Name: Christmas Full of Grace
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Released: 2022-11-30T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Gessica Kayane, Sergio Malheiros, Vera Fischer, Monique Alfradique, Heitor Martinez

The image of Gessica Kayane’s Graça, a chaotic force of nature in a sequined dress, storming through the pristine halls of Lady Sofia’s mansion is the perfect encapsulation of Christmas Full of Grace. Pedro Antônio’s 2022 Netflix rom-com is a messy, often delightful holiday affair that tries to juggle too many tropes at once.

What it is: A Brazilian Christmas romp where Carlinhos (Sérgio Malheiros), freshly dumped by his cheating girlfriend, recruits Graça, a party-loving stranger, to pose as his plus-one for his family’s festive gathering. Chaos ensues when Graça’s unfiltered antics clash with the stuffy traditions of Carlinhos’ wealthy clan.

The film’s strengths lie in its lead performances. Kayane is a standout as Graça, embodying the role with a magnetic mix of vulnerability and brashness. Her scenes—whether she’s dancing on tables or breaking down about her late father (a Santa Claus, no less)—pulse with energy. Malheiros holds his own as Carlinhos, though his character arcs feel more conventional. The chemistry between them is undeniable, especially in their festive make-out session after a chance encounter at a Christmas market.

The film’s Rio de Janeiro setting is another plus, with the Leblon neighborhood providing a lush backdrop for the family mansion and holiday festivities. The production design—think glittering trees, opulent interiors, and vibrant street scenes—adds visual flair.

But Christmas Full of Grace stumbles in its storytelling. The plot meanders between rom-com clichés (the fake dating trope, the dramatic family reveal) without enough freshness to distinguish itself. The subplot involving Carlinhos’ cousin Pedro Alfonso and his secret affair feels tacked on, diluting the central romance. The pacing also falters in the third act, with Graça’s abrupt exit and Carlinhos’ frantic pursuit feeling rushed.

The film’s biggest misstep is its lack of originality. While it tries to blend holiday cheer, family drama, and romantic tension, it often feels like a pastiche of better films. The resolution—Graça and Carlinhos reuniting at a New Year’s Eve party—is predictable, undercutting the emotional stakes built earlier.

Verdict: Christmas Full of Grace is a charming but forgettable holiday treat.