Last Christmas (2019) (4K Ultra HD Review)
Director: Paul Feig
Starring: Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, Ronald Colman
RATED: PG-13/REGION 0/2:00/2160p/NUMBER OF DISCS 2
AVAILABLE FROM Universal Studios
In a season when holiday films flood the theaters, “Last Christmas” arrives promising warmth, romance, and a dash of Christmas magic, buttressed by an enticing central premise and the radiant charm of its stars, Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding. Directed by Paul Feig, this film is inspired by the music of George Michael, particularly the titular song, and it invites us to dive into a tale layered with not just love, but also the complexities of personal growth and the importance of cherishing life’s moments. However, as lovely as it strives to be, “Last Christmas” is a cinematic stocking stuffed with both delightful surprises and a few lumps of coal.
The story unfolds in London, where Kate (Clarke), a young woman grappling with her life choices and haunted by past regrets, finds herself in a spiral of self-destructive behavior. Enter Tom (Golding), a seemingly perfect man who comes into her life like a refreshing breath of air. What starts as a quirky romance quickly morphs into a more profound exploration of redemption and self-acceptance. Clarke shines as Kate, imbuing the character with both vulnerability and spirited humor. Her chemistry with Golding is palpable, creating moments that sparkle with genuine sweetness and light-hearted banter.
While the film’s tone oscillates between delightful charm and somber reflection, it often feels like a patchwork of holiday sentimentality rather than a cohesive narrative. Despite its broad strokes of warmth, the plot can feel predictable and at times contrived, which unfortunately diminishes the emotional depth it strives for. There’s an intrinsic joy found in its lighter moments, but the film sometimes gets lost in its own pacing, dragging where it could have flown, and rushing past emotional beats that could have been more resonant.
The cinematography by John Schwartzman is visually enchanting, capturing the festive spirit of London during Christmas beautifully. The production design, however, sometimes veers into the realm of cliché and superficiality—a swirl of frosty mornings and twinkling lights that occasionally feels more like a postcard than an authentic environment.
Musically, “Last Christmas” weaves a tapestry of George Michael’s hits, which lend an infectious rhythm to the film. The score adds to the film’s charm, yet it also struggles to elevate some of its more poignant moments, leaving an emotional gap where the audience yearns for a deeper connection.
As the film reaches its climax, it attempts to deliver a twist that will resonate deeply with audiences, and while it ultimately creates a moment of reflection, its execution can feel somewhat lacking in nuance. The true essence of the film lies in its message of kindness and empathy, urging us to embrace our vulnerabilities and the connections we make with those around us.
Despite its flaws, “Last Christmas” managed to evoke a heartwarming aura that lingered with me long after the credits rolled. There’s something inherently uplifting about its core message that encourages us to live fully and to appreciate the moments that fill our lives with meaning, even amid life’s unpredictability.
In conclusion, “Last Christmas” offers a blend of holiday fluff and heartfelt moments that, while not entirely hitting the mark, still leaves a warm glow in its wake. Its charms are undeniable, bolstered by stellar performances and enchanting visuals, but it’s also a reminder that even the best holiday films can benefit from a bit of additional introspection. It might not become the holiday classic it aims to be, yet for those seeking some seasonal comfort and joy, it remains a worthwhile watch—perhaps best enjoyed with a cozy blanket and a cup of hot cocoa.
Extras
- Feature Commentary with Director Paul Feig
- Feature Commentary with Director Paul Feig and Producer/Co-Writer Emma Thompson
- Alternate Ending
- Blooper Reel
- Deleted/Alternate/Extended Scenes
- Alternate Opening
- “Last Christmas” – Full Performance
- Director in Vision
- It’s All So Cold
- Try Not To Laugh
- A Legacy Revealed
- Pure Golding
- Emilia Recording Session
- Love Letter to London
- Santa and Her Elf
- Paul Feig Takes Over the Tram
- 12 Days of Production
- Optional English SDH, French Canadian, and Latin Spanish subtitles for the main feature
