8-Bit Christmas (2021) Review

"8 Bit Christmas," is a 2021 HBO Max film that some say is a rip-off of "A Christmas Story." But is it really?

"8 Bit Christmas" follows a familiar plot: a child obsessing over a specific Christmas gift. Isn't that a universally relatable theme? Both films capture the essence of childhood and the thrill of holiday wishes. While "A Christmas Story" romanticizes the 1940s, "8 Bit Christmas" does the same for the 1980s, delivering a heartfelt homage rather than a cheap imitation.

The movie is filled with great jokes, a good cast, and genuine heart, offering a refreshing change of pace for modern holiday films. It even sticks the landing with a satisfying ending, unlike many contemporary Christmas movies. The film's ability to stay true to its style throughout is commendable, avoiding the clichéd "power of Christmas spirit" trope.

This movie gets bonus points from me for its Chicago setting.

No, it's not the best movie of the year, but it's enjoyable and worth watching, especially if you're tired of the same old holiday classics. If you didn't like "8 Bit Christmas" for other reasons, that's understandable, but its core story isn't one of its flaws.

I like to give Christmas movies time to breath before I review them. A lot of Christmas classics, like “A Christmas Story” and “Elf” were panned at release, but have become apart of regular holiday viewings. I’ve now watched 8-Bit Christmas several times and feel like it’s a great update to the classic “kid really wants gift”story that we so often see.

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