Christmas with the Kranks (2004)

Christmas with the Kranks (2004) is a holiday comedy based on John Grisham’s novel Skipping Christmas. Directed by Joe Roth, the film stars Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis as Luther and Nora Krank, a couple who decide to forgo the traditional holiday festivities and go on a tropical cruise instead, much to the dismay of their holiday-loving neighbors. Luther, tired of the usual holiday frenzy and costs, convinces Nora to skip Christmas entirely, causing a stir in their neighborhood, where the Kranks’ refusal to participate in holiday traditions like decorating and throwing their annual party is met with shock and disapproval.
As their neighbors, led by Vic Frohmeyer (Dan Aykroyd), try to convince them to join the festivities, the Kranks remain steadfast in their decision—until their daughter unexpectedly announces she’s coming home for Christmas. This last-minute change of plans sends the Kranks into a chaotic rush to prepare for a holiday celebration, bringing hilarious mishaps and heartfelt moments as they scramble to create the perfect Christmas.
With a humorous take on the pressures and joy of the holiday season, Christmas with the Kranks explores themes of family, community, and the true spirit of Christmas. The film is known for its lighthearted humor, slapstick scenes, and a warm message about togetherness and compromise during the holiday season.