How far would you go to score the ultimate gift?|Nov. 25, 2021|United States|98 Min.|PG
Genre: Adventure;Comedy;Drama;Family;Kids;Sci-Fi;&;Fantasy
Description: What defines a great Christmas movie? Is it heartfelt devotion, warmth, or perhaps a touch of action akin to *Die Hard*? Two new holiday films recently entered the competition, each aiming to claim the title (though without extreme violence). One of them emerges as a strong contender—whether it’s a fresh take on the Santa Claus legend or a nostalgic journey about ‘80s kids striving to get their hands on a video game console.
Set in the late 1980s, *8 Bit Christmas* follows the story narrated by Jake (Neil Patrick Harris), who nostalgically recalls his childhood in 1987 or 1988. The plot is driven by the infamous Power Glove, a poorly received accessory for the Nintendo Entertainment System released in 1989. While the timing seems off, it reflects the film’s approach to nostalgia, embracing references even at the cost of historical accuracy. One moment, the young protagonists are trading a 1989 Billy Ripken baseball card, and the next, they’re caught up in the 1983 Cabbage Patch Kids craze. The film blends these references into a sentimental blur of ‘80s culture.
Beyond its love for roller rinks, *Goonies* posters, and Casio watches, *8 Bit Christmas* (streaming on HBO Max) stands out as a heartfelt and sincere holiday comedy. Director Michael Dowse draws authentic and charming performances from his young cast, particularly Max Malas as Jeff, a lovable liar. Steve Zahn also delivers a standout performance, showcasing some of his best work to date, alongside his role in *The White Lotus*. The core of the film lies in the touching relationship between Zahn’s outdoorsy father and his video game-obsessed son (Winslow Fegley). Their interactions are tender, emotional, and deeply moving—when they’re not debating the merits of 8-bit gaming consoles. However, the film occasionally gets sidetracked by its heavy reliance on ‘80s nostalgia, as its focus on boomboxes and Trapper Keepers occasionally overshadows the central story.
Cast director: Michael Dowse
Cast actor: Neil Patrick Harris, Winslow Fegley, June Diane Raphael, David Cross, Steve Zahn, Jacob Laval, Santino Barnard, Jackson Reid, Chandler Dean, Johnathan’tae Sturgess
Original name: 8-Bit Christmas