Who hasn’t been in a Christmas pageant or watched one growing up? Even if you didn’t participate, you probably remember kids dressed up as shepherds, angels, or wise men, re-enacting the birth of Jesus Christ. These classic holiday traditions are often filled with funny, heartfelt moments, capturing a warm nostalgia for many. ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ seeks to tap into this charm, offering a modern take on the holiday tale.
Directed by Dallas Jenkins (‘The Chosen‘) and based on Barbara Robinson’s beloved book, the film might not achieve the iconic status of ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’, but it brings its own charm. Judy Greer and Pete Holmes infuse this holiday movie with humor and warmth, making Lionsgate’s new offering feel relatable, even for audiences outside the Christian tradition.
The Herdmans: Christmas Chaos Unleashed
The heart of ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ lies with the Herdman family, known around town as troublemakers. Led by Imogene (Beatrice Schneider), the six unruly Herdman kids light fires, bully classmates, and cause general mayhem. But in a shocking twist, they arrive at the local church intending to join the Christmas pageant—an event that’s especially important this year as it marks the 75th anniversary.
Initially, the churchgoers believe the Herdmans are there for the snacks. When it becomes clear they want to participate in the pageant, the community is in for a wild ride. This year’s pageant director, Grace (Judy Greer), takes on the challenge despite her husband Bob’s (Pete Holmes) reservations, bringing fresh energy and a lot of laughs to the season.
Judy Greer Shines as the Optimistic Director
Judy Greer’s charm is a perfect fit for Grace, a well-meaning community member who believes in giving the Herdmans a chance. She approaches her role as the pageant director with optimism and compassion, despite resistance from other parents. When questioned about whether she should remove the Herdmans from the pageant, Grace responds with sincerity, displaying the true spirit of Christmas.
Greer’s chemistry with Pete Holmes adds to the movie’s appeal. Holmes, known for his comedic timing, has some standout scenes as Bob, Grace’s overwhelmed husband. Their back-and-forth, especially when Bob humorously questions Grace’s enthusiastic speeches, brings lighthearted moments that families will enjoy.
The Narration Overload: A Missed Opportunity
Dallas Jenkins aims for a nostalgic vibe, supported by producer Andrew Erwin, who is known for inspirational projects like ‘Ordinary Angels‘. In a nod to holiday classics, Lauren Graham narrates the film as an older version of Grace’s daughter, Beth. While Graham’s narration brings an ‘A Christmas Story’ feel, it occasionally overwhelms the story, creating a repetitive effect that can distract from the heartwarming plot.
Final Thoughts: A Fun Family Film with Holiday Spirit
At its core, ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever‘ is a family-friendly holiday movie that revives the holiday pageant tradition in a fun, modern way. The mischievous Herdmans add a fresh spin, making it a lighthearted option for families with young children. While adults might wish for more of Greer and Holmes’ banter, the film has enough humor and heart to make it worth a watch this season.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024) Movie Clip – ‘Delivering Ham’
Lionsgate’s ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ arrives in theaters on November 8, 2024, and is a sweet addition to the holiday movie lineup, delivering laughs, warmth, and a trip down memory lane.
