This Christmas 2007
Directed by
Preston A. Whitmore II
Made by
Screen Gems
Plot Summary
This film captures the dynamics of a middle-class African-American family as they gather for Christmas after several years apart. The heart of the story unfolds in Ma’dere’s home, played by Loretta Devine, showcasing the complexity and reality of familial ties.
As the family comes together, numerous sensitive topics arise, often leading to heated exchanges—verbal clashes and even a memorable sister-on-sister brawl. Tensions flare as one sister advocates for selling the family’s dry cleaning business to divide the proceeds, while another brother finds himself entangled with loan sharks. Complicating matters further, another sibling is AWOL from the Marine Corps, and one sister has brought along her boyfriend from a historically black college.
Despite the marketing attempts to label it a heartwarming comedy, this film does not shy away from presenting dramatic undertones marked by violence and strong language. It paints a raw and unfiltered portrait of family life, diverging from the typical Hollywood narrative. This is a genuine slice-of-life experience that thoughtfully examines themes pertinent to African-Americans and the broader American experience, illustrating that this family—imperfections included—does not conform to the usual cinematic ideal.
Timeline
Family Reunion
The middle-class African-American family gathers at Ma'dere's home after several years apart. This reunion sets the stage for a deep exploration of their complex relationships and unresolved tensions.
Awkward Conversations Begin
As the family comes together, sensitive topics begin to surface, creating an atmosphere charged with emotional undercurrents. Initial conversations hint at deeper issues that will soon lead to conflict.
Heated Exchanges Arise
The family dynamic quickly escalates into verbal clashes as differing views on family matters come to light. These exchanges reveal the underlying resentments each family member carries.
The Sisterly Brawl
In a surprising turn of events, a memorable sister-on-sister brawl erupts during the gathering. This confrontation symbolizes the deep-seated frustrations and unresolved issues that exist between them.
The Business Dispute
One sister proposes selling the family's dry cleaning business to split the proceeds, sparking fierce disagreements. This proposition highlights the family's differing priorities and their struggle over financial security.
Brothers' Troubles
One brother reveals his entanglement with loan sharks, leading to concerns about his safety and financial situation. This revelation adds another layer of drama to the already tense family gathering.
AWOL Marine Sibling
The family's dilemma deepens as they come to grips with another sibling being AWOL from the Marine Corps. This issue raises questions about duty, honor, and family loyalty amid the challenges they face.
Introducing the Boyfriend
A sister's introduction of her boyfriend from a historically black college adds another layer of complexity to the family dynamics. His presence introduces new perspectives and challenges from outside the family circle.
Moments of Reflection
Amidst the chaos, characters take moments to reflect on their lives, revealing their personal struggles and aspirations. These reflections serve as poignant reminders of their individual journeys and the family's collective history.
Violent Climax
As tensions reach a breaking point, the family experiences a violent confrontation that shatters any illusions of a harmonious Christmas. This pivotal moment encapsulates the film's raw portrayal of family dynamics.
Aftermath of Conflict
Following the violent clash, family members grapple with the fallout of their actions. This moment becomes a catalyst for them to confront their underlying issues head-on.
Path to Reconciliation
In the wake of the chaos, the family begins to engage in conversations aimed at understanding one another. This path towards reconciliation is filled with vulnerability, allowing for healing to occur.
Embracing Imperfections
The family acknowledges their flaws and imperfections, realizing the importance of accepting one another as they truly are. This acceptance marks a significant step in their relationship, showcasing growth.
New Beginnings
As the Christmas gathering comes to a close, the family members consider the lessons learned from their tumultuous experience. They look towards new beginnings, united by the bonds of family despite their differences.
Characters
Ma'dere
Ma'dere is the matriarch of the family, embodying strength and resilience amidst the chaos of family dynamics. She serves as the glue that holds the family together, even as tensions rise during their holiday gathering. Through her character, we see the struggles of managing familial expectations and the burden of unspoken issues.
Sister
One of the sisters serves as a voice for change, advocating for the sale of the family business to redistribute wealth among siblings. Her character adds a layer of complexity, showcasing how business and family can conflict. She's determined, but her actions also spark significant family disputes.
Brother
The brother entangled with loan sharks represents the struggles many face in trying to balance familial responsibilities with personal challenges. His character arc highlights the effects of financial pressure on family relationships, showcasing his vulnerability beneath a tough exterior.
Setting
Time period
Christmas Season
The story unfolds during the Christmas season, a time known for family reunions and celebrations. However, this particular Christmas is tinged with tension and unresolved conflicts, as the characters confront their pasts and present issues. The festive period serves as a backdrop for both reconciliation and conflict.
Location
Ma'dere's home
Ma'dere's home serves as the central gathering place for the family, symbolizing their roots and shared history. It is traditionally a space filled with warmth and memories but also becomes a battleground for unresolved issues and familial disputes. This location encapsulates the complexity of relationships within a middle-class African-American setting.
Themes
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Family Dynamics
The film explores intricate family dynamics, showcasing the love, tension, and conflicts that can arise when family members reunite. It highlights the challenges of communication and the latent issues that emerge when long-separated family members come together. The authenticity of these relationships reflects real-life experiences many can relate to.
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Conflict
Conflict serves as a central theme, with family members engaging in heated discussions and confrontations. The physical and verbal altercations illustrate the emotional stakes involved in their relationships. This theme underscores the reality that family gatherings are not always harmonious and can often lead to chaos.
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Cultural Identity
The film delves into the cultural identity of African-American families, showcasing their unique experiences and challenges. It presents a narrative that strays from typical Hollywood portrayals, offering a raw snapshot of life that resonates with the audience. This theme emphasizes the richness of their cultural background and the complexities of their lives.
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