The Christmas Project: Family Friendly Movie on the True Christmas Spirit

No matter how hectic the holiday season gets, wouldn’t it be great to find some family-friendly entertainment that captures the true spirit of Christmas? Have you ever heard of The Christmas Project? If not, then I think you and your family will love this charming movie about a group of siblings who learn what values like generosity and kindness truly mean.

When November arrives, it is like the world starts pushing all things Christmas. Stores are packed with Christmas stuff and several TV stations start adding holiday-themed shows to the line-up.

While there are many options out there, some just seem to fall flat.

Maybe it is just one too many of the same cookie-cutter approaches to a holiday film where romance is king.

Or the film has such a loose story you finish it wondering why you wasted hours of your time.

That could be why so many of us have favorite Christmas shows we pull out every year. They are tried and tested and have staying power.

I was provided with advance streaming access to the movie to facilitate this post (originally written in October 2016.) The Christmas Project: Family Friendly Movie on the True Christmas Spirit contains both information provided to me and my own opinions. Affiliate links are present for your shopping convenience.

Summary of The Christmas Project

Christmastime is full of traditions, especially in the Buckley family.

With their home perfectly trimmed for the Christmas season, it is now time to choose a family the four Buckley brothers along with mom and dad will secretly “Elve”.

This year Mom has decided on the Hagbarts, and according to the Buckley boys they are the meanest bullies at their school. Eleven-year-old Matthew can hardly stand it.

By day the Hagbarts torture the Buckley brothers into submission, and by night the Buckleys drop off thoughtful Christmas gifts and treats to their sworn enemies.

What will happen when Matthew is faced with a choice of ultimate revenge or doing good to others?

The Christmas Project is a heartwarming comedy the whole family will enjoy.

You can purchase the DVD now on Amazon, or rent it. The movie was released on November 3, 2016.

For December 2022, you can stream it on Hoopla, Vudu with ads, or Peacock.

Our Thoughts on The Christmas Project

I found the movie cute. My boys and husband? Not as much.

However, I don’t count it as a complete waste of time.

First off, I love to find new holiday films and this one fit the bill.

Secondly, my younger boys were more engaged in watching. And, what they started commenting alongside the movie had me taking note of a few character traits that need a bit of refining.

The biggest issue is that they seriously wanted the bully to get his “just reward” in the form of payback from Matthew.

While there is some logic working in their minds, they know from our family life and faith formation at church that retaliating in violence should not be your first response.

So this is where I find this movie to shine.

Like the afterschool specials I grew up on, The Christmas Project provides mild entertainment while drawing attention to a larger social issue.

Bullying is a huge deal. Yes, we’ve always had bullies in our lives. But, it seems like the whole situation has gotten worse.

And, it isn’t just the kids bullying other kids.

I’ve seen grown adults vilified on social media. Some people do it all behind their backs while others are gaslighting.

Having discussions with our children about bullying and showing mercy when you are able to are things that movies like The Christmas Project can enable.

Beyond the bullying aspect, the boys also noticed that the family’s process of Elfing another family led to their reception of joy.

Whether you call it paying it forward or giving back, the result is usually the same. The recipient is blessed (sometimes to tears) and the giver receives joy in their heart.

What are some of your favorite holiday shows for the family?
Do they just entertain or is there a message woven into the plot?