The Fitzgerald Family Christmas (2012)

best movie i've ever seen.

Best movie ever!

Awesome Movie

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

--WARNING: There may be some spoilers ahead for those who haven't seen the film, so just a heads up. In order to accurately review this film, it may be necessary to talk about some key moments.--For anyone familiar with any of Edward Burns previous films, The Fitzgerald Family Christmas should be a welcome addition to his quirky & modest-budget collection of films centered around individuals living out complicated and dramatic lives in New York. Nothing new stands out, and most of the cast from his previous film 'Newlyweds' reside in this ensemble tale of eight siblings coming together to celebrate Christmas Day with their mother who has just received word through Gerry, her go to son (played by Burns) that their father, who has remained estranged from most of the family for 20 years, wants to reconnect for one last holiday with his whole family. It's been told before, but never with such a melancholy chaos and whimsically dark, almost satirical tone that only Burns can conjure up.It is much less of a holiday family film, and much more of a portrait of a family during the holidays. Though it cannot be recommended to many primarily due to it's emphasis on these darker elements with little genuine character progression or satisfying resolve, it's not the events in the film that keep it interesting, but the desire to see this family pull through and arrive at a Merry Christmas, even if this future occurrence rarely feels truly threatened throughout the film. If you're looking for a surprise here and there, that's not the point of this film. It's about a family that most can relate to in some way and how Burns anchors down all his siblings through their desires to find happiness in a complicated and confusing family. Burns love interest feels forced, but his character is deserving enough of her kind heart that it's easy to forgive. The sappy ending is less bittersweet than expected, and in spite of it's shortcomings through a lack of genuine action and character development, it's still an enjoyable film to pass the time with.

The many talent's of Edward Burns as screenwriter, director and actor were abundantly evident in this film. Everything from the cast of characters, choice of location, simple but powerful lighting and suburb directing makes this a memorable "family relationship" Christmas classic.The script was written, and intended, as adult entertainment due to the use of language not appropriate for children. But, by doing that Mr. Burns was able to avoid the classic failure of your typical family Christmas film that often ends up as either "sugar mush" or absurd comedy. You know the ones I referring to, they're often found on the Hallmark Chanel at Christmas time.I take my hat off to Edward Burns this film "The Fitzgerald family Christmas" is among my favorite Holiday movies of all times along with the "Christmas Story" and "It's a wonderful Life" All three rate 10 out of 10.

Well, you can tell from my screen name that I'm part of the Irish American tribe. All I can say is that there is a lot of truth in this film. While there is a good deal of family dysfunction being dealt with here, there is also a moving portrayal of how love can transcend hurt if you let it. Believe me, been there, done that, in the same environment that Ed Burns comes from. I know these people and this film, while maybe a little exaggerated, was very real. Definitely worth a viewing, even if your not Irish. Compared to most other Christmas films, there is not a trace of false sentimentality in this picture, but it is warm and heartfelt.

Loved this movie! Having grown up Irish on Long Island, in a broken family, I can vouch for its authenticity. From the kitschy plastic Christmas decorations on the front lawn to the tough slang of the brothers, it's L.I. all the way.In the movie, the father left the family 20 years ago, and now comes back and expects to spend Christmas with his"family" again--his ex-wife and seven children--even though many want nothing to do with him.The film has a great natural flow, and it's charming throughout. It was great to see Ed Burns again and he's picked a great ensemble for his movie. I haven't seen many of his movies but plan to catch up.