holiday-themed film. You know the drill—cozy, heartwarming, and often a tad predictable. But now and then, a holiday movie adds a dash of spice to the traditional recipe. Enter CHRISTMAS WITH JERKS, a holiday rom-com that's a little more than meets the eye. Writer/Director and lead Leanna Adams makes this her project; get ready for a cinematic sleigh ride filled with humor, unexpected twists, and just the correct dose of holiday fun.

Meet Eve, brought to life by Adams. She's a former child star yearning for a comeback, and her quest leads her to her sister's “empty” house for the holidays. Little does she suspect that Ace, portrayed by Tyler Buckingham, is already there, nursing an injury and dog-sitting. Their initial encounter sets the stage for an uproarious battle of wills as they claim the house for the holidays.

Eve proposes a truce, offering to help Ace win back his ex-girlfriend if he agrees to vacate the premises by Christmas. This arrangement sets off a series of events that draw them closer together, even if the outcome seems as predictable as the wish for snowfall on December 25.

One of the film's standout features is its lovable and unconventional characters. They're not your run-of-the-mill holiday movie protagonists, which makes them all the more captivating. Adams expertly guides Eve on a journey of self-discovery (in more ways than one,) infusing depth into a character who could have easily been one-dimensional. Buckingham brings a unique charm to Ace, a stuntman with a hidden soft side, which we would generally love to hate in a traditional role.

The film's backdrop harkens back to the fictional 1987 hit CHRISTMAS WITH JERKS, the very movie that propelled Eve into the limelight. In this iconic film, a young Eve took on the role of Cookie Jerk, the youngest member of the Jerk Family. Her quest for a coveted holiday item on Christmas Eve led to a heartwarming adventure with her eccentric family, where they discover the true essence of the season—the joy of togetherness.

Behind the camera, CHRISTMAS WITH JERKS boasts an impressive creative team. Leanna Adams, who wears multiple hats as the lead actress, writer, and co-director, brings her unique talent and experience to the project. Her background in screenwriting has earned her recognition at various film festivals, and her storytelling prowess shines through in this holiday tale.

Co-producer and co-director Kristina adds her distinctive touch to the film. A proud queer Latina director and intimacy coordinator, Kristina is known for creating work that celebrates diversity both in front of and behind the camera. Her recent achievements in film and television underscore her commitment to inclusivity and representation.

Ultimately, CHRISTMAS WITH JERKS is a delightful addition to the holiday film repertoire. Even if it is a tad predictable, it breathes freshness into the well-trodden holiday romantic comedy genre with its offbeat characters, unexpected plot twists, and heartfelt moments. Adams and Buckingham shine in their respective roles, delivering performances that will leave you with a grin from ear to ear.

So, whether you're a holiday movie enthusiast or just seeking laughs and heartwarming cheer, CHRISTMAS WITH JERKS is a cinematic gift waiting to be unwrapped. It may follow a familiar path, but it does so with such charisma and charm that the season's true magic will enchant you.

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[photo courtesy of GOOD DEED ENTERTAINMENT]