‘Oh. What. Fun’ Review: Michelle Pfeiffer Adds Heart And Intelligence To Amazon Holiday Film Despite Credibility Concerns

The new Christmas movie Oh. What. Fun. benefits enormously from the presence of Michelle Pfeiffer, whose performance is as compelling as ever. Known for standout roles in films like The Fabulous Baker Boys, French Exit, Love Field, and Dangerous Liaisons, Pfeiffer brings both heart and intelligence to her character. Unfortunately, the films plot in its latter half struggles to maintain credibility, undercutting the festive charm it aims to deliver.

Pfeiffer portrays Claire Clauster, a mother of three grown children who has devoted her life to her family and feels overlooked, especially during Christmas. From the opening scene, where Claire confronts a woman with unruly children, the film establishes her as a loving, no-nonsense matriarch. Her dream is simple: to be recognized by her children in a holiday-themed contest on her favorite daytime talk show, The Zazzy Tims Show.

Her childrenChanning (Felicity Jones), Taylor (Chloe Grace Moretz), and Sammy (Dominic Sessa)have largely moved on with their own lives. Channing is preoccupied with her own family, Taylor brings a new partner to family events, and Sammy is navigating romantic disappointments. Even her husband Nick (Denis Leary) seems oblivious to Claires holiday frustrations. Meanwhile, Claires neighbor and rival mom, Jean (Joan Chen), appears effortlessly appreciated by her children, intensifying Claires sense of being overlooked.

The story takes a wild turn when Claire is accidentally left behind during the familys Christmas Eve outing. She embarks on an impromptu road trip from Texas to Hollywood in a bid to appear on The Zazzy Tims Show and win the Holiday Mom of the Year contest. Along the way, she encounters various misadventures, including a night in a motel with Danielle Brooks and a towed car. Against all odds, Claire arrives at the studio just in time for the live taping.

While the film attempts to spotlight the often thankless role of mothers, the narrative occasionally strains credulity. Claires extreme measures to gain recognition feel at odds with Pfeiffers grounded performance and the otherwise relatable family dynamics. The balance between heartfelt holiday moments and over-the-top comedy is uneven, leaving the films tone somewhat uncertain.

Despite its flaws, Oh. What. Fun. benefits from an excellent ensemble cast, including Jason Schwartzman, Eva Longoria, Havana Rose Liu, and Maude Apatow, alongside Pfeiffers central performance. Directed by Michael Showalter and based on a story by Chandler Baker, the film captures some genuine warmth, even if the plot occasionally veers into implausibility.

Release Date: December 3, 2025 (Streaming)
Screenplay: Michael Showalter and Chandler Baker
Cast: Michelle Pfeiffer, Denis Leary, Felicity Jones, Jason Schwartzman, Chloe Grace Moretz, Eva Longoria, Dominic Sessa, Joan Chen, Danielle Brooks, Havana Rose Liu, Maude Apatow

Author: Sophia Brooks