Cinema under the tree – Lisa Lorenzelli – Go Out!

Red One (2024)
When Santa Claus gets kidnapped, it’s a big mess at the North Pole. But don’t panic, the head of security, aka “Red”, is not the type to give in to panic – even less so when a bounty hunter as famous as Chris Evans arrives to save the parties. This is where Red One comes a Christmas adventure where the action is as epic as waiting for your presents under the tree. Directed by Jake Kasdan, this film features Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans in an explosive duo, ready to do anything to save Christmas. Spoiler: it could well be that the gift you are waiting for this year is a good deal of laughter and a film that has nothing to envy of traditional Christmas tales!

Red One (2024)©DR

Winter Break (2023)
Alexander Payne’s latest gem is the perfect antidote to the holiday frenzy. In this bittersweet comedy, two friends decide to escape the tumult of Christmas celebrations and treat themselves to a winter retreat in the mountains, far from the festive hustle and bustle. This film, full of contrasts, oscillates between moments of introspective calm and bursts of unexpected emotions. At the heart of this escapade, the two protagonists navigate through existential discussions and revelations that shake up their daily lives. Winter Break is like a fireplace: calming, but with embers ready to rekindle your emotions. It’s a journey that warms you up, while making you think about the questions bubbling beneath the surface, about friendship, love, and what it really means to be “at home” during the holidays .

Winter Break (2023) ©DR

Krampus (2015)
When Max, seeing his Christmas family become a real battlefield, decides to skip the festivities, he has no idea that this small act of rebellion will attract the attention of Krampus. This demon, not really a fan of the Christmas spirit, is determined to settle scores with the rebellious spirits. What seemed like a simple attempt to escape the festive cheer turns into carnage when Christmas icons come to monstrous life, ready to destroy everything in their path. And there, it’s total chaos. Max and his family will quickly understand that to survive the onslaught of these infernal creatures, they will have to form an alliance, forget their quarrels and perhaps finally manage to appreciate the true Christmas gifts: solidarity… and survival.

Krampus (2015) ©DR


Love Actually (2003)
If you haven’t yet succumbed to the charms of this cult film, it’s high time to ask yourself: but where have you been for the last 20 years? With its host of characters as endearing as they are clumsy, Love Actually is much more than just a film: it’s a big hug wrapped in fairy lights and Christmas songs. Between Colin Firth who struggles with the Portuguese to declare his love, Hugh Grant who unleashes an unforgettable hip swing in Downing Street, and Emma Thompson who breaks our hearts with a simple look, this film has everything to capsize hearts, even more cynical. And if, like Martine McCutcheon in her Santa costume, you thought love was reserved for fairy tales, let yourself be surprised: Love Actually proves that love is everywhere, even in the most unexpected places.

Love Actually (2003) ©DR

Le Grinch (2000)
Jim Carrey as the Grinch may be the only thing greener than your Christmas tree. A true tornado of madness and discrepancy, he perfectly embodies the character of the Grinch, a creature with a heart as dry as his attitude towards the holidays. This crazy classic is a breath of fresh air for those who approach celebrations with amused cynicism. If you’re the type to watch Christmas with a grimace, Le Grinch will turn your skepticism into uncontrolled bursts of laughter. Carrey’s irresistible humor, memorable grimaces and unbridled energy bring a touch of magic to this comedy where the Christmas spirit always triumphs.

Le Grinch (2000) ©DR


The Log (1999)
The title says it all: it’s a dessert, but also a metaphorical weapon in this French comedy-drama where the Christmas meal turns into a real family battlefield. Well-kept secrets, grudges that come to light and tasty dialogues make for The Log a must-have for anyone who has ever survived a family meal that was a little too lively. If you thought your uncle Gérard and his endless anecdotes were unbearable, wait until you meet this colorful tribe. Between bursts of nervous laughter and moments of raw emotion, this film explores with finesse the unsaid, the wounds of the past and the often awkward love that binds the members of a family. The Log proves that you can not only survive the holidays, but also laugh about them… and, who knows, maybe even come out with a touch of nostalgia for these chaotic but terribly human moments.

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