Michelle Pfeiffer's Latest Holiday Film Is a Great Treat for Exhausted Mothers Everywhere

Its that time of year in the suburbs: grown children return home with partners and kids, and moms work tirelessly to make the season perfect. Prime Videos OH. WHAT. FUN. offers a fresh take on holiday films, steering away from traditional Hallmark-style narratives. The movie centers on Claire Clauster, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, who questions why holiday stories often spotlight meneven Santaand wonders when moms, the real heroes of the season, will get recognition.

This film is a tribute to moms who are exhausted from juggling endless responsibilities and carrying the mental load. Pfeiffer, herself a mother and grandmother, shared her own holiday experiences with Parents. She admits, Every year, I tell myself I wont do too much, but I cant help getting overexcited.

Pfeiffers portrayal of Claire is realistic and relatable: she is the mom determined to outshine the neighbors decorations while quietly craving appreciation. Claire manages all the cooking, shopping, wrapping, decorating, and planning, hoping her efforts will earn her familys recognition. She dreams of being nominated for the Holiday Moms Contest, hosted by Oprah-meets-Martha Stewart personality Zazzy Tims, played by Eva Longoria. However, when her family forgets her on the way to the show, Claire sets off on a spontaneous adventure.

Instead of staying home, she drives to Los Angeles for the contest, eventually gaining viral fame with a quirky dance on camera and an honest confession about being overlooked by her family. She also releases her holiday obligations, literally letting the air out of the giant inflatable decorations in her yard, earning admiration from fellow moms everywhere.

Pfeiffers advice for parents and holiday happiness mirrors Claires journey: Be patient, dont aim for perfection, enjoy the outdoors when things get stressful, and give grandparents space because nobody wants parenting advice, she says.

The film, directed by Michael Showalter, premieres on Prime Video on December 3. The ensemble cast includes Denis Leary, Felicity Jones, Chlo Grace Moretz, Dominic Sessa, Jason Schwartzman, Eva Longoria, and Joan Chen.

Why Families Will Love OH. WHAT. FUN.

This movie offers something for all generations. Its relatable, humorous, and heartwarming, reflecting the reality that no family is perfect. Viewers will recognize their own holiday chaos, from competitive neighbors to assembling oversized gifts at the last minute. Pfeiffer shares a personal memory of a holiday mishap with a playhouse that didnt fit through the door, perfectly capturing the comedy of seasonal challenges.

Despite the mishaps, the film highlights the importance of family connections. A tender moment between Claire and her eldest daughter, Channing, underscores the enduring need for each other, even amidst holiday chaos. The movie emphasizes core holiday themes:

• Gratitude: Gifts are about expressing love and appreciation, not competition.
• Realistic Expectations: Holidays rarely go as planned, so flexibility is key.
• Communication: Honest conversations help families navigate stress and strengthen bonds.

Pfeiffers advice sums it up: Let it not be perfect. The garbage disposal might break. The smoke alarm might go off. Embrace the chaos.

Content and Rating

OH. WHAT. FUN. is rated PG-13, suitable for teens 14 and up. The rating accounts for sparse drug use, sexual content, and mild strong language. Emotional scenes, family arguments, and relatable mishaps form the core of the movie. There is no intense violence, and romantic moments are light, including kissing and flirting. One character is openly gay and brings her partner home for the holidays. Social drinking and brief casual marijuana use appear for comedic effect.

Ultimately, OH. WHAT. FUN. is a mature, laugh-out-loud holiday comedy that resonates with parents and families, celebrating the often-overlooked efforts of moms and the warmth of imperfect family moments.

Author: Sophia Brooks