Christmas with the Kranks (2004)

5% of critics liked it
(132 reviews)
45% of users liked it
(92,393 ratings)

Based on John Grisham's novel Skipping Christmas, Christmas With the Kranks revolves around Nora (Jamie Lee Curtis) and Luther Krank's (Tim Allen) decision to put their normally fanatical enthusiasm for the holidays aside for a tropical cruise. With their daughter in Peru with the Peace Corps, the… More Based on John Grisham's novel Skipping Christmas, Christmas With the Kranks revolves around Nora (Jamie Lee Curtis) and Luther Krank's (Tim Allen) decision to put their normally fanatical enthusiasm for the holidays aside for a tropical cruise. With their daughter in Peru with the Peace Corps, the Kranks believe it just isn't worth it; thus, no presents, Christmas trees, or decorations of any kind will adorn their house to the great consternation of their neighbor Vic (Dan Aykroyd). Just as it looks like Christmas will be successfully skipped, Blair (Julie Gonzalo) throws a major kink into her plans when she suddenly has a change of heart and announces she'll be coming home for Christmas after all. The film ran into troubles early on in production when Ben Affleck's similar sounding bomb Surviving Christmas won the race to the theaters, forcing the filmmakers to depart from the book title in favor of the catchy Kranks one. ~ Tracie Cooper, Rovi

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Rating, Runtime: PG, 1 hr. 39 min.
Directed By: Joe Roth
Written By: Chris Columbus, John Grisham
Genres: Comedy

In Theaters: Nov 24, 2004 Wide
On DVD: Nov 8, 2005
Studio: Sony Pictures

Critic Reviews

J. R. Jones, Chicago Reader
In any normal year this dire comedy would be the undisputed lump of coal in our psychic stocking, but coming on the heels of Surviving Christmas, it's a close second.
Richard Roeper, Ebert & Roeper
I'm making my list of the worst movies of the year and I'm checking it twice, and I hope to find room for this frantically unfunny disaster.
Susan Walker, Toronto Star
Hollywood's version of the annual Hallmark Ho-ho-ho card. It's made to order: just slot in the perennial Mr. Santa Claus himself, Tim Allen, and stir.
Stephanie Zacharek, Salon.com
Purports to kindle the warm glow of love for humankind in our hearts but actually reaffirms that the trappings of the holiday season are all that really matter.
Michael O'Sullivan, Washington Post
Stinks like the unrefrigerated ham its studio sent me as a promotion several months ago.
Stephen Hunter, Washington Post
A leaden whimsy so heavy it threatens to crash through the multiplex floor.
Nell Minow, Common Sense Media
Unoriginal, unfunny slapstick holiday fare.
Richard Luck, Film4
Christmas With The Kranks is the sort of film that leaves you thinking Ebenezer Scrooge might have had the right idea about the festive season.
Felix Vasquez Jr., Cinema Crazed
A grueling experience.
Urban Cinefile Critics, Urban Cinefile
The notion of bullying people into succumbing into the trappings of Christmas does not necessarily represent goodwill to all, and while the situations present good comic opportunities, the film ends up feeling rather manipulative and sugary.
Kam Williams, Ellsworth American
Some pathetically predictable plot twists and syrupy sentimentality, which could only amuse a five year-old, lead the Kranks back to their materialistic senses in time for a Kodak moment which shouts a rather shallow Merry Capitalism to all!
Prairie Miller, WBAI Web Radio
A more sweet than sour satire that sets its sight on nasty but lavishly honey coated underpinnings of the holiday season.
Anna Smith, Time Out
With clumsy sight gags the only humour on offer, the temptation to mutter 'Bah humbug' is overwhelming.
Jeffrey M. Anderson, Combustible Celluloid
There is not a single lifelike character in the entire picture.
Anna Smith, Empire Magazine
[A] comedy so broad it barely dents its targets and a patronising moral conclusion that goes against everything its protagonists originally stood for.
James Plath, Movie Metropolis
Tries to plug into honest emotions, but only comes across as being as plastic as those giant outdoor snowmen.
Keith Phipps, AV Club
This isn't a wonderful life: It looks pretty hellish.
Fred Topel, MovieWeb
It is a perfectly fine, inoffensive family comedy.
Mark Pfeiffer, Reel Times: Reflections on Cinema
What better way is there to get into a festive spirit than having it crammed down your throat?
Brian Juergens, Freeze Dried Movies
...almost had me convinced to convert to Judaism to avoid having to go through anything ever again that even remotely resembles this movie.

