Christmas as Usual offers a heartwarming and humorous journey into the complexities of cultural differences during the holiday season. Check out the details in my parents guide movie review.
Netflix’s Christmas as Usual released on the streaming service across the United States today, December 6, 2023. The film stars Ida Ursin-Holm (Thea), Kanan Gill (Jashan), Marit Andreassen (Anne-Lise), Mads Sjøgård Pettersen (Jørgen), Erik Follestad (Simen), and Nora Harriet (Ronja). The film was written and directed by Petter Holmsen. Check out the details in my parents guide movie review.
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Christmas As Usual Movie Quotes
Christmas As Usual Parents Guide
In Netflix’s Christmas As Usual: After surprising her Norwegian family with her new boyfriend – from India – Thea Evjen has to make him fit in over the Christmas Holidays. Life-long traditions are bent in every direction as the vibrant colors of Bollywood collide with the cold Norwegian winter.
Christmas As Usual Age Appropriate Parents Guide
Let’s take a look at what concerned parents need to know about the age ratings of the series before letting their younger children watch Christmas as Usual.
Language: Christmas as Usual contains some strong language but is not used frequently in the film. The lookout words include one use of the word f*ck.
Mature Content: The biggest lookout in the film, other than the language, is the racism discussed. The main character brings her Indian boyfriend home for Christmas, and there is much discussion about his race. There is a scene that shows Indian spices, but they are called racist terms. Although it is hard to translate the racism into English, considering this is a Norwegian film, There is a scene where a character gets into a fight with Santa and another where a character is being arrested for not following the rules at the airport. Characters consume alcohol in the film, and one becomes intoxicated.
Age Rating of the Movie Christmas as Usual: Netflix Orignals Christmas as Usual movie ratings has a PG-13 rating by the Motion Picture Association of America – MPAA ratings – for some language, and mature themes and the parental guidelines advisory recommends it for mature audiences, an older audience, an adult audience, young people, young adults, older kids, and teens aged 13 years and older. The suggestion of parental guidance or a legal guardian (adult guardian) for this restricted PG-13 category is highly suggested for young children, teenage children. and younger viewers under 13 years of age in this PG-13-rated motion picture for adult material. The minimum age recommendation is 13 years old. The film does not contain and sexual content.
Overall Thoughts
Netflix’s Christmas as Usual offers a heartwarming and humorous journey into the complexities of cultural differences during the holiday season. The film follows Thea, a Norwegian woman, who brings her Indian boyfriend, Jashan, home for Christmas. As expected, their contrasting traditions and beliefs clash, leading to a series of comical situations and heartwarming moments.
Ida Ursin-Holm and Kanan Gill deliver charismatic performances as Thea and Jashan, capturing the awkwardness of new relationships and the challenges of navigating cultural differences. The film delves into the unique food and traditions of both Indian and Norwegian cultures, adding a layer of authenticity and cultural exchange. But at times, it also points out the stigma one might have towards other cultures and traditions brought from those cultures. Although lighthearted, the film subtly explores themes of family, acceptance, and navigating cultural differences, prompting viewers to reflect on their own traditions and biases.
Christmas as Usual seamlessly blends humor and heartwarming moments, creating a story that is both entertaining and emotionally engaging. it boasts stunning cinematography, showcasing the picturesque landscapes of Norway and the warmth of Christmas decorations. However, it isn’t a perfect film. It’s narrative follows a familiar formula, with predictable conflicts and resolutions. And while heartwarming, some scenes might feel overly sentimental or manipulative.
Despite its predictability and occasional lack of depth, Netflix’s Christmas as Usual is a charming and enjoyable film. Its beautiful visuals, strong performances, and clever blend of humor and heart make it a perfect choice for a festive viewing experience. The film prompts viewers to appreciate cultural differences, celebrate the diversity of traditions, and embrace the importance of family and acceptance during the holiday season.
