Many Small towns throughout the United States thrive on holiday events, ranging from the elementary school plays and skits to the large parades and lighting ceremonies in the town squares. These events bring much joy and fun for all to experience during a time where everyone is moving about preparing for the holiday season. Some places have long standing traditions that are very important to the local residents and with that historical past it is very important that these events are successfully performed. 
In the town of Emmanual, the yearly pageant is what everyone looks forward to. It has been a long-time tradition, and this year is the 75th edition. No one wants to mess this one up this year and it is expected to be the best pageant ever. When the longtime Pageant director falls ill, Grace Bradley (Judy Greer) volunteers to be this year’s director. Now, Grace has put herself on the hook to try and create an event that everyone will remember.
The Herdman’s are the worst family ever. All six of them, which includes, the oldest Imogene Herdman (Beatrice Schneider), who can be mean, direct, and takes care of her younger brothers and sister. The rest of the gang consists of Ralph Herdman (Mason D. Nelligan), Claude Herdman (Matthew Lamb), Leroy Herdman (Ewan Wood), Ollie Herdman (Essek Moore), and the younger wild sister Gladys Herdman (Kynlee Heiman). Having no father in their lives and the mother that seems to be working all the time and is never there, these kids are always doing what they want, and Imogene seems to be the one in charge. 
When the Herdman’s decide that they want to be part of the pageant this year, Grace now has a huge issue and the injured director along with the rest of the community has expressed their deepest concern. Grace’s husband, Bob Bradley (Pete Holmes), daughter Beth Bradley (Molly Belle Wright), and son Charlie Bradley (Sebastian Billingsley-Rodriguez), are there to help her when she needs it, but they have their own sets of issues with the Herdman’s. Then there is Mrs. Wendelken (Danielle Hoetmer) and her daughter Alice Wendelken (Lorelei Olivia Mote), who find any way to show disapproval to Grace and her children. 
Having a long-standing relationship with the 1972 novel written by Barbara Robinson, Director Dallas Jenkins showed his love for this fantastic story with his rendition he produced on the big screen. He includes many details that help the narrative develop, he keeps true to the original narrative, and he builds the tale to unfold to its final conclusion. This wonderful adventure that starts off with selfish towns folks, and disrespectful children, finishes off with caring, happiness, love for their fellowman, and a heartwarming conclusion.
For anyone who is a fan of the book or if you just love the holiday season, this journey through a town’s desire to spread cheer to all will definitely bring joy to your heart. Along with a spectacular performance by the cast and crew, this is a fun experience for all. 
Final Comment: I based my grade on the excellent storyline and the wonderful performance. 
Stars 3.75 out of 5
Additional Film Information
Cast: Judy Greer, Pete Holmes, Molly Belle Wright, Sebastian Billingsley-Rodriguez, Beatrice Schneider, Lorelei Olivia Mote, and Lauren Graham.
Directed by: Dallas Jenkins
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Family, and Romance.
MPAA Rating: Rated PG for thematic material and brief underage smoking.
Running Time: 1 hour and 39 minutes.
Release Date: November 8, 2024
Distributed By: Lionsgate
Release In: Standard