Read all 22 critic reviews

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Featured Audience Ratings

Anthony L

I liked the premise of this film, I think it had huge potential, albeit for an alternative Christmas film. It soon got silly and far-fetched though and gets everything wrong. I expect nothing more from Tim Allen - who actually looks bored throughout, but Jamie Lee Curtis really… More
I liked the premise of this film, I think it had huge potential, albeit for an alternative Christmas film. It soon got silly and far-fetched though and gets everything wrong. I expect nothing more from Tim Allen - who actually looks bored throughout, but Jamie Lee Curtis really doesn't do herself any favours with this, the worst performance of her career (although she still has a great rack - thank God she got them out, maybe that was only reason she was cast!?). It actually took away all the Christmas spirit I had in me and made me want to pull down the tree I'd just put up. It actually highlights all that is wrong with Christmas (and dare I say it, America) and confuses community with conformity. I guess we're all going to hell then. Was this really written by John Grisham?
Brad W

A terrible christmas film and really boring.
Bently L

Christmas Movie Review Mania Episode #14: Christmas With the Kranks Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis' "Christmas With the Kranks" is indeed cliched and predictable. I'm going to tell you the truth...I LIKE THIS MOVIE. You'll probably never hear me say that… More
Christmas Movie Review Mania Episode #14: Christmas With the Kranks Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis' "Christmas With the Kranks" is indeed cliched and predictable. I'm going to tell you the truth...I LIKE THIS MOVIE. You'll probably never hear me say that again to a movie that has 5% on the Tomatometer. Luther and Laura Krank don't know how to spend Christmas with their daughter, Blair, out of the country. Luther insists Laura that they take a vaction on a 10-day cruise across the Carribean. There's just one thing they have to do...SKIP CHRISTMAS. However when the neighbor's hear of the Krank's plan, they strongly urge them to get back in the Yuletide mood. But they better be quick because Blair is unexpectedly coming home for Christmas with her fiance! I like this movie because it is funny. Tim Allen can really pull off a Christmas movie. Take the "Santa Clause" movies for an example. Jamie Lee Curtis is also very wackey and hilarious. Dan Ackroyd is funny in the film as well. There are a few children in the film that are poor actors but who cares about them? I DON'T! "Christmas With the Kranks" is either a like-it or hate-it. But from my perspective, I like it. I always watch this one during Christmas. "But its not even Saturday night."
Luke B

This film had a strange effect on me. It was so excruciatingly bad that I turned into an absolute Grinch. Allen was so out of time with his comedic quips, that I had to replay his dialogue in my mind to be sure it was supposed to be a joke. The film has typical holiday mishaps. None… More
This film had a strange effect on me. It was so excruciatingly bad that I turned into an absolute Grinch. Allen was so out of time with his comedic quips, that I had to replay his dialogue in my mind to be sure it was supposed to be a joke. The film has typical holiday mishaps. None of these amount to any classic moments. The first half misses out on doing some excellent parody, as the neighbours increase their creepiness. This would have been a great time to send-up some of the horror greats. Unfortunately, as much effort is put into this film, as the Kranks put into Christmas themselves. It's also hard to feel anything for characters used to giving $600 a year to charities. They are obviously financially well-off, so skipping Christmas doesn't seem like much of a sacrifice. The odd part comes at the very end. A moment of pure Christmas bliss, which is so touching my heart grew three times larger. It made me wonder if the film was supposed to be this bad, for the impact of these last scenes. The genuine concern and sorrow as Allen hears about his neighbour unable to walk across the street is rather moving. This film needed more moments such as this, rather than focusing on the mishaps of putting up decorations, and shopping around this time of year. Been there, done that.
Richard C

C-
Dead A

This wasn't funny. Only the botox part was a bit of laugh. But other than that this movie was watchable.
KJ P

One of the worst christmas movies I've ever seen!
Wahida K

A bunch of Comedians with a Bunch of Troubles coming together in Christmas. This is a good lols flick.
Sarah G

Director:Joe Roth Released: 2004 Stars: Tim Allen, Jamie Lee-Curtis and Dan Aykroyd Genre: Comedy Country: USA When Luther and Nora Krank's only daughter leaves and goes… More
Director:Joe Roth Released: 2004 Stars: Tim Allen, Jamie Lee-Curtis and Dan Aykroyd Genre: Comedy Country: USA When Luther and Nora Krank's only daughter leaves and goes to another country they both decide to skip Christmas this year and spend it on a cruise. Now they must survive, facing their neighbors, a house decorations contest and carolers. But when their daughter calls on Christmas eve and says shes coming home for Christmas, the Kranks really get into the meaning of Holiday Rush when they have 12 hours to get Christmas set up for their daughter and her fiancée. I only really sat and watched this because it was on TV and because it's christmas after all. With hundreds of films on I couldn't really care less about the quality of the film around this holiday season, as long as I am enjoying what I've seeing-even if the story is pretty predicatble. Despite the blow par plot and several rushed scenes I did sit and enjoy this one. You'd think that having a screenplay written by the great crime writer, John Grisham, would make the director keep to the script. Well not exactly. It seems like it's been written with the assumption that every audience member has read the book, which was something I noticed. For examples he characters aren't developed and scenes seem to move on very quickly. Having said all that the film still maintains that christmas feeling that just keep you watching. For instance characters expressing their love for christmas clearly is something that will speak to audiences and keep them watching. You feeling what the character feels is something that I think is the heart of this christmas film. Considering it wasn't that great of a film, which is something! The film contains a pretty good cast. with the likes of Jamie Lee Curtis, Tim-I've been in way too many christmas films Allen, Dan Akroyd and M.Emmet Walsh. The cast I think is another thing that will keep ou watching. Like I said before, dring the christmas season, I will pretty much any christmas related film that's on the televison-regardless of quality. I'm sure you are the same. Overall, not the greatest of films but will keep you watching if you watch it during the Christmas season and no other time in the year. Look out for a scene in a tanning parlour, which I must admit I did laugh at. 5/10
Cassandra M

