I eagerly waited for “The Christmas Letter” like a kid waiting to open presents stacked under the tree. We all know I am a fan of cheesy holiday movies. But this one was different in that it was set and filmed in my hometown of Utica, NY. The Christmas comedy was released November 13, 2024, with a sold-out premiere at the historic Stanley Theatre. Ilion native Michael Cunningham co-produced and wrote the story. Tori Hunter made his feature directorial debut.
The flick boasts big names; Chevy Chase, Brian Doyle-Murray, and Randy Quaid. The trio establish a reunion of sorts, alluding to their roles in the National Lampoon’s Vacation series. Despite being top billed, their presence on screen is tertiary, the real star of the film being Angus Benfield.
The Year of the Michaels
Joe Michaels (Angus Benfield) is a typical guy. He is a loving husband and father with a dull office job. Per Thoreau, he lives a life of quiet desperation. Since childhood, Joe has exchanged Christmas letters with a wealthy overseas peer who has a seemingly enviable existence. A jealous Joe commits his family to a year of insane adventures for the sole purpose of upstaging his pen pal. “We’re alive.” He rationalizes to his wife. “But we don’t really live.”
Angus Benfield effortlessly fills the role of Joe Michaels. The character is a relatable and likeable Average Joe who goes on a journey of self-reflection and growth akin to George Bailey. Dare I say, Benfield seems like a fellow Utican. He delivers in a wide range of emotions. Depressed at the current humdrum state of his life. Excited with his vacation plans. Comedic when they all fail to work out as he had envisioned.
Regina Schneider is equally enjoyable as Joe’s wife, Deb. Schneider’s character is more grounded, and plays well off the outlandish antics of her husband. She is the staunch voice of reason from beginning to end and looks like the idyllic Christmas Belle. “Stop comparing yourself to others.” She scolds Joe as he details his scheme. “You have it pretty good right here.” In a weird way, that line is another sentiment shared by many Central New Yorkers.
Recognizable comedian Brian Posehn has a great cameo as a quasi-Santa, operating Slay Rides in which the passengers hunt reindeer. It’s a role Posehn was born to play. Kristoffer Polaha makes an appearance as a sage bartender, offering pearls of wisdom at Gerber’s 1933 Tavern.
City of Utica on Display
It was cool to watch a movie set in Utica, seeing places I frequent and streets I could identify. It was a fun game. Pointing out props like a Utica Roasters clock in the Michaels kitchen and the downtown street I frequently run past. Utica mayor Michael Galime and WKTV anchor Kristen Copeland appear in cameo roles.
We get the quaintness of the Michaels suburban home. The snow-covered mountains at Woods Valley Ski Area. The classic architecture of Downtown Utica. I would love to see more filmmakers take advantage of the beauty and diversity of the region.
“The Christmas Letter” is an enjoyable holiday film no matter where you are from. The plot is fun, and the characters are likeable. It was worth the wait to see Utica proudly on display. Michael Cunningham and Tori Hunter did an excellent job.
“The Christmas Letter” can be rented or purchased from numerous streaming services.
