A Boy Called Christmas

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2:32

A Boy Called Christmas

2021

1h 46m

Kids & Family

Holiday

Adventure

Drama

Fantasy

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Tomatometer

Popcornmeter

84%

Tomatometer

31 Reviews

62%

Popcornmeter

250+ Ratings

An ordinary young boy called Nikolas sets out on an extraordinary adventure into the snowy north in search of his father who is on a quest to discover the fabled village of the elves, Elfhelm. Taking with him a headstrong reindeer called Blitzen and a loyal pet mouse, Nikolas soon meets his destiny in this magical, comic and endearing story that proves nothing is impossible. Adapted from the bestselling book by Matt Haig.

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Critics Consensus

A Boy Called Christmas offers few surprises, but makes up for its lack of originality with a heaping helping of winsome holiday spirit.

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Stephen Romei

The Australian

Dec 11, 2021

3.5/5

This is a big-hearted movie about kindness, which, as Nikolas reminds his dad, costs nothing but is worth so much.

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Christy Lemire

FilmWeek (LAist)

Dec 1, 2021

It's light, playful, and knowingly anachronistic without being obnoxious.

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Clarisse Loughrey

Independent (UK)

Nov 28, 2021

4/5

Kenan has done a better job here of mining the comforts of childhood nostalgia than he did on the recent Ghostbusters: Afterlife, which he co-wrote.

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Joe Flockhart

Loud and Clear Reviews

Mar 2, 2026

3.5/5

Gil Kenan’s A Boy Called Christmas is a sweet, gorgeous winter fantasy – perfect for children if somewhat lacking for adults.

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Aaron Phillips

But Why Tho?

Jan 16, 2023

8.5/10

A Boy Called Christmas was a surprising hit for me, and I urge you and your families to put this film at the top of your must-watch list.

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Tom Beasley

Flickering Myth

Dec 16, 2021

2/5

It's a film that leaves you yearning to delve into the riches of its unknown worlds, but lacks the propulsion to actually get the audience there.

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diogo13 T

@Tua_mera Jul 15, 2026

This reimagining of Santa Claus's origins is overflowing with magic, impressive visual effects, and a very well-crafted, welcoming atmosphere. Although the script is quite predictable and draws heavily on clichés from other well-known fantasy stories, it remains a competent and charming family entertainment.

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Blake- N

@PBSAniDom May 11, 2026

A Boy Called Christmas is a great holiday film on Netflix that brings a fresh and imaginative take on a festive origin story. It captures the spirit of Christmas in a warm and engaging way. The visuals are charming and the world-building feels magical without being overwhelming. It has a cozy tone that makes it easy to get absorbed into, especially during the holiday season. The characters are heartfelt and the story balances adventure with emotion nicely. It keeps things simple but effective, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults. Overall, it’s a wholesome and uplifting watch that fits perfectly into seasonal viewing. I rate it an 8/10.

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Matthew C

@mattucee Dec 27, 2025

I appreciated that there was no mention of Jesus, or even Saint Nicholas. It was all about its own mythology!

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marcia k

@silllyme Dec 22, 2025

Absolutely wonderful movie. Full of love and hope.

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Daniel F

@mrdan124 Dec 19, 2025

Great Christmas movie. Full of heart. Perfect to get you in a festive mood. Kristin Wig is great and the boy is wonderful.

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Abigail H

@AbbyHuang15 Dec 19, 2025

Never heard of a boy called Christmas who makes your heartwarmth and joy. That looks wonderful! In the beginning, Aunt Ruth invited to their children to tell a story about Nikolas. I don't know, Nikolas could have been impressed by his father, and a father still alive, they could believe Nikolas could ride with his reindeer named Blitzen and his buddy named Miika. He could always impress by rescuing Little Kip all the way home to Elfhem. Awesome Impressive! I can't believe it, you have to watch it again, anyway.

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Gil Kenan

Director

Henry Lawfull

Nikolas

Stephen Merchant

Miika

Michiel Huisman

Joel

Zoe Margaret Colletti

The Truth Pixie

Kristen Wiig

Aunt Carlotta

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A Boy Called Christmas: Trailer 1

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A Boy Called Christmas: Teaser Trailer

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Synopsis

An ordinary young boy called Nikolas sets out on an extraordinary adventure into the snowy north in search of his father who is on a quest to discover the fabled village of the elves, Elfhelm. Taking with him a headstrong reindeer called Blitzen and a loyal pet mouse, Nikolas soon meets his destiny in this magical, comic and endearing story that proves nothing is impossible. Adapted from the bestselling book by Matt Haig.

Director: Gil Kenan
Producer: Graham Broadbent, Peter Czernin
Screenwriter: Ol Parker, Gil Kenan, Matt Haig, Ol Parker, Gil Kenan
Production Co: Studio Canal, Netflix, Blueprint Pictures
Genre: Kids & Family, Holiday, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
Original Language: British English
Release Date (Streaming): Nov 24, 2021
Runtime: 1h 46m

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