The Holly and the Ivy

A family meets up for Christmas, but soon each of their problems come to light. Ralph Richardson, Celia Johnson, Margaret Leighton and a young Denholm Elliott star.

Quite a brutal tale of broken people just trying to make sense of their lives at Christmas. It’s kind of festive, there is snow and a fire and carols and whiskey. However, it’s a film that leans into the bitter-sweetness of the festive season and understands how hard it can be for people.

It’s just a play adapted for the screen, not the most dynamic piece of work. Also, it ends far too abruptly - almost absurdly so.

However, the actors are the best in the biz. There’s a scene in the kitchen where Margaret Leighton is telling Celia Johnson that she lost a child and couldn’t tell anyone - it’s just so powerful and devastating. Not exactly ho-ho-ho but more important and interesting than that.

The whole thing builds towards Ralph Richardson’s pivotal scene, and although he’s burdened with a dodgy accent he’s perfect.

Perhaps not fun for all the family but The Holly and the Ivy is a film I’ll be watching again on Christmases to come.