Cast
View AllHilarie Burton
as Jolie Guidry
Robert Buckley
as Jack Friedman
Danneel Ackles
as Naomi Friedman
Cheryl Ladd
as Renee Guidry
Jordan Ladd
as Brianna Guidry Doucette
Bruce Boxleitner
as Tim Guidry
Jason London
as Luc Doucette
Teri Wyble
as Amy
Tyler Hilton
as Tyler Hilton
Antwon Tanner
as Mark
Ritchie Montgomery
as Rocky Broussard
Susan Gallagher
as Meredith Broussard
Hunter Burke
as Foster Broussard
Jeremy Fruge
as Keith
Presley Richardson
as Maxie
Crew
Director
- Monika Mitchell
Writer
- Cassie Doyle
Producer
- Marcy Holland
- Daniel Lewis
- Kenneth M. Badish
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Christmas Contract examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Monika Mitchell brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2018, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Christmas Contract took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2018, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Christmas Contract shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Man Who Invented Christmas, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Christmas Contract subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Martin's Close and Silent Night explore similar territory, The Christmas Contract stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 22, 2018
- Runtime: 1h 28m