The holiday season brings a new streaming offering with Oh. What. Fun., a Christmas-themed dramedy that premiered on Amazon Prime on December 3, 2025. Directed by Michael Showalter, the film features an ensemble cast led by Michelle Pfeiffer, but struggles to rise above its generic premise despite a warm-hearted core.
A Familiar Holiday Plot With a Twist
The story centres on Claire Clauster, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, a Houston-based mother whose life revolves around creating the perfect Christmas for her family. Her adult children—Channing (Felicity Jones), Taylor (Chloë Grace Moretz), and Sammy (Dominic Sessa)—and her amiable but oblivious husband (Denis Leary) take her efforts for granted. The film's central conflict ignites when the family literally forgets Claire on the way to a Christmas concert, prompting her to stage a quiet rebellion by disappearing.
This act forces the Clauster family to confront the chaos Claire has managed for years. The film attempts to answer Claire's own meta-question: "Where are the holiday movies about moms?" It aims to spotlight the invisible emotional labour of women during the holidays, a premise that holds significant promise.
Star-Studded Cast Elevates Thin Material
Undoubtedly, the cast is the film's strongest asset. Michelle Pfeiffer delivers a grounded and dignified performance, infusing Claire with a weariness that feels authentic. The supporting cast adds notable moments: Jason Schwartzman as Channing's earnest husband, Joan Chen as a snooty neighbour, and a spirited cameo from Danielle Brooks. The production design is cosy and the interiors are warmly lit, giving the film a polished, comforting aesthetic that stands above typical low-budget holiday fare.
However, the screenplay by Showalter and Chandler Baker fails to provide these talented actors with substantial material. Characters are often reduced to a single defining trait—the responsible one, the chaotic one, the drifting one. Even Claire remains a broad archetype of the 'Everymom,' lacking the nuanced contradictions that would make her journey truly compelling. The family's obvious privilege is also noted but never explored, leaving unanswered questions about their picturesque lifestyle.
Final Verdict: Comforting But Forgettable
Ultimately, Oh. What. Fun. lands as a sweet but generic holiday film. It earns a 3.0 rating from both critics and users, reflecting its middling execution. The film is most effective when cataloguing the relatable grievances of overburdened parents, and its message about appreciating family is clear. Yet, it seldom shows what Claire genuinely cherishes about her traditions or her family, making the eventual, predictable reconciliation feel unearned.
For viewers seeking undemanding, festive background viewing, this Amazon Prime release offers a warm glow and a talented cast. But as a memorable exploration of motherhood or a standout holiday classic, it settles for being merely "nice" when it had the potential to be something special. You might watch it with your mom for some easy brownie points, but don't expect it to linger long after the credits roll.
