The holiday season is steeped in traditions, nostalgia, and—at least on our screens—grand comedic chaos. Yet, one truth often overlooked is the pivotal role of mothers in making Christmas magical. Oh. What. Fun., directed and co-written by Michael Showalter alongside Chandler Baker, tackles this underappreciated truth head-on. With Michelle Pfeiffer at its heart, the film blends laughter with tenderness, offering a seasonal story where recognition and self-worth take center stage.
Story
At the core of Oh. What. Fun. is Claire Clauster (Michelle Pfeiffer), a vibrant yet slightly weary matriarch who’s spent countless Christmases quietly holding her family together. Through a playful voice-over, Claire wryly notes that male leads often dominate festive comedies—despite frequently being the source of seasonal mayhem—while women are relegated to “89 seconds of screen time” as supportive wives or girlfriends.
This year, Claire isn’t just craving turkey and tinsel—she wants acknowledgement. Her husband Nick (Denis Leary) is loving but somewhat oblivious, and her grown children—responsible Channing (Felicity Jones), romantic wanderer Taylor (Chloe Grace Moretz), and newly single Sammy (Dominic Sessa)—rarely pick up on her hints.
When a televised holiday contest celebrates “The Most Special Mom,” Claire secretly longs for the spotlight, even if she pretends otherwise. A mix of minor holiday faux pas—including gifting Channing’s kids perhaps too extravagantly and losing out to her impeccably polished neighbour Jeanne Wang-Wasserman (Joan Chen)—pushes Claire to the brink. When her family dashes off to a concert without her, she makes a bold move: Christmas is cancelled, and she heads straight to the TV studio hosting the contest, led by charismatic host Zazzy Tims (played with infectious energy by Eva Longoria).
Performances
Michelle Pfeiffer is, without question, the luminous center of Oh. What. Fun. Her comedic timing is razor-sharp, her emotional beats land with sincerity, and she brings an effortless warmth that makes Claire instantly relatable. Denis Leary plays the well-meaning but distracted husband with charm, while Felicity Jones and Chloe Grace Moretz embody the distinct quirks of adult siblings navigating their own lives. Dominic Sessa adds quiet vulnerability as Sammy, while Jason Schwartzman steals scenes as Doug, Channing’s overly eager husband desperate for Taylor’s approval—much to her annoyance.
Behind the Scenes
Michael Showalter’s direction infuses the film with the comforting feel of classic Christmas comedies, balancing charm with simplicity so it could slot seamlessly into any decade. Though the domestic hijinks feel milder compared to louder holiday fare, they are grounded in character-driven humor, giving the ensemble space to play. Danielle Brooks makes a delightful, if brief, appearance as a courier driver, a testament to the film’s knack for memorable cameos.
The screenplay subtly champions the message that behind every joyful Christmas lies someone quietly orchestrating the magic—often without thanks. That theme ensures Oh. What. Fun. feels more than just festive—it’s reflective.
Final Verdict
At a breezy 100 minutes, Oh. What. Fun. is a heartwarming reminder to appreciate the unseen work of those who make the holidays happen. Its plot might travel familiar terrain, but Michelle Pfeiffer’s radiant turn elevates it into something special. Equal parts comedy, comfort, and quietly profound truth, this is a seasonal gem poised for repeat December viewings.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — A charming slice of holiday joy with Pfeiffer at her magnetic best.
Oh. What. Fun. is now streaming on Prime Video.
