FILM REVIEW: CHRISTMAS KARMA (PG) ESP RATING: 2.5/5

As a film reviewer myself, I usually avoid reading other reviews before I see a film – I don’t like going in with someone else’s opinion rattling around my head. 

But with Christmas Karma, curiosity got the better of me. I had a little peek . . . and yikes. There have been some really scathing reviews! 

Normally, that would be enough to put me off, but my mum really wanted to see this –

and you don’t cancel a Christmas cinema trip with your Mum. That would put anyone on Santa’s ‘Naughty List’.

Directed by Gurinder Chadha (Bend it Like Beckham) and starring Big Bang Theory’s Kunal Nayyar, Eva Longoria, Danny Dyer, Billy Porter, Boy George and more, this is a Bollywood-flavoured musical spin on A Christmas Carol.

On paper, that’s a brilliant idea, and with this cast and concept, it should be an easy win. But the story just never quite lands. The plot feels flat and cluttered, and a lot of the big, heartfelt moments end up feeling a bit forced.

An inventive premise, but messy execution and some toe-curling moments. 

There are silver linings, though. Some of the songs are undeniably catchy, and visually, it’s a treat: bright colours, sparkly costumes, and Christmassy details everywhere you look. My family is Christmas-mad, so just being surrounded by tinsel, twinkly lights and festive chaos is already half the battle won.

So here’s my advice: If you’re going because you think the story looks great, or you’re excited about this particular cast, you’ll probably walk out disappointed.

If, however, you’re the kind of person who watches every new Hallmark Christmas movie, puts the tree up in November, and just wants something glittery and festive to stare at for a couple of hours . . . there’s just about enough good karma here. 

ESP Rating: 2.5/5

Mike Clarke

Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough & Odeon Luxe Peterborough, Out Now

Cast: Kunal Nayyar, Leo Suter, Charithra Chandran, Pixie Lott, Danny Dyer, Boy George, Hugh Bonneville, Billy Porter & Eva Longoria

Running Time: 1 Hr 50 Mins

Director: Gurinder Chadha

Film Review Venue: Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough

For all the latest film information & showtimes at Peterborough’s Showcase Cinema De Lux & Odeon Luxe cinemas go to www.showcasecinemas.co.uk and www.odeon.co.uk