Classic Christmas Review #4: The Holiday

Available on Netflix

Nancy Meyers’ exceptionally cosy Christmas flick straddles the line between being irreparably schmaltzy and endearingly well-meaning, but ends up on the right side of the fence due to the undeniable chemistry that is shared between its ensemble cast.

Although her character is a hopeless cringelord for the most part, Kate Winslet’s quintessentially British brand of comedic and dramatic excellence carries much of The Holiday, with the palpable allure of Cameron Diaz and Jude Law, arguably the definitive pin-ups of this cinematic era, and goofy appeal of Jack Black also assisting proceedings. Eli Wallach is also pretty stellar in his supporting role, albeit in a similar vein to that of an affable Disney/Pixar character.

Although it is, at two-hours and 18 minutes, needlessly overlong and utterly predictable from a narrative standpoint, The Holiday’s mass appeal is evidenced by its staggering commercial success (which saw it gross over $205 million worldwide against a budget of $85 million) and longevity as a festive favourite for romcom enthusiasts and appeasing partners the world over.