The 12 Days of Christmas Eve - A Movie Review

Wasn’t yesterday Christmas Eve? We’ve already had it for a week. When’s Christmas?

The 12 Days of Christmas Eve aired in 2004. A successful but selfish business owner is cursed to relive Christmas Eve for twelve days. During this time he must learn to better his relationships, think better of his employees, and change his ways. Otherwise, he will never have another Christmas.

I honestly did not think that I was going to review The 12 Days of Christmas Eve, but the film grew on me by the climax. Presenting a trope that has been used several times in movies, The 12 Days of Christmas Eve tends to be cheesy and repetitive. The climax of the film is genuine and earnest.

Steven Weber was the main reason why I wanted to watch this film. I have seen him in a couple of other films, like the 1997 miniseries of The Shining. He is a great actor. His character, however, will get on your nerves.

I swear Calvin had rocks in his head for most of the film! It’s funny how he can’t get anything right until the end. Weber did a nice job, going through a genuine transformation by the end.

Molly Shannon had a ball in her role. She was a standout! After each of Calvin’s demises, he finds himself in a hospital room in the afterlife. Interactions between Weber and Shannon were the best. I liked how they bickered. They know how to do comedy.

The ensemble had an important duty, especially in films with repeating storylines. Credits include Stephanie von Pfetten, Mark Krysko, Teryl Rothery, Kade Phillips, Vincent Gale, Pamela Parker, and more. Aside from repeating most of their actions, there’s not a lot for the ensemble to do. Most of the characters are underwritten. They do a decent job though.

Calvin’s family deserved to have been developed further. They are not given enough screentime to really sell their relationships. Although it was the main point of the story. It just took too long for Calvin to realize that his actions were wrong.

Writers had a fun time coming up with ideas for each time Calvin dies. If you are wondering if you should take this film seriously, don’t. It’s a film. We need more holiday comedies. I was curious to see how writers would kill Calvin off next. Most of the ideas are ridiculous and cheesy, but it’s not meant to be serious. It’s what carried the film.

Martha Coolidge directed a film that is fun for all audiences. Unfortunately, it didn’t supply enough magic. It’s reminiscent of the film Groundhog Day. The plot was far-fetched at times, but it was enough to supply a sweet message.

Coolidge could have incorporated a stronger presence for ensemble members. Too much focus was put on Weber and Shannon. It felt like a stage play at some moments, especially with the minimal set pieces.

Special effects were noticeable, especially CGI and the obvious greenscreen during the parachuting sequence. I will say it again, you should not take this film seriously. There’s enough humor in the script to make it a worthwhile film.

We should all take a moment to think about what we are thankful for on Christmas Eve. Never take life for granted. Spend time with family during the holidays. We have all gone through turmoils, especially with the pandemic. Spread Christmas cheer to everyone.

Watch The 12 Days of Christmas Eve if you are looking for a new film to enjoy, especially on Christmas Eve. It is entertaining and I would watch it again. It kept me laughing. It will definitely make you smile.