October 15, 2025

It’s been nearly two decades since audiences first fell in love with This Christmas — a soulful, laughter-filled holiday film that celebrated the chaos and comfort of family gatherings. Now, in This Christmas 2 (2026), director Preston Whitmore returns with a sequel that manages to capture not only the festive nostalgia of the original but also something deeper — a tender reflection on time, forgiveness, and the unbreakable ties that hold families together even after years of silence. The film opens with a sweeping montage of Los Angeles decked in holiday lights, as the Whitfield family once again prepares to reunite under one roof. But this time, it’s not just about the laughter and music — it’s about facing the ghosts of Christmas past and finding peace in the present.

What makes This Christmas 2 truly shine is its emotional honesty. The story picks up years after the events of the first film, as matriarch Shirley Whitfield (Loretta Devine) struggles to bring her scattered children home one more time. Each sibling carries their own burdens — Lisa (Regina King) wrestles with her career and crumbling marriage, Quentin (Idris Elba) faces the quiet loneliness of fame, and Kelli (Sharon Leal) returns home after a long absence, seeking forgiveness for old choices. Their conflicts feel genuine, drawn from real human experiences rather than forced melodrama. When they finally gather around the table, their laughter, arguments, and tears feel lived-in — like watching your own family through a cinematic snow globe.

The film’s tone masterfully balances humor and heartbreak. One moment you’re laughing at Uncle Joe’s outrageous karaoke performance, and the next, you’re fighting back tears as the family comes together for a soulful rendition of “Silent Night.” The soundtrack — a blend of classic Motown, gospel harmonies, and new soulful ballads — perfectly complements the story’s emotional rhythm. Each song feels earned, not inserted, echoing the themes of reconciliation and resilience. Cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw bathes every frame in golden, candlelit warmth, making the Whitfield home glow like a memory — cozy, imperfect, but full of love. The camera lingers on small, intimate gestures: a hand reaching across the table, a hesitant smile, a single tear caught in the reflection of Christmas lights.

The performances elevate the film beyond its festive trappings. Loretta Devine delivers one of her most heartfelt portrayals yet, grounding the chaos with quiet grace and motherly strength. Regina King brings emotional gravity to every scene, her character’s vulnerability balanced by fierce independence. Idris Elba, meanwhile, adds a layer of complexity and maturity to Quentin, whose swagger now hides a deeper sense of longing. The supporting cast, both returning and new, fills out the ensemble with warmth and authenticity — reminding us that family stories are always about the ensemble, never just the individual.