I saw the film Christmas with the Kranks for the first time in theatres. I now own it. I really liked it, Based on John Grisham´s "Skipping Christmas", I´d prefer the book but the movie it´s great too, It was a light, funny, laid back movie. I don't know why so many… More
I saw the film Christmas with the Kranks for the first time in theatres. I now own it. I really liked it, Based on John Grisham´s "Skipping Christmas", I´d prefer the book but the movie it´s great too, It was a light, funny, laid back movie. I don't know why so many people disliked it. I think that you have to have a certain sense of humour to think it was funny. I thought the plot was very entertaining and yes heartwarming. What's wrong with a heartwarming film about spreading Christmas joy. Why is it so unrealistic? Is it really impossible anymore for people to be nice to one another? To be thoughtful. I think this film portrays the values of enjoying the little things and simple things in life and perhaps this is why people automatically think this movie is clumsy because they don't enjoy and embrace the little things and therefore they are quick to say these certain situations are unrealistic. All films are a little unrealistic. So what. Like ?Lord of the Rings? is realistic? come on folks. lighten up.
Candy R

The Kranks (Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis) have celebrated Christmas for over 20 years but when their daughter goes to Peru over Christmas, they decide to skip Christmas and go on a cruise. There is discontent from their neighbours and friends. However, their daughter decides to come… More
The Kranks (Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis) have celebrated Christmas for over 20 years but when their daughter goes to Peru over Christmas, they decide to skip Christmas and go on a cruise. There is discontent from their neighbours and friends. However, their daughter decides to come home and they have to make up with everyone and get themselves ready for Christmas. Funny movie, Good cast.
Chris G

Typical rip-off of National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. Why does Tim Allen do so many Christmas movies?
Film C

this was reli shit and was very pointless its the type of film that just gets on your nerves they star getting bullied because they havent put up christmas decorations it is reli shit
danny d

had some decent moments but you sort of felt bad for the cranks the whole time
Roy G

If Christmas means spending it with the irascible, over-the-top Kranks, then taking a Caribbean cruise really does sound like a much better deal.
Stuart B

Is this meant to be a comedy because I wasnt laughing
Bradley W

A terrible christmas film and really boring.
Bryce I

Another holiday comedy, that feels more like a remake than a holly jolly Christmas. But even if this is a remake, I bet that the original would have more laughs even if it was more horrific than this.
Juan C

even with it's moment's, this holiday comedy disaster movie is a ho ho don't! D
Daniel P

My best friend claims this is her favorite film of all time. I think my soul just threw up a little.

Read all 20 featured audience ratings

Cast

            Tim Allen as Luther Krank

            Jamie Lee Curtis as Nora Krank

            Dan Aykroyd as Vic Frohmeyer

            Erik Per Sullivan as Spike Forhmeyer

            Cheech Marin as Officer Salino

            Jake Busey as Officer Treen

            M. Emmet Walsh as Walt Scheel

            Elizabeth Franz as Bev Scheel

            Kevin Chamberlain as Mr. Scanlon

            Tom Poston as Father Zabriskie

            René Lavan as Joanna

            Austin Pendleton as Umbrella Santa/Marty

            Caroline Rhea as Candi

            Patrick Breen as Aubie

            Felicity Huffman as Merry

            Arden Myrin as Daisy

            John Short as Ned Beker

            Julie Gonzalo as Blair Krank

            Bonita Friedericy as Jude Becker

            David Hornsby as Randy Becker

            David L. Lander as Tanning Intruder

            Mark Christopher Lawrence as Wes Trogdon

            J.P. Romano as Mailman

            Vernee Watson-Johnson as Dox

            Doug Cox as Neighbor #1

            Joe Guzaldo as Burglar

            Jan Hoag as Choir Director

            Kim Rhodes as Office Staff

            Dawn Didawick as Shopper

            Matt Walsh as Neighbor #2

            Patrick O'Connor as Office Staff

            Taylor Block as Schoolgirl

            Paul Taylor as Fireman

            Julia Roth as Cashier

            Lyndon Smith as Randy Scanlon

            Ryan Pfening as Gus Scanlon

            Andrew Daly as Husband

            Cary Thompson as Manager

            Eryn Nicole Gonsalves as Schoolgirl

            Chelsea Broussard as Schoolgirl

            Rachel L. Smith as Trish Trogdon

            Eric Per Sullivan
            
            Billy Asher
            
            Raymond Braun
            
            Julie Gonzola
            
See full cast