A common part of film criticism is judging based on the genre and what the audience expects. Problem is "A Very Murray Christmas," recently out for streaming on Netflix, probably has a number of audiences, each with different expectations. It succeeds in satisfying only some of these expectations.
The plot is basically irrelevant: Bill Murray had planned to have a Christmas special, but a snow storm means he can't shoot the thing and some of his guests can't arrive. Murray goes around trying to cheer up himself and his guests that did arrive in the hotel they are staying at. Songs ensue. So, so many songs ensue. These songs will let it satisfy at least one audience: people, probably mingling at a Christmas party, who want to hear their favorite celebrities sing songs in the background.
Are the songs good? Well, Christmas songs require cheer more than raw talent, and Murray and friends know how to bring cheer. I smiled through most of the special, although I'm pretty sure, when all was sung and done, my heart only grew 1.5 sizes that day. Just expect songs worthy of mall radio rotation for the next dozen years and you'll be content.
Like many holiday specials, this one comes bursting with celebrity guest stars. I shouldn’t have to tell you that Bill Murray can attract some of Hollywood’s biggest stars when he calls. I could tell you who shows up, some of whom are quite pleasant surprises, but I think that misses the point of the special. OK, I’ll name one to prove my point. Sure, if you’re a fan of Chris Rock, it’s fun to see him show up here and have a song, but I wouldn’t say Chris Rock specific fans are going to go nuts over the whole show. It’s Bill Murray’s world, and they’re all just living (and having a great time) in it.
Which is what it comes down to, really. How much do you love Bill Murray? For most of the celebrities on the special and a great many people out there, the answer is all the love. Me, personally, I like him quite a bit without adoring him. Many parts of the special were funny, really funny even, but not in the way that I’ll remember the jokes a year from now, so fondly that I’ll want to re-watch it as part of my holiday tradition.
All my blather about audiences aside, is this a Christmas movie you’ll enjoy watching? Let me put it this way: as charming as Bill Murray and guests are, if you aren’t yet in the Christmas spirit, I don’t think this will be the film to nudge you into it. However, if you’re already in the mood for festive holiday films, already watched Jimmy Stewart run down his streets and visited the island of misfit toys, you’ll enjoy this. It’s worth a watch for Bill Murray super fans, and maybe worth a gander for you general Christmas elves—especially in the background while you’re talking to people at a holiday party.
