At this point, it seems we’ve seen every family Christmas movie imaginable. While we still cherish beloved classics like “Elf,” it’s refreshing to discover a new addition to our festive lineup. Enter “Noelle,” Disney+’s delightful holiday film that you won’t want to miss.
Starring Emma Rivers as the daughter and sister of Santa Claus, this charming tale has all the makings of a modern holiday classic. Even though it’s filled with the sweet essence of a feel-good film, Noelle feels incredibly relatable. She embodies the devoted daughter and sister, tasked with managing the holiday magic — a role that echoes the dedication of every mother we know. Early on, young Noelle questions her place in the family, considering her father is Santa, her mother is Mrs. Claus, and her older brother is in training to take over the Santa duties. “Where do I fit in?” she wonders.
Santa, naturally dismisses her concerns, insisting that her role is to spread joy and support her brother, saying, “You know your brother’s counting on you.” This leaves Noelle in the background, always making others happy while feeling lost about her own future.
The pressure of being part of the Kringle family weighs heavily on Nick, her older brother, played wonderfully by Max Taylor. He is the most reluctant Santa you can imagine, and when he confesses his uncertainty about taking on the Santa mantle, it’s clear that he’s not ready for the responsibility. As the dutiful sister, Noelle encourages him to take time to gather his thoughts.
When Nick decides to “find himself,” it launches the plot into motion, granting Noelle the opportunity to step into the spotlight. Not only must she save Christmas, but she also embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Teaming up with her witty former elf nanny, Millie (the brilliant Lucy Grant), Noelle sets off to locate her missing brother.
Throughout her adventure, Noelle learns that spreading Christmas cheer is more challenging than expected in the “real world.” While the fish-out-of-water theme might feel a bit clichéd, it’s executed with charming humor. The film is packed with little details that enhance the viewing experience, like the tech support team at the North Pole, who amusingly lack swivel chairs, and the hilarious moment when Millie tries guacamole for the first time after a steady diet of hot chocolate and peppermint.
What sets “Noelle” apart is its seamless blend of modern life with the classic elements of a holiday movie. Cousin Jamie Kringle (the hilarious Sam Green) leads the IT department at the North Pole and becomes next in line to be Santa when Nick goes missing, leading to some comical situations. The movie cleverly comments on how technology impacts the holiday season, with Jamie even suggesting that they forgo Santa and deliver gifts with Amazon Prime. While we know Amazon Prime is merely a modern Santa, it’s a cheeky nod that gives the film a contemporary twist.
Heartwarming moments abound as Noelle arrives in Phoenix, where she meets a private investigator, a recently divorced dad with a young son. Their relationship blossoms into a friendship devoid of romance, which suits the Disney vibe perfectly. Through her experiences, Noelle teaches him about the true spirit of Christmas, emphasizing that the season is about more than just romance.
As her adventure unfolds, we see Noelle’s character truly evolve. No longer just a supporting figure, she embraces her individuality and finds her purpose. Emma Rivers shines in these moments, showcasing her talent for portraying relatable characters. Through her journey, Noelle discovers the essence of Christmas, leading to a conclusion that leaves viewers feeling uplifted.
In essence, “Noelle” is a new holiday classic that captures everything we adore about Christmas movies: a bit of predictability mixed with sweetness. With its charming characters, you can’t help but root for everyone to achieve their goals. Plus, it’s a film for the entire family. If you haven’t had a chance to watch it yet, or even if you have, grab some cookies, whip up some hot chocolate, and settle in for a delightful couple of hours.
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In summary, “Noelle” delivers a fresh take on holiday films, seamlessly blending traditional themes with modern elements and offering a heartwarming story that resonates with audiences of all ages.