The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Movie Review

Movies

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor 

Mommy Blog Expert 

 

A New Family Comedy in Theaters

The movie The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024, Rated PG) family friendly comedy film opens in theaters in nationwide on November 8. 

A Christmas Film for Kids and Parents

In a world that can feel like it’s moving at a lightning pace, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever offers a relevant, refreshing and beautiful pause at this time of year -- a warm reminder of old-fashioned virtues that transcend time across the generations. This movie adaptation of Barbara Robinson’s beloved book resonates with moms and dads who will see the potential for good in every child, no matter how "bad" they might seem at a glance. For those celebrating Christmas, both parents and kids alike, viewers will also take away values that they can bring with them into the upcoming holiday season. 

The story, which takes place during Christmastime, follows the six Herdman siblings—Ralph, Imogene, Leroy, Claude, Ollie, and Gladys -- an eccentric, scrappy, and notorious group of kids whose rowdy ways have earned them a reputation in their small town. But when they unexpectedly audition for the town’s annual Christmas pageant, which has been performed for the past 100 years, they turn tradition on its head in the most hilarious and heartwarming way.

Known for their rebellious ways, the Herdmans come across as anything but sweet, innocent, and angelic, yet the film invites viewers, both kids and grownups, to look deeper. As they learn about the Christmas story and get caught up in the magic of the season, these wild ones surprise everyone, including themselves, showing a glimpse of their own capacities for kindness, bravery, and, yes, goodness.

In the role of Grace Bradley, the courageous and warm-hearted mother who takes on the daunting task of directing the pageant, we see Allison Tolman (known for her award-winning performance in Fargo and Why Women Kill). Tolman brings a delightful mix of compassion and strength as she battles through her doubts to help the Herdmans and the entire community navigate toward seeing the good in everyone.

Scenes from this New Movie . . .

Each Herdman Kid Offers Something Unique

• Ralph Herdman (Mason Thames, known for The Black Phone) is the eldest and takes on a slightly reluctant leadership role. With a scowl that hides his vulnerability, Ralph’s character begins to thaw as he learns that kindness can be powerful, not necessarily a trait showing weakness.   
• Imogene Herdman (Brooklynn Prince, from The Florida Project) is sassy and fearless, with a reputation for stealing. Yet, she’s also incredibly smart and resourceful. Her portrayal as Mary in the pageant becomes one of the film’s most touching transformations, revealing Imogene’s ability to care deeply when given the chance.
• Leroy Herdman (Roman Griffin Davis of Jojo Rabbit fame) is mischievous and adventurous, quick to fight but also fiercely loyal to his siblings. Davis’s portrayal captures a playful, impish side that audiences will find both amusing and endearing.
• Claude Herdman (Jacob Tremblay, well-known for both Room and Wonder) is quieter than his siblings but has a knack for getting into trouble just the same. Tremblay brings depth to Claude, showcasing a kid who’s lost and simply looking for a place where he can feel he belongs.
• Ollie Herdman (Iain Armitage, Young Sheldon) brings an intellectual curiosity mixed with a wild streak that often leads to some pretty chaotic situations. Armitage’s comedic timing is spot-on, adding a layer of humor while also displaying Ollie’s softer side.
• Gladys Herdman (McKenna Grace, known for Ghostbusters: Afterlife) is the youngest and most energetic of the group, famous for her shrill cries and dramatic antics. As the “angel” in the pageant, her enthusiasm adds a hilarious twist to her role, showing that even the smallest Herdman has a heart of gold.

With this well-rounded cast of young talents and seasoned grownup actors, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever captures the humor, challenges, and revelations that come when people from different walks of life come together. Through the antics of the Herdman kids, we see that every child -- even those labeled as "troublemakers" -- has the potential for positive change.

What makes this movie a gem is its dedication to showcasing old-fashioned values without feeling preachy or outdated. These are morals rooted in compassion, understanding, and forgiveness -- qualities that the younger generation, so often glued to their smartphones and screens, might need a little reminder of now ad then. Through the antics of the Herdman youngsters, we see that every child, even those labeled as "troublemakers," has the potential for meaningful growth that leads to positive change.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever isn’t just a feel-good holiday flick; it's a call to parents and children alike to slow down, look beyond labels, and find the goodness that’s often hiding in plain sight. This heartwarming, family-friendly story serves as a sweet reminder that sometimes all it takes is a little patience and understanding to bring out the best in each other, especially during the holiday season.

More About The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

See a preview of this film by watching the official movie trailer. Also learn more about The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, visit the movie website and follow @bestchristmaspageantever, @lionsgate, and @kingdomstorycompany on Facebook and Instagram. Buy tickets now to see this film with your family at a local theater near you.

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing screening access to facilitate this movie review. Opinions are 100% my own.