MOVIE REVIEWS

Bad watch, probably won't watch again, and can't recommend unless you just LOVED the original. If you loved Kurt Russell and the Elves, then you're in luck, because there is a LOT of them in this. It's literally my 2 least favorite things from the first movie. Fighting for attention, is Darby Camp and Jahzir Bruno (the two should have been the focus of the movie), and Julian Dennison (Fire Fist, from "Deadpool 2") as Belsnickel.....a Christmas character I only know from "The Office", and it was not a great character. Honestly, it's like they watched the original and were pissed Kurt Russell was outshined by a child and they determined not to allow it to happen again. All the charm and child-like wonder that makes Christmas movies special is drowned in weird action sequences and a very grumpy Kiwi.

It was actually as good as the first one! And Goldie Hawn had a main role since her cameo appearance in the first film. And I didn't expect Julian Dennison appearing in the film. The whole thing was just epic, joyful, heartwarming and funny. My only complaint was that Belsnickel repented too soon; he was a pretty awesome bad guy that gave Santa a run for his money. I mean, I knew there was some good in him, but I would've hoped that he would see the error of his ways in the third film - if that would ever happen! Still, Christmas Chronicles 2 was very entertaining, and a good way to lift your spirits during this month.

A disappointment, all in all. I very much enjoyed the first film, but <em>'The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two'</em> is a much weaker entry. Kurt Russell, though still enjoyable, isn't as entertaining as in the 2018 film. It is nice to see him reprise his role though, likewise with Darby Camp, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and Judah Lewis. New additions include Tyrese Gibson, Jahzir Bruno and Julian Dennison. I'm a fan of Tyrese from the <em>'Fast & Furious'</em> franchise, but he is underused here; when he does feature, he's quite laidback. Bruno is alright, while Dennison is hit-and-miss; he has one or two good moments. Goldie Hawn, meanwhile, has an expanded role. The elves are as great as before, as are the special effects in general. I'd say they are probably more creative with this premise than they were with the 2018 production, but ultimately it doesn't come out as strongly - this one doesn't feel as Christmassy as its predessceor. Also, the musical number is a misfire. Close to being a good film, but just a little off unfortunately.