Review of Spirited (2022) by Moviemitch96 — 03 Dec 2022

A modern spin on Charles Dickens' classic 'A Christmas Carol ', this musical film sees the Ghost of Christmas Present (Will Ferrell) attempting to help redeem a vain, arrogant, and selfish businessman (Ryan Reynolds) and to see the errors of his ways.

Little do they both know they have plenty to teach each other along the way. I wasn't too sure what to expect with this one, but I decided to give it a shot, and while it's got its fair share of heartwarming and cute moments, it can't help but feel a little too generic and derivative at times.

Ferrell and Reynolds make for a funny duo, however, and even their singing is surprisingly good. Supporting performances from others such as Octavia Spencer, Tracy Morgan, etc. are also enjoyable enough, and the songs, while also not feeling the most inspired, are still fun enough to watch thanks to the singing chops of all involved.

While the film does feel a little longer than it should as well and becomes a little more convoluted by the end, it's still a charming enough Christmas ride while it lasts. Overall, fun albeit generic musical sequences, charming and enjoyable performances from all involved, and a slightly overstuffed and scattershot story all add up to make for a somewhat clumsy yet still merry and fun enough time.