Review of A Very Murray Christmas (2015) by James W — 13 Dec 2015

A Very Murray Christmas preaches effectively to the converted with a parade of superstar guests and hummable songs that - combined with the host's trademark presence - adds up to a unique holiday experience. Written by Murray, Mitch Glazer (Scrooged) and the special's director, Sofia Coppola, A Very Murray Christmas is an odd holiday entry but one that surely has a small but loyal audience that will find its hipper-than-thou vibe entertaining. This unconventional holiday special feels, in the end, most like a reflection of its eponymous star: jokingly sincere and sometimes aloof, but charming nonetheless. All in all, while not an absolutely great Christmas special since it struggles to find its footing at times plot-wise, it's worth watching for the celebrity cameos and the raucous and at times hilarious singing. The result is a show that probably isn't destined for repeat viewings but provides a few wry moments and even a listenable song or two. The Netflix musical-variety special A Very Murray Christmas doesn't amount to much, yet it's sublime; maybe it's sublime because it shows no evidence of needing to make any kind of impression. A Very Murray Christmas is a slight chore to get into, but once it relaxes, unwinds, and has a few drinks it's actually an enjoyably somber affair.

VERDICT: "In The Zone" - [Mixed Reaction] These kinds of movies are usually movies that had some good things, but some bad things kept it from being amazing. This rating says buy an ex-rental or a cheap price of the DVD to own. If you consider cinema, ask for people's opinion on the film. (Films that are rated 2.5 or 3 stars).