Cast
View AllCatherine Bell
as Jane McKendrick
Victor Webster
as Jackson Hart
Matreya Fedor
as Betsy McKendrick
Anthony Konechny
as Tyler Sloan
Chiara Zanni
as Meg
Chanelle Peloso
as Gina
Kelly-Ruth Mercier
as Dr. Adelaide Roberts
Devielle Johnson
as Ray Skyler
Aliyah O'Brien
as Ellen
Noel Johansen
as Alex
Kurt Evans
as Mitch
Michelle Choi-Lee
as School Principal
Kendra Westwood
as Soldier
Nicole Anthony
as Choir Director
Stefania Indelicato
as Professional Woman
Crew
Director
- Gary Harvey
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Home for Christmas Day 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 Gary Harvey 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 2017, 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 Home for Christmas Day took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 108 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 290 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- 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 Home for Christmas Day 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 focuses more on action than character development, Home for Christmas Day subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Martin's Close and Silent Night explore similar territory, Home for Christmas Day 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: July 16, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 24m
Where to Watch



