Netflix is gearing up for the holidays early, with a star-studded fantasy film titled A Boy Called Christmas announced for upcoming release. Based on the 2015 children's book of the same name by Matt Haig, the film is a reimagining of the origin story of Father Christmas, a figure from British folklore that predates Santa Claus. Early previews of the movie, which is directed by Gil Kenan from a screenplay by Kenan and Ol Parker, promise a family-friendly adventure full of magic and whimsy that may well become a new holiday classic.
As the season of good cheer draws near, this should be a fun pick for a cozy movie night. Here's what we know about A Boy Called Christmas so far. This article will be updated as more news is released.
What Is Netflix's A Boy Called Christmas About?
On the orders of the king, young Nikolas' father sets out on a journey to find a legendary place where elves dwell, known as Elfhelm. It's said that this elven village can only be seen by those who truly believe in it. When his father doesn't return, Nikolas takes it upon himself to adventure into the frigid, snowbound north to find him and fulfill the king's edict to bring back a spark of magic and give the kingdom hope. He's accompanied on this quest by his pet mouse Miika and a headstrong reindeer by the name of Blitzen. On the path to Elfhelm, this brave little crew encounters all manner of obstacles and dangers, from treacherous mountains to a monstrous troll.
Nikolas' journey to Elfhelm is just the beginning. For one thing, it seems humans aren't allowed inside the village, and he's immediately thrown into jail with a couple of other misfits, including a pixie who can only speak the truth. With the help of his friends, Nikolas evades the terrifying Mother Something and leads the elves in bringing magic to the rest of the world, finding his destiny along the way. A Boy Called Christmas is the story of an ordinary child who makes extraordinary new allies, brings hope to all and changes the world forever.
Does A Boy Called Christmas Have a Trailer?
In addition to the above teaser, there is a longer trailer (below). The trailers reveal a charming framing device, in which Maggie Smith's character is telling the story of Nikolas and his adventures to her young charges in the modern-day, as a way to explain the origins of Christmas.
The film's A-list cast is on prominent display, along with a bevy of dazzling special effects and beautiful holiday colors. From the enchanting music to the wondrous visuals, these previews promise a whimsical, fantastical tale that should delight viewers of all ages this Christmas.
Who Stars in A Boy Called Christmas?
Newcomer Henry Lawfull leads the cast as Nikolas, and he's supported by a veritable murderers' row of revered British thespians. These include Jim Broadbent (Moulin Rouge!) as the kingly Father Vodol, Sally Hawkins (The Shape of Water) as the villainous Mother Something, Toby Jones (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy) as Father Topo, Stephen Merchant (Logan) as the voice of Miika the mouse, and none other than the legendary Dame Maggie Smith (Harry Potter) as Aunt Ruth.
Also starring are Michiel Huisman (The Age of Adaline) as Nikolas' father Joel and Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids) as the grumpy, skeptical Aunt Carlotta. Zoe Colletti (Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark) plays Nikolas' new ally, The Truth Pixie. Rune Temte, Indica Watson, Rishi Kuppa and Joel Fry also appear in the film.
When Does A Boy Called Christmas Release on Netflix?
Netflix will release the film on November 24, 2021, just in time for the holiday season's start. It will also be shown on the Sky Cinema channel in the UK on November 26, as well as in theaters across the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, France and China on the same date. Viewers can look forward to savoring this holiday treat all December long.