The holiday season brings a fresh perspective with the release of the new comedy film “Oh. What. Fun.” directed by Michael Showalter, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. The film features Michelle Pfeiffer as Claire Clauster, a mother whose family takes her for granted, prompting her to leave just before Christmas. This quirky twist on the traditional holiday narrative is a departure from typical family films, blending screwball comedy with heartfelt moments.
In “Oh. What. Fun.,” Claire finds herself feeling unappreciated by her husband, portrayed by Denis Leary, and her three adult children. A surprising turn of events occurs when her family inadvertently leaves her behind, reminiscent of the classic film “Home Alone.” The character’s journey takes a comedic turn as she engages in shoplifting and sneaks onto a live Christmas Day talk show hosted by Eva Longoria.
Showalter expressed his excitement about working with Pfeiffer, stating, “Michelle is one of my favorite actresses of all time. She has been in so many movies that I love. This character is funny but is also incredibly human and complicated.” The film’s ensemble cast also includes notable actors such as Jason Schwartzman, Felicity Jones, and Chloe Grace Moretz, each contributing to the rich tapestry of familial dynamics.
Pfeiffer’s character, Claire, navigates her complex family relationships while grappling with feelings of neglect. Moretz plays Taylor, Claire’s daughter who brings home a new girlfriend each Christmas to shield herself from her family’s chaos. Dominic Sessa, who plays Sammy, the youngest son, deals with heartbreak when his girlfriend ends their relationship just before the holiday. “He feels her love is guaranteed and he doesn’t have to work at it or show appreciation for it,” Sessa noted about his character’s struggles.
Filming took place in Atlanta during July, a challenging scenario given the summer heat, with temperatures often reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the discomfort, Showalter found a suitable location for the Clauster residence in Buckhead, a neighborhood that mirrors the iconic McAllister home from “Home Alone.”
The film juxtaposes the Clauster family’s modest home against that of the affluent Wang-Wasserman family, played with flair by veteran actress Joan Chen. The dynamic between Claire and her neighbor, Jeanne Wang-Wasserman, adds another layer of tension, highlighting Claire’s feelings of inadequacy.
One of Showalter’s favorite scenes features Sammy dancing in a bar with a new acquaintance to No Doubt’s cover of “It’s My Life,” set against a montage of other characters experiencing their own transformations. “It feels very nostalgic,” he said, reflecting on the influence of classic films from the 1980s.
Overall, “Oh. What. Fun.” blends humor with relatable family issues, presenting a unique addition to the holiday film genre. As the festive season approaches, audiences can look forward to experiencing Claire Clauster’s hilarious and heartfelt journey, making it a timely watch for families navigating their own dynamics during the holidays.
