In a refreshing twist on holiday films, Michelle Pfeiffer stars as Claire Clauster in the new Amazon Prime Video comedy “Oh. What. Fun.” Directed by Michael Showalter, known for his previous work on “The Idea of You,” the film offers a humorous yet poignant look at family dynamics during the festive season.
Set against the backdrop of Christmas, Claire feels overlooked and unappreciated by her family. Her husband, played by Denis Leary, and their three adult children leave her behind in a surprising turn reminiscent of “Home Alone.” Frustrated, Claire decides to take matters into her own hands, embarking on a chaotic adventure that includes shoplifting and crashing a live Christmas Day talk show hosted by Eva Longoria.
Exploring Family Tensions and Humor
The film delves into the complexities of familial relationships, showcasing Claire’s struggles and misadventures. Showalter expressed his admiration for 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 ensemble cast features a mix of comedic and dramatic talents, including Felicity Jones, Jason Schwartzman, Dominic Sessa, and Chloe Grace Moretz. Each character brings a unique perspective to the holiday chaos. Moretz plays Taylor, who introduces a new girlfriend each Christmas as a buffer against her unpredictable family. Sessa’s character, Sammy, navigates a broken heart just before the holiday, struggling to connect with his family.
Reflecting on the film’s production, Showalter noted the challenges of filming in Atlanta during July, when temperatures often soar above 30 degrees Celsius. The team cleverly set the story in Houston, allowing them to avoid heavy winter attire in the sweltering heat. The Clauster home was filmed in a Buckhead residence, reminiscent of the iconic McAllister house from “Home Alone.”
Character Dynamics and Nostalgic Moments
Claire’s neighbor, Jeanne Wang-Wasserman, adds a layer of tension to the story. Portrayed by veteran actress Joan Chen, Jeanne’s subtle snobbery aggravates Claire’s feelings of neglect. Showalter highlighted Chen’s comedic timing, stating, “Joan was someone who could match up with Michelle. She’s a comic genius.”
One standout scene features Sammy and a new acquaintance dancing joyfully in a bar, set to No Doubt’s cover of “It’s My Life.” Showalter reflected on the nostalgic tone of this moment, saying, “It feels very nostalgic. It takes me back to movies from the ‘80s and my own childhood.”
Overall, “Oh. What. Fun.” captures the essence of family, frustration, and the spirit of the holiday season. The film is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, offering viewers a blend of humor and heart as they navigate the complexities of family life during Christmas.
