Last Christmas

Inspired by the ubiquitous George Michael song, Last Christmas follows Emilia Clarke’s Kate, a promiscuous would-be singer, as she finds herself falling for a handsome, charming stranger named Tom (Henry Golding) – with the narrative detailing their tentative romance and also Kate’s ongoing efforts at getting her life together. It’s perhaps not surprising to note that Last Christmas, while affable enough, rarely becomes the lighthearted, brisk romp one might’ve anticipated, as filmmaker Paul Feig has infused the proceedings with precisely the sort of leaden pace and erratic plotting with which he’s become associated – which is a shame, certainly, given that there are plenty of elements here worth embracing (including a series of entertaining, charismatic performances). There’s little doubt, then, that Last Christmas’ tolerable vibe is due almost entirely to Clarke’s almost impossibly likable turn as the troubled central character, as the actress does a superb job of transforming Kate into a wholeheartedly (and impressively) interesting and sympathetic figure. And while the movie’s midsection is rife with lamentable lulls, Last Christmas admittedly does progress into a drama-focused third act that fares a whole lot better than one might’ve anticipated – with the inclusion of a few affecting moments (eg the tear-jerking finale) ultimately ensuring that the picture concludes on a decidedly positive note.

**1/2 out of ****

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