Reese Witherspoon’s Festive Romp with Jon Voight Hits HBO Max

Warner Bros. is preparing for a major merger with Netflix, following an $82.7 billion agreement. Yet, before the transition is complete, several of the studio’s seasonal classics have made a temporary home on HBO Max. Among these is the riotous 2008 comedy Four Christmases, featuring Reese Witherspoon and Jon Voight—Angelina Jolie’s father—just in time for the festive period.

The story centres on Brad and Kate, played by Vince Vaughn and Witherspoon, a couple who have made it their annual tradition to avoid family gatherings at all costs. When their plans for a sun-soaked getaway are unexpectedly cancelled, they find themselves obliged to visit each of their four divorced parents in a single day, unearthing old grievances and sparking fresh chaos along the way.

Critical Reception and On-Set Tensions

Upon its original release, Four Christmases was met with a rather frosty reception from critics, earning a mere 25% on Rotten Tomatoes. Much of the criticism was directed at the lack of chemistry between the leads. Reports later surfaced that Witherspoon and Vaughn’s off-screen disagreements were so pronounced that it affected their performances.

“Their real-life disagreements affected the filming in such a way that it glared through the screen, affecting the film’s reception among fans and critics.”

The situation escalated to the point where Witherspoon allegedly refused to film a romantic scene with Vaughn, further fuelling the negative press.

Despite the critical drubbing, audiences responded quite differently. The film’s depiction of awkward family reunions and relatable holiday mishaps struck a chord with viewers, transforming it into a seasonal staple. Financially, it was a resounding success, grossing $168 million worldwide—more than double its $80 million budget.

What Sets This Festive Comedy Apart

Unlike the typical sugar-coated Christmas fare, Four Christmases leans into the pandemonium of family life during the holidays. The film’s honesty about the stress and discomfort of such gatherings has made it resonate with many. Its ensemble cast, including Robert Duvall, Sissy Spacek, Mary Steenburgen, and Jon Favreau, brings a variety of comic disasters to Brad and Kate’s journey, effectively creating four mini-dramas within one film.

Each parent introduces a new layer of mayhem, ensuring that the story never loses momentum. Beneath the slapstick and farce, there’s a genuine message about commitment, family, and honesty. As Brad and Kate confront their own histories, they come to a deeper understanding of what truly matters, leaving viewers with both laughter and a touch of warmth.

Enduring Appeal and Streaming Availability

Over the years, Four Christmases has cemented its place as a holiday favourite, thanks in large part to its willingness to embrace the less-than-perfect side of family celebrations. The film’s blend of chaos and heart, coupled with a memorable cast, has ensured its continued popularity each December.

Now available to stream on HBO Max, the film invites a new generation to experience its unique take on festive traditions. Whether it’s the sharp wit, the relatable family squabbles, or the underlying sentiment, there’s something in this comedy for anyone who’s ever survived a family Christmas.