Review of Christmas with the Kranks (2004) by Thequietgamer — 25 Dec 2015

As far as Christmas comedies the Kranks leave us a little disappointed. It's a perfectly acceptable watch, but when so many of it's jokes land with a thud it's not hard to notice the better alternatives out there. Some more laughs would have gone a long way to give it the extra needed Christmas magic.

For starters the biggest problem is Tim Allen himself. He's just not playing a likable character. His crotchety demeanor gives a sour tone to the film. Perhaps that was intentional, but it does nothing to bolster the laughs or plot so I don't see the point. The rest of the cast is talented and fairly amusing. It's just a shame they aren't given some genuinely good comedic gags.

Long story short if you enjoyed Tim Allen as Santa and are hoping he will deliver more holiday entertainment then you'll be left wanting. It's missing the charm and sweetness of that movie. That's not to say this movie is all "Bah humbug!" In fact near the end it throws out some of the old Christmas spirit by dishing out some of what the holiday is actually about. It's not a real heart-warmer, but it's enough to let you know that this movie's heart isn't made of ice.

As far as the actual humor goes it could have been a lot funnier. So much of it seems subdued. Things only really start to pick up in the final third of the film. As things get crazier for the characters it gets more amusing. Up until then we are left with a few noteworthy gags scattered around. It makes the movie feels longer than it actually is.

It's slow paced with it's laughs and ultimately I was left wanting more. Yet, this is far from the most offensive movie to watch during the Christmas season. In fact I wouldn't really say it's bad. A perfectly acceptable if not completely worthwhile holiday flick to catch on TV while you're wrapping presents or something. It's watchable and has some good bits, but it's not one I'd gather the gather the family around the TV to watch on Christmas Eve.

I give my stay with the Kranks this Christmas a 